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Conventional vs. disposable contacts

If you're getting contacts for the first time, you might be surprised how many decisions go into finding your perfect type of lens. Be prepared to answer more questions than you would on a first date. You'll need to consider your preferred brand, whether you want soft or hard lenses, and whether you want conventional, reusable, or disposable contacts.  

That's a lot of decisions, and you have to start somewhere, so we suggest starting with the disposable vs. reusable lenses debate. There are benefits to each option. Disposable single-use contacts are more convenient and hygienic but are also more expensive. Reusable contacts are affordable but can come with a higher risk of infection, irritability, and dry eyes.  

First, let's lay some groundwork. Here's a breakdown of each type of lens: 

  • Conventional. These lenses don't have an end-use date. Known as unplanned replacement lenses, they are typically worn until they get damaged. However, they shouldn't be worn for more than 12 months.  

  • Reusable. Reusable lenses can be worn repeatedly until they expire. You can purchase reusable lenses that are weekly or monthly. You'll need to clean and properly store your reusable lenses for safe use. 

  • Disposable. Disposable lenses are also known as daily lenses. You use them once and throw them out when you're done.  

Ultimately, the ideal lens choice will depend on your intended goals and uses.  

But we're here to help give you some clarity. Keep reading to understand all the benefits and drawbacks of conventional, reusable, and disposable contact lenses. By the end of this blog, you'll know which decision is right for you. 

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Conventional vs. reusable vs. disposable contacts 

You might think you automatically know what type of contacts you want. But this decision is a little more complicated than you realize. It's like choosing a partner; you might make an initial decision based on looks, but then you see them treat a server rudely or chew with their mouth open and realize there's much more you need to consider.  

Here are all the factors to consider when choosing between conventional, reusable, and disposable contacts: 

  1. Cost. Daily disposable lenses are the most expensive option because you must purchase an ample supply. Generally speaking, the longer your contacts can last, the lower the price. So, yearly conventional contacts are the cheapest because you potentially purchase only one pair annually. Meanwhile, monthly or weekly reusable contacts are the middle-tier option for cost.  

  1. Convenience. Daily contacts are the most convenient because you open a new package daily and throw it out when you're done. With reusable and conventional lenses, you have to clean and store your lenses carefully.  

  1. Wear time and durability. All contact lenses have the same recommended length of wear time of 8-16 hours a day. Because reusable and conventional lenses get reused for an extended period, there is a higher risk of the quality degrading over time and your vision becoming blurry. Daily lenses don't have as high of a risk of degradation because you get a fresh pair every day.   

  1. Comfort. Daily lenses are made of a lighter, thinner material that makes them more comfortable. Conventional and reusable lenses are made of a thicker, more durable material to last longer. This thickness can be uncomfortable for some people.  

  1. Risk. Infection risk is lowest with daily lenses. Individuals who do not properly store and clean their reusable and conventional lenses are at risk of infections and lens damage.  

  1. Prescription and availability: Disposable and reusable lenses are widely available and easy to get a prescription for. Yearly conventional lenses have become less popular in recent years, so they're not as widely available.  

  1. Sustainability. Daily disposable lenses are the least sustainable option because of the amount of packaging materials and waste.  

Are disposable contact lenses better? 

Asking if disposable contact lenses are better is like asking if chicken is better than steak for dinner. Do you want lean meat that's healthy, or do you want a protein that's high in iron and tasty? Both have their appeal; it just depends on your wants and needs. 

Disposable lenses are more convenient and hygienic. Additionally, they're often recommended for people who have dry eyes. But they do come with some downsides. You'll pay a lot more for daily contacts, and you have to come to terms with making the less eco-friendly choice. Greta Thunberg may have some words for you.  

Reusable contact lenses  

Reusable contacts are more popular because they're inexpensive and still work great. They are comfortable and widely available and come with options. You can choose between weekly lenses or monthly lenses, with monthly lenses being the most affordable option.  

How many days can you wear reusable contact lenses? 

The number of days you can wear your reusable contact lenses will depend on the type you purchase. The most popular timeframes are weekly or monthly lenses. You'll need to follow proper cleaning and storage guidelines to ensure your lenses are effective and usable for repeated wear.  

If your lenses are damaged, you must stop wearing them immediately.  

Can you wear daily contacts more than once?  

Well, the answer is in the name. No, daily contacts were not made to be worn more than once. Doing so goes against manufacturer guidelines and comes with eye health risks.  

Can you reuse daily contacts if you put them in a solution? 

No, cleaning your daily contacts is not enough to make them reusable. These contacts are made of a thin material that isn’t meant to withstand multiple uses, and cleaning won't change that.  

It would be like if you cleaned the same piece of floss and tried to use it every day. 

What happens if you wear monthly contacts for more than a month? 

Wearing your contacts for longer than the recommended timeframe comes with a risk of irritation and infection. In severe cases, it can lead to serious eye issues and even vision loss.  

This isn’t like the expiration dates on your bread that you can ignore and push past by a few days. These are real and hard expiration dates that you need to adhere to.  

Are daily disposable contacts better for dry eyes? 

If you suffer from dry eyes, your eye health professional may recommend that you switch from reusable contacts to daily disposables.  

Daily disposable lenses are better for dry eyes because: 

  • Reduced buildup. Daily disposables don't accumulate bacteria and debris over time, which can cause dry eyes.  

  • Increased oxygen. Daily contacts are thinner and have more oxygen pass through, which can help reduce eye dryness.  

  • Hydration. The lenses on daily contacts are less likely to dry out, which keeps your eyes hydrated throughout the day.  

Which type of contact lens is best? 

No one can tell you what type of car is best for your life or what kind of fitness routine. The same is true for contacts. You need to make this choice depending on your unique preferences and needs.  

If you can afford the higher cost, daily disposables offer many advantages, including being more hygienic, convenient, and better for dry eyes. However, reusable contacts work just as well and are more environmentally friendly. The option is yours! 

Whether you want disposables or reusables, 1-800 Contacts has you covered. We have a wide selection of all the major contact brands and even offer online vision exams. Filling your contact prescription has never been this easy.  

 

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Did you know you can order contacts online? 

Say goodbye to trips to the eye doctor and hello to convenience! With 1-800 Contacts, you can easily order your contact lenses online and have them delivered straight to your door. Plus, our online vision exam makes it simple to get the prescription you need without leaving home. And the best part? You’ll save money on your first order with 1-800 Contacts. It’s never been easier to get your contacts!