Medical & Pharmaceuticals recycling
How to Recycle Contact Lenses and Cases
Soft contact lenses made from hydrogel or silicone hydrogel materials, plus plastic storage cases and blister packs. With 45 million contact lens wearers in the US discarding 20+ billion lenses annually, contact lens waste represents a significant environmental challenge. Most lenses are too small for conventional recycling but specialized programs exist for collection and processing.
Recyclable$0 - most programs are free but accept materials for environmental benefit
Quick answer
Yes, contact lenses and cases is recyclable. First step: Rinse used contact lenses with saline solution to remove proteins and debris. Where to take it: Eye care practitioner offices with collection programs.
- Recyclable
- Yes
- Typical value
- $0 - most programs are free but accept materials for environmental benefit
- Donate / take-back
- Available
How to Prepare
- 1Rinse used contact lenses with saline solution to remove proteins and debris
- 2Separate lenses from packaging and cases for different recycling streams