Everything We Recommend
Best Overall: Bausch + Lomb Renu Advanced Multi-purpose Solution
Best for Dry Eyes: Opti-Free Puremoist Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution
Best for Cleaning: CooperVision Refine One-Step Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
Best for Disinfecting: OPTI-FREE Replenish Disinfecting Solution
Best Preservative-Free: PuriLens Plus-Preservative Free Saline
Best for Sensitive Eyes: Clear Care Cleaning & Disinfecting Solution
Best for Gas-Permeable Lenses: Bausch + Lomb Boston ADVANCE Conditioning Solution
Best for Monthly-Wear Lenses: CooperVision Refine One-Step Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
Best for Soft Lenses: Bausch + Lomb Renu Advanced Multi-Purpose Solution
Best for Acuvue Oasys: ACUVUE RevitaLens Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution
Best for Travel: Bausch + Lomb Multiplus Solo Travel Kit
11 Best Contact Lens Solutions in 2024
Here are the top 11 contact solutions available in 2024:
1. Best Overall: Bausch + Lomb Renu Advanced Multi-purpose Solution
Bausch + Lomb Renu Advanced Multi-Purpose Solution is the only lens solution with a triple disinfection system proven to kill 99% of germs. It is designed to clean soft contact lenses and provides up to 20 hours of moisture.
For this reason, it’s our pick for the best overall contact solution.
How to use: Put three drops of the Renu contact solution on each side of the lens and rub for 20 seconds. Then place the lenses in a clean contact lens case, cover them with the Renu lens solution, and let them soak for 4 hours.
Pros:
- Kills 99% of germs
- Suitable for cleaning and storing contact lenses
- Available in 4 oz travel size
- Affordable
- Only takes 4 hours to clean
Cons:
- Only for soft contact lenses
- It may not be suitable for sensitive eyes
2. Best for Dry Eyes: Opti-Free Puremoist Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution
The HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix integrated with the Opti-Free Puremoist multi-purpose disinfecting solution is why we recommend this solution to treat dry eyes.
HydraGlyde keeps moisture locked throughout the day, allowing your eye to move over the lens surface without irritation.
How to Use: Wet each side of the soft contact lens with the Puremoist solution and rub for 20 seconds. Place the lenses in a clean contact case and cover them with more solution. Allow lenses to soak for 6 hours before wearing.
Pros:
- HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix keeps moisture locked in and eyes lubricated throughout the day.
- Cleans, rinses, and disinfects lenses
Cons:
- More expensive than competitors
- Complete cleaning takes 6 hours
- It may not be suitable for sensitive eyes
- Only for soft contact lenses
3. Best for Cleaning: CooperVision Refine One-Step Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
CooperVision’s Refine One-Step Hydrogen Peroxide Solution contains 3% hydrogen peroxide, which allows for a deeper cleaning and a no-rub technique.
This solution is also preservative-free, which is good for sensitive eyes.
How to Use: Place the lenses in the provided lens case and cover them with lens solution for 5 seconds. Seal the lens case and allow them to soak for 6 hours.
Pros:
- It contains hydrogen peroxide for a deeper clean
- Preservative-free and suitable for sensitive eyes
- No-rub cleaning technique
Cons:
- Expensive
- It can not be used to rinse your contacts
- Have to use the particular neutralizing contact lens case
4. Best for Disinfecting: OPTI-FREE Replenish Disinfecting Solution
The OPTI-Free Replenish multi-purpose disinfecting solution contains a dual disinfecting system to kill the microorganisms that routinely cause eye infections. This formula is why we chose this contact solution as best for disinfecting.
The OPTI-Free Replenish solution also has a TearGlyde system to help recondition the lens, keeping moisture and natural tears on the surface longer.
How to Use: Wash the lenses with OPTI-Free Replenish solution and rub for 20 seconds. Rinse with the solution for 10 seconds. Place in a clean contact lens case, fill with the solution, and allow to soak for 6 hours before use.
Pros:
- Disinfects, cleans, stores, and rinses soft contact lenses
- Keeps moisture and natural tears locked in for moisture and comfort
Cons:
- Only comes in 10 oz bottles
- May not be suitable for sensitive eyes
5. Best Preservative-Free: PuriLens Plus-Preservative Free Saline
PuriLens Plus Preservative-Free Saline is a saline-based contact solution that does not contain preservatives. This makes it a good choice for sensitive eyes.
