How to clean your eyes

Usually, your eyes will naturally clean themselves by spreading tears over the surface of your eye as you blink. Eyelids, eyelashes, and eyebrows will mostly keep out foreign objects like dirt or dust, but occasionally, you may get foreign objects or chemical splashes in your eyes. If this happens, it is important to flush the affected eye to prevent any more damage. Here are some tips on how to clean your eyes if you get something in them.

How to flush your eyes

• If you get a particle or a chemical splash in your eye, do not rub your eye as this can cause more damage, like pushing the particle further into your eye or scratching your cornea.
• If you have a chemical splash in your eye, make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging that say what to do when you get it in your eyes.
• Wash your hands with soap and water prior to flushing your eye to avoid any contaminants from getting into your eyes.
• If you are wearing contact lenses take them out to avoid the irritant going behind the contact lens.
• Gently rinse your eye with warm, clean water or saline solution. You can flush your eye in the shower, using a tap, or using a cup to pour lukewarm water over your eye.
• If there is a foreign object in your eye (such as sand or dirt), keep rinsing your eye until the object is flushed out.
• If you had a chemical splash into your eye, keep rinsing your eye for at least 15 minutes.

If you have ongoing feeling of a something in your eye or a scratchy sensation seek medical attention. You should always seek medical attention if you have had a chemical splash in your eye even after flushing to check for any possible damage.

For more information

Always speak to your GP and eye care professional about the best treatment options for you.