Contact Lens Storage: Water or Saline?

Contact lens wearer beware! Storing your lenses in water is a big no-no, especially if you need them the next day. While saline solution might seem like a temporary fix, it should not be used as a long-term storage solution either. Here’s everything you need to know about the best ways to store your contact lenses.

Using Saline Solution for Temporary Storage

Saline solution is generally fine for temporary storage of your contact lenses. If you find yourself without sterile solution and running short, this can be a good temporary fix. However, it is important to use it only for a short time. Using saline alone for extended periods increases the risk of infection and leaves your lenses more susceptible to contamination.

Why Saline Alone is Not Enough

The primary issue with using saline alone is the lack of sanitization. Saline is not designed to kill bacteria or other pathogens that may be present on your lenses. While it can provide a brief respite, it does not sterilize the lenses. Therefore, you should never keep your lenses in saline for more than a night if possible.

Proper Storage and Disinfection

To keep your contacts safe and hygienic, you should always store them in a bottle of fresh, sterile saline solution made by a manufacturer under sterile conditions. It is highly advised against making your own saline solution due to potential contamination and the risk of losing your lenses.

What to Do If You Have No Saline Solution

If you find yourself with no sterile solution, you can use distilled water or mineral water for a short period. It is important to note that the water should be about 0.8 salinity to avoid irritating your eyes and potential health risks. However, it is still recommended to return to a proper storage solution as soon as possible.

The Risks of Using Water

The most critical point to remember is never to store your contact lenses in tap water or any other type of water, not even drinking water. Drinking water contains impurities that can lead to severe infections, including Acanthamoeba keratitis, a growing problem among contact lens wearers. This condition can cause extreme eye pain, blurred vision, and, in some cases, blindness. Always use a proper solution to avoid these risks.

What to Do If You Lose or Forget Your Saline Solution

If you are in a situation where you have to use a temporary storage method, here are some steps to follow:

Try to find two glasses and fill them with clean water. Different glasses are better, as it helps to differentiate the right and left eye lenses. Add a small amount of salt to the water to make it more similar to saline, which helps prevent swelling and fogging. About a teaspoon per 8 oz (5ml / 250ml) is sufficient. Store the lenses in the glasses overnight, but avoid using water for more than a single night. Replace with a proper solution as soon as possible. Use a saline solution for the final disinfection and storage to ensure the lenses are clean and ready to use.

Conclusion

Proper contact lens storage is crucial for your eye health. While saline solution can be used temporarily, it is not a long-term solution, and water should never be used. Always store your lenses in a sterile solution or contact lens case containing fresh saline. By doing so, you can avoid potential infections and keep your vision clear and healthy.