How to Store and Rehydrate Colored Contacts Safely
By COLOR CL – Coloured Contacts | Circle Lenses | Cosmetic | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to store colored contacts properly and rehydrate lenses that have dried out, using the right contact lens case and solution for safe, comfortable wear.
Quick answer
Store colored contacts in a clean lens case filled with fresh multipurpose solution, never water. If a lens dries out, soak it in solution for at least 4 hours, then inspect it for damage before wearing. Replace the solution daily and the case every 1–3 months.
Why water and saliva ruin colored lenses
Tap water, bottled water, and saliva contain microorganisms that can cause serious eye infections. They also have the wrong pH and salt balance, which can warp the lens and fade the color. Even if a lens feels fine after a water soak, the risk of infection remains. Always use a sterile contact lens solution for storing, rinsing, and rehydrating colored contacts.
Choosing the right solution for colored contacts
Not all solutions are safe for soft colored lenses. Avoid hydrogen peroxide systems unless the lens is compatible, and never use saline alone for disinfection. A multipurpose solution labeled for soft contact lenses cleans, rinses, disinfects, and stores in one step. If you use a separate protein remover, follow the label. For a simple, travel-friendly option, Largo Lens Solution 15mL is a sterile solution that lists cleaning, disinfection, rinsing, preservation, wetting, and protein removal among its properties. Its small size fits a purse or gym bag, but for daily storage at home a larger bottle is more economical.
Setting up your contact lens case
A clean case is as important as the solution. Rinse the case with fresh solution and let it air-dry face down on a clean tissue every morning. Do not use tap water to rinse the case. Replace the case at least every three months, or sooner if it looks cloudy or cracked. Never top off old solution; discard it and refill with fresh solution each time you store your lenses.
Step-by-step: store and rehydrate colored contacts
- Wash and dry your hands: Wash with soap and water, then dry with a lint-free towel. Moisture on your fingers can introduce germs to the lens. Checkpoint: hands must be completely dry before touching lenses.
- Fill the case with fresh solution: Pour new multipurpose solution into both wells of a clean lens case. Do not reuse old solution, even if it looks clear. Common mistake: topping off old solution, which dilutes disinfectants.
- Place each lens in its well: Set the right lens in the right well and the left lens in the left well. Close the caps tightly to prevent leakage and contamination. Checkpoint: never mix up right and left lenses, as prescriptions may differ.
- Soak for at least 4 hours: If a lens has dried out, soak it in fresh solution for at least 4 hours or overnight. This rehydrates the lens and allows disinfection. Common mistake: wearing a lens immediately after a quick rinse; it may still be brittle.
- Inspect before wearing: After soaking, examine the lens for tears, cracks, or debris. If it looks damaged, discard it. If it feels uncomfortable, remove it and consult an eye care professional. Checkpoint: never wear a damaged lens, even if it feels okay at first.
Product facts
- Largo Lens Solution 15mL: Largo Lens Solution 15mL is a clear, colorless liquid with ingredients including Polyhexamethylene Biguanide Hydro chloride solution 20% and Phosphoryl choline. It is indicated for lens cleaning, disinfection, rinsing, preservation, wetting, lubrication, and protein removal. Store airtight at room temperature (1–30°C). This solution covers all the steps needed to store and rehydrate colored contacts safely, and its small volume makes it convenient for on-the-go lens care.
