What Can You Put Your Contacts in If You Don't Have Solution?

What Can You Put Your Contacts in If You Don't Have Solution?

Contact lenses offer convenience and clear vision for millions of people worldwide. However, there may be instances when you find yourself without contact lens solution, leaving you wondering how to store your lenses safely.

While it's important to prioritize proper hygiene and always follow the recommended practices, there are temporary alternatives available.

In this article, we will explore seven safe alternatives for storing your contact lenses when you don't have access to lens solution. 

Keep in mind that these alternatives should be used sparingly and temporarily, and it is crucial to consult an eye care professional for guidance.

What Can You Put Your Contacts in If You Don't Have Solution?

In situations where contact lens solution is unavailable, there are several alternatives you can use to store your lenses temporarily:

• Saline solution
• Distilled water
• Hydrogen peroxide-based solutions
• Eye drops or artificial tears
• Contact lens cases
• Multipurpose contact lens solutions
• Overnight disposal

overnight disposal can be used as temporary options for storing your contact lenses without proper solution.

These alternatives can help ensure the safety and hygiene of your lenses until you are able to obtain the recommended lens solution.

It's important to remember that these alternatives should only be used temporarily, and it's always advisable to consult with an eye care professional for guidance on proper lens care and maintenance.

Let's explore each option in detail to understand how they can be used as temporary solutions until you can obtain the proper lens solution.

1. Saline Solution:

Saline solution is a sterile, isotonic solution that closely resembles the natural tears in your eyes.

Although it lacks the disinfecting properties of contact lens solution, it can be used temporarily to rinse and store your lenses overnight. Opt for a preservative-free saline solution to minimize the risk of eye irritation.

2. Distilled Water:

In emergency situations where contact lens solution or saline solution is unavailable, distilled water can be a temporary substitute.

However, it's important to note that tap water, bottled water, or filtered water are not suitable alternatives as they may contain microorganisms or chemicals that can harm your eyes.

Rinse your lenses thoroughly with distilled water, and use it only for short-term storage until you can obtain proper lens solution.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide-based Solutions:

If you have a hydrogen peroxide-based lens care system, such as a two-step cleaning and disinfecting solution, you can use it as an alternative to regular contact lens solution. 

These solutions contain a neutralizing agent that converts hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, making them safe for storing lenses. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure effective disinfection.

4. Eye Drops or Artificial Tears:

While eye drops or artificial tears are not specifically designed for contact lens storage, they can provide temporary relief in emergency situations.

These products lubricate and moisturize your eyes and lenses, preventing them from drying out. Although they don't disinfect the lenses, they can keep them hydrated until you obtain the proper solution.

5. Contact Lens Cases:

Even without lens solution, it's crucial to store your contacts properly to prevent damage or contamination.

Rinse your lenses with an alternative solution (such as saline or distilled water) and place them in a clean contact lens case.

Make sure the case is thoroughly cleaned and dried before use. Avoid using tap water or saliva to rinse the case, as they can introduce harmful bacteria.

6. Multipurpose Contact Lens Solutions:

If you've run out of the specific solution recommended for your lenses, you can temporarily use a multipurpose solution that is compatible with your contacts.

These solutions are designed to clean, disinfect, rinse, and store contact lenses. While they may not offer the same level of effectiveness as the recommended solution, they can be used as a temporary alternative until you can obtain the proper product.

7. Overnight Disposal:

In extreme situations where no alternatives are available, it may be necessary to dispose of your lenses overnight.

While this should be a last resort, it is crucial to prioritize the health and safety of your eyes. Discard the lenses and consult with your eye care professional as soon as possible to avoid any complications.

Conclusion:

While it's always important to use the recommended contact lens solution, unforeseen circumstances may leave you without it.

In such cases, the alternatives mentioned above can serve as temporary solutions for storing your contact lenses until you can obtain the proper lens solution.

Remember, these alternatives should only be used in emergencies and for short periods. Prioritize the health of your eyes and consult an eye care professional for guidance on proper lens care and maintenance.