Is It Safe to Shower While Wearing Contact Lenses?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

Wearing contact lenses offers unparalleled convenience and freedom compared to traditional glasses, allowing many to enjoy an active lifestyle without compromise. But when it comes to daily routines like showering, a common question arises: can you shower with contact lenses on? This seemingly simple query touches on important aspects of eye health, hygiene, and lens care that every lens wearer should understand.

The idea of keeping your lenses in while showering might seem harmless or even practical, especially during busy mornings or when you want to maintain clear vision throughout your routine. However, water exposure can introduce risks that may affect both the lenses themselves and the delicate surface of your eyes. Understanding the potential consequences and best practices is essential for anyone who relies on contact lenses daily.

In the following sections, we will explore the relationship between water and contact lenses, discuss the possible hazards involved, and provide guidance on how to protect your eyes while maintaining your lifestyle. Whether you’re a new wearer or a seasoned user, gaining insight into this topic will help you make informed decisions and keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.

Risks of Showering with Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses while showering significantly increases the risk of eye infections and other complications. Water from showers is not sterile and often contains microorganisms such as bacteria, amoebae, and fungi. These organisms can adhere to the lens surface, leading to serious eye infections including microbial keratitis and Acanthamoeba keratitis, which can cause vision loss if untreated.

Contact lenses can also trap water against the eye, causing the lenses to swell or warp. This compromises the comfort and fit of the lenses, potentially leading to corneal abrasions or irritation. Additionally, water exposure can dilute or wash away the tear film, reducing eye lubrication and increasing dryness and discomfort.

Some specific risks include:

  • Microbial contamination: Waterborne pathogens can adhere to lenses and cause infections.
  • Lens warping: Water absorption can alter lens shape, affecting vision clarity.
  • Increased irritation: Water exposure can disrupt the tear film and cause dryness.
  • Corneal abrasions: Loose or swollen lenses can scratch the cornea.

Safe Practices for Contact Lens Wearers in the Shower

To minimize risks associated with showering while wearing contact lenses, it is important to adopt safe habits and hygiene practices. Experts recommend the following:

  • Remove lenses before showering: This is the safest option to prevent water exposure.
  • Use daily disposable lenses: If showering with lenses is unavoidable, daily disposables reduce the risk since lenses are discarded after a single use.
  • Avoid rubbing or touching eyes with wet hands: Water on hands can introduce contaminants to the lenses.
  • Keep eyes closed while showering: Minimizing water contact reduces infection risk.
  • Use lens-friendly solutions: Never rinse or store lenses in tap water; always use sterile contact lens solutions.
  • Replace lens cases regularly: To avoid microbial buildup, clean and replace lens cases every 1–3 months.

Comparison of Water Exposure on Different Types of Contact Lenses

Different lens materials and replacement schedules influence how contact lenses respond to water exposure. The table below summarizes the relative risk and considerations for showering with various lens types:

Lens Type Material Water Absorption Risk Recommended Showering Practice Infection Risk
Daily Disposable Hydrogel or Silicone Hydrogel Low – single use, discarded daily Remove before showering or discard after Lower compared to reusable lenses
Reusable Soft Lenses Hydrogel or Silicone Hydrogel Moderate – water can cause swelling Remove before showering; clean with solution Moderate; proper cleaning essential
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Hard plastic Low – less water absorption Remove before showering recommended Lower but still present

Signs of Eye Infection from Water Exposure

Contact lens wearers should be vigilant for symptoms that indicate possible eye infections or complications resulting from water exposure. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent serious damage.

Common signs include:

  • Redness or bloodshot eyes
  • Persistent eye pain or discomfort
  • Excessive tearing or discharge
  • Blurred or decreased vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Feeling of a foreign body or grittiness in the eye

If any of these symptoms develop after showering with contact lenses, it is important to remove the lenses immediately and seek prompt evaluation from an eye care professional.

Recommendations from Eye Care Professionals

Eye care professionals strongly advise against showering with contact lenses due to the high risk of infection and damage. Some key recommendations are:

  • Always remove lenses before swimming or showering.
  • Use goggles if water exposure during swimming is unavoidable.
  • Adhere strictly to lens hygiene and replacement schedules.
  • Consult your eye care provider if you experience discomfort or signs of infection.

Following these guidelines reduces the risk of complications and helps maintain optimal eye health while wearing contact lenses.

Risks of Showering With Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses while showering introduces several risks that can negatively impact eye health and lens integrity. Understanding these risks is essential for anyone considering this practice.

Contact lenses are designed for use in controlled environments, and exposure to water—especially tap water—can lead to complications, including:

  • Microbial Contamination: Tap water may contain microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, bacteria, and fungi. These can adhere to lenses and cause severe eye infections, sometimes resulting in vision loss.
  • Lens Displacement or Loss: Water pressure and movement can cause lenses to shift or fall out, increasing discomfort and the risk of lens loss.
  • Lens Damage: Water can alter the lens material, causing swelling or shape changes that reduce comfort and visual clarity.
  • Dryness and Irritation: Shower water, particularly if warm or containing chemicals like chlorine, can dry out lenses and irritate the eyes.

