Is It Safe to Shower While Wearing Contact Lenses?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

Wearing contact lenses offers unparalleled convenience and freedom, allowing millions to enjoy clear vision without the hassle of glasses. But when it comes to daily routines—like showering—many contact lens users pause and wonder: Is it okay to shower with contacts in? This common question touches on eye health, comfort, and safety, making it an important topic for anyone who relies on lenses.

Showering with contacts might seem harmless or even time-saving, but it raises concerns about exposure to waterborne bacteria and potential irritation. Understanding the risks and best practices can help contact lens wearers make informed decisions that protect their eyes while maintaining their lifestyle. Whether you’re a new wearer or a seasoned pro, exploring this topic can shed light on how to keep your eyes healthy in everyday situations.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into what experts say about showering with contacts, the possible dangers involved, and practical tips to safeguard your vision. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of how to balance convenience with eye care, ensuring your contact lens experience remains both safe and comfortable.

Risks Associated with Showering While Wearing Contact Lenses

Showering with contact lenses in place can pose several health risks primarily due to exposure to waterborne microorganisms and changes in the lens environment. Tap water, including shower water, is not sterile and can contain bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, such as Acanthamoeba, which is particularly dangerous for contact lens wearers. This microorganism can cause Acanthamoeba keratitis, a severe corneal infection that may lead to vision loss if not treated promptly.

Additionally, water can cause contact lenses to swell or change shape, reducing their oxygen permeability and comfort. This alteration can lead to dryness, irritation, and micro-abrasions on the corneal surface, increasing susceptibility to infections.

Other risks include:

  • Increased risk of eye infections: Water can introduce pathogens that adhere to the lens surface and are difficult to remove.
  • Lens contamination: Shower water can deposit soap, shampoo, and other chemicals on lenses, causing irritation.
  • Lens damage: Exposure to water may weaken the lens material, leading to tearing or warping.
  • Reduced lens adherence: Moisture and temperature changes can cause lenses to move or dislodge during showering, risking loss or eye injury.

Comparing Showering With and Without Contact Lenses

Understanding the differences in risk and comfort when showering with or without contact lenses can guide safer habits. The following table summarizes key considerations:

Aspect Showering With Contact Lenses Showering Without Contact Lenses
Risk of Eye Infection High, due to waterborne pathogens and lens contamination Low, no foreign objects increasing infection risk
Lens Integrity Compromised, water exposure can warp or damage lenses Not applicable
Eye Comfort Potential irritation from chemicals and water exposure Generally comfortable and natural
Lens Retention Risk of lens dislodgment or loss during showering No risk of lens-related issues
Cleaning Benefits None; water can introduce contaminants rather than clean lenses Not applicable

Best Practices for Contact Lens Wearers Regarding Water Exposure

To minimize the risks associated with water exposure while wearing contact lenses, consider the following expert recommendations:

  • Avoid showering or swimming with lenses on: Remove lenses prior to entering water environments.
  • Use daily disposables if occasional water exposure is unavoidable: These lenses can be discarded after use, reducing infection risk.
  • Always wash and dry hands before handling lenses: This reduces the of pathogens.
  • Use proper contact lens cleaning solutions: Never rinse lenses with tap or shower water.
  • Replace lens cases regularly: To prevent bacterial buildup.
  • Consult your eye care professional: For advice tailored to your specific lens type and lifestyle.

Special Considerations for Different Types of Contact Lenses

Not all contact lenses respond the same way to water exposure. Understanding how various lens types interact with water can guide safer practices.

  • Soft Contact Lenses: These are highly absorbent and can trap waterborne pathogens easily. They swell when exposed to water, affecting fit and comfort. Soft lenses are more susceptible to contamination and should never be exposed to water.
  • Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: These lenses are less absorbent and less prone to water absorption. However, exposure to water can still introduce pathogens and cause discomfort. RGP lenses are generally more durable but still require caution with water exposure.
  • Hybrid Lenses: Combining a rigid center and soft skirt, these lenses share risks associated with both types and should be treated with similar care.
  • Scleral Lenses: Due to their size and fluid reservoir, these lenses require meticulous hygiene. Water exposure can compromise the fluid balance and increase infection risk.
Lens Type Water Absorption Risk Level When Showering With Lenses Recommended Precautions
Soft Lenses High High Remove before showering; avoid water exposure
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Low Moderate Remove before showering; avoid water exposure
Hybrid Lenses Moderate High Remove before showering; avoid water exposure
Scleral Lenses Low High Strict hygiene; remove before water exposure

Risks of Showering with Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses while showering introduces several potential risks that can affect both eye health and lens integrity. The primary concerns include:

  • Microbial Contamination: Shower water can harbor microorganisms such as *Acanthamoeba*, bacteria, and fungi. These pathogens can adhere to contact lenses and cause serious eye infections.
  • Lens Displacement: Water exposure can cause lenses to shift or dislodge, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, or lens loss.
  • Chemical Exposure: Chlorine, soap, shampoo, and other chemicals in shower water may irritate the eyes or damage the lens surface.
  • Lens Hydration Changes: Water may alter the hydration state of soft contact lenses, affecting their shape and fit.

