Do not flush a used contact lens down a sink or toilet. Put it in the trash, or save it for a specialty program that currently accepts your lens and packaging.
The tiny packaging pieces also need care. Loose blister packs and foils may be too small for ordinary curbside sorting.
Sort Each Contact-Lens Item
Current Component Guide
- Used lenses: Trash, or a confirmed specialty program.
- Blister packs and top foils: Keep empty and dry for a program that lists them.
- Lens cases: Use the specialty route if accepted. Do not reuse old cases for medicines, food, or cosmetics.
- Paperboard boxes: Use local cardboard recycling if clean and accepted.
- Solution bottles: Check size, cap, and local rules. Program eligibility differs by component.
Use the Trash When No Program Is Available
Wrap or contain the used lens so it reaches the trash bag. Never rinse it into a drain or toilet.
Do not put loose lenses, foils, or tiny blister pieces in curbside recycling unless your local program expressly accepts them in that form.
Use the ONE by ONE Program
Bausch + Lomb’s current US program accepts empty, dry used contact lenses, blister packs, top foils, lens cases, and listed eye-care packaging.
The program has an official location finder. Check the live list before visiting because participating offices and acceptance can change.
Its current page also lists small solution bottles and caps, full-size bottle caps, and selected Bausch + Lomb eye-drop packaging. Read the exact size and brand conditions.
Put outside cardboard or paperboard into curbside recycling only when your local program accepts it. Keep it clean and dry.
Keep Eye Care Separate From Disposal
Follow your prescriber’s replacement schedule and the instructions for your exact lenses. Do not change from daily to reusable lenses merely to reduce packaging.
Replace and clean storage cases as directed by your eye-care professional and product instructions. Repurposing an old case for pills, cosmetics, or food can create confusion or contamination.