How to Put Contact Lenses in Like a Pro

Nigel Robinson on August 1, 2025

Woman with dark brown hair holding a contact lens on her finger ready to insert into her eye.

Trying contact lenses for the first time can feel a bit nerve-wracking, especially when you’re not sure how to put contact lenses in. Don’t worry, getting the hang of it might be easier than you think! Whether you’re new to contact lenses or just looking to refresh your care and hygiene routine, we’re here to guide you through each step.

What You Need to Insert Your Contact Lenses

Over-the-shoulder view of a person preparing to insert a contact lens with a mirror and contact lens solution on the table.

Before you start, make sure you’ve got everything you need on hand. It’s a good idea to be in a well-lit room, have a spare pair of lenses on standby just in case, and keep a mirror handy too so you can see exactly what you’re doing. If your lenses are two-weekly or monthlies, i.e., reusable and need to be stored when removed, have a clean case and fresh solution at the ready.

How Do You Put Contact Lenses in Safely?

Man in his bedroom looking in the mirror while inserting a contact lens into his eye.

Now for the main event! Here’s a simple guide to help you insert your contact lenses confidently:

  1. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly – Clean hands are a must before you touch your lenses.
  2. Check the lens – Make sure the lens is in good condition and not inside out. It should form a perfect bowl. If the edges flare out, it’s inside out.
  3. Place the lens on your finger – Use your dominant hand to gently place the lens on your forefinger.
  4. Prepare your eyes – With your non-dominant hand, gently pull your upper eyelid up and your lower eyelid down. Some of you may feel comfortable and able to just pull your lower lid down.
  5. Insert the lens – Slowly place the lens on your eye until you feel all of it has settled.
  6. Centre the lens – Blink a few times to help position it and feel comfortable.

How to Remove Contact Lenses Without Trouble

Contact lenses in a storage case with solution being poured from a bottle.

Removing contact lenses is just as important as putting them in. Here’s how to do it safely:

  1. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly – It’s rinse and repeat! This will prevent bacteria and dirt transfer to your eyes.
  2. Look up – Tilt your head back slightly and look up.
  3. Pull down the lower lid – Use your non-dominant hand to gently pull your lower eyelid gently down.
  4. Pinch the lens – With your thumb and forefinger, gently pinch the lens together.
  5. Remove the lens – Once you’ve got a firm hold, gently take the lens off your eye.
  6. Store lenses – If you’re wearing reusable contact lenses, place the lens in a clean contact lens case with fresh solution to keep it clean for the next use.

Common Contact Lens Problems and How to Overcome Them

Close-up of a person applying eye drops to their eye.

It’s completely normal to face a few challenges when you’re new to wearing contact lenses, so we’ve put together some top tips to help you feel confident:

  • Difficulty keeping eyes open: Taking a few deep breaths, looking away from the mirror and relaxing your jaw and eyes can help. 
  • Lens sticking or drying out: Apply a few eye drops recommended by our optometrist to add moisture to the lens. Avoid wearing lenses for long periods of time – 12 hours is usually a good rule of thumb.
  • Lens not staying in place: Gently blink, move your eye around, or close your eye and gently massage your eyelid to help the lens centre. Sometimes adding moisture with eye drops can help too.

What to Expect During Your Contact Lens Fitting and Aftercare

Optician showing a child how to insert contact lenses during a contact lens consultation and fitting appointment.

We understand how important it is to feel confident when it comes to wearing your lenses. During your contact lens appointment, our experienced optometrists will guide you through inserting and removing lenses correctly. We’ll show you how to practice these steps until you feel comfortable doing it on your own.

Once your lenses are fitted, we offer regular aftercare appointments to check the health of your eyes and ensure they are still comfortable. If you ever have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out for advice and troubleshooting.

Get Expert Help with Contact Lenses

Getting used to contact lenses might take a little practice, but with the right guidance, you’ll soon be an expert! The team at Robinson Optometrists is here to support you every step of the way.

Contact us to book your contact lens fitting or for advice on how to wear your lenses safely and comfortably.