Is It Safe to Wear Contacts in the Shower?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

When it comes to daily habits and eye care, small choices can have a big impact. One common question many contact lens wearers ask is whether it’s safe or advisable to wear their lenses while showering. This seemingly simple decision can influence eye health in surprising ways, making it an important topic to explore.

Wearing contact lenses offers convenience and clear vision, but it also requires mindful maintenance and hygiene practices. The shower, a place we associate with cleanliness, might not be as safe for lenses as it seems. Understanding the potential risks and benefits involved can help contact lens users make informed decisions about their eye care routines.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the considerations surrounding showering with contacts, shedding light on what experts recommend and why. Whether you’re a seasoned lens wearer or new to contacts, gaining insight into this topic can protect your eyes and enhance your comfort.

Risks Associated with Wearing Contacts in the Shower

Wearing contact lenses while showering significantly increases the risk of eye infections and other complications. Shower water is not sterile; it can harbor bacteria, fungi, and microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, which is particularly dangerous for contact lens wearers. When lenses are exposed to contaminated water, pathogens can adhere to their surface and enter the eye, leading to severe infections that may cause pain, vision loss, or even permanent damage.

Another risk comes from the physical properties of water. Contact lenses can absorb water, causing them to swell or change shape. This can result in discomfort, blurred vision, and an increased likelihood of the lens sticking to the eye, which complicates removal and may cause corneal abrasions.

Additional risks include:

  • Chemical exposure: Shower water often contains chlorine, minerals, and other chemicals that can irritate the eyes or degrade the lens material.
  • Lens displacement: Water flow may dislodge lenses, causing them to move under the eyelid or be lost.
  • Dryness and irritation: The warm environment of a shower can dry out lenses and eyes, leading to discomfort.

Best Practices for Contact Lens Hygiene and Showering

To minimize risks, consider the following recommendations regarding contact lenses and showering:

  • Remove lenses before showering whenever possible.
  • If removal is inconvenient, use daily disposable lenses and discard them after showering.
  • Avoid swimming or using hot tubs with contacts, as these environments pose similar or greater risks.
  • Use sterile saline solutions or multipurpose disinfecting solutions for lens cleaning, never water.
  • Maintain strict hygiene by washing hands thoroughly before handling lenses.
  • Carry a backup pair of glasses for times when lenses must be removed.

Comparison of Contact Lens Types and Water Exposure

Different contact lens materials respond differently to water exposure. The table below summarizes common lens types and their susceptibility to risks when worn during showering:

Contact Lens Type Material Water Absorption Tendency Risk Level When Showering Recommended Usage
Soft Hydrogel Hydrophilic polymer High High Remove before showering; daily disposables preferred
Silicone Hydrogel Silicone + hydrophilic polymer Moderate Moderate to High Remove before showering; consider daily disposables
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Hard polymer Low Lower than soft lenses but still risky Remove before showering; never expose to water
Hybrid Lenses RGP center + soft skirt Variable High due to soft skirt Remove before showering; follow same precautions as soft lenses

Signs of Infection or Complications from Water Exposure

Users who wear contacts in the shower should be vigilant for symptoms indicating infection or complications. Early recognition and prompt treatment are crucial to prevent serious outcomes. Common signs to watch for include:

  • Redness or persistent eye irritation
  • Pain or discomfort beyond typical lens wear
  • Excessive tearing or discharge
  • Blurred or decreased vision
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • A feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)

If any of these symptoms occur, discontinue contact lens wear immediately and consult an eye care professional. Early diagnosis can mitigate the severity of infections such as keratitis or Acanthamoeba keratitis, which require urgent medical intervention.

Recommendations for Safe Contact Lens Wear

To protect your eye health while using contact lenses, keep these general guidelines in mind:

  • Always follow your eye care provider’s instructions regarding lens care and replacement schedules.
  • Avoid exposing lenses to any non-sterile water sources including tap, bottled, and shower water.
  • Use proper lens cleaning and storage solutions; never substitute with water or saliva.
  • Replace lens cases regularly (every 3 months) and keep them clean and dry.
  • Schedule regular eye exams to monitor eye health and lens fit.

