The Safest Solution: Prioritize Disposables or Eyeglasses
When you are without a proper contact lens case and solution, the absolute safest course of action is to simply discard your contact lenses. This is especially true for daily disposables, which are meant for single use only. For extended-wear or monthly lenses, this might be an expensive lesson, but it is far cheaper than treating a serious eye infection. If you have a pair of eyeglasses, switch to those for the night and find a replacement case and solution the next day. This strategy completely eliminates the risk of contamination from makeshift storage methods.
Emergency Temporary Storage: The Last Resort
If discarding your lenses is not an option and you are in a pinch, you can create a temporary storage solution for a single night. This is a high-risk strategy and requires meticulous attention to hygiene. It is only meant to get you through until you can acquire a new, proper case and disinfecting solution.
The Absolute Must-Haves
- Sterile, Fresh Contact Lens Solution: You absolutely must have a sterile, multi-purpose contact lens solution. Never top off old solution. The solution's disinfecting properties are what will help protect your lenses.
- Airtight, Clean Container: This is the makeshift case. A small, glass jar with a screw-on lid is a good option. Thoroughly wash the container and its lid with hot, soapy water. Rinse completely, and then dry with a clean paper towel. Never use a cloth towel, which can leave lint or bacteria behind. Some people use two clean, shot glasses covered tightly with plastic wrap.
- Clean Hands: Before touching your lenses or the storage container, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Dry them with a paper towel.
The Big "NEVER" List: Dangers to Avoid
- Never Use Water: This is the most important rule. Tap water, bottled water, and even distilled water contain microorganisms, like Acanthamoeba, that can cause severe, painful, and sight-threatening eye infections. Water can also cause soft contact lenses to swell and warp.
- Never Use Saliva: Your mouth is home to a host of bacteria that are not meant for your eyes. Using saliva is an immediate path to infection.
- Never Use DIY Saline: Homemade saline solutions are not sterile and can have an improper salt concentration, which can damage your eyes and lenses.
- Never Reuse Solution: Always use fresh solution. "Topping off" old solution with new solution is ineffective and can spread bacteria.
- Never Use Unsealed Containers: Leaving your lenses in an open container, even with solution, allows for evaporation and contamination from airborne particles.
A Step-by-Step Guide for Safe Temporary Storage
- Find your container: Locate a clean, airtight container, such as a small glass jar or a well-sealed pill box. If using a glass, find a way to cover it tightly, like with plastic wrap and a rubber band.
- Clean the container: Wash the container and lid thoroughly with soap and hot water, then dry completely with a clean paper towel.
- Prepare a surface: Lay down a clean paper towel to work on. Avoid working over a sink, where you could drop a lens down the drain.
- Wash your hands: Use antibacterial soap and water, and dry with a fresh paper towel.
- Fill with solution: Fill the temporary container(s) with fresh, sterile contact lens solution. Fill it enough to completely submerge the lenses.
- Label your lenses: Label the containers 'L' and 'R' to avoid mixing up your lenses, especially if you have different prescriptions.
- Submerge the lenses: Carefully remove one lens at a time and place it into its designated container. Ensure it is fully submerged.
- Seal and store: Close the container(s) tightly. Store in a clean, safe place away from moisture and heat.
- Disinfect the next day: When you get a proper case, perform a full rub-and-rinse disinfection cycle before wearing the lenses again. You can also use a hydrogen peroxide-based system to thoroughly clean them.
Comparing Temporary vs. Proper Storage
| Feature | Temporary DIY Method | Proper Contact Lens Case |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | High risk of contamination and infection | Low risk when used correctly |
| Sterility | Not guaranteed; depends on cleaning process | Designed to be sterile and secure |
| Disinfection | Solution disinfects, but container may harbor bacteria | Case and solution work together for optimal disinfection |
| Convenience | Inconvenient; requires extra steps and caution | Designed for ease of use and safety |
| Longevity | One-night only, high-risk | Long-term, secure storage solution |
How to Prevent Future Emergencies
- Keep a Travel Kit: Maintain a small, travel-sized contact lens care kit in your bag or car. This kit should include a sterile case and a small bottle of solution.
- Stock Up on Supplies: Always have a spare case and solution at home. Most solution bottles come with a free case.
- Wear Daily Disposables: If you frequently forget your supplies, consider talking to your eye doctor about switching to daily disposable lenses. With these, you simply throw them away at the end of the day.
- Carry Eyeglasses: Always have a pair of eyeglasses on hand as a backup. They are a lifesaver in these kinds of situations and allow you to discard your contacts safely.
Conclusion: Your Eye Health is a Priority
Forgetting your contact lens case is a common and stressful situation, but taking the proper, cautious steps is vital for your eye health. While makeshift solutions can work for a single night, the risks of contamination are high. The safest path is always to discard your lenses and use a backup pair of glasses. In an emergency, strict hygiene and using only sterile, fresh contact lens solution in a clean, airtight container are your only temporary options. For more information on proper lens care and eye health, consult authoritative sources like the American Optometric Association.
