How To Store Contacts Without Solution

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Introduction

When it comes to wearing contact lenses, proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure optimal eye health and comfort. One of the key aspects of contact lens care is storing them properly when they are not being worn. While the most common method is to store them in contact lens solution, there may be situations where you find yourself without solution readily available.

In such cases, it’s important to know that there are alternative methods you can use to store your contacts without solution. These methods can be helpful when you’re traveling, camping, or simply in a situation where you don’t have access to your usual contact lens solution. In this article, we will explore several methods that you can rely on to store your contacts safely and hygienically.

Please note that these methods are to be used as temporary solutions only and should not replace regular contact lens care practices. If possible, always try to have contact lens solution on hand for proper storage and cleaning of your lenses. However, in emergency situations where solution is unavailable, the methods outlined in this article can serve as a temporary solution until you can properly clean and store your lenses.

Method 1: Using Distilled Water

Distilled water can be a temporary alternative for storing your contact lenses when you’re without solution. It is important to note that using tap water or any other water source other than distilled water is not recommended, as it may contain impurities and microorganisms that can lead to eye infections.

To use distilled water for storing your contacts, follow these steps:

1. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water before handling your lenses.
2. Carefully remove your contact lenses from your eyes and place them in your palm.
3. Rinse the lenses gently with a few drops of distilled water, ensuring that no debris or dirt remains on the lenses.
4. Fill a clean contact lens storage case with enough distilled water to fully submerge the lenses.
5. Place one lens in each compartment of the storage case and securely close the lid.
6. Store the case in a clean and safe location, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
7. When you’re ready to wear your lenses again, make sure to rinse them thoroughly with contact lens solution before inserting them into your eyes.

It’s important to note that using distilled water is not a substitute for proper contact lens solution, as it lacks the necessary disinfecting properties. Therefore, it is crucial to clean and disinfect your lenses with contact lens solution as soon as possible once you have access to it.

This method should only be used in emergency situations and for a short period of time. Using distilled water as a long-term storage solution can increase the risk of ocular infections and compromise the condition of your contact lenses.

Method 2: Using Saline Solution

If you don’t have contact lens solution available, another option for storing your contacts is to use saline solution. Saline solution is a sterile solution consisting of salt and water, often used for rinsing and cleaning contact lenses.

Here’s how you can use saline solution to store your contact lenses:

1. Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Remove your contacts from your eyes and place them on the palm of your hand.
3. Rinse the lenses gently with a few drops of sterile saline solution, ensuring that all debris and dirt are removed.
4. Fill a clean contact lens storage case with enough saline solution to fully submerge the lenses.
5. Place one lens in each compartment of the storage case and close the lid securely.
6. Store the case in a safe and clean location, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
7. When you’re ready to wear your lenses again, rinse them thoroughly with saline solution before inserting them into your eyes.

It’s important to note that saline solution is not a substitute for proper contact lens solution, as it lacks the necessary disinfecting properties. Therefore, it is crucial to clean and disinfect your lenses with contact lens solution as soon as you have access to it.

Similar to using distilled water, using saline solution for long-term storage is not recommended. It should only be used as a temporary solution until you can properly clean and store your lenses with the appropriate contact lens solution.

Method 3: Using Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can be an effective alternative for storing your contact lenses when you don’t have access to contact lens solution. Hydrogen peroxide solutions specifically designed for contact lens disinfection can be found at most pharmacies and are a safe option for temporary storage.

Here’s how you can use hydrogen peroxide to store your contact lenses:

1. Ensure that your hands are clean by washing them thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Remove your contact lenses from your eyes and place them on the palm of your hand.
3. Rinse the lenses with saline solution or sterile water to remove any debris or dirt.
4. Fill the designated case provided with the hydrogen peroxide solution to the indicated line.
5. Place one lens in each compartment of the case and securely close the lid.
6. Allow the lenses to soak in the solution for the specified period of time, usually around 6 hours.
7. After the soaking time is complete, the hydrogen peroxide will have been neutralized, making it safe for your lenses to be worn.
8. Rinse the lenses thoroughly with saline solution before inserting them into your eyes.

It’s important to follow the instructions provided with the hydrogen peroxide solution, as these solutions require a specific neutralization process to ensure the safety of your lenses and your eyes.

