Can You Take a 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 wearers pause and wonder: can you take a shower with contacts? This seemingly simple question opens up a broader conversation about eye health, hygiene, and the best practices for maintaining your lenses.

Navigating the world of contact lens care involves understanding how water interacts with your lenses and eyes, as well as the potential risks involved. While it might seem harmless to keep your lenses in during a quick shower, there are important considerations that could impact your eye health. Exploring this topic helps lens wearers make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.

In the following sections, we will delve into the effects of showering with contacts, the risks of water exposure, and expert recommendations to keep your eyes safe and comfortable. Whether you’re a new wearer or a seasoned pro, gaining clarity on this issue is essential for protecting your vision and enjoying the benefits of contact lenses to the fullest.

Risks Associated With Showering While Wearing Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses in the shower significantly increases the risk of eye infections and other complications. Shower water is not sterile; it often contains microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and amoebas, that can adhere to lenses and cause serious eye health issues.

One of the most severe risks is exposure to Acanthamoeba, a microscopic organism found in water sources such as tap water, pools, and showerheads. When trapped under contact lenses, Acanthamoeba can cause Acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but potentially sight-threatening infection.

Additional risks include:

  • Bacterial contamination: Shower water may contain bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause bacterial keratitis and corneal ulcers.
  • Chemical irritants: Chlorine and other disinfectants found in water can irritate the eyes and degrade contact lenses.
  • Lens displacement: Water pressure may dislodge lenses, increasing the chance of losing them or causing irritation.

Best Practices for Contact Lens Wearers in the Shower

If you must shower with contacts, following certain precautions can help reduce risks, although the safest option remains to remove lenses before showering.

  • Remove lenses before entering the shower whenever possible.
  • Use waterproof goggles if you need to keep your lenses in.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes during or after showering.
  • Never rinse or store lenses with tap or shower water.
  • Always clean and disinfect lenses according to your eye care professional’s instructions after shower exposure.
  • Consider switching to daily disposable lenses to reduce contamination risk.

Comparison of Water Types and Eye Health Risks

Water Type Typical Microorganisms Present Associated Eye Risks Safe to Use With Contacts?
Tap Water Bacteria (e.g., Pseudomonas), Acanthamoeba, Fungi Risk of keratitis, eye infections No
Bottled Water Generally sterile or low microbial content Minimal risk if sterile Only if confirmed sterile
Pool or Hot Tub Water Chlorine, bacteria, amoebas Irritation, infection risks No
Saline Solution (contact lens approved) Sterile (if properly prepared) Safe for rinsing and storing lenses Yes

Risks of Showering With Contact Lenses

Showering while wearing contact lenses can pose significant risks to eye health. The primary concerns include:

  • Exposure to Microorganisms: Water, including tap and shower water, can harbor bacteria, fungi, and amoebae such as *Acanthamoeba*. These microorganisms can adhere to contact lenses and cause serious infections like *Acanthamoeba keratitis*, which is difficult to treat and can lead to vision loss.
  • Lens Contamination: Water can alter the surface properties of contact lenses, making them more prone to trapping debris and microorganisms.
  • Lens Displacement or Loss: Water pressure and movements during a shower can cause lenses to shift or fall out, increasing the risk of eye irritation or injury.
  • Decreased Lens Comfort: Moisture and temperature changes from shower water can dry out or warp lenses, reducing comfort and visual clarity.

Expert Recommendations on Showering With Contact Lenses

Eye care professionals generally advise against wearing contact lenses in the shower. Their recommendations include:

  • Remove lenses before showering: This minimizes the risk of infection and contamination.
  • Use daily disposable lenses if occasional water exposure is unavoidable: Discarding lenses after such exposure reduces the risk of pathogens colonizing the lens.
  • Avoid swimming or hot tub use with lenses: Similar risks apply in other water activities.
  • Follow proper lens hygiene: Clean and disinfect lenses according to manufacturer and eye care provider instructions, especially if exposed to water.

