Clean Your Ortho K Lenses More Effectively & Easily

Whether you wear Ortho K lenses every day or just occasionally, keeping them clean is essential for ensuring that your vision remains clear and comfortable.

However, cleaning these lenses can be daunting. After all, they’re so small and delicate – how do you make sure that you don’t damage them?

You can find all the information you require regarding cleaning your Ortho K lenses in this post. We’ll go over the most important tricks and methods for keeping them spotless as well as the best cleaning agents to utilize. In order for you to avoid making the same blunders, we’ll also look at some of the most typical care mistakes people make.

So if you’re wondering how to clean Ortho K lenses without fear of damaging them, then this is the article for you!

What Are Ortho K Lenses?

Ortho K lenses are a type of corrective lenses, also known as orthokeratology lenses, which are prescribed and worn to reshape the curvature of the cornea and, as a result, reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses, contacts, and even laser surgery. Ortho K lenses are very effective in correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia.

They are made of a highly gas permeable material and can be worn overnight to create the desired shape of the cornea. This shape then allows for clear vision during the day, and no need for glasses or contacts. After discontinuing the use of Ortho K lenses, the cornea will eventually revert back to its original shape.

While Ortho K lenses are excellent in correcting vision, they also need to be cleaned properly in order to preserve the cornea’s desired shape and keep your vision clear and pleasant while you wear them. Cleaning tiny, delicate lenses can be intimidating to many individuals, but with the appropriate information and methods, it can actually be fairly straightforward.

The most important thing to keep in mind when cleaning Ortho K lenses is to never use tap water or saliva. Tap water may contain chemicals that are not meant to come in contact with your lenses and can do damage, and saliva can introduce bacteria onto the lenses, leading to eye infections.

Why Is It Important to Clean Ortho K Lenses?

It is important to clean Ortho K lenses for a variety of reasons. Firstly, a clean lens will help to prevent dirt, debris, and bacteria from getting onto the lens and blocking your vision, which can cause discomfort, irritation, and reduced vision.

Regular lens cleaning also keeps them clear of deposits that can accumulate over time and reduce the efficiency of the lenses. Finally, by keeping the lenses from getting too strained or scratched, routine cleaning can also assist to extend their lifespan.

Having the right product on hand to clean your Ortho K lenses is also very important. A good multi-purpose lens cleaner, such as the ones designed specifically for Ortho K lenses, is the best option. It should be free of ammonia and alcohol, which can damage the lenses, and should also include surfactants that help to break down any oily residues.

It’s vital to be delicate and not scrub your lenses too hard when cleaning them. This might result in scratches, which would make the lenses less effective and make viewing uncomfortable.

When it comes to storing your lenses, it is best to use a clean, dry storage container. This will help to keep the lenses from becoming scratched, and can also help to reduce the risk of bacterial build-up. It is also important to store your lenses in a cool, dry place to help extend the life of the lenses.

What Are the Different Types of Solutions Used to Clean Ortho K Lenses?

When you need to clean your Ortho K lenses, the most important question is: what type of solution should you use? While water and salted water are generally safe for Ortho K lenses, any other liquids could damage them. It is recommended to use a cleaning solution specifically designed for Ortho K lenses.

Surfactants, which are commonly included in cleaning solutions, can aid in breaking down proteins and oils on lens surfaces. Additionally, they typically contain a disinfectant that stops hazardous bacteria from growing on the lens. Before using a product, always read the label’s directions because there may be warnings about coming into touch with metal or plastic.

It is also important to remember that you should never attempt to clean your Ortho K lenses with saliva or your own tears. Not only can these fluids contain bacteria and fungi that could be damaging to your eyes, but they also lack the surfactants needed for proper cleaning.

Step-by-Step How to Guide for Cleaning Ortho K Lenses

Cleaning your Ortho K lenses is easy when you follow the steps below. Start by getting a clean, lint-free cloth and warm water – distilled or cooled boiled water is best. Wet the cloth with the warm water and ensure it’s not too wet before gently wiping each side of the lens. Avoid using any chemical or soap-based cleaning solutions which may damage the lenses.

After washing your lenses with warm water, you can further clean them with a multipurpose solution that is readily available in stores. Apply this solution evenly to both sides of the lens, and then use a lens cleaning tissue to remove any remaining surface dust or debris. Before drying the lenses with a dry, lint-free cloth, rinse them with cool, fresh tap water. Before putting the lenses aside for future usage, make sure there is no moisture left on them.

By following these steps carefully, you can be sure your Ortho K Lenses will remain in top shape for many years to come!

Alternatives to Cleansing Solutions for Ortho K Lenses

Cleansing solutions can be costly, and you don’t always have access to them when you need it. Fortunately, there are other ways to clean your Ortho K Lenses:

Water

Water is an easy way to clean your lenses. Try adding a few drops of a moderate dishwashing solution if simple water isn’t effective enough to remove the dirt and residue. Prior to using a soft cloth or a lens cleaner brush to help remove debris, let the lenses soak in the sudsy water for a few minutes. After completely rinsing them with clean water, let them air dry.

Baby Shampoo

Another alternative is baby shampoo – dilute it in lukewarm water and soak your Ortho K Lenses for five minutes before gently scrubbing them with a lens cleaner brush or soft cloth. Rinse off the shampoo completely and allow the lenses to air-dry.

Vinegar Solution

If stubborn dirt won’t come off the lenses simply with soap and water, mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts lukewarm water and soak the lenses for 5 minutes before gently scrubbing them. Rinse off the vinegar solution thoroughly with clean, warm water and allow them to dry naturally.

Tips for Maintaining Clean Ortho K Lenses

It is important to keep your Ortho K lenses clean, as dirt and dust can interfere with the quality of vision you receive from them. Luckily, there are ways to keep your lenses free of these elements.

Cleaning Solutions

Using a specially-formulated cleaning solution is the most effective way to remove bacteria and dirt from your Ortho K lenses. Before applying any cleaner, make sure it is safe for use on soft lenses and that it does not contain oils or alcohol. When using a cleaning solution, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

Other Tips

You should also be sure to rinse your lenses with sterile saline solution before you put them in your eye every day. Additionally, rubbing the lenses with a clean, lint-free cloth can help remove any dirt or dust that may have accumulated on them during wear.

Finally, it’s crucial to change your lenses frequently. Ortho K contacts should be changed every 4-6 weeks, or as instructed by an optometrist, based on lifestyle factors including sleeping patterns and contact lens maintenance routines. You can make sure that your eyesight is clear and pleasant while using Ortho K lens technology by following these maintenance suggestions and replacing your lenses on a regular basis.

People Also Like: How to Clean Dexis Sensor

Conclusion

Overall, caring for Ortho K lenses is simple but important. Make sure to keep your lenses clean and free from dirt and debris to get the most out of your lenses. Being proactive and switching to orthokeratology could be a great option for those who have issues with their vision and don’t want to rely on contact lenses. With the proper cleaning and care of your lenses, you could experience a better and clearer vision without the hassle of wearing glasses or contacts.