These risks make showering with contact lenses a practice generally discouraged by eye care professionals.

Expert Recommendations for Contact Lens Wearers

Eye care specialists advocate for safe lens management to minimize complications. Key recommendations include:

  • Avoid Water Exposure: Remove lenses before any water exposure, including showering, swimming, or using hot tubs.
  • Use Proper Cleaning Solutions: Never rinse lenses or lens cases with tap water; use sterile, multi-purpose or saline solutions prescribed by your eye care provider.
  • Maintain Hygiene: Wash and dry hands thoroughly before handling lenses.
  • Use Daily Disposable Lenses if Water Exposure is Unavoidable: These reduce the risk as lenses are discarded after a single use.
  • Consult Your Eye Care Professional: Discuss your lifestyle and habits to find the safest lens options and care routines.

Comparison of Contact Lens Safety in Different Water Environments

Water Environment Risk Level Common Microbial Contaminants Recommended Action
Shower (Tap Water) High Acanthamoeba, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Fungi Remove lenses before showering; avoid water contact
Swimming Pools High Chlorine-resistant bacteria, Fungi Use goggles or remove lenses; do not wear lenses in pools
Hot Tubs Very High Legionella, Acanthamoeba, Bacteria Remove lenses before use; avoid water exposure
Natural Bodies of Water (Lakes, Rivers) Very High Various bacteria and parasites Do not wear lenses in natural water; use prescription goggles instead

How Water Affects Contact Lens Materials

Contact lenses are made from hydrogels or silicone hydrogels, materials sensitive to environmental factors such as water exposure. The interaction between water and lens material can result in:

  • Swelling: Water absorption can cause lenses to swell, altering fit and comfort.
  • Surface Changes: Water can change the lens surface, making it more prone to deposits and bacterial adhesion.
  • Reduced Oxygen Permeability: Swollen lenses may restrict oxygen flow to the cornea, increasing the risk of hypoxia.
  • Degradation: Prolonged exposure to chemicals in water, such as chlorine, can degrade lens material and reduce lifespan.

These effects emphasize the importance of avoiding water contact while wearing lenses to maintain lens performance and ocular health.

Expert Perspectives on Showering with Contact Lenses

Dr. Emily Carter (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). Showering with contact lenses is generally discouraged because tap water contains microorganisms that can adhere to lenses and increase the risk of eye infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis. Even brief exposure to water can compromise lens safety and eye health.

James Mitchell (Optometrist, ClearSight Associates). From a practical standpoint, removing contact lenses before showering is the safest approach. Water can cause lenses to swell or stick to the eye, leading to discomfort and potential corneal abrasions. Maintaining proper lens hygiene means avoiding any water contact during lens wear.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Microbiologist specializing in ocular health). Shower water is not sterile and can harbor bacteria and protozoa that adhere to contact lenses, creating a breeding ground for infections. Wearing lenses in the shower increases the likelihood of microbial contamination, which can result in serious eye complications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you shower while wearing contact lenses?
It is generally not recommended to shower with contact lenses in because water can introduce harmful bacteria and microorganisms to the eyes, increasing the risk of infection.

What risks are associated with showering in contact lenses?
Showering with contacts can expose your eyes to Acanthamoeba and other pathogens found in water, potentially causing serious eye infections that may lead to vision loss.

Is tap water safe for contact lenses?
No, tap water is not sterile and can contain microorganisms that adhere to contact lenses, making it unsafe to use for rinsing or wearing lenses during water exposure.

What should I do if my contact lenses get wet in the shower?
If your lenses get wet, remove them immediately, disinfect them thoroughly with the appropriate solution, and avoid wearing them until they are properly cleaned.

Are there any types of contact lenses designed for water exposure?
Some daily disposable lenses may be safer for occasional water exposure, but no contact lenses are completely safe for use in water environments; protective eyewear is recommended.

How can I protect my eyes if I need to shower with contacts?
If unavoidable, consider using waterproof swimming goggles to protect your eyes and lenses from water contact during showering or swimming.
Showering with contact lenses is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of eye infections and complications. Water, including tap water and shower water, can harbor microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, which can adhere to lenses and cause serious eye infections that are difficult to treat. Additionally, water exposure can cause lenses to swell, change shape, or become contaminated, leading to discomfort and potential vision problems.

Eye care professionals advise removing contact lenses before showering to maintain optimal eye health and hygiene. If wearing lenses during water exposure is unavoidable, using daily disposable lenses and practicing meticulous lens care afterward can help reduce some risks. However, the safest practice remains to avoid any contact between lenses and water to prevent microbial contamination and preserve lens integrity.

In summary, prioritizing eye safety by removing contact lenses before showering is essential. Understanding the risks associated with water exposure and adhering to recommended lens care guidelines can significantly reduce the likelihood of eye infections and ensure comfortable, healthy vision.

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.