Practicing proper hygiene is the easiest and most effective way to control the spread of pink eye due to its contagious nature. Simple hygiene steps such as washing your hands often, not touching your eyes, and using a clean washcloth and towel daily ensure that the bacteria spread is contained. Other good hygiene habits include changing your pillowcases often and throwing away old and contaminated eye cosmetics. Avoiding sharing potentially contaminated items such as towels, washcloths, cosmetics, and other personal care items will also ensure the spread is contained.