PuriLens Plus imitates the eye’s natural tears, making it both comfortable and irritation free.
How to Use: Rinse each lens thoroughly after taking it out and putting it back in your eyes.
Pros:
- Preservative-free
- Minimal irritation
- Packaged in TSA-compliant 4 oz and 2 oz bottles
Cons:
- Does not clean or disinfect contact lenses
- Only available in small bottles
6. Best for Sensitive Eyes: Clear Care Cleaning & Disinfecting Solution
Clear Care Cleaning and Disinfecting Solution is rated our best contact solution for sensitive eyes. Its hydrogen peroxide base is less irritating than multi-purpose solutions and is preservative-free. You can use this cleaning solution on soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses.
How to Use: Place lenses in the provided lens case with a basket. Rinse with Clear Care Cleaning solution for 5 seconds. Fill the provided lens case with solution, put it together, and tighten the lid. Allow soaking for 6 hours. Don’t use the Clear Care Cleaning solution directly on your eye.
Pros:
- Preservative-free and suitable for sensitive eyes
- Deep cleans with hydrogen peroxide
- It can be used with both soft and rigid gas-permeable contact lenses
Cons:
- Expensive
- You must use the provided lens case
- Can’t put directly into the eye
7. Best for Gas-Permeable Lenses: Bausch + Lomb Boston ADVANCE Conditioning Solution
The Bausch + Lomb Boston ADVANCE Conditioning Solution is our pick for the best contact solution for gas-permeable lenses because of its advanced comfort formula.
The Boston ADVANCE Conditioning Solution is highly recommended for gas-permeable contact lenses. It has a preservative system to minimize irritation while effectively killing microorganisms that cause infection.
How to Use: First, rinse each contact lens with a saline solution. Next, place the lenses in a clean contact lens case, cover them with Boston ADVANCE Conditioning Solution, and let them soak for 4 hours. This product is meant to be used with the Boston ADVANCE Cleaner as a two-step system.
Pros:
- Disinfects, conditions, cushions, and keeps lenses moisturized
- Popular for gas permeable lenses
Cons:
- Expensive
- Need to clean with a saline solution before using this product
8. Best for Monthly-Wear Lenses: CooperVision Refine One-Step Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
CooperVision Refine One-Step Hydrogen Peroxide Solution is our choice for best monthly-wear lenses because it’s preservative free and contains 3% hydrogen peroxide.
Monthly replacement lenses are contact lenses that are changed every 30 days. The CooperVision solution has a lens case designed to activate the hydrogen peroxide.
How to Use: Place the lenses in the provided lens case and cover them with lens solution for 5 seconds. Seal the lens case and allow them to soak for 6 hours.
Pros:
- It contains hydrogen peroxide for a deeper clean
- Preservative-free and suitable for sensitive eyes
- No-rub cleaning technique
Cons:
- Expensive
- It cannot be used to rinse your eyes
- Have to use the particular neutralizing contact lens case
9. Best for Soft Lenses: Bausch + Lomb Renu Advanced Multi-Purpose Solution
The Bausch + Lomb Renu Advanced Multi-Purpose Solution is our pick for the best contact lens solution for soft lenses because of its versatility and all-in-one product formula.
This advanced solution can clean, disinfect, rinse, and moisturize. No other products are necessary.
How to use: Put three drops of the Renu contact solution on each side of the lens and rub for 20 seconds. Then place the lenses in a clean contact lens case, cover them with the Renu lens solution, and let soak for 4 hours.
Pros:
- It kills 99% of germs
- Suitable for cleaning and storing contact lenses
- Available in 4 oz travel size
- Affordable
- It only takes 4 hours to clean
Cons:
- It may not be suitable for sensitive eyes
10. Best for Acuvue Oasys: ACUVUE RevitaLens Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution
Acuvue Oasys is a brand of contact lenses containing a UV blocker to help minimize the transmission of harmful UV rays to the eye.
The ACUVUE RevitaLens Multi-Purpose Disinfection Solution works best with Acuvue Oasys lenses. This is due to its dual disinfecting technology and ability to provide all-day comfort.
How to Use: Place three drops of solution on each lens and rub for 4 seconds on each side. Apply the solution to each lens, close tightly, and let soak for 6 hours. Rinse with fresh solution and place in a clean lens case.
