3 Tips to Preventing Microbial Biofilm Formation in Contact Lens Cases

Australians simply don't have the best eyesight, with close to 50 percent of the population needing to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses to improve their vision. Contact lenses tend to be more popular than eyeglasses as they are convenient, less of a hassle and do not disrupt one's physical features and appearance. With that said, taking care of your contact lenses is much more difficult than maintaining your eyeglasses. It is not uncommon for microbes to form a biofilm over the inner surface of the contact lens cases and contaminate any contact lenses that are stored inside. Don't risk an eye infection by following these 3 tips.

Clean Cases by Rubbing and Rinsing Them

Don't be lazy. Be sure to clean your contact lens cases each and every day before you store your contact lenses in them. Clean the cases by using friction or mechanical force to rub the inside of the contact lens case before rinsing it with a multipurpose solution. By rubbing the inside of the case, you'll be able to disrupt the layer of biofilm that may have just begun to form. In general, it's best to choose contact lens cases with smooth inner designs as it can be difficult to get into the nooks and crannies hidden in ridges.

Choose Cases with Screw On Lids

To keep bacteria and germs from contaminating the inside of the contact lens case, you'll want to limit exposure that the inner surface of the case has with the outer environment. Choose cases with screw on lids, and be sure to screw the lid on tightly in order to get an air-tight seal that is impenetrable by even the smallest bacterial particles. Screw on lids also tend to be more secure, so you won't have to worry about leaks.

Keep Multipurpose Contact Solution In the Case At All Times

Once you have properly cleaned the case and let it air-dry, you'll want to store multipurpose contact solution in the case as much as possible. The antimicrobial properties found within the solution will keep germs and bacteria at bay. The solution acts as a disinfectant to prevent the formation of biofilm as well.

Don't put your eyes at risk by following the simple steps necessary to ensure that the contact lens cases you use on a daily basis stay clean. And if your eyes do begin bothering you, stop wearing your contact lenses and see your optometrist as soon as possible.