Remember, hydrogen peroxide should only be used as a temporary solution when you’re unable to access contact lens solution. Long-term storage or continuous use of hydrogen peroxide can damage your lenses and be harmful to your eyes.

You can store your contacts without solution by placing them in a clean, dry contact lens case. Make sure to replace the case regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.

Method 4: Using Moisturizing Eye Drops

If you find yourself without contact lens solution, another temporary option for storing your contact lenses is to use moisturizing eye drops. These eye drops are designed to provide lubrication and relief for dry eyes, and while they may not have the same disinfecting properties as contact lens solution, they can be used in emergency situations.

Here’s how you can use moisturizing eye drops to store your contact lenses:

1. Begin by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Remove your contact lenses from your eyes and place them on the palm of your hand.
3. Apply a few drops of moisturizing eye drops to each lens, making sure to cover the entire surface.
4. Gently rub the lens with your fingertip to ensure the eye drops are evenly distributed.
5. Place each lens in a clean contact lens case, making sure to use separate compartments for each lens.
6. Close the lid of the contact lens case securely.
7. Store the case in a clean and safe location, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
8. When you’re ready to wear your lenses again, rinse them thoroughly with saline solution before inserting them into your eyes.

It’s important to note that using moisturizing eye drops as a long-term storage solution is not recommended. These drops are not formulated to effectively disinfect contact lenses and may not adequately clean your lenses. Therefore, it’s crucial to properly clean and disinfect your lenses with contact lens solution as soon as you have access to it.

Moisturizing eye drops should only be used as a temporary solution until you can properly clean and store your contact lenses with the appropriate contact lens solution.

Method 5: Using Contact Lens Storage Cases

In situations where you don’t have access to contact lens solution or alternative storage methods, using a clean contact lens storage case can provide a temporary solution for storing your contact lenses. While it may not provide the same level of disinfection as contact lens solution, it can help keep your lenses safe until you can properly clean and store them.

Here’s how you can use a contact lens storage case to store your contact lenses:

1. Before handling your lenses, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Gently remove your contact lenses from your eyes and place them in the palm of your hand.
3. Inspect your lenses to ensure they are free of debris and damage.
4. Using clean fingers, carefully place each lens in the corresponding compartments of a clean and dry contact lens storage case.
5. Close the lid of the storage case securely to protect your lenses from dust and contaminants.
6. Store the case in a clean and safe location, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
7. When you’re ready to wear your lenses again, make sure to rinse them thoroughly with saline solution or contact lens solution before inserting them into your eyes.

It’s important to note that using a contact lens storage case alone does not replace the need for proper cleaning and disinfection with contact lens solution. This method should only be used as a temporary solution until you have access to contact lens solution or alternative options for cleaning and storing your lenses.

Remember, maintaining good hygiene practices and regularly cleaning your contact lens storage case is essential to prevent the risk of eye infections and ensure the longevity of your lenses.

Conclusion

While proper care and maintenance of contact lenses are crucial for ensuring optimal eye health, there may be instances where you find yourself without access to contact lens solution. In such situations, it’s important to know alternative methods for storing your contacts safely and hygienically.

In this article, we have explored several temporary solutions for storing contact lenses without solution. These methods include using distilled water, saline solution, hydrogen peroxide, moisturizing eye drops, and contact lens storage cases. Each method has its advantages and limitations, and it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any risk of infection or damage to your lenses.

It’s important to note that while these methods can serve as a temporary solution, they are not meant to replace regular contact lens care practices. It is highly recommended to have contact lens solution on hand for proper storage and cleaning of your lenses.

When using any of these alternative methods, it’s still essential to prioritize hygiene and cleanliness. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses, inspect them for any debris or damage, and store them in a clean and safe location.

Whenever possible, try to obtain contact lens solution as soon as you can to properly clean and disinfect your lenses. Contact lens solutions are specifically formulated to effectively remove debris, disinfect, and condition your lenses, ensuring their longevity and your eye health.

Remember, the methods discussed in this article are suitable for emergency situations or short-term use. It is always recommended to consult with an eye care professional for proper guidance on contact lens care and storage.

By being prepared and aware of these alternative methods, you can confidently handle situations where contact lens solution is not readily available, while still prioritizing the health and comfort of your eyes.