Pros:
- Cleans, rinses, and disinfects lenses
- Works well with Acuvue Oasys brand soft contact lenses
Cons:
- Screw on cap
- It may not be suitable for sensitive eyes
11. Best for Travel: Bausch + Lomb Multiplus Solo Travel Kit
The Bausch + Lomb Renu Multiplus Solo Travel Kit is our pick for the best solution to take on the road. It conveniently comes in small 2 oz bottles that can fit in your luggage.
This product also comes with a new lens case for easy travel.
How to Use: Put three drops of the Renu contact solution on each side of the lens and rub for 20 seconds. Then place the lenses in a clean contact lens case, cover them with the Renu lens solution, and let soak for 4 hours.
Pros:
- TSA compatible for flying
- The multi-purpose solution that disinfects, cleans, and moisturizes
Cons:
- It only works with soft contact lenses
- It is a small amount of solution
Where to Buy Glasses + Contacts
Best Overall: Warby Parker
Fastest Delivery: EyeBuyDirect
Also Great: Liingo
Best Place to Buy Contacts: Discount Contacts
About Contact Lens Solution
Contact lens solution is required to clean and disinfect contacts if they’ll be used for more than one day.
Lens solution removes debris and build-up, and it prevents infection. It‘s made up of several ingredients, including:
- Disinfectant to kill germs that cause infection
- Surfactant to clean the lens surface
- A wetting solution to keep the lens moist and comfortable
- Preservatives to prolong the shelf-life of the lens solution
There are two main types of contact lens solution:
- Multi-purpose. Also called “no rub” solution, this product cleans and disinfects lenses quickly. It’s the most popular lens solution because of its low cost and convenience. Multi-purpose solution is available for both soft lenses and gas-permeable lenses.
- Hydrogen peroxide-based solution. This is suitable for people allergic to multipurpose solutions. It doesn’t contain preservatives, but it takes more time and attention to use. It’s also more expensive than a multi-purpose solution.
What to Look for in Contact Lens Solution
Some people find they are allergic to certain types of contact solutions. Let your eye doctor know if you are allergic to a specific contact solution. They can recommend a product that will work for you.
Other product features to look for in a contact lens solution include:
Active Ingredients
Since many people may be allergic to the active ingredients in contact lens solutions, it is essential to be aware of them before purchasing a new solution.
Common active ingredients in multi-purpose solutions include:
- Polyquaternium-1 (PQ-1)
- Biguanides (PHMB)
- Boric acid
- Poloxamine
- Sodium chloride
- Hydrogen peroxide
Value for the Money
Affordability is a significant factor in looking for a contact lens solution. Popular brands that leading brand stores sell (Walmart, CVS, Amazon, etc.) typically have the most competitive prices.
Understanding the quantity you are getting per bottle is essential as well. Many solutions only come in one standard size, typically a 10 oz or 12 oz bottle.
Type of Contact Lenses You Wear
The type of contact lenses you wear will determine which solution is best for you.
People who wear rigid gas-permeable lenses can’t use solutions designed for soft contact lenses and vice versa.
How We Chose Our Top Recommendations
We considered many factors when deciding which contact solutions to list for each category.
Our decision criteria included the following:
- Research. Each product and brand came highly recommended by ophthalmologists.
- Price and availability. Each product is affordable and easy to purchase online or through a name-brand store (Walmart, Target, CVS).
- Active ingredients. Each product contained active ingredients that were proven safe and effective to use in the eye.
Which Contact Lens Solution is Right for You?
When purchasing contact lenses, ask your eye doctor what contact solution will work best with your brand of lenses.
Other things to consider when choosing a contact lens solution include:
- If you have sensitive eyes
- If you’re allergic to any active ingredients
- What type of lens will you be wearing (soft or gas permeable)
- How often you’ll be changing your contact lenses (daily, bi-weekly, monthly)
- If you frequently travel
Summary
There are many brands of contact lens solutions. They range from multi-purpose to hydrogen peroxide-based solutions. It is essential to consult with your eye doctor before choosing a solution to make sure it is the right fit for you.
Factors to consider when purchasing a contact solution include:
- Your type of lenses
- If you have sensitive eyes
- If you’re allergic to any active ingredients
- Affordability
- Ease of use
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