Is It Safe to Shower with Contact Lenses In?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

Can you shower with contacts in? It’s a common question for many contact lens wearers who want to maintain their daily routines without interruption. Whether you’re rushing through a morning shower or enjoying a relaxing wash after a long day, understanding the relationship between water and contact lenses is essential for eye health and comfort.

Wearing contact lenses offers convenience and clear vision, but it also requires careful care and attention to avoid potential risks. Water, including shower water, can harbor microorganisms and impurities that may interact negatively with your lenses. This interaction can lead to discomfort, infections, or even more serious eye conditions if not managed properly.

Before you step into the shower with your contacts, it’s important to consider the possible consequences and best practices. Exploring this topic can help you make informed decisions that protect your eyes while fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Risks Associated With Showering While Wearing Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses in the shower can expose your eyes to various risks, primarily due to waterborne microorganisms and potential lens contamination. Tap water, including shower water, is not sterile and often contains bacteria, fungi, and protozoa that can adhere to contact lenses and cause eye infections.

One of the most serious risks is exposure to Acanthamoeba, a microscopic organism found in water that can cause Acanthamoeba keratitis, a painful and potentially sight-threatening eye infection. This infection is difficult to treat and can lead to permanent vision loss if not addressed promptly.

In addition to microbial risks, water can cause contact lenses to swell or change shape, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, and increased risk of corneal abrasions. Water exposure can also reduce the effectiveness of lens cleaning solutions, making it harder to maintain lens hygiene.

Key risks include:

  • Microbial contamination leading to infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis
  • Corneal abrasions and irritation from swollen or misshapen lenses
  • Reduced lens clarity and comfort
  • Increased risk of dry eyes due to altered lens surface

Best Practices for Contact Lens Wearers When Showering

To minimize risks while maintaining eye health, contact lens wearers should adopt the following best practices when it comes to showering:

  • Remove lenses before showering: The safest option is to take out your contact lenses before entering the shower. Store them in a clean case with fresh disinfecting solution.
  • Use goggles if removal is not possible: If you must keep lenses in, consider using watertight swimming goggles to prevent water exposure.
  • Avoid touching eyes with wet hands: Showering often involves washing your face or hair, so avoid touching or rubbing your eyes to prevent transferring contaminants.
  • Use daily disposable lenses: If you frequently encounter situations where water exposure is likely, daily disposables reduce risk since you discard them after one use.
  • Do not rinse lenses with tap water: Only use recommended contact lens solutions for cleaning and storing lenses.
  • Consult your eye care professional: Seek advice tailored to your lens type and lifestyle habits.

Comparison of Contact Lens Types and Water Exposure Risks

Different types of contact lenses vary in their susceptibility to water-related issues. Understanding these differences helps users make informed decisions.

Contact Lens Type Water Exposure Susceptibility Recommