Scleral lenses are an investment in your vision, and a few good habits keep both your lenses and your eyes healthy for years. The routine is simple once it’s part of your day — here’s exactly how to care for them.
Filling solution: preservative-free saline only
The saline that goes inside the lens, against your cornea all day, should always be a preservative-free saline made for scleral lenses. Preservatives that are fine for soft-lens rinsing can irritate the eye when held against the cornea for hours. Never use tap water to fill or rinse your lenses.
Cleaning and disinfecting
At the end of each day, clean the lens with a gas-permeable lens cleaner or a hydrogen-peroxide system recommended by your doctor. Even with “no-rub” products, gently rubbing the lens in your palm removes far more debris and film. Then disinfect overnight per your system’s instructions. Always start each day with fresh solution — never “top off” old solution.
Weekly deep cleaning
Many wearers benefit from a weekly protein-removal or deep cleaner to keep the optics clear, especially if you notice gradual fogging or filming. Your doctor will tell you whether your eyes need this and how often.
Storing your lenses
Store lenses in a clean case filled with fresh disinfecting solution. Rinse and air-dry the case daily, and replace it every one to three months — cases are a common source of contamination. Keep lenses moist; never let them dry out in an empty case.
Why tap water is off-limits
This one matters: tap, distilled, and bottled water can carry Acanthamoeba, an organism that causes a serious, hard-to-treat corneal infection. Keep your lenses, cases, and plungers away from all water, and don’t shower or swim in your lenses unless your doctor has specifically cleared it.
Handling and replacement
Handle lenses over a towel, not a sink, and use your fingertips rather than nails to avoid scratches or chips. Sclerals are durable but not indestructible; your doctor will recommend a replacement schedule based on wear and your tear chemistry. Inspect each lens for cracks or chips before inserting — see how to insert and remove scleral lenses for handling tips.
Red flags — when to call us
Stop wearing the lens and contact us promptly if you have eye pain, persistent redness, light sensitivity, discharge, or blurred vision that doesn’t clear with a clean refill. Caught early, most issues are minor; ignored, they can become serious. If your comfort changes as you’re still adapting, our guide on scleral lens comfort may help.
Questions about caring for your scleral lenses?
Dr. Shira Kresch offers complimentary specialty consultations at Michigan Contact Lens in Southfield, serving patients across Metro Detroit. We’ll map your corneas and tell you honestly whether scleral lenses are right for you.
