Alright, I’ll just say it—wearing contacts can be a love-hate thing. They’re supposed to give you the freedom to ditch your glasses, but some days, it can feel like you’re trying to blink out a tiny piece of sand that just won’t budge. If you’ve ever muttered a quiet “why me?” while squinting at the bathroom mirror, you’re definitely not alone.
Ready for a little relief? I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips for making your contacts more comfortable, so you can actually enjoy wearing them again—without wanting to toss them straight into the trash.
Clean Hands, Clean Lenses—Every Time
Yeah, everyone says “wash your hands,” but I can’t stress it enough. Even if you think your hands look clean, who knows what’s lurking after you’ve touched the fridge, your phone, or even dog treats. Gritty hands mean gritty contacts—simple as that.
Get into the habit of using soap and drying your hands with a lint-free towel. I once made the mistake of using the hand towel from the assisted living community rec room and ended up with fuzz on my lenses for hours. Lesson learned: keep it simple and stick to basics at home.
Give Your Case (and Solution) Some Love
The contact lens case is a tiny swamp if you’re not careful. I used to be a serial offender, topping off old solution and hoping for the best. That’s like showering and jumping right back into old socks. Not a good scene. Instead, dump out the used solution every time, rinse the case with fresh solution (never water), and let it air dry before screwing the cap back on.
If you use the same case for months, maybe it’s time to treat yourself to a new one. They’re cheap and your eyes will thank you.
Pick the Right Contacts for Your Lifestyle
Not all contacts are created equal. If your lenses dry up faster than a raisin in July, it might be time to switch things up. Daily lenses work great for people with allergies or for anyone (like me) who forgets things now and then. Plus, they’re just more hygienic. On the other hand, if you’re saving pennies and don’t mind the morning rinse ritual, monthly lenses can work too—but you’ve got to be a stickler about cleaning.
A quick talk with your eye doc can help you figure out which style is best for your eyes and budget. They may even suggest new materials or brands that you haven’t tried yet.
Moisture, Moisture, Moisture
Dry eyes and contacts are a lousy combination. Blink more often, especially if you’re staring at screens or reading. Sometimes, just taking a minute to close your eyes or look away from your computer can work wonders.
Artificial tears (the preservative-free kind) are a game changer. Keep a bottle in your purse, desk drawer, or even next to your favorite reading chair. I sometimes stash them right by the crossword puzzle stack—whatever works.
Take a Break Sometimes
Let’s be honest, nobody’s handing out medals for wearing their contacts twelve hours straight. Give your eyes a rest, especially if they feel scratchy or tired. Swap back to glasses now and then to keep your eyes happy. There’s no shame in it.
The Bottom Line: Your Eyes Matter
Contacts should make your life easier, not miserable. If you’re frustrated, don’t tough it out—ask your eye doctor for suggestions or try a few of these everyday fixes. After all, happy eyes mean happy days, whether you’re off on an early-morning walk or just peeking out the window at sunset. Trust me, the world looks a whole lot clearer when your eyes feel good.
Expert in glasses with 8 years of experience, Isabella Lane dives into the world of eyewear. Explore their insightful content on the latest trends, lens technology and styling tips for a clearer vision.
