Contact lenses can be a comfortable way to see clearly, but they sit directly on the surface of your eye, so daily care matters. Habits such as rinsing a lens with water or wearing lenses longer than directed can increase irritation and the risk of infection. If you wear contact lenses in Edmonton, these are common mistakes to avoid, and what to do instead.
Why Proper Contact Lens Care Matters
Your eyes need oxygen and a clean lens surface. When a lens is dirty, damaged, or worn too long, deposits build up and the lens may not feel or fit as it should. You might notice dryness, redness, burning, or blurry vision. Good care helps lenses feel comfortable and helps your optometrist check your eye health at regular exams.
Cleaning and Storage Mistakes
One common mistake is topping up old solution in the lens case instead of emptying it and adding fresh solution. Used solution should be thrown out. Reusing solution, using expired solution, or using water or saliva to wet a lens are also mistakes — none of these clean lenses properly.
Wash and dry your hands before handling your lenses. Rub and rinse lenses as directed for your lens type, store them in a clean case, and replace the case regularly as recommended. Daily disposable lenses are different: they are worn once and thrown away, so they should not be cleaned or worn again the next day.
Wear Time and Replacement Mistakes
Replacement schedules matter, even if a lens still feels fine. Monthly and two-week lenses are designed to be replaced on schedule. Wearing them longer allows deposits to build up and may increase discomfort.
Sleeping in contact lenses is another mistake unless your optometrist has fitted you with lenses approved for overnight wear and discussed the risks. If you fall asleep in your lenses by accident, do not force a dry lens out. Use lubricating drops if you have them, wait until the lens moves freely, remove it, and give your eyes a break. If redness or pain continues, get checked promptly.
Water and Contact Lenses Do Not Mix
Keep contact lenses away from water. Do not shower, swim, or use a hot tub while wearing lenses unless you have discussed eye protection, such as tight-fitting swim goggles, with your optometrist. Water can contain microorganisms and can cause a soft lens to tighten on the eye, making it harder to remove. If water gets on your lenses, remove and replace them as soon as you can.
Warning Signs to Get Checked Promptly
Remove your lenses and seek care the same day if you have eye pain, marked redness, light sensitivity, discharge, or a sudden change in vision. Do not keep wearing a lens that feels wrong in the hope that it will settle. Bring the lens packaging if you can — it helps the clinic check your fit and eye health.
Contact Lenses at Infinite Eyecare in Mill Woods
A contact lens fitting checks more than your glasses prescription. It measures the shape of your eye, checks how the lens sits and moves, and confirms the material and replacement schedule that suit your eyes and routine.
Infinite Eyecare is at 4275 23 Ave NW, Mill Woods, Edmonton. We offer direct billing to most major insurers, and eye exams for children under 19 and seniors are covered by Alberta Health Care. If your lenses feel dry, uncomfortable, or less clear than usual, or if you are new to contact lenses, call Infinite Eyecare at 780-425-0003 to book an appointment.
