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Clean Hands, Clear Vision: Celebrating World Hand Hygiene Day

Clarity with Smarter Contact Lens Care

Each year on May 5th, World Hand Hygiene Day reminds us of one small habit that makes a world of difference—clean hands. At Optical Superstore, we’re joining the global call to action, backed by the World Health Organization, with our own message that hits close to the eyes: good hand hygiene isn’t just about staying healthy; it’s critical for contact lens safety.

Why Hand Hygiene Matters for Contact Lens Wearers

The eyes are among the most sensitive and vulnerable parts of the body. Regular contact lens handling has the potential to transfer bacteria and foreign bodies directly into your eyes, resulting in eye irritation and redness and may lead to serious infections like keratitis.

The Connection: Hands, Lenses, and Eye Health

It starts with awareness. Many eye infections can be directly linked to poor lens hygiene, especially improper handwashing before inserting or removing contacts. Unfortunately, habits like rinsing lenses with tap water, skipping regular cleaning routines or wearing disposable contact lenses beyond their recommended wear time continue to cause avoidable issues.

Here’s what may happen when we neglect proper hand hygiene:

  1. Pathogens easily reach the eye’s surface.
  2. Infections like conjunctivitis and microbial keratitis can develop.
  3. Long-term eye damage or vision loss may occur in severe cases.

Your Action Plan: Clean, Check, and Recheck

Maintaining healthy eyes is simple with these four proactive steps:
  1. Wash hands with soap and water, drying with a lint-free towel before lens handling.
  2. Avoid contact with water—that includes showering or swimming while wearing contacts.
  3. Follow care instructions specific to your lens type. Please don’t wear your disposable contact lenses for longer wear times than recommended.
  4. Schedule your 12-month recheck to ensure your prescription stays valid, and your eyes remain healthy—routine reviews mean your vision stays healthy.
At Optical Superstore, our tenant optometrists offer bulk billed eye tests (Medicare conditions apply), and our contact lens consultations include personalised aftercare support tailored to your needs.

Don't Skip Your Recheck—It's a Health Essential

A valid contact lens prescription requires a 12-month recheck, not just for legal reasons but for your safety. Your eye health can change significantly in a year. Our team is committed to giving you the vision support you need, from your first consultation to ongoing aftercare.

Safe Vision Starts with Smart Ordering

When it comes to contact lens ordering, always purchase from trusted providers. Optical Superstore makes reordering simple, secure, and stress-free—with guidance from professionals and tenant optometrists who prioritise your vision and well-being.

This World Hand Hygiene Day, connect clean hands with clear vision. When you protect your eyes, you protect how you see the world.

Let’s keep those contact lenses—and hands—clean. Book your recheck or consultation today.

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