Orthokeratology lenses need strict cleaning and care routines to stay safe for use! Good hygiene can prevent potential eye infections when wearing the contacts overnight. Here you will find tips on how to clean Ortho-K lenses. You will also learn the risks of poor lens hygiene and get advice on cleaning solutions.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Ortho-K Lenses
1. Wash Your Hands
Always start by washing your hands with soap and water. Opt for antibacterial hand wash and don't leave traces of soap, cosmetics, lotions, or perfume on your hands. Before handling the night lenses, dry your hands with a lint-free towel or tissue. This removes oils, dirt, or bacteria that could contaminate the Ortho-K lenses and cause infections.
2. Take Out and Rinse the Ortho-K Lenses
After removing the lenses from your eyes, rinse each lens with a doctor-recommended cleaning solution. If you run out of solution, use saline as a one-time substitute (if the Ortho-K lens manufacturer deems it safe).
Avoid tap water to clean Ortho-K lenses, as it can carry microorganisms harmful to your eyes.
3. Rub the Lenses (If Necessary) and Rinse Again
Some solutions require you to rub the lenses. Place the Ortho-K lens in the palm of your hand and apply a few drops of cleaning solution. Use your fingertip to lightly rub the lens in a circular motion for 10-15 seconds to loosen deposits accumulating on the surface. Next, rinse the lenses to remove any debris and cleaning agents. That way, the clean Ortho-K lenses are free of any particles before storing them.
4. Disinfect the Lenses
Place the Ortho-K lenses in a clean storage case with a fresh disinfecting solution. Make sure each lens is fully submerged. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how long the lenses need to soak (usually 6-8 hours) to ensure proper disinfection.
5. Store the Lenses in a Clean Ortho-K Lens Case
Use a clean case designed for Ortho-K lenses. It's NOT the same as the case for regular soft lenses. Replace your lens case every 1-3 months to avoid bacterial contamination. Remember to empty and rinse the case with fresh solution daily, allowing it to air dry by placing it upside down on a clean tissue.
RELATED: Are Ortho-K Lenses Worth It?
Extra Hygiene Tips for Night Lenses
Never use tap water to clean the lenses
Never re-use Ortho-K lens solution
Avoid overuse, follow the wearing and replacement schedule
If you have a cold, flu, or any other illness, avoid wearing the lenses
Upon removing your lenses in the morning, clean and rinse them immediately
Schedule regular follow-ups with your eye doctor
Don't apply eye makeup, moisturizers, or lotions before bed
Before wearing the lenses each night, inspect them for damage or debris
Types of Cleaning Solutions for Ortho-K Lenses
The right cleaning solution plays a huge role in how to clean Ortho-K lenses. Some of the recommended solutions are:
Multipurpose Solutions: All-in-one liquids to clean, disinfect, and store Orthokeratology lenses, convenient for daily use.
Hydrogen Peroxide Solutions: A deeper cleaning option, hydrogen peroxide-based systems require a neutralizing step but are highly effective at disinfecting and removing lens deposits.
Saline: Used mainly for rinsing Ortho-K lenses after cleaning or before insertion. Use a preservative-free formula to clean the lenses before inserting them in your eyes.
Regular cleaning solutions for contact lenses are NOT suitable for Ortho-K lenses.
Consult your eye doctor for guidance on specialized disinfectants for the brand of your night lenses.
In summary...
Taking good care of Ortho-K lenses is essential for optimal vision correction. You can prevent infections and discomfort by following the right steps for cleaning, storing, and disinfecting your lenses. Regular follow-ups and understanding how to clean Ortho-K lenses can make the orthokeratology experience smoother.
Resources:
Care of Night Lenses (Ortho-K), Innovative Eye Care
Checked by Atanas Bogoev, MD.