Is It Safe to Shower With Contacts In?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

Wearing contact lenses has become a convenient and popular way to correct vision without the hassle of glasses. But when it comes to daily routines, many contact lens wearers wonder about the safety of certain habits—like showering with their lenses in. This common question touches on both comfort and eye health, making it an important topic for anyone who relies on contacts.

The idea of showering with contacts might seem harmless at first glance, especially when you’re in a rush or simply prefer not to remove them. However, the interaction between water and contact lenses introduces unique considerations that can affect your eyes. Understanding these factors is essential to maintaining healthy vision and avoiding potential complications.

Before you decide whether to keep your lenses in during a shower, it’s helpful to get a clear overview of the risks and best practices involved. By exploring this topic, you’ll be better equipped to make informed choices that protect your eyes while fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Risks of Showering With Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses in the shower exposes your eyes to various microorganisms and chemicals that can increase the risk of eye infections and complications. Water, including tap water, is not sterile and can harbor bacteria, fungi, and amoebae, such as *Acanthamoeba*, which is particularly dangerous for contact lens wearers. This organism can cause *Acanthamoeba keratitis*, a severe infection that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.

In addition to microbial risks, water can alter the shape and hydration of the lenses, causing discomfort or damage. Shower water temperature and mineral content may also affect the lens material, potentially reducing its lifespan or causing irritation.

Key risks include:

  • Microbial contamination: Exposure to bacteria, fungi, and amoebae present in water
  • Increased infection risk: Particularly *Acanthamoeba keratitis* and bacterial keratitis
  • Lens damage: Changes in lens shape and integrity due to water exposure
  • Eye irritation: Resulting from chemical residues or temperature variations in shower water
  • Reduced lens lifespan: Accelerated wear and tear from water exposure

Best Practices for Contact Lens Wearers in the Shower

To minimize risks, it is advisable to avoid wearing contact lenses while showering. However, if you choose to do so, the following precautions can help protect your eyes:

  • Use waterproof goggles to prevent water from contacting your lenses.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes or lenses during or after showering.
  • Remove lenses immediately after showering and clean them with appropriate disinfecting solution.
  • Never use tap water or saliva to rinse or store lenses.
  • Maintain good hygiene by washing hands thoroughly before handling lenses.

Comparison of Contact Lens Types and Water Exposure Tolerance

Different contact lens materials respond differently to water exposure. Understanding these differences can help in choosing lenses that may better withstand accidental water contact, although no lens is completely safe in water environments.

Contact Lens Type Material Water Absorption Risk When Exposed to Water Recommended Usage in Water
Soft Hydrogel Hydrogel polymer High High risk of swelling and contamination Not recommended
Silicone Hydrogel Silicone + Hydrogel Moderate Moderate risk; better oxygen permeability but still vulnerable Avoid water exposure
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Gas permeable plastic Low Lower risk of swelling but still susceptible to contamination Avoid water exposure
Hybrid Lenses RGP center + soft skirt Varies Risk depends on soft skirt material; generally not recommended Avoid water exposure

Signs of Eye Infection or Irritation After Showering With Contacts

If you have worn contact lenses while showering and experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms, it is crucial to seek prompt evaluation by an eye care professional. Early detection and treatment of infections can prevent serious complications.

Be alert to the following symptoms:

  • Redness or bloodshot eyes
  • Eye pain or discomfort
  • Blurred or decreased vision
  • Excessive tearing or discharge
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)
  • Swelling of the eyelids or conjunctiva

Promptly remove your contact lenses if these symptoms occur and avoid using them until cleared by your optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Alternatives to Wearing Contacts in the Shower

To avoid the risks associated with water exposure, consider these alternatives:

  • Daily disposable lenses: Use a fresh pair after showering to reduce contamination risks.
  • Glasses: Switch to eyeglasses during showering or swimming activities.
  • Prescription swim goggles: Use goggles designed for vision correction while swimming or showering.
  • Scheduling lens wear: Plan to insert lenses after showering and remove them before water exposure.

By adopting these strategies, you can maintain eye health without compromising your vision or comfort during showering.

Risks of Showering With Contact Lenses

Showering with contact lenses in the eyes can introduce several risks that potentially compromise eye health and lens integrity. Water, including tap water and shower water, contains microorganisms and impurities that can adhere to the lenses and increase the likelihood of eye infections.

