The Top 5 Contact Lens Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them

For athletes, contact lenses offer a clear advantage. They provide sharp vision without the fogging, slipping, or interference that glasses can cause during competition. But while contacts are convenient, they also demand proper care. Small mistakes can quickly lead to discomfort, reduced performance, or even serious eye infections. Whether you’re an athlete yourself or a parent helping your child care for their lenses, here are the top five contact lens mistakes—and how to avoid them.

1. Sleeping in Contact Lenses

After a long day of practice or a late-night game, it can be tempting to fall asleep with lenses still in. However, this reduces oxygen flow to the eyes and increases the risk of infections.

Solution: Always remove lenses before bed unless they are specifically designed for overnight wear, and follow the replacement schedule recommended by your eye doctor.

2. Using Tap Water or Saliva to Clean Lenses

It might seem harmless to rinse lenses in tap water or “moisten” them with saliva, but both can introduce harmful bacteria. This is especially risky for athletes exposed to dust, sweat, and outdoor environments.

Solution: Always use fresh, multipurpose contact lens solution to clean and store lenses. Never reuse or “top off” old solution.

3. Overwearing Lenses Beyond Their Schedule

Trying to stretch daily or monthly lenses longer than intended is a common mistake. Overused lenses collect deposits, reduce comfort, and increase infection risk.

Solution: Stick to the replacement schedule—daily, bi-weekly, or monthly—without exceptions. It’s better for both vision and eye health.

4. Skipping Proper Hand Hygiene

Handling lenses with unwashed hands transfers dirt, oil, and bacteria directly to the eye. For athletes, sweaty hands after a workout or game make this mistake even riskier.

Solution: Always wash and dry hands thoroughly with soap and a lint-free towel before touching lenses.

5. Ignoring Lens Case Hygiene

Lens cases often get overlooked, but they can harbor bacteria if not cleaned regularly.

Solution: Rinse the case with fresh solution daily, allow it to air dry, and replace it every few months.

Contact Lens Benefits for Athletes

When cared for properly, well-fitted contact lenses give athletes:

• Clear, unobstructed vision during fast-paced play
• Freedom from slipping frames or fogging glasses
• Comfort in all sports, from soccer to skiing
• Confidence to focus on the game, not on their eyewear

Protecting Eyes for Peak Performance

By avoiding these common mistakes, athletes and parents can keep eyes healthy and vision clear. Proper care ensures contacts remain a reliable tool, helping players perform their best in every practice and competition.

Discover more about athletic-friendly options in the Contact Lenses category on Goggles n More.

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