Adhering to these practices will help maintain clear vision and reduce the risk of infection or damage associated with water exposure during lens wear.

Risks of Wearing Contact Lenses in the Shower

Wearing contact lenses while showering presents several health risks primarily due to exposure to waterborne microorganisms and contaminants. The warm, moist environment of a shower can facilitate the growth and transfer of bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, which can adhere to contact lenses and increase the likelihood of eye infections.

Key risks include:

  • Microbial Keratitis: A serious infection of the cornea, often caused by *Acanthamoeba*, a microscopic organism found in water. This infection can lead to severe pain, vision loss, and may require intensive medical treatment.
  • Bacterial Contamination: Water, including tap water, can harbor bacteria such as *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*, which can contaminate lenses and cause corneal ulcers.
  • Lens Displacement or Damage: Water pressure and movement can dislodge lenses, causing discomfort or loss.
  • Chemical Exposure: Shower water may contain chlorine, minerals, or other chemicals that can irritate the eyes when trapped under lenses.
Potential Hazard Description Consequences
Acanthamoeba Contamination Protozoan found in tap and shower water Severe corneal infection, vision impairment
Bacterial Growth Waterborne bacteria attach to lenses Corneal ulcers, inflammation
Lens Displacement Water pressure disrupts lens position Discomfort, potential lens loss
Chemical Irritation Exposure to minerals, chlorine Eye redness, dryness, irritation

Recommendations for Contact Lens Wearers

Eye care professionals typically advise against wearing contact lenses in the shower to minimize infection risk and maintain ocular health. To protect your eyes, consider the following recommendations:

  • Remove Contacts Before Showering: Taking out lenses prior to showering is the safest option to avoid water exposure.
  • Use Daily Disposable Lenses: If accidental exposure occurs, daily disposables reduce the risk of contamination since lenses are discarded after use.
  • Avoid Swimming or Hot Tub Use with Contacts: Similar risks apply when exposing lenses to other water sources.
  • Practice Proper Lens Hygiene: Always clean and disinfect reusable lenses according to manufacturer instructions, and never use tap water for rinsing.
  • Use Eye Protection: If lenses must be worn, consider using waterproof goggles to prevent water contact.
  • Consult an Eye Care Professional: Seek personalized advice based on your lens type and eye health.

Alternatives and Precautions

For individuals who find contact lens removal inconvenient during showering, several alternatives and precautions can help reduce risks:

Alternative / Precaution Description Benefits
Switch to Glasses Use glasses during showers and water activities Eliminates risk of water contamination
Waterproof Goggles Wear goggles over lenses to prevent water exposure Allows lens wear while protecting eyes
Strict Lens Replacement Schedule Adhere to daily or frequent lens replacement to minimize contamination Reduces buildup of pathogens
Use of Multipurpose Solutions Proper cleaning with effective disinfecting solutions after exposure Helps eliminate microbes from lenses
Consulting Specialty Lenses Some specialty lenses have higher resistance to deposits and contamination May provide added protection

Scientific Evidence and Expert Opinions

Numerous studies and expert organizations emphasize the dangers of water exposure with contact lenses. The American Optometric Association (AOA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise against wearing contacts during water activities due to elevated infection risks.

  • Epidemiological Studies: Research has shown a strong correlation between contact lens-related eye infections and exposure to water sources such as showers, swimming pools, and hot tubs.
  • Microbiological Findings: Waterborne pathogens, particularly *Acanthamoeba*, have been isolated from patients with contact lens-associated keratitis.
  • Clinical Recommendations: Eye care professionals universally recommend avoiding water contact with lenses and stress the importance of hygiene and prompt removal when exposure occurs.

