Are Monthly Contacts The Cheapest Option?
You’ve just made the decision to switch over to contacts after wearing glasses for so long, and you’re excited to learn which type of contact lens may be the best for you. There are a variety of options available on the market, and navigating the world of lenses can be intimidating. Let’s start simple. There are 3 main types of contact lenses sold, which are dailies, bi-weeklies, and monthlies. Out of these three, one of the most popular and cost-effective choices is monthly contacts.
There are many upsides when it comes to monthly contacts, as they are a cost-effective option that can be great for those looking for a less expensive lens experience. The main factors to worry about when it comes to monthly contacts are lifestyle, eye health, and how diligent an individual may be when it comes to lens maintenance, as monthly lenses require a bit more effort in terms of care. Let’s learn more about monthly contacts, and how they may be the best option for you!
A Brief Breakdown of Monthly Contacts
Before we get into the benefits of monthly contacts, we have to learn what they are. Monthly contacts are lenses that are worn on a daily basis. Unlike daily contact lenses that are discarded each night, monthly contact lenses are cleaned to prepare them for use the next morning.
This process can be repeated for up to a month before the contacts need to be replaced. It is important to change into a new pair each month, because a number of issues can arise, such as infections, irritations, and abrasions if monthlies are used past their expiry date.
Monthly contacts are thicker, providing a different type of quality which enables them to last longer than dailies or bi-weekly contacts. Their durability factor allows them to be used on a daily basis, but this feature can make these lenses feel uncomfortable. This may be due to their thickness or a natural buildup of deposits from the eye, which makes individuals more sensitive or aware of how monthly contacts may feel on the eyes. However, they are prone to dry out less and can generally be worn for longer stretches of time throughout the day. On average, monthly contacts can be worn for 12 to 16 hours, but it is important to follow your eye doctor's directions for your specific lenses.
Now that we’ve given a brief overview of monthly contacts and their unique qualities, let’s focus on the two major upsides. Monthlies are a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable and eco-conscious option.
Monthly Contacts are Super Cost Effective
For some individuals, pricing can be the ultimate factor in deciding which type of contacts is best for them. Whether it’s a preference towards the sense of ease that dailies provide, or choosing to invest in monthlies that give a long term benefit, picking the right contacts for you may largely depend on price.
Luckily, monthly contacts are the best choice if you’re looking for a practical option that guarantees quality. Because they need to be replaced once a month, the overall cost is typically lower compared to daily or bi-weekly alternatives. This is great news for someone who may want to experience regularly wearing contacts while being able to manage the financial aspect of it. Depending on the lens type, monthly contacts may average to 15$ - $25 per month, compared to daily disposables which start at about $1/day. There is an additional cost associated with monthly contacts, which is a contact solution that these lenses require for maintenance purposes.
They’re Also Better For the Environment!
Another upside to monthly contacts is their reduced environmental impact, as these lenses generate less waste than daily or bi-weekly alternatives. They are replaced 12 times a year, which means 24 lenses and lens packages are discarded per year. Compare this to daily disposables that generate waste 365 days year round, as they end up generating waste that amounts to 730 lenses and lens packages each year. This is great news for individuals who want to be more mindful about their purchases in order to make a positive impact on the planet!
Care Tips for Monthly Contacts
It is important to take good care of your monthly contacts in order to retain their freshness and exceptional long lasting quality. Cleanliness of the lenses also helps maintain your eye health, which helps prevent any complications from occurring such as the accumulation of bacteria and other germs. However, the silicone hydrogel materials that monthly contacts are made out of provide great oxygen flow, helping to support healthy eyes when these lenses are properly cared for.
Here are some tips that can help you in caring for your monthly contacts:
- Always wash your hands with soap and water when handling contact lenses. Dry your hands afterwards with a lint-free towel.
- Use the recommended cleaning solution for your monthly contacts. Never use any other liquid like water or saliva to clean them.
- Replace the lenses diligently according to the monthly schedule.
- Storing monthlies in a clean lens case every night with fresh contact solution will help prolong their quality and efficacy. Check for any damage such as tears and discard them immediately if you find any defects.
- Never sleep in your contact lenses.
- Schedule regular eye exams to ensure the lenses are still the correct ones for you.
Feel free to browse our selection of monthly lenses to find the most cost-effective and eco-friendly option for you!
Monthly Contact Lenses FAQ
1. What are monthly contact lenses?
Monthly contacts are lenses designed to be worn daily for up to a month. Unlike dailies, which are disposed of each night, monthly contacts are cleaned and stored for use each day over a 30-day period. After a month, they must be replaced to maintain eye health.
2. Are monthly contacts more affordable than dailies or bi-weeklies?
Yes! Monthly contacts are often a more cost-effective option, ranging from around $15–$25 per month, compared to daily lenses that can cost about $1 per day. This makes them a budget-friendly choice for regular contact lens wearers.
3. Are monthly contacts good for the environment?
Monthly lenses are an eco-conscious choice because they create significantly less waste than daily disposables. By replacing them only 12 times per year, you reduce plastic waste compared to daily lenses, which are disposed of 365 times a year.
4. What should I know about caring for monthly contacts?
To keep your monthly lenses in good condition, always wash your hands before handling, clean them with the recommended contact solution (never water or saliva), and store them in a clean lens case with fresh solution each night. Following this care routine will help keep your eyes healthy.
5. How long can I wear monthly contacts each day?
Monthly contacts can generally be worn for 12–16 hours a day, but it's important to follow your eye doctor’s specific recommendations. Avoid wearing them overnight unless they are specifically approved for extended wear.
6. What are the risks of not replacing my monthly contacts on time?
Wearing monthly lenses beyond their recommended timeframe can lead to eye issues such as irritation, infections, and abrasions. Always replace them monthly to avoid these risks and maintain optimal eye health.
7. Are monthly lenses comfortable to wear?
Monthly contacts are made to be durable, which sometimes makes them feel a bit thicker than dailies. Some people may notice the lenses more, especially if deposits build up. However, they generally retain moisture well and are suitable for long daily wear with proper care.
8. Do I need to buy contact lens solution with monthly lenses?
Yes, monthly contacts require cleaning and storing with a contact lens solution, so be sure to factor this into your budget. Proper cleaning with solution helps maintain lens quality and keeps your eyes healthy.
9. What are the key benefits of monthly contacts?
Monthly lenses are budget-friendly, eco-friendly, and convenient for daily wear. They provide a great balance of durability and value, making them a solid choice for contact lens wearers who prioritize both cost savings and environmental impact.
10. How can I find the right monthly lenses for me?
Explore our selection of monthly contacts to find options that fit your budget and environmental goals. Consult with your eye doctor to make sure monthly contacts are right for you.