How to take out contact lenses: a beginner-friendly step-by-step guide

If you were nervous putting in your contacts, then taking them out can feel even more intimidating. Maybe you can't stop blinking. Maybe the lens feels like it's stuck. Or maybe you’re just freaking out over the idea of anything touching your eye. 

Most people struggle at first, but once you repeat the routine enough, the process will become easier and faster. 

Here's how to take contacts out safely, calmly, and confidently. 

Start with a simple setup 

A good setup can make contact lens removal much easier and reduce the chances of dropping a lens or irritating your eye. 

Contact lens removal checklist 

Before removing your contacts: 

• Use a well-lit mirror 

• Work over a clean counter or sink 

• Have your contact lens case ready for reusable lenses 

The fewer distractions you have, the easier the process will be. 

What to do before your fingers touch your eye 

The process for removing your contact lenses begins before you even touch your eyes. Wash your hands thoroughly and dry them completely before handling your lenses. 

A few additional tips: 

• Avoid using lotion immediately beforehand 

• Remove any soap residue completely 

• Keep fingernails trimmed when possible 

Dry fingertips provide a better grip on soft contact lenses than wet or slippery fingers. 

If you have longer nails, don't worry. You'll just need to use a slightly different angle, which we'll cover later. 

How to take out contacts: step-by-step 

The following method works for most soft contact lenses, including daily, biweekly, and monthly lenses. 

Step 1: Hold your eyelids open 

Start by looking into a mirror.  

Use the middle finger of your dominant hand to gently pull your lower eyelid down. 

Then use your opposite hand to gently hold your upper eyelid open near the lashes. 

Holding both eyelids open helps prevent blinking and keeps the lens visible. 

Try to stay relaxed. The more relaxed you are, the easier the process becomes. 

Step 2: Slide the lens down 

Looking slightly upward can make this step easier for some people. 

Using the pad of your index finger, gently touch the contact lens and slide it downward onto the white part of your eye. The lens should move smoothly. 

Many beginners try to pinch the lens directly off the center of the eye, but sliding it down first can make removal easier. 

Step 3: Pinch the lens gently 

Once the lens is positioned on the white part of the eye, use the pad of your thumb and index finger, and gently pinch. 

The lens should fold slightly and release from the eye. 

Avoid using your fingernails; the pads of your fingers provide better control and are much safer for your eye. 

After removing the lens: 

• Discard it if it's a daily disposable 

• Clean and store it according to your care instructions if it's reusable 

“How To Take Out Your Contact Lenses” is the second video in a three part series aimed to help you learn the ins and outs of contact lens wear. Don’t forget to also check out “How To Put In Your Contact Lenses” and “How To Clean Your Contact Lenses.”

If you have long nails 

You can still have fabulous nails and wear contact lenses. You just need to use the sides of your fingertips, instead of the pads.  

And whatever you do, keep those nails angled away from the eye. No matter how cute your nails are, a scratched cornea and/or torn lens is very much not cute. 

If the contact lens feels stuck or too dry 

This is one of the most common concerns among contact lens wearers, but don't try to force it. 

Instead: 

• Blink a few times. 

• Apply approved lubricating or rewetting drops. 

• Try again in a few minutes. 

Adding moisture often makes removal significantly easier. 

If you keep blinking 

Your eyelids' job is to protect your eyes, so blinking is a natural reflex. Sometimes, it does too good a job, though. 

If you can't stop blinking: 

• Practice holding your eyelids open for a few seconds before attempting removal 

• Take a deep breath & slow down 

• Use consistent hand placement each time 

Most people become much more comfortable after a few days of practice. 

If your fingers keep slipping 

Try: 

• Dry your fingertips again 

• Remove excess tears 

• Ensure no lotion or oil remains on your fingers 

Dry fingertips often improve grip immediately. 

The lens won’t come out after multiple attempts 

Try: 

• Take a break 

• Rewet the lens 

Contact an eye doctor if: 

• The lens won't move 

• Your eye becomes painful 

• Your eye becomes very red 

• Your vision stays blurry 

• You're unsure whether the lens is still in your eye 

How do you know you've removed the lens correctly? 

The lens should: 

• Come off easily 

• Remain intact 

• Feel comfortable during removal 

• Leave your eye feeling normal afterward 

If your eye continues to feel irritated, check that the lens was fully removed and inspect it for damage. Double-check for tears. 

Are daily contacts harder to take out? 

Daily disposable lenses tend to be thinner and more flexible than some other lens types. 

Because of that, some people feel they're harder to grip initially. The same removal technique applies, but a slow, deliberate approach usually works best. 

What about gas permeable lenses? 

Gas permeable (GP) lenses often use a different removal technique than soft lenses. 

Since these lenses are more rigid, your eye doctor will typically demonstrate the appropriate method during your fitting. 

Contact lens habits to follow from day one 

Good contact lens habits help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable. 

Remember to: 

• Follow your prescribed wear schedule 

• Replace lenses according to their replacement schedule 

• Use fresh contact lens solution when required 

• Wash your hands before touching contacts 

• Keep your lens case clean 

• Attend regular eye exams 

And unless your eye doctor has specifically prescribed lenses approved for overnight wear, don't sleep or nap in your contacts. 

Also wondering how to clean or put in your contacts?

• Learn how to clean your contacts
• Learn how to put in your contacts

 

Did you know you can order contacts online? 

Once you've mastered putting in and taking out your contacts, keeping a fresh supply on hand is the easy part. With 1-800 Contacts, you can order contact lenses online and have them shipped directly to your door. Plus, if you're eligible, our online vision exam may help you renew your prescription without an office visit. 

Original published: 6/18/2020
Updated: 9/11/2026