Proper Care After Unintentional Water Exposure

If contact lenses are accidentally exposed to shower water, immediate and careful action is essential to reduce infection risk:

  • Remove Lenses Immediately: Take out the lenses as soon as possible.
  • Disinfect Thoroughly: For reusable lenses, clean with a multipurpose disinfecting solution or hydrogen peroxide system; do not rinse with water.
  • Consider Discarding Daily Disposables: If daily lenses have been exposed, discard them to prevent contamination.
  • Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for redness, pain, blurred vision, or excessive tearing, and seek medical attention if symptoms arise.
  • Avoid Wearing Lenses Temporarily: Give eyes time to recover by wearing glasses until fully healed or cleared by a professional.

Impact of Water Quality on Lens Safety

The quality and microbial content of water vary significantly by region and source, influencing the degree of risk associated with showering while wearing contact lenses.

Water Type Microbial Load Risk Level for Contact Lens Wearers
Tap Water Moderate High risk due to bacteria and *Acanthamoeba* presence
Well Water Variable Variable risk; often higher microbial contamination
Filtered Water Low

Professional Perspectives on Wearing Contacts in the Shower

Dr. Emily Hartman (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). Wearing contact lenses in the shower is strongly discouraged due to the increased risk of eye infections. Shower water can contain microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, which can adhere to lenses and cause serious corneal infections. It is best to remove contacts before any water exposure to maintain eye health and safety.

James Fletcher, OD (Optometrist, ClearSight Eye Center). From a clinical standpoint, contact lenses should never be exposed to tap water, including during showering. Water can alter the lens surface and introduce harmful pathogens, leading to discomfort, redness, and potential long-term damage. Patients should always use proper lens care and avoid wearing contacts while showering.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Microbiologist specializing in ocular infections, National Eye Institute). The combination of warm shower water and contact lenses creates an ideal environment for microbial growth. Even brief exposure can increase the likelihood of contamination. For the prevention of microbial keratitis and other infections, it is imperative to remove contact lenses before showering and follow strict hygiene protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should you wear contacts in the shower?
Wearing contacts in the shower is generally not recommended due to the risk of exposing lenses to waterborne bacteria and microorganisms, which can cause serious eye infections.

What risks are associated with wearing contacts while showering?
Water can introduce harmful pathogens such as Acanthamoeba, leading to infections that may result in pain, vision loss, or permanent damage if not treated promptly.

Can shower water damage contact lenses?
Yes, shower water can cause lenses to warp, swell, or stick to the eye, compromising comfort and vision, and increasing the risk of infection.

How can you protect your eyes if you must shower with contacts?
If unavoidable, wearing waterproof goggles can help prevent water from contacting the lenses and reduce the risk of contamination.

Is tap water safe for cleaning or storing contact lenses?
No, tap water is not sterile and should never be used for cleaning or storing contact lenses as it can introduce harmful microorganisms.

What should you do if your contacts get wet in the shower?
Remove the lenses immediately, clean and disinfect them with the appropriate solution, and consult an eye care professional if irritation or discomfort occurs.
Wearing contact lenses in the shower is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of eye infections and irritation. Shower water can contain harmful microorganisms, such as Acanthamoeba, which can adhere to lenses and cause serious eye conditions. Additionally, exposure to water can cause lenses to swell, change shape, or become contaminated, compromising both comfort and eye health.

It is essential to prioritize eye safety by removing contact lenses before any water exposure, including showering, swimming, or using hot tubs. Proper hygiene and lens care routines play a critical role in preventing complications and maintaining optimal eye health. If accidental water exposure occurs, it is advisable to discard disposable lenses and consult an eye care professional if any discomfort or symptoms arise.

In summary, while wearing contacts in the shower may seem convenient, the potential risks far outweigh the benefits. Adhering to recommended guidelines and avoiding water contact with lenses will help protect your eyes from infections and preserve long-term vision health. Always follow your eye care provider’s advice regarding lens use and care to ensure safe and effective vision correction.

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.