Contact lenses make everyday life easier, whether you’re commuting through Melbourne, heading to the beach or spending long days at work. But small mistakes in your routine can lead to uncomfortable eyes, blurry vision and sometimes serious infections.
Here are ten common contact lens mistakes to avoid, with practical tips for Australian wearers. Always follow your optometrist’s instructions and the directions for your specific lenses and cleaning solution.
1. Sleeping in contact lenses without approval
Sleeping in lenses increases the risk of eye infections, even when lenses are marketed for extended wear. Unless your optometrist has specifically advised overnight wear, remove your contacts before sleeping or napping.
Better habit: Make lens removal part of your evening routine. A fresh pair of Acuvue Oasys 1-Day contact lenses can be convenient for people prescribed daily disposables, but daily lenses must still be removed before sleep.
2. Stretching the replacement schedule
One-day lenses are single-use. Fortnightly and monthly lenses must be replaced according to their prescribed schedule, not simply when they start feeling uncomfortable. Overwear can lead to deposits, irritation and infection.
Better habit: Set a phone reminder and keep spare lenses ready. If you wear prescribed monthly lenses such as Biofinity (6 Pack), replace them on schedule and follow the recommended daily wearing hours.
3. Reusing or topping up disinfecting solution
Topping up yesterday’s solution does not provide a fresh disinfection cycle. This may allow microorganisms to remain in the case.
Better habit: Throw away used solution after each storage cycle. Rub and rinse reusable lenses only as instructed for your approved lens-care system, then use fresh solution for the full recommended disinfection time. Never substitute water or saliva.
4. Touching lenses with unwashed hands
Fingers can transfer dirt, oils and microbes to lenses. Residue from hand creams or soaps can also irritate eyes.
Better habit: Wash hands with soap and water before handling lenses and dry them using a clean, lint-free towel. Insert lenses before applying makeup and avoid touching their inner surface unnecessarily.
5. Swimming or showering while wearing lenses
Tap water, pools, lakes and seawater are not sterile. Water exposure increases the risk of serious infection, including Acanthamoeba keratitis.
Better habit: Remove contacts before swimming, showering or entering a spa. Prescription swimming goggles may be a safer option. If lenses get wet, remove them promptly; discard daily disposables, and seek your optometrist’s advice on disinfecting reusable lenses.
6. Ordering the wrong prescription or lens type
A glasses prescription is not interchangeable with a contact lens prescription. Lens brand, fit, base curve, diameter and material matter, as do additional parameters for astigmatism or multifocal correction.
Better habit: Reorder only the lenses fitted and prescribed for you. Products such as Dailies AquaComfort PLUS (90 Pack) may be an option if they match your existing contact lens prescription; do not switch brands without professional advice.
7. Ignoring redness, pain or blurred vision
Persistent discomfort is not something to “push through”. Contact lens-related redness, light sensitivity, pain, discharge or reduced vision may indicate a problem that needs prompt care.
Better habit: Remove lenses immediately if these symptoms develop, do not reinsert them, and seek urgent assessment from an optometrist or eye-care professional. Severe pain or sudden vision loss warrants emergency attention.
8. Using expired or damaged products
Expired solution, damaged blister packs and lenses past their use-by date should not be used. Do not use a lens if its sterile packaging is broken or the lens looks damaged.
Better habit: Check expiry dates when opening supplies, store them as directed and replace damaged products. Buying extra boxes is useful only if you can use them before they expire.
9. Neglecting the contact lens case
A poorly maintained case can harbour microorganisms and undermine careful lens cleaning.
Better habit: Empty the case after use, clean it using the method specified by your solution manufacturer, and let it air-dry as directed. Replace the case at least every three months or sooner if instructed. Never rinse it with tap water.
10. Skipping contact lens check-ups
Eyes and prescriptions can change even when lenses feel comfortable. Regular professional reviews help check lens fit, eye health and whether your wearing routine remains suitable.
Better habit: Follow your optometrist’s recommended review schedule. If comfort changes, ask about suitable alternatives rather than experimenting with different lens types yourself. For example, Air Optix Plus HydraGlyde (6 Pack) is a monthly option to discuss if you are considering a different prescribed lens.
Quick daily contact lens safety checklist
- Wash and dry your hands before touching lenses.
- Use only the lenses prescribed and fitted for your eyes.
- Keep lenses away from all water.
- Use fresh approved solution for reusable lenses.
- Replace lenses and cases on schedule.
- Remove lenses and seek professional advice if your eyes become painful, red or light-sensitive.
Shop your prescribed contact lenses at LensDirectAu
Good lens care starts with the right products and a consistent routine. Explore LensDirectAu’s range of daily, fortnightly and monthly contact lenses, and order the brand and specifications prescribed by your optometrist. Dailies Total 1 (90 Pack) is another daily disposable option available in our catalogue.
This article is general information, not a substitute for personalised eye-care advice. Always follow your optometrist’s instructions and the manufacturer’s directions.
