When to toss the case for your contact lenses

If your contact lenses case is cracked or otherwise damaged, replace it immediately. Otherwise, if you've had the case more than three months, it's time for a new one. Lens cases can harbor germs and timely replacement lowers the risk of eye problems.

Replacing the case regularly could help protect your eyes from keratitis, a painful condition that leads to about 1 million doctor visits every year. Keratitis can cause ulcers on the cornea or even vision loss, and can occur when your cornea is injured and becomes vulnerable to infection from a virus or bacteria, fungi, or parasites in water.

To protect your lenses—and your eyes—change your contact lenses on schedule. (Tip: Write the date on the bottom with a marker.) And never wear them in the shower or pool, or overnight.  

The American Academy of Ophthamology also recommends the following safety measures:

• Before handling your contacts always wash your hands with soap and water.
• Do not rinse lenses with water or store them in water. Always use the storage method and cleaning solution recommended by your eye-care professional.
• After putting lenses in, rinse the case with fresh solution (do not use water), and leave the case open so that it air dries.

Wear glasses? See our advice on how to get a great looking pair of cheap glasses and our guide to eyeglass stores.