When you wear scleral lenses, a clean lens is a comfortable lens. The right cleaning routine can make the difference between clear, comfortable vision all day long and frustrating irritation. But with so many products available, it can be confusing to know which ones are right for you.
Your scleral lenses require specific cleaning systems—like approved multipurpose solutions—and preservative-free saline for rinsing and filling. Using the correct products helps protect your lenses and your eye health, and your optometrist can help you choose options that suit your needs.
The Right Solutions for Your Scleral Lenses
Your scleral lenses need special care to keep them clean and safe for your eyes. Using solutions designed for them is an important part of your daily routine to prevent eye infections. Your eye care team can guide you to the products that work for your specific lenses during a contact lens exam and fitting.
Multipurpose Care and Disinfection
Some multipurpose solutions are approved for scleral lenses. These products allow you to clean, rinse, and disinfect your lenses with a single bottle. It’s important to use a solution recommended by your eye doctor for your lens material.
Preservative-Free Saline for Fill and Rinse
Before you insert your lenses, you will need to fill the holder with a sterile, preservative-free saline solution. You also use this saline to rinse your lenses after cleaning. It’s the only type of solution that should be in the lens when you place it on your eye.
What to Avoid for Scleral Lens Care
Just as important as knowing what to use is knowing what to avoid. Certain liquids can damage your lenses or cause serious harm to your eyes, sometimes requiring emergency eye care. Steer clear of these to keep your eyes healthy.
- Tap water: Never let tap water touch your lenses. It contains tiny organisms that can lead to severe eye infections.
- Homemade saline: Do not try to make your own saline solution at home. It won’t be sterile and can introduce harmful bacteria to your eyes.
- Saliva: Your mouth is full of bacteria, so never use saliva to wet or clean your lenses.
- Expired solution: Always check the expiration date on your solutions. Out-of-date products may not clean effectively and can cause irritation.
Your Daily Scleral Lens Care Routine
Following a consistent routine every day helps keep your lenses in great condition and supports your vision. These steps complement the proper technique for inserting and removing your lenses, so make them a habit.
- Wash your hands: Start by washing your hands with a mild soap, then dry them completely with a clean, lint-free towel.
- Clean after removal: Place one lens in the palm of your hand. Add a few drops of the approved cleaner and gently rub the lens with your fingertip.
- Rinse thoroughly: Use a steady stream of saline solution to rinse away the cleaner and any loosened debris from the lens.
- Disinfect overnight: Put your lenses in their case, cover them with fresh disinfecting solution, and let them soak for the recommended time—usually at least 6 hours.
How Often to Perform a Deep Clean
Daily cleaning handles most of the buildup, but sometimes your lenses need extra attention to help them last as long as possible. A deep clean can remove stubborn deposits that make your vision cloudy or your lenses feel less comfortable.
Weekly Protein Removal
Your optometrist may suggest using a protein remover tablet or an enzymatic cleaner about once a week. This product dissolves protein deposits that your daily cleaner might miss, which helps keep your lenses clear.
When You Notice Buildup
If you see a film on your lenses that doesn’t go away with daily cleaning, it’s probably time for a deeper clean. You might also notice your vision isn’t as sharp as usual. Just follow the product instructions for the best results.
Where to Go for a Scleral Lens Fitting
Scleral lenses require a proper fitting for comfort, eye health, and clear vision. Unlike standard contact lenses, scleral lenses are custom-designed to match the unique shape of your eyes, which means they must be fitted by an optometrist with experience in specialty contact lenses.
Choose a Provider with Scleral Lens Experience
Not all eye care clinics offer scleral lens fittings. Look for an optometry practice that routinely works with specialty lenses and has modern diagnostic technology to measure the surface of your eyes accurately. An experienced provider can fine-tune the fit to address conditions such as keratoconus, severe dry eye, corneal irregularities, or post-surgical vision needs.
What to Expect During a Scleral Lens Fitting
A scleral lens fitting typically involves a comprehensive eye exam and detailed corneal measurements to assess comfort and vision. Your optometrist can evaluate how the lens vaults over your cornea and rests on the sclera, making adjustments as needed for proper oxygen flow and long-term eye health. You’ll also receive hands-on training for insertion, removal, and daily lens care.
Travel Tips for Scleral Lens Wearers
With a little planning, you can easily travel with your scleral lenses. A few simple preparations help you maintain your care routine while you are away from home.
Pack Smart for Flights
If you’re flying, remember that carry-on liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less. You can find travel-sized bottles of your approved solutions, which makes moving through airport security much smoother.
Bring Extra Supplies
It’s always a good idea to pack an extra lens case and, if you have one, a backup pair of lenses. You should also bring more than enough solution to last your entire trip.
Take Care of Your Lenses
Proper lens care is a key part of wearing scleral lenses successfully. If you have questions about your routine or the products you use, our team at River City Vision Center is here to help. Schedule an appointment to discuss your scleral lens care with an optometrist in Jacksonville or Orange Park today.
