When it comes to taking care of our eyes, contact lenses are a popular choice for many people. But if you wear contacts, you know that the right contact solution is essential when it comes to cleaning and storing contacts. So how long does contact solution last?
What Is Contact Solution?
Contact solution is a specially formulated liquid designed to clean, disinfect, and store contact lenses. Contact solution typically consists of a combination of disinfecting agents, wetting agents, and preservatives. It is important to use the right contact solution for your lenses, as different types of lenses require different formulations.
How Long Does Contact Solution Last?
The shelf life of contact solution varies depending on the type of solution and the brand. Most contact solution brands list a shelf life of at least one to two years from the date of manufacture. However, it is important to note that contact solution does have a shelf life and should not be used past the expiration date or if it has been opened for more than a year.
How to Store Contact Solution
To ensure that your contact solution stays fresh, it is important to store it properly. Contact solution should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. It is also important to make sure that the contact solution lid is tightly closed after each use.
How to Tell If Contact Solution Is Bad
If your contact solution has passed its expiration date, it is important to discard it and purchase a new bottle. Additionally, if your contact solution has a cloudy appearance, a foul odor, or has changed in color, it should be discarded as well.
How Often Should Contact Solution Be Replaced?
It is recommended to replace contact solution monthly. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the bottle and replace contact solution as needed. Additionally, contact solution should be replaced immediately if it has been opened for more than one year or has passed its expiration date.
Signs You Are Using Old Contact Solution
Some signs that you may be using old contact solution include: increased irritation and redness of the eyes, a burning sensation during wear, and cloudy looking lenses. It is important to replace contact solution if you are experiencing any of these symptoms as it may be a sign that the solution is no longer effective.
Tips for Cleaning and Storing Contacts
When cleaning and storing contact lenses, it is important to use the right contact solution and follow the instructions on the bottle. Additionally, it is important to clean the contact lens case with contact solution after each use and replace the case every three months.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does contact solution last?
The shelf life of contact solution varies depending on the type of solution and the brand. Most contact solution brands list a shelf life of at least one to two years from the date of manufacture.
2. How should contact solution be stored?
Contact solution should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. It is also important to make sure that the contact solution lid is tightly closed after each use.
3. How do you tell if contact solution is bad?
If your contact solution has passed its expiration date, it is important to discard it and purchase a new bottle. Additionally, if your contact solution has a cloudy appearance, a foul odor, or has changed in color, it should be discarded as well.
4. How often should contact solution be replaced?
It is recommended to replace contact solution monthly. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the bottle and replace contact solution as needed. Additionally, contact solution should be replaced immediately if it has been opened for more than one year or has passed its expiration date.
5. What are signs you are using old contact solution?
Some signs that you may be using old contact solution include: increased irritation and redness of the eyes, a burning sensation during wear, and cloudy looking lenses.
6. What are tips for cleaning and storing contacts?
When cleaning and storing contact lenses, it is important to use the right contact solution and follow the instructions on the bottle. Additionally, it is important to clean the contact lens case with contact solution after each use and replace the case every three months.
7. What type of contact solution should I use?
It is important to use the right contact solution for your lenses, as different types of lenses require different formulations. It is best to consult your eye doctor or contact lens manufacturer to determine the best contact solution for your lenses.
8. Is it okay to use tap water to clean my contacts?
No, it is not recommended to use tap water to clean contact lenses. Tap water can contain bacteria and other contaminants that can cause irritation or infection. It is best to use a specially formulated contact solution to clean and disinfect your lenses.
9. Is it okay to use saliva to clean my contacts?
No, it is not recommended to use saliva to clean contact lenses. Saliva can contain bacteria and other contaminants that can cause irritation or infection. It is best to use a specially formulated contact solution to clean and disinfect your lenses.
10. Can I reuse contact solution?
No, it is not recommended to reuse contact solution. Contact solution should be discarded after each use and replaced monthly or as needed. Additionally, contact solution should be discarded immediately if it has been opened for more than one year or has passed its expiration date.