Is It Safe to Wear Contacts in the Shower?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

Wearing contact lenses has become a convenient and popular choice for millions seeking freedom from glasses. But when it comes to everyday routines—like hopping into the shower—many contact lens wearers wonder if it’s safe or advisable to keep their lenses in. The question, “Can I wear contacts in the shower?” is more common than you might think, and it raises important considerations about eye health and hygiene.

Understanding the interaction between contact lenses and water is crucial before making a decision. While it might seem harmless to shower with lenses on, water can introduce bacteria and other microorganisms that pose risks to your eyes. Additionally, the physical effects of water on lenses can impact comfort and vision clarity. Exploring these factors helps lens wearers make informed choices about their eye care habits.

This article will guide you through the key points surrounding contact lens use in the shower, highlighting potential risks and best practices. Whether you’re a seasoned lens user or new to contacts, gaining insight into this everyday question will empower you to protect your eye health without compromising your lifestyle.

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 and can contain a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and amoebae such as *Acanthamoeba*. These pathogens can adhere to the surface of contact lenses and increase the risk of serious eye infections.

The most concerning infections linked to showering with contacts include:

  • Acanthamoeba keratitis: A rare but severe infection that can cause permanent vision loss. It is caused by a free-living amoeba commonly found in tap water, pools, and hot tubs.
  • Bacterial keratitis: Bacterial contamination can lead to corneal ulcers and scarring.
  • Fungal infections: Less common but potentially serious, especially in environments with poor water hygiene.

In addition to infections, wearing contacts in the shower can cause lenses to become dislodged or dry out due to water exposure, leading to discomfort and impaired vision.

How Water Affects Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are designed to be worn in a clean, controlled environment. Exposure to water disrupts their integrity and performance in several ways:

  • Swelling and warping: Water can cause some types of lenses, especially soft lenses, to absorb moisture unevenly, leading to swelling or warping.
  • Contamination: Water can deposit microorganisms and debris on the lenses.
  • Loss of disinfecting agents: Residual cleaning solutions on lenses can be diluted or washed away by water.
  • Reduced oxygen permeability: Contaminants adhering to lenses can block oxygen flow to the cornea, increasing the risk of hypoxia.

Different lens materials respond differently to water exposure. For instance, silicone hydrogel lenses are more resistant to swelling but still vulnerable to contamination.

Lens Type Water Sensitivity Risk When Exposed to Water
Soft Hydrogel High Swelling, warping, increased bacterial adhesion
Silicone Hydrogel Moderate Less swelling, but still susceptible to contamination
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Low Minimal swelling, but risk of contamination remains

Best Practices to Protect Your Eyes

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

  • Avoid wearing lenses in the shower: The safest option is to remove lenses before showering or swimming.
  • Use daily disposable lenses: These reduce the risk of contamination since they are discarded after one use.
  • Practice proper hygiene: Always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses.
  • Never use tap water for lens care: Only use sterile, recommended lens cleaning solutions.
  • Keep eyes closed underwater: If you must wear lenses in a pool or hot tub, keep your eyes closed to minimize water contact.
  • Have backup eyewear: Keep glasses handy in case you need to remove lenses suddenly.

Signs of Infection or Complications

If you have been exposed to water while wearing contacts, watch for symptoms that may indicate an infection or other eye issues. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent serious damage.

Common signs include:

  • Eye redness or irritation
  • Pain or discomfort
  • Excessive tearing or discharge
  • Blurred or reduced vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • A feeling of something in the eye

If any of these symptoms occur, remove your lenses immediately and seek prompt evaluation by an eye care professional.

Summary of Recommendations Regarding Water Exposure

Activity Recommendation Reason
Showering Remove lenses beforehand Prevent exposure to contaminated water
Swimming in pools or lakes Use waterproof goggles or remove lenses Avoid waterborne infections
Hot tubs or spas Avoid wearing lenses entirely Warm water increases microbial growth
Rinsing lenses Only use sterile lens solutions Tap water is not sterile and harmful

Risks Associated with Wearing Contact Lenses in the Shower

Wearing contact lenses in the shower is generally discouraged by eye care professionals due to several significant risks that can compromise both lens integrity and ocular health.

Waterborne Pathogens: Shower water may contain bacteria, amoebae, and other microorganisms that are not eliminated by standard water treatment. When water contacts lenses, these pathogens can adhere to the lens surface and potentially cause serious eye infections, such as microbial keratitis or Acanthamoeba keratitis.

Lens Contamination and Damage: Exposure to water can alter the physical properties of contact lenses. Soft lenses, in particular, may absorb water and swell, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, or lens deformation. Hard or rigid gas permeable lenses may also be affected, although to a lesser extent.

