Safely Removing Rigid Lenses: Hygiene & Care
Good hygiene is essential when handling, cleaning and storing rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses. A consistent routine reduces the risk of eye irritation, contamination or lens damage.
Before touching your lenses
- Wash and dry your hands: use mild, lotion-free soap and a lint-free towel before touching your eyes, lenses or a suction cup.
- Work over a safe surface: place a clean towel or lens catch mat in the sink to prevent losing a lens down the drain.
- For dry eyes: apply sterile rewetting drops or sterile saline before removing a lens that feels dry.
Safe solutions & tool care
- Always use fresh contact lens solution: never use tap water, saliva or homemade saline on your lenses, and never top up old solution.
- Lens case & suction cup care: clean and replace your lens case and suction cup according to the product-specific instructions and your specialist's advice. Do not use alcohol or heat unless permitted by the manufacturer.