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Top 8 Best Contact Solutions

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Written by Andrew Le, MD.
Medically reviewed by
Last updated July 31, 2024

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Contact lenses are another viable means of vision correction, which many people prefer to eyeglasses. Because they have no frame around them, they offer better vision and many citizens believe that they are more comfortable to use. Still, as with any object that is conveniently worn on the eyes, there is a responsibility for one to properly clean and store them. Another important factor in the contact lens lens care is the selection of the contact lens droppers.

Contact solution is a liquid used to clean and remove protein, disinfect and store contact lenses. It is important that you select the right contact solution for your lenses for them to be clean if clear if that is what you desire. Choosing the wrong solution can cause inconvenience, discomfort, and even the development of a purulent process.

Two important aspects that may help you choose the right type of contact solution are the type of lenses you wear, and any possible allergies as well as the schedule for cleaning and disinfection of contact lenses. There are options which are suitable for particular forms of contact lenses, soft or RGP lenses for example. Some may have preservatives that can be so detrimental to eyes that are sensitive to the elements.

In the process of preparing our list, we invested around twenty hours looking into the most recent and comprehensive reviews of different types of contact lens solutions for optimum contact lens care and comfortable wearing. In the next few part, we will organize our conclusion and recommendation on which type of contact solution is most suitable.

Top 3 Best Contact Solutions

  1. Biotrue Contact Lens Solution
  2. Renu Contact Lens Solution, Advanced Formula, 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) 2 Pack
  3. Renu Contact Lens Solution

You know how much it is crucial to maintain proper hygiene and the right comfort level of your contact lenses. That is why, we have collected a list of the tested contact solutions that you can use this year. Whether you use daily, monthly lenses or if you are allergic to dust, then we have a way to help cool, comfort, clean and serve you every day everywhere conveniently. Here we list the reviews of the best contact lens solution that will help keep your eyes healthy, bright and comfortable throughout the day.

Biotrue Contact Lens Solution

The Editor's Choice

It's our go-to for unbeatable comfort, crystal-clear lenses, and eye-friendly hydration. Just remember, it's a soft lens superstar. Your lens game changer awaits!

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If you require a contact lens solution that helps to maintain the moisture of your lenses during the day ensuring you comfort ,one product worth considering is the Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution.

Pros

  • Provides up to 20 hours of moisture
  • Exceptional cleaning and disinfection
  • Matches the pH of healthy tears

Cons

  • May not be suitable for all types of contact lenses
  • Some users may experience mild irritation
  • The bottle may leak if not stored properly

We have been incorporating Biotrue into the spectacle dispensing for a few months now and we were very impressed with the support it has offered. This means it is comfortable to wear for the whole day and at the same time it is effective in maintaining clean and clear lenses. We also like that it is easy in our eyes, especially when we h spend a lot of time working at a computer.

The solution has hyaluronan, a hydrator that is used for moistening the EyeVue lenses and is naturally present in tears. It also has a dual disinfecting mechanism that helps it in eradicating dirt and hence proteins on our lenses in order to give you clear lenses.

Something to consider is that it is not clear Biotrue is compatible with all kind of contact lenses. It is effective on soft contact lenses especially for the new generation of silicone hydrogel contact lenses, but may not be very effective on conventional types of contact lenses.

In summary, Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution is one of the best solutions we’ve come across for those looking for a contact lens solution that offers outstanding cleaning and disinfection function of the lenses apart from maintaining moisture for the comfort of the lenses all day.

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If you need a product that can rinse, condition and metabolize contact lenses effectively, then Renu Contact Lens Solution is the best product to buy.

Pros

  • Kills 99.9% of germs in only 4 hours
  • Can be used daily to clean, store, disinfect, and rinse lenses
  • Provides all-day moisture for comfortable lens wearing experience

Cons

  • Not suitable for hard contact lenses
  • May cause irritation in some users
  • Bottle design can be difficult to use when the solution runs low

Renu Contact Lens Solution has been working for us for some time now and we’ve seen how effectively it cleans lenses as well as disinfects them. What I liked about the triple disinfectant system is that it’s very effective in eradicating germs, and at the same time, it does not require you to rinse it out, which means you can use it every single day and it is not going to cause your skin any irritation or dryness.

