How Often Should You Replace Your Contact Lens Case? Here’s What Eye Experts Say
Introduction
When it comes to contact lens care, most of us are diligent about cleaning our lenses—but what about the case they live in?
It’s easy to overlook, but your contact lens case plays a crucial role in your eye health. It’s where your lenses rest, rehydrate, and get ready for your next wear. But if that little case isn’t clean or is overdue for replacement, it can actually do more harm than good.
Let’s break down how often you should replace your contact lens case, why it matters, and how to keep it clean in between swaps.
Why Replacing Your Contact Lens Case Matters
Think of your lens case like a toothbrush: you wouldn’t use the same one forever, right? Over time, contact lens cases can collect bacteria, fungi, and protein deposits—even if you clean them regularly. These invisible threats can stick around and transfer to your lenses, increasing your risk of eye infections like keratitis or conjunctivitis.
Worn-out cases can also develop micro-scratches that harbor bacteria and prevent proper disinfection, even with fresh solution. If your goal is clear vision and healthy eyes, that case needs just as much attention as your lenses.
So, How Often Should You Replace Your Case?
Experts recommend replacing your contact lens case every 1 to 3 months.
The American Optometric Association and many lens manufacturers agree: even with proper cleaning, a case’s lifespan is short.
To keep things simple, we suggest this rule of thumb:
🗓 Change your case at the start of every new season—it’s easy to remember and gives your eyes a fresh start.
If you wear daily disposables, you might not think about lens cases much. But if you’re storing lenses overnight or using biweekly/monthly contacts, case hygiene should be part of your routine.
Signs It's Time to Toss Your Case (Even Sooner)
Sometimes, you shouldn’t wait the full three months. Replace your lens case immediately if:
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It’s cracked, warped, or doesn’t close properly
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You see visible buildup or discoloration
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It has a lingering smell, even after cleaning
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You’ve had an eye infection or irritation recently
A fresh case is cheaper than a trip to the eye doctor—so when in doubt, switch it out.
How to Keep Your Lens Case Clean Between Replacements
Replacing your case regularly is key—but cleaning it properly day-to-day is just as important. Here’s how:
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Dump out old solution daily—never “top off” yesterday’s liquid.
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Rinse the case with fresh multipurpose solution, not tap water (which can carry microbes).
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Air dry the case upside down on a clean tissue or surface with the caps off.
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Wash your hands before touching your lenses or the case.
Bonus tip: Don’t forget to clean the caps too—they come into contact with the same surfaces as the wells!
Keep a Backup (or Two)
ust like having an extra toothbrush, it’s smart to keep a spare contact lens case in your bag, at your desk, or for travel. Emergencies happen, and having a clean backup can save your eyes from potential contamination.
You can even snag a cute, compact lens kit from EyeCandys’ accessories section—some come with mirrors, tweezers, and travel-friendly lens holders in stylish cases.
Final Thoughts: Small Case, Big Impact
Your contact lens case may seem like a tiny part of your routine, but it has a big job: keeping your lenses safe and your eyes healthy. By replacing it every 1 to 3 months—and keeping it clean in between—you’re taking an easy but powerful step toward better eye care.
Need a fresh case? Explore our curated selection of contact lens cases and accessories that are as cute as they are practical.
