14. Contact Lens Refill
Duration: 1 to 3 years
Cost on average: $5–$20*
It’s easy to forget that contact lens solutions, a need for those who wear lenses, have a shelf life. Usually, this sterile solution goes bad one to three years after it’s manufactured. Its antimicrobial properties diminish after expiration, leaving your lenses vulnerable to bacterial growth and an increased risk of eye infections. Over time, the solution may also grow more alkaline or acidic, which could be uncomfortable.

Contact Lens Remedy ©Shutterstock/Tatiana Kochkina
Remember to keep an eye on the expiration date of your solution and store it in a cold, dark place to preserve the health of your eyes and lenses. Proper lens maintenance, which includes using a new, efficient solution, is the first step toward clear vision.