In fact, one of Renu Contact Lens Solution’s major features is that it not only evenly applies moisture all thro the day but also enhances lens wearing fluency. It does not feel like our lenses gather dirt easily during the day, making us adjust or remove them and clean them frequently.

Though, what is significant to mention, Renu Contact Lens Solution is not applicable for the usage with hard types of contacts. Finally, certain consumers of the solution may experience an Irritation or discomfort while in the process. However, the collapsible bottle aspect may pose a small problem whenever the solution starts to run low in the bottle.

To wrap it up, Renu Contact Lens Solution is a perfect choice for anyone who needs a multi-purpose solution for soft contact lenses.

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If you are in a search of a comfortable long-wearing daily contact lens and portable moisture for several hours among the major contact lenses, then Opti-Free Puremoist Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution is exactly what you are looking for.

Pros

  • Opti-Free Puremoist is the #1 doctor recommended multi-purpose solution on the market.
  • The exclusive 2D formula uses Polyquad and Aldox dual disinfectants to eliminate microorganisms that could potentially lead to eye infections.
  • The Hydraglyde Moisture Matrix surrounds the patients lens in long lasting moisture, providing constant comfort throughout the day and creates a barrier to keep out harmful deposits and debris.

Cons

  • It is a bit expensive compared to other contact solution brands.
  • Some users may experience a slight burning sensation when using the solution.
  • The solution may not work as effectively for people with extremely dry eyes.

Opti-Free Puremoist is suitable for long term use and is actually more friendly on the pocket compared to other lenses. The solution encompasses moisture throughout the day and our contact lenses are conveniently comfortable all day by the Hydraglyde Moisture Matrix maintains the cleanness of the lenses as it retains moisture throughout the day. This is mainly explained by the 2D formula which also makes us relax because our lenses are safe and cannot be infected by any micro organism.

There is a small skin reaction that may occur and the solution may tingle slightly as it is applied on the skin, but the effect is transient. However, some users complained it may not be as efficient when used by people who have extremely dry eyes; therefore, one should consult with the eyes doctor before using the product.

All in all, Opti-Free Puremoist Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution definitely gets two thumbs up and if you ever decide to look for a contact lens solution that easily disinfects and is suitable for long-term use – look no further!

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This would make Opti-Free Replenish Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution ideal if you are searching for a contact solution that is comfortable with rapid cleaning power and disinfecting properties.

Pros

  • Opti-Free replenish solution features top-notch cleaning and disinfecting power.
  • The exclusive 2D formula containing Polyquad and Aldox helps disinfect and wash away microorganisms that could result in eye infections and irritation.
  • The TearGlyde reconditioning system works with your tears to create a shield of comfortable moisture.

Cons

  • The solution might cause some irritation if not rinsed off properly.
  • Some users might find it a bit expensive compared to other contact solutions.
  • The solution might not work well with some contact lenses.

To date, we have found a lot of things good about the Opti-Free Replenish Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution. It offers a steady supply of moisture and comfort for an entire day, however; the TearGlyde reconditioning system is fantastic in giving continual eyed comfort. We also appreciate that it avoids such impurities removing all the unwanted chip and particles that end up in making the contact lenses clearer.

In conclusion, everyone who is interested in buying a contact solution to clean and disinfect lenses should consider having Opti-Free Replenish Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution.

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If you seek safe solution for your contact lenses and they are sensitive to your eyes, then the Sensitive Eyes Contact Lens Solution by Bausch & Lomb is a perfect choice.

Pros

  • Safe for rinsing after daily cleaning and before insertion
  • Can be used for diluting enzymatic cleaning tablets and storing soft contact lenses after thermal disinfection
  • Gentle on eyes and doesn't cause irritation

Cons

  • Does not disinfect or clean contact lenses
  • Only available for shipping within the US and to APO/FPO addresses
  • May not be suitable for those with severe allergies to potassium

We have had no problem with this contact lens solution which we’ve been using for the past few months. The best thing about it is that it is virtually easy to use and does not strain the eyes, meaning that users with sensitive eyes can go for it.

It is permissible to rinse the solution after daily cleaning and before placing it in the mouth and can be used to dilute enzymatic cleaning tablets and as a storage medium for soft contact lenses after heat treatment. And yet, this product does not clean or disinfect the contact lenses; the product applies for use alongside another cleaning solution.