Understanding these risks is critical for making informed decisions about contact lens care and hygiene.

Potential Eye Infections from Showering with Contacts

Several types of eye infections are linked to exposure of contact lenses to contaminated water. These include:

Infection Type Causative Agent Symptoms Severity Treatment
Acanthamoeba Keratitis Acanthamoeba protozoa Severe pain, redness, blurred vision, tearing Potentially sight-threatening Intensive antimicrobial therapy
Bacterial Keratitis Various bacteria Redness, discharge, pain, light sensitivity Can cause scarring and vision loss Antibiotic eye drops
Fungal Keratitis Fungi such as Fusarium Redness, pain, blurred vision Often requires prolonged treatment Antifungal medications

These infections often require urgent medical attention and can lead to long-term damage if untreated.

Expert Recommendations on Showering with Contacts

Eye care professionals generally advise against showering while wearing contact lenses due to the risks outlined above. Recommended practices include:

  • Remove lenses before showering: This significantly reduces the risk of contamination and infection.
  • Avoid water exposure: Do not swim or engage in water sports with contacts unless using waterproof goggles.
  • Use daily disposables if occasional water exposure is unavoidable: These lenses can be discarded immediately after use, minimizing infection risk.
  • Maintain rigorous lens hygiene: Always clean and disinfect lenses as per manufacturer and professional instructions.

Safe Alternatives and Precautions

If removing contact lenses prior to showering is not feasible, consider the following precautions:

  • Use waterproof swimming goggles: These provide a physical barrier against water exposure.
  • Keep eyes closed during showering: Minimizes the chance of water contacting the lenses.
  • Avoid hot water: Hot water can increase the risk of irritation and lens warping.
  • Replace lenses promptly after water exposure: Dispose of lenses or clean them thoroughly if reusable.

Summary of Do’s and Don’ts When Showering with Contacts

Do’s Don’ts
Remove lenses before showering Shower with contacts in
Use waterproof goggles if water exposure is unavoidable Rinse lenses with tap or shower water
Use daily disposables for occasional water exposure Swim with contacts without protection
Follow proper lens cleaning and storage routines Ignore symptoms of eye irritation or infection

Expert Perspectives on Showering with Contact Lenses

Dr. Emily Chen (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). Showering while wearing contact lenses is generally discouraged because water can introduce harmful microorganisms to the eye, increasing the risk of infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis. Even tap water, which seems clean, is not sterile and can compromise eye health when in contact with lenses.

Mark Stevens (Optometrist, ClearSight Optometry). From a practical standpoint, water exposure can cause contact lenses to swell or change shape, leading to discomfort and blurred vision. It is best to remove lenses before showering to maintain their integrity and reduce the chance of irritation or contamination.

Dr. Laura Mitchell (Infectious Disease Specialist, National Eye Institute). The risk of eye infections increases significantly if contact lenses are exposed to water during activities like showering. Waterborne pathogens thrive in moist environments, and when trapped under lenses, they can cause serious and sometimes permanent damage. Patients should be advised to avoid showering with contacts to protect their ocular health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it safe to shower with contact lenses in?
Showering with contact lenses is generally not recommended due to the risk of exposing lenses to waterborne bacteria and contaminants, which can cause eye infections.

What are the risks of showering with contacts?
Water can introduce harmful microorganisms to the eye, increase the chance of lens contamination, and cause lenses to swell or stick to the eye, leading to discomfort or injury.

Can tap water damage contact lenses?
Yes, tap water contains microorganisms and minerals that can adhere to lenses, potentially causing eye irritation, infections, or damage to the lens material.

What should I do if my contacts get wet in the shower?
Remove the lenses immediately, clean and disinfect them with the appropriate solution, and avoid wearing them until your eyes feel comfortable and infection is ruled out.

Are there any types of contacts that are safe to wear in the shower?
No contact lenses are completely safe to wear in the shower. Even daily disposables can carry risk if exposed to water, so it is best to remove lenses before showering.

How can I protect my eyes if I must shower with contacts?
If unavoidable, consider wearing waterproof goggles to prevent water contact with lenses, but the safest practice remains removing contacts prior to showering.
Showering with contact lenses is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of eye infections and irritation. Water, including tap water and shower water, can harbor microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, which can adhere to contact lenses and cause serious eye infections that are difficult to treat. Additionally, water exposure can cause lenses to swell or change shape, leading to discomfort and impaired vision.

Maintaining proper lens hygiene is crucial for eye health, and avoiding water contact while wearing lenses is a key preventive measure. If accidental exposure occurs, it is advisable to remove and disinfect the lenses promptly or replace them if necessary. Eye care professionals typically advise removing contacts before showering, swimming, or engaging in any water-related activities to minimize risks.

In summary, prioritizing eye safety by refraining from showering with contact lenses can significantly reduce the likelihood of complications. Adhering to recommended lens care practices and consulting with an eye care specialist for personalized advice will help ensure optimal eye health and comfort.

Author Profile

Colleen Barnes
Colleen Barnes
Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.

With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.