How to Care for Your Monthly Colored Contact Lenses: Cleaning and Storage Tips

Quick Answer

To care for your monthly colored contact lenses, clean them daily with a fresh multipurpose solution, gently rub and rinse each lens, store them in a clean case filled with fresh solution, and replace the case every three months. Always wash your hands before handling lenses and never use water or saliva to clean them.

Monthly colored contact lenses offer a convenient balance between daily disposables and traditional yearly lenses. They provide the freedom to change your look without the daily cost of disposables, but they require consistent care to keep your eyes comfortable and healthy. Proper cleaning and storage are not just about maintaining the lens appearance—they directly impact your eye health.

Whether you're new to monthly lenses or just need a refresher, this guide walks you through the essential steps for cleaning and storing your monthly colored contacts. From the right cleaning technique to avoiding common mistakes, you'll learn how to extend the life of your lenses and keep your eyes feeling great.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Start by washing your hands thoroughly with mild soap and drying them with a lint-free towel. Avoid oily or scented soaps, as residues can transfer to your lenses. Before handling your lenses, make sure your nails are short to avoid tearing the lens material.

Remove one lens at a time and place it in the palm of your hand. Apply a few drops of fresh multipurpose solution and gently rub the lens with your fingertip for about 20 seconds. This step removes protein deposits and debris that can accumulate during wear. Rinse the lens with more solution before placing it in the case.

Never use water, saliva, or homemade saline solutions to clean your lenses. These can introduce harmful microorganisms and lead to infections. Always use a fresh solution specifically designed for contact lenses, and never reuse the solution from the case.

• Always use fresh solution—never top off the old solution in the case.
• Replace your lens case every three months to prevent bacterial buildup.

Storing Your Monthly Lenses

After cleaning, place each lens in the correct side of your lens case and fill the compartments with fresh solution. Make sure the lens is fully submerged and the case is tightly closed. Store the case upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.

If you don't wear your monthly lenses every day, you still need to change the solution in the case every few days, even if you haven't worn the lenses. This keeps the lenses hydrated and prevents bacteria from growing in the stagnant solution.

Always check the expiration date on your solution and lens packaging. Using expired products can reduce their effectiveness and increase the risk of eye irritation or infection.

• Never store lenses in water or saline—only use multipurpose solution.
• If you're not wearing your lenses for a while, change the solution every 2-3 days.

Case Care and Replacement

Your lens case is a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly maintained. After inserting your lenses, empty the case, rinse it with fresh solution, and let it air dry with the caps off. This prevents moisture buildup that can lead to contamination.

Replace your lens case at least every three months, or immediately if it becomes cracked, discolored, or damaged. A damaged case can harbor bacteria that may cause eye infections. When you replace your case, also consider replacing your solution bottle if it's been open for more than the recommended period.

Never store your lens case in the bathroom, where humidity and airborne particles can contaminate it. Keep it in a clean, dry area away from sinks and toilets.

• Air-dry your case with the caps off after each use.
• Replace your case every three months, even if it looks clean.

Recognizing When to Replace Your Lenses

Monthly colored contact lenses are designed to be worn for up to one month from the date you first open them, not a full 30 days of wear. This means if you open a pair and wear them only occasionally, you should still discard them after 30 days. This helps prevent protein buildup and maintains lens integrity.

If you notice any discomfort, redness, or blurred vision while wearing your lenses, remove them immediately and consult your eye care professional. Do not continue wearing lenses that cause irritation, as this could indicate an infection or a damaged lens.

Always follow the wearing schedule recommended by your eye care provider. Overwearing monthly lenses can reduce oxygen flow to your eyes and increase the risk of complications.

• Discard monthly lenses 30 days after opening, regardless of wear frequency.
• Never sleep in your monthly lenses unless your eye care professional approves it.

Step-by-Step Care Routine

1. Wash and dry your hands: Use mild soap and a lint-free towel to clean your hands before touching your lenses. Avoid oily or scented soaps to prevent residue transfer.
2. Clean each lens with solution: Place the lens in your palm, apply fresh solution, and gently rub for 20 seconds. Rinse thoroughly. Never use water or saliva—always use multipurpose solution.
3. Store lenses in a clean case with fresh solution: Place each lens in the correct compartment, fill with fresh solution, and close tightly. Change the solution every 2-3 days if not wearing lenses regularly.
4. Clean and air-dry your case: After inserting your lenses, empty the case, rinse with solution, and air-dry with caps off. Replace your case every three months to prevent bacterial buildup.
5. Replace lenses on schedule: Discard monthly lenses 30 days after opening, even if not worn daily. Follow your eye care provider's wearing schedule to avoid overuse.

Recommended Monthly Lenses

• Dekame Love me Toffeenut 1Month: Made in Korea. Designed by I-SHA Korea. Dekame Love me is designed by I-SHA Korea for a refined K-beauty color lens look with comfortable monthly wear. Toffeenut adds a warm toffee-brown tone for gentle definition. This monthly lens offers a comfortable wearing experience with a stylish brown tint, making it a great choice for those who want a natural look with long-term value.
• ORIANA Shade Brown 1Month: Made in Korea. Designed by I-SHA Korea. ORIANA Shade is designed by I-SHA Korea for a refined K-beauty color lens look with comfortable monthly wear. Brown adds a natural brown tone for easy everyday styling. With its natural brown tone and monthly wear schedule, this lens is ideal for daily styling while providing a comfortable fit throughout the month.

Proper care for your monthly colored contact lenses is essential for both comfort and eye health. By following a consistent cleaning and storage routine, you can enjoy your lenses to the fullest while minimizing the risk of irritation or infection. Remember to always use fresh solution, keep your case clean, and replace your lenses on time. Your eyes will thank you.