Use a flashlight to scan the floor; the contact lens will often reflect light and appear to glow.
Here's a more detailed approach to finding that elusive contact lens:
1. Prepare the Area:
- Clear the Clutter: Remove anything that might obstruct your view or provide hiding places, such as rugs, toys, or clothing.
- Brighten the Room: Turn on all the lights in the room. Natural light is also helpful.
2. Get Down Low:
- Eye-Level Search: Get down on your hands and knees to bring your eyes closer to the floor. This will improve your viewing angle.
- Systematic Search: Divide the room into sections and search each one methodically.
3. The Flashlight Technique:
- Angle the Light: Hold a flashlight at a low angle to the floor. This will create shadows and highlight any small objects, including the contact lens.
- Scan Slowly: Move the flashlight slowly and steadily across the floor. The contact lens will often reflect the light, making it easier to spot. The provided reference states, "Once the flashlight hits it voila there it is glowing just as pretty as it could be..."
4. Look for Reflections:
- Shiny Surface: Contact lenses are often slightly shiny, so look for small, reflective surfaces.
- Pay Attention to Shadows: Shadows can also help you locate the lens by outlining its shape.
5. Use Your Hands (Carefully):
- Feel Around Gently: If you still can't find the lens visually, carefully run your hands over the floor. Be extremely gentle to avoid damaging the lens.
- Consider Stockings: Some suggest putting a stocking over a vacuum cleaner hose to gently suction the floor. However, this is a risky technique and could damage the lens or the vacuum.
6. Don't Give Up Easily:
- Check Multiple Times: If you've searched the area once and haven't found the lens, try again later. Sometimes, a fresh perspective is all you need.
- Recruit Help: Ask a friend or family member to help you search. More eyes can cover more ground.
Important Considerations:
- Hygiene: If you do find the lens, inspect it carefully for damage and debris. If in doubt, discard it and use a fresh lens. Never put a contaminated lens back in your eye.
- Damage: Be aware that stepped-on contact lenses may become sharp and dangerous. Clean the area thoroughly even if the lens isn't recovered.