  • Increased risk of eye infections: Pathogens in tap water can adhere to lenses.
  • Lens warping or swelling: Water absorption changes lens shape and fit.
  • Reduced lens lifespan: Water exposure degrades lens materials.
  • Discomfort and irritation: Contaminated or damaged lenses may cause redness or pain.
Type of Lens Risk Level from Shower Water Exposure Comments
Soft Contact Lenses High Highly absorbent; prone to swelling and pathogen adherence.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses Moderate Less absorbent but still susceptible to contamination.
Daily Disposable Lenses High Single-use lenses should be discarded after contamination.

Expert Recommendations for Contact Lens Wearers

Eye care specialists advise strict precautions to minimize risks when using contact lenses, especially in environments involving water exposure.

To protect your eye health, consider the following recommendations:

  • Avoid wearing contact lenses in the shower: The safest practice is to remove lenses before showering to prevent exposure to tap water.
  • Use daily disposable lenses if you must wear lenses in wet environments: These reduce the risk of infection since lenses are discarded after each use.
  • Never rinse or store lenses in tap water: Always use sterile, multi-purpose lens solutions specifically designed for cleaning and storing contacts.
  • Practice rigorous hand hygiene: Wash and dry hands thoroughly before handling lenses to reduce the chance of contamination.
  • Consult your eye care professional: Discuss your lifestyle and lens care routine to receive personalized advice and alternative vision correction options.

Alternatives to Wearing Contacts in the Shower

If you prefer not to remove your vision correction during showering or swimming, consider these alternatives:

Option Description Benefits Limitations
Prescription Swim Goggles Specialized goggles with built-in prescription lenses for water activities. Protects eyes from water and maintains clear vision. Bulky compared to regular contacts; not suitable for everyday use.
Daily Disposable Contacts with Protective Eyewear Use daily disposables and wear water-resistant goggles in the shower. Minimizes risk of contamination while maintaining convenience. Requires purchasing multiple products and consistent compliance.
Glasses Traditional eyeglasses worn instead of contacts during showering. No risk of waterborne contamination; easy to clean. May be inconvenient or uncomfortable in the shower.

Expert Perspectives on Wearing Contact Lenses in the Shower

Dr. Emily Hartman (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). Wearing contact lenses in the shower is generally discouraged due to the increased risk of eye infections. Shower water can contain microorganisms like Acanthamoeba, which can adhere to lenses and cause severe keratitis. It is safer to remove contacts before showering to maintain optimal eye health.

Michael Chen, OD (Optometrist, ClearSight Eye Center). From a clinical standpoint, water exposure to contact lenses compromises their integrity and comfort. Showering with lenses can cause them to swell or trap bacteria, leading to irritation or infection. Patients should avoid wearing contacts in the shower and instead use daily disposables if occasional water exposure is unavoidable.

Dr. Sandra Lopez (Microbiologist specializing in ocular pathogens, National Eye Institute). Tap water is not sterile and often contains pathogens that can adhere to contact lenses during showering. This creates a breeding ground for infections that are difficult to treat. For this reason, it is medically advisable to never wear contacts in the shower to reduce the risk of serious eye infections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I wear contacts in the shower?
It is generally not recommended to wear contact lenses while showering due to the risk of exposing your eyes to harmful microorganisms and waterborne 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 loss.

Does water damage contact lenses?
Yes, water can cause contact lenses to warp, swell, or adhere to the eye improperly, leading to discomfort and potential eye damage.

Are daily disposable lenses safer for shower use?
While daily disposables reduce the risk of contamination, they are still not safe to wear in the shower because water exposure can introduce pathogens.

What should I do if my contacts get wet in the shower?
Remove the lenses immediately, disinfect them thoroughly if they are reusable, or discard them if they are daily disposables, and consult your eye care professional if irritation occurs.

How can I protect my eyes if I need to shower with contacts?
If unavoidable, use waterproof goggles to prevent water from contacting your eyes and lenses, but it is best to remove contacts before showering whenever possible.
Wearing contact lenses in the shower is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of eye infections and complications. 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, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the eyes.

It is important for contact lens wearers to prioritize eye health by avoiding water exposure while wearing lenses. If contact lenses must be worn near water, such as during swimming or showering, using waterproof goggles or removing lenses beforehand is advisable. Proper hygiene, including thorough handwashing and following lens care instructions, further reduces the risk of infection and ensures safe lens use.

Ultimately, maintaining good lens hygiene and avoiding contact with water will help preserve eye health and prevent complications. Consulting with an eye care professional for personalized advice and guidance is essential for anyone who wears contact lenses and is concerned about water exposure. By understanding the risks and taking appropriate precautions, contact lens users can protect their vision and enjoy comfortable lens wear.

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.