Comparison of Water Exposure Risks by Lens Type

Lens Type Risk of Water Exposure Recommended Action
Daily Disposable Moderate risk; lenses discarded after use reduce long-term infection risk Remove before showering; if exposed, discard immediately
Monthly/Extended Wear High risk; water exposure can lead to persistent contamination Remove before showering; clean and disinfect thoroughly if exposed
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Moderate risk; less porous than soft lenses but still susceptible to contamination Remove before showering; clean and disinfect after any water contact

Preventive Measures to Protect Eyes When Wearing Contacts

If removing lenses before showering is not feasible, consider these preventive strategies:

  • Use waterproof swimming goggles: Wearing goggles can prevent water from contacting the lenses.
  • Avoid direct water spray to the face: Minimize water exposure by keeping the face away from the direct flow of water.
  • Maintain rigorous hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly before handling lenses to reduce contamination risk.
  • Use sterile saline or disinfecting solutions: Never rinse lenses with tap water; use only approved lens care products.
  • Consult your eye care professional: Discuss your lifestyle and any concerns to receive personalized advice.

Signs of Eye Infection From Water Exposure on Contacts

Awareness of early symptoms is critical for prompt treatment. Look for:

  • Redness or persistent eye irritation
  • Excessive tearing or discharge
  • Blurred or decreased vision
  • Pain or discomfort in the eye
  • Sensitivity to light

If any of these symptoms occur after water exposure with contacts, seek immediate professional evaluation.

Expert Perspectives on Showering with Contact Lenses

Dr. Emily Chen (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Institute). Showering while wearing contact lenses is generally discouraged due to the increased risk of eye infections. Water can introduce harmful microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, which can adhere to lenses and cause serious corneal infections. It is safest to remove contacts before showering to maintain optimal eye health.

Mark Stevens (Optometrist, ClearSight Eye Clinic). From a practical standpoint, water exposure can cause contact lenses to swell or change shape, leading to discomfort and impaired vision. Additionally, shampoo and soap residues can irritate the eyes when trapped beneath lenses. Therefore, patients should avoid showering with contacts to prevent complications and ensure lens integrity.

Dr. Laura Mitchell (Infectious Disease Specialist, National Eye Health Association). Wearing contact lenses in the shower increases the likelihood of microbial contamination, which can result in infections that are difficult to treat. Even tap water contains bacteria and protozoa that are unsafe for direct eye contact when combined with lenses. Removing contacts prior to showering is a critical precaution to reduce infection risk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you take a shower with contacts in your eyes?
It is generally not recommended to shower with contact lenses in. Water can introduce harmful microorganisms to the eyes, increasing the risk of infection.

What risks are associated with showering while wearing contacts?
Showering with contacts can expose your eyes to bacteria, fungi, and Acanthamoeba, which may cause serious eye infections and complications.

Is tap water safe for contact lenses?
No, tap water is not sterile and can contain pathogens that adhere to contact lenses, posing a significant risk of eye infections.

What should I do if my contacts get wet during a shower?
Remove the lenses immediately, clean and disinfect them according to your eye care provider’s instructions, or replace them if they are disposable.

Are there any contact lenses designed for water exposure?
No contact lenses are approved for safe use in water. Special waterproof goggles are recommended if you need to protect your eyes while swimming or showering.

How can I protect my eyes if I must shower with contacts?
If unavoidable, wear well-fitting waterproof goggles to prevent water contact with your lenses and eyes, minimizing the risk of contamination.
Wearing contact lenses while taking a 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 contact lenses and cause serious eye infections. Additionally, exposure to water can cause lenses to swell, change shape, or become contaminated, compromising both comfort and eye health.

Experts advise removing contact lenses before showering to maintain optimal eye safety and hygiene. If wearing lenses during water exposure is unavoidable, using daily disposable lenses and proper lens care afterward may help reduce risks. However, the safest practice remains to avoid any water contact with lenses altogether.

In summary, prioritizing eye health by removing contact lenses before showering is essential. Understanding the potential dangers and practicing good lens hygiene can prevent complications and ensure comfortable, safe lens wear. Consulting an eye care professional for personalized advice is always recommended for contact lens users.

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.