How Often to Replace Contact Lens Cases (and How to Keep Yours Clean)

Replace your contact lens case at least every three months, or with each new bottle of solution. Replace it right away if it cracks or after an eye infection. Old cases build up bacteria that can cause serious eye infections.

If you're not sure how often to replace contact lens cases, you're not alone. Most people replace their lenses on schedule but forget about the case. That's a problem, because the case is where your lenses sit for hours every night. A dirty or worn-out case can put germs right back on the lenses you just disinfected.

Here's how often to replace your case, what can happen if you don't, and how to clean it properly between replacements.

How Often Should You Replace a Contact Lens Case?

Eye care professionals generally recommend replacing your contact lens case at least every three months. Many people find it easiest to replace the case each time they open a new bottle of solution, since many solutions come with a fresh case.

Replace your case immediately if:

• It's cracked, chipped, or scratched
• The caps no longer close tightly
• It looks cloudy or discolored, or has a film inside
• It has an odor
• You've had an eye infection (replace your lenses, too)
• It was dropped somewhere unsanitary or got tap water in it

Using hydrogen peroxide solution? Always use the special case that comes with your peroxide system, and replace it with every new bottle. These cases have a built-in disc that neutralizes the peroxide, and it wears out over time. A worn disc may not fully neutralize the solution, which can cause painful burning when you put your lenses in.

Wearing scleral or ortho-k lenses? Specialty lenses often use their own cases and care products. Follow your eye doctor's instructions, and see our scleral and ortho-k collections for supplies.

What Happens If You Don't Replace Your Contact Lens Case?

Even when you clean it regularly, a lens case can become a breeding ground for germs.

Biofilm Builds Up

Over time, bacteria form a thin, sticky layer called biofilm on the inside of the case. Biofilm protects germs from disinfecting solution, so they can survive even when you use fresh solution every night. Scratches and tiny grooves in older cases give biofilm more places to hide.

Germs Transfer to Your Lenses

Studies have found that a large share of contact lens cases in everyday use are contaminated with bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms. When your lenses soak in a contaminated case, those germs can end up on the lens and then on your eye.

Your Risk of Eye Infections Goes Up

A dirty lens case is a known risk factor for keratitis, a painful infection of the cornea. Some of the organisms linked to contaminated cases include:

• Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus bacteria
• Fungi, such as Fusarium
• Acanthamoeba, a rare but serious organism often linked to water exposure

Keratitis can cause pain, redness, light sensitivity, and blurry vision. In serious cases, it can lead to corneal scarring or permanent vision loss.

How to Clean Your Contact Lens Case Properly

Replacing your case regularly matters, but cleaning it every day matters too. Follow these steps each time you put your lenses in:

1. Empty the case. Dump out all the old solution. Never reuse or "top off" old solution.
2. Rub and rinse with fresh solution. Use clean fingers to rub the inside of each well, then rinse the case with fresh multipurpose solution.
3. Never use water. Tap water, bottled water, and distilled water can all carry germs like Acanthamoeba.
4. Wipe it dry. Use a clean, lint-free tissue.
5. Air-dry upside down with the caps off. Leave the case open, face down, on a clean tissue until you use it again.

A few more habits that help:

• Wash and dry your hands before handling your lenses or case
• Keep the case away from water, including sinks and showers
• Don't share cases or use a case for anything else
• Travel with a clean case and enough solution for your whole trip

Other Contact Lens Habits That Protect Your Eyes

Your case is one part of a healthy lens routine. Other key habits include:

• Follow your lens replacement schedule. Daily, two-week, and monthly lenses are designed to be thrown out on time.
• Don't sleep in your lenses unless your eye doctor has approved it.
• Use drops labeled for contact lenses. 
• Keep your eyelids clean. Oil, makeup, and debris from the lash line can end up on your lenses. A gentle eyelid cleanser helps keep the lid margin clean. If your lids are often red or crusty, read what triggers a blepharitis flare-up.

For a full rundown, see our guide on how to care for your contact lenses.

Want to skip the case entirely? Daily disposable lenses are thrown away after each wear, so there's no case to clean or replace. Ask your eye doctor whether they're right for you, or read contacts vs. glasses for more on your options.

An Easy Way to Remember

If replacing your case keeps slipping your mind, try one of these:

• Replace it every time you open a new bottle of solution
• Replace it at the start of each season
• Set a recurring reminder on your phone every three months

Stock up on fresh cases and solution in our Contact Care collection.

When to See an Eye Doctor

Remove your lenses and contact an eye care provider promptly if you notice:

• Eye pain
• Redness that doesn't go away
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurry vision
• Discharge or excessive tearing
• A feeling that something is in your eye

Bring your lenses and case with you to the appointment, since they can help your doctor find the cause.

The Bottom Line

Replace your contact lens case at least every three months, or with every new bottle of solution, and right away if it's damaged or you've had an eye infection. Between replacements, rinse it with fresh solution, never water, and let it air-dry upside down.

It's a small habit, but it's one of the easiest ways to protect your eyes.