Key risks include:

  • Microbial Keratitis: Water can harbor harmful bacteria, fungi, and amoebae such as Acanthamoeba, which can cause severe infections leading to corneal ulcers and vision loss.
  • Contamination and Deposits: Shower water may contain minerals and chemicals that leave residues on contact lenses, causing discomfort, blurred vision, or damage to the lens surface.
  • Lens Displacement: The force of water can dislodge contact lenses from their proper position, increasing the chance of lens loss or irritation.
  • Dryness and Irritation: Exposure to hot water and soap can dry out lenses and irritate the eyes, leading to redness and discomfort.

Scientific Evidence and Expert Recommendations

Numerous ophthalmologists and eye health organizations strongly advise against wearing contact lenses while showering. Studies have demonstrated the increased risk of eye infections associated with water exposure during lens wear.

Authority Recommendation Rationale
American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) Avoid showering with contacts in Water exposure can introduce microorganisms causing keratitis
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Do not expose contact lenses to water Prevents risk of Acanthamoeba infection
Contact Lens Manufacturers Remove lenses before swimming or showering Protects lens integrity and reduces contamination

Precautions If You Must Shower With Contact Lenses

If circumstances make it unavoidable to shower with contacts in, certain precautions can help mitigate some risks:

  • Keep Eyes Closed: Minimize water contact by keeping eyelids shut throughout the shower.
  • Avoid Direct Water Spray: Refrain from letting the shower stream hit your face directly.
  • Use Lens-Compatible Solutions: After showering, clean lenses thoroughly with multipurpose or hydrogen peroxide-based solutions designed for disinfection.
  • Replace Lenses More Frequently: Consider switching to daily disposable lenses to reduce buildup of contaminants.
  • Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for redness, pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light and seek prompt medical attention if these occur.

Alternatives to Showering With Contact Lenses

To maintain eye safety and lens hygiene, consider these alternatives:

  • Remove Lenses Before Showering: The safest option is to take out lenses prior to showering and store them properly.
  • Use Prescription Goggles: Wear watertight goggles if showering with lenses is necessary, especially for water sports or humid environments.
  • Switch to Glasses Temporarily: Use eyeglasses during activities that involve water exposure.
  • Consider Daily Disposable Lenses: These reduce the risk of contamination if accidental water exposure occurs.

Professional Perspectives on Showering with Contact Lenses

Dr. Emily Carter (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). Showering with contact lenses is generally discouraged because water can introduce harmful microorganisms to the eyes, increasing the risk of infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis. Even tap water contains bacteria and protozoa that contacts can trap against the cornea, leading to serious complications.

James Mitchell (Optometrist, ClearSight Eye Center). From a practical standpoint, water exposure can cause contact lenses to swell or change shape, which compromises comfort and visual clarity. Additionally, showering with lenses can cause them to dislodge or adhere improperly, potentially resulting in corneal abrasions or irritation.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Infectious Disease Specialist, National Eye Health Institute). The risk of eye infections increases significantly when contact lenses are exposed to water during activities like showering. Waterborne pathogens can adhere to lenses and evade normal cleaning processes, making it imperative to avoid water contact to maintain ocular health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I shower with contacts in?
It is generally not recommended to shower with contact lenses in due to the risk of exposing lenses to waterborne bacteria and contaminants.

What risks are associated with showering while wearing contacts?
Showering with contacts increases the risk of eye infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis, which can cause severe pain and vision problems.

Can water damage my contact lenses?
Yes, water can cause lenses to swell, change shape, or become contaminated, reducing their effectiveness and comfort.

Are daily disposable lenses safer for showering?
Daily disposables reduce infection risk compared to reusable lenses, but it is still best to avoid water exposure altogether.

What should I do if my contacts get wet in the shower?
Remove the lenses immediately, disinfect them thoroughly if reusable, or discard daily disposables before reinserting.

How can I protect my eyes if I need to shower with contacts?
Use waterproof goggles to prevent water from contacting your lenses and eyes during showering.
Showering with contact lenses in is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of eye infections and irritation. Water, including tap water and shower water, can contain microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, which can adhere to contact lenses and cause serious eye infections. Additionally, water exposure can cause lenses to swell, change shape, or become dislodged, leading to discomfort and impaired vision.

It is important to prioritize eye health by removing contact lenses before showering and using appropriate lens care solutions for cleaning and storage. If accidental exposure occurs, rinsing the eyes with sterile saline or artificial tears and consulting an eye care professional is advised. Maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding water contact with lenses can significantly reduce the risk of complications.

Ultimately, while the convenience of wearing contacts in the shower may be tempting, the potential risks outweigh the benefits. Adhering to recommended practices ensures the safety and comfort of your eyes, preserving long-term vision health. Always follow guidance from your eye care provider regarding contact lens use and care.

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.