Difference Between Cleaning Solution and Saline Solution

When you get contact lenses in Pittsburgh, PA, your eye doctor will send you home with instructions on how to care for the lenses. You may even get a small sample starter kit until you can get to the store to buy your own. At the store, you’ll find that there are two different solutions for contact lenses; cleaning solution and saline solution. Can they be used interchangeably? What are the differences between them?

What is Contact Lens Cleaning Solution?

Contact lens cleaning solution is meant to be used to clean and disinfect contact lenses. Contact lens cleaning solutions contain disinfecting agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or a disinfecting enzyme, that can kill harmful microorganisms that may be present on the lenses. As such, it has the ability to remove dirt, debris, and protein deposits that can build up on the surface of the lens over time.

What is Contact Lens Saline Solution?

Contact lens saline solution is a sterile, buffered salt solution that is used to rinse and store contact lenses. Saline solution is not designed to clean or disinfect the lenses, but rather to provide a sterile environment for the lenses to be stored in between wear. Saline solution does not contain any disinfecting agents, and is not effective at killing microorganisms on the lenses.

Because contact lenses are in direct contact with your eyes, hygiene is of the utmost importance. The best way to clean contact lenses is to first use cleaning solution to clean, and then use saline solution to rinse and store the lenses. Now that you know the difference between contact lens cleaning solution and saline solution, you’ll be able to care for your lenses in the best way possible. For new contact lenses, or to get a contact lens prescription, book an appointment with yourPittsburgh eye doctor today.