Dorm Life: Keeping Scleral Lenses Clean in Small Spaces

Dorm Life: Keeping Scleral Lenses Clean in Small Spaces

Living in a dorm can be exciting, full of new experiences, friendships, and independence. Yet, the limited space and shared environment often make it challenging to maintain healthy routines—especially when it comes to eye care. For students who wear scleral lenses, ensuring proper hygiene is essential not only for comfort but also for protecting long-term eye health. At University Optometric Center, we understand that your dorm setup may not be as spacious or private as you’d like, but with a few strategies, you can keep your lenses clean and your vision sharp.
 

1. Create a Dedicated Lens Care Station

Even if your dorm room is small, designate a specific spot—such as a desk corner or a bedside tray—for your scleral lens supplies. Keep your cleaning solutions, plungers, and storage case together in a clean, dry container. This reduces the risk of misplacing items and helps prevent contamination from clutter.
 

2. Prioritize Hand Hygiene

Washing your hands thoroughly before handling scleral lenses is non-negotiable. Dorm bathrooms may be busy, so consider keeping a small bottle of fragrance-free hand soap in your caddy. Always dry your hands with a clean, lint-free towel rather than a communal one.
 

3. Use Sterile Solutions, Not Tap Water

It may be tempting to use tap water when rinsing your lenses in a rush, but this can introduce harmful microorganisms that put your eyes at risk. Always rely on sterile saline or multipurpose solutions recommended by your optometrist. Stock extra supplies so you never run out.
 

4. Practice Nightly Consistency

Dorm life can be unpredictable—late-night studying, social events, or group activities may tempt you to skip lens care. However, skipping even one cleaning routine can compromise your eye health. Establishing a nightly habit ensures both comfort and safety.
 

5. Keep It Portable

Consider preparing a small “lens care kit” in a travel pouch. This allows you to clean or insert your lenses even if your roommate needs the desk or the bathroom is crowded.
 

Maintaining scleral lenses in a dorm room may take a bit of planning, but the payoff is clear, comfortable vision and healthy eyes. By staying organized and consistent, you can enjoy campus life while keeping your eye care routine intact. At University Optometric Center, we’re here to support you in every step of your college journey—starting with your vision. Contact University Optometric Center today at (949)-854-7122 or (949) 476-2870 to book an appointment.