Contact lenses are safe when used correctly. The problems start when small habits slip. Here are the eight most common mistakes we see — and how to fix them.
1. Sleeping in your lenses
Unless your lenses are specifically approved for overnight wear, sleeping in them significantly increases your risk of eye infection. The cornea needs oxygen, and a closed eye with a lens on it gets very little. Take them out every night without exception.
2. Topping up solution instead of replacing it
Topping up old solution in your case dilutes its disinfecting power. Empty the case completely, rinse with fresh solution (not water), and refill every time.
3. Washing your hands but not drying them properly
Rinsing your hands is good. Drying them thoroughly on a lint-free towel before handling lenses is essential. Water droplets carry microbes that your solution then has to work harder to neutralise.
4. Swimming or showering in lenses
Tap water, pool water, and lake water all carry Acanthamoeba — a microorganism that can cause a serious, painful corneal infection. Always remove lenses before any water activity.
5. Wearing them longer than recommended
Monthly lenses worn for six weeks are not just an economy measure — they are a risk. Protein deposits build up on the lens surface, reducing oxygen flow and increasing infection risk.
6. Ignoring redness or discomfort
A healthy eye with a contact lens in it should feel like nothing is there. Redness, irritation, or sensitivity to light are signals to remove the lens immediately and rest your eyes. If it persists for more than a day, see an optometrist.
7. Using tap water to rinse lenses or your case
Never. Tap water in India is not sterile and contains organisms that lens solution is specifically formulated to kill. Water is not a substitute.
8. Skipping the solution soak for your case
Your lens case needs to soak in fresh solution for at least 6 hours to be properly disinfected. Replace the case itself every three months.
We stock all major lens solution brands at Vision Rabbit. If you are unsure which solution is right for your lens type, ask us.