Some relevant points to note are that the product is currently only delivered within the United States including APO/FPO. In particular, those who are sensitive to potassium should not take this product as well due to very heavy concentration of this chemical in the blend of supplements.

In conclusion, we can confidently encourage the purchase of the Sensitive Eyes Contact Lens Solution by Bausch & Lomb for those who are in the market for a gentle lens cleaning solution that is decided safe to be used.

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If you are in the need of good rewetting solution for your GP contact lenses, then, Boston Contact Lens Solution is suggested to purchase.

Pros

  • Coats lens surface and restores natural tear layer
  • Soothes and moisturizes for greater comfort
  • Removes particles and helps remove debris

Cons

  • Small bottle size
  • Lid can be difficult to open
  • Expensive compared to other options

Of course, we have been using Boston Contact Lens Solution for a certain period of time previously and we seem to consider this product meets its promises in helping to provide comfort during the day. The formula sets on the lens surface, recreating the natural tear film and resulting in more comfortable wearing for an extended period of time. We also pointed out that after using this mixture we felt that our eyes were fresh and our meibomian glands were adequately hydrated.

There is a point to note, though—the bottle is relatively small, and will need to be refilled quite regularly if you’re using this solution frequently. Furthermore, during our experimentation, we have observed that at times the lid is often very hard to open. Last but not least, there are varieties of other contact lens solutions that are cheaper than Boston Contact Lens Solution in the market, therefore if you are a tight-cash customer it’s better to look for other brands.

In conclusion, owing to the effectiveness of this product, we can highly advise Boston Contact Lens Solution to any person aiming to obtain a rewetting solution for his/her GP contacts. It is effective, convenient because it does not stick to the skin throughout the day offering great comfort.

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For any lens wearer who wishes to go for a convenient and easy way of cleaning and maintaining your lenses, then the Boston Simplus Multi-Action Solution is the answer to your prayers.

Pros

  • This single-bottle system makes cleaning, disinfecting, and conditioning your gas permeable contact lenses easier than ever.
  • No evening rub step is required, saving you time and hassle.
  • With daily use, you can skip the weekly protein removal step.

Cons

  • This product is only eligible for shipping within the United States and to APO/FPO addresses.
  • Some users may experience discomfort or irritation with this solution.
  • The bottle design can make it difficult to dispense the solution.

Boston Simplus has been around for several years and its results have proven to be quite right for our GP contact lenses. The benefits of such system are the fact that to charge it the bottle is enough and we do not need to wash it from proteins as it done in the case of other systems. Nonetheless, there has been sometime some discomfort with this solution but for some time now the bottle design to use in dispensing the solution makes it very hard. Nevertheless, Boston Simplus can be highly beneficial and is thus recommended.

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If you’re looking for nontoxic contact lens solution for all-day comfort and relief for your contact lenses, then Opti-Free Puremoist Multi-Purpose Contact Lens Solution is the solution for you.

Pros

  • Keeps lenses moist all day
  • Thoroughly cleans contact lenses
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • May cause slight irritation for some users
  • May not work well with hard contact lenses
  • More expensive than other brands

In the recent past, we have been using Opti-Free Puremoist for some time now, and this we can affirm; for the everyday contact lens user who is looking for solutions for all day’s moisture and comfort, Opti-Free Puremoist is the remedy. It is effective in rinsing, cleansing, depolluting, storing, as well as in reconditioning of our lenses.

Another interesting thing about Opti-Free Puremoist is the 2D formula which incorporates Polyquad and Aldox as dual disinfectants to destroy enzymes that causes eye infections in softer and faster way. The Hydraglyde Moisture Matrix for the patients lens offers long-lasting moisture throughout the day; with it, comfort is not an issue, and the creation of a protective barrier to keep deposits and debris out is also ensured.

Where standard saline solution will simply wash the contact lens, Opti-Free Puremoist solution is intended to clean the contact lenses to give comfort all through in the morning, day and night. However, studies have proven that it is excellent for use with both silicone hydrogel and soft CLs. These lenses may be stored in the solution in a closed case for up to 30 days before it requires cleaning and re-disinfection.

Therefore, to use Opti-Free Puremoist, start by rinsing the lenses with the solution, then placing them in the case and flooding them. Next, rinse each by holding it with your fingers and rubbing each lens for an approximate 20 seconds. Secondly, it is done by gently rubbing each side of the lens with Opti-Free Puremoist for about ten seconds. Lastly, wear the lenses for at least four hours and then remove them and place them in the case for at least six hours to allow the solution do the work of effectively rinsing and disinfecting the lenses.

Altogether, Opti-Free Puremoist Multi-Purpose Contact Lens Solution is an appropriate purchase that will allow men and women to have clean contact lenses throughout the day and produce comfort to their eyes.

Buying Guide

Purchasing a contact solution is not a simple task since there are some factors that one needs to consider to ensure that they give the best solution to their lenses. The following are the considerations that should be made while choosing a contact lens solution for update buying guide.

1. Contact Lens Type

It is noteworthy that the type of contact lenses is considered to be the key factor affecting the choice of contact solution. Some of the contact solutions will be proven to work with the soft contact lenses while others are developed to work with the rigid gas permeable contact lenses. It is also important that you select a type of container that is best suited for the type of contact lenses you use.

2. Cleaning and Disinfecting

It is very important to clean and disinfect your contact lenses to prevent worrying consequences to you eyes. When choosing your contact lens solution, aim to find a product that not only cleans the lenses, but disinfects as well, in order to minimize bacterial buildup and help eliminate other undesirable microorganisms.

3. Comfort

Importantly, wearing contact lenses may lead to some unpleasant feelings if the lenses are not adequately cleaned and disinfected. Find a contact lens solution that is ideal for your eyes and one which doesn’t cause any irritation and discomfort after some few hours.

4. Convenience

There are those that need you to perform a series of steps for the cleaning and disinfecting of your contact lenses, while there are those that do this in one process. Look at what you are willing to spend on contact lenses and what is most comfortable to you in terms of contact lens care.

5. Price

Contact solutions are different for prices so the customer should also take into consideration the amount of money they are willing to spend so that they can get the best product that meets their needs. Nevertheless, it is vital to remember that the cheapest option is not the best for eyes all the time.

In conclusion, the choice of the contact lens solution depends on the type of contact lenses, cleaning and disinfecting efficacy, comfort, convenience, and cost. As a result of considering the above points, you will be in a position to choose the best contact solution to go for.

Therefore, when selecting a contact solution, the factors to bear in mind are the type of contact lenses, the cleaning and disinfecting features, comfort, ease, and cost. Taking these factors into consideration, one is in a position to choose the most appropriate contact solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between hydrogen peroxide and multipurpose contact lens solutions?

Water that contains hydrogen peroxide is very effective at removing dirt and killing germs and other microorganisms and this means that those with sensitive eyes or allergies to dust should consider it. Multiple purpose solutions are more generalized and may used for cleaning, lens-disinfecting and contact lens-storage purposes.

2. Which contact lens solution is best for protein build-up?

This is due to their efficiency in dissolving protein deposits, as opposed to mechanically removing them with a cleaning cloth. The cleaners dissolve protein and other dirt that may be on the lenses and leaves them looking shiny clean.

3. Is there a significant difference between Biotrue and ReNu contact solutions?

Biotrue is a versatile lens cleaning and disinfectant solution that does the job just as well as ReNu. However, the formula of Biotrue is a bio-inspired one, which means that this product contains a solution that is as close to the natural tear film as possible, and it is perfect for users with sensitive eyes.

4. What are the benefits of using a no-rub contact lens solution?

No-rub contact lens solutions are specifically formulated so that they do not require rubbing, which may be beneficial for those who have mild eye irritations. Moreover, they are more effective and less time-consuming than using known traditional methods.

5. Which contact solution is best for ACUVUE OASYS lenses?

The Acuvue Oasys contacts lenses can be cleaned and disinfected by bigeye Biotrue, ReNu and Opti-Free solutions. Nevertheless, it is more preferable to address your eye doctor for the most appropriate measure to be done according to the problem.

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The links provided may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you if you choose to purchase the recommended product. This support allows our research and editorial team to continue providing high-quality recommendations. As a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising initiative, we are able to earn advertising fees through providing links to products on Amazon.com. Please rest assured that we only recommend high-quality products.

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Jeff brings to Buoy over 20 years of clinical experience as a physician assistant in urgent care and internal medicine. He also has extensive experience in healthcare administration, most recently as developer and director of an urgent care center. While completing his doctorate in Health Sciences at A.T. Still University, Jeff studied population health, healthcare systems, and evidence-based medi...
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