What should you use to clean an artificial eye?

• A. Hydrogen peroxide and normal saline
• B. Tap water only
• C. Alcohol-based solution
• D. Soap and warm water

Answer: (A)

Cleaning an artificial eye relies on a gentle, non-irritating cleansing approach that protects both the prosthesis and the eye socket. Hydrogen peroxide helps loosen dried crusts and debris from the prosthesis, acting as a mild oxidizer, while a rinse with normal saline is soothing and isotonic, safely flushing away residues without irritating the mucosa. This combination cleans effectively while minimizing irritation. Tap water can introduce microbes, alcohol-based solutions can irritate the socket and damage the prosthesis, and soap may leave residues that irritate the eye or degrade the material. Therefore, using hydrogen peroxide and normal saline is the appropriate method.