Most contact lens wearers have good intentions—but even small hygiene slips can lead to big problems. At Complete Family Eye Care in McKinney, we regularly see patients with red, irritated eyes or infections caused by habits they didn’t know were risky.
Wearing contact lenses safely doesn’t just mean putting them in and taking them out correctly. It means maintaining clean lenses, using the right solutions, and knowing what not to do. Below, we break down the most common contact lens mistakes—and how you can avoid them to protect your eyes and vision.
Mistake #1: Sleeping in Your Lenses (When You Shouldn’t)
It may be tempting to doze off without removing your contacts, especially after a long day—but sleeping in lenses not approved for overnight wear can deprive your eyes of oxygen and trap bacteria between the lens and your cornea.
What to do instead:
Always remove your lenses before bed unless your optometrist has specifically prescribed lenses designed for overnight use.
Mistake #2: “Topping Off” Your Contact Lens Solution
Some people reuse the solution left in the case, adding a splash of fresh liquid to “top it off.” This reduces the disinfecting power of the solution and allows bacteria to grow.
What to do instead:
Always discard old solutions and refill your case with fresh solution every time. Never reuse or dilute it.
Mistake #3: Using Tap Water to Rinse Lenses or Cases
Water might seem harmless, but it can carry microorganisms like Acanthamoeba, which can cause serious eye infections—even blindness.
What to do instead:
Only use sterile contact lens solution to rinse lenses or clean your case. Never use tap water or saliva.
Mistake #4: Skipping Lens Case Hygiene
A dirty case can contaminate clean lenses. If you never clean your case—or wait too long to replace it—it can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
What to do instead:
Rinse your case with contact lens solution daily (not water), let it air dry upside down, and replace it every 1 to 3 months.
Mistake #5: Wearing Lenses Longer Than Prescribed
Each contact lens has a life span—whether daily, bi-weekly, or monthly. Extending wear beyond that period increases the risk of discomfort, infection, and protein buildup.
What to do instead:
Follow your replacement schedule carefully. Set calendar reminders if needed to stay on track.
Mistake #6: Ignoring Eye Irritation
If your eyes are red, dry, or painful, don’t just “wait it out.” Continued wear can worsen an infection or injury and delay healing.
What to do instead:
Remove your lenses at the first sign of discomfort and call Complete Family Eye Care for a prompt evaluation.
Mistake #7: Skipping Your Annual Contact Lens Exam
Even if you’ve worn lenses for years without issue, your eyes can change. Skipping your yearly eye exam means missed opportunities to spot early signs of dryness, inflammation, or lens fit issues.
What to do instead:
Book a yearly contact lens exam at Complete Family Eye Care to keep your eyes healthy and your prescription up to date.
Prevent Eye Infections at Complete Family Eye Care
Contact lenses are safe and convenient—but only when worn and cared for properly. A few simple changes can prevent infections, reduce discomfort, and help you keep your vision sharp for years to come.
If you're unsure about your current habits or you're dealing with persistent irritation, we're here to help. Schedule a contact lens checkup at Complete Family Eye Care in McKinney to make sure your lenses—and your eyes—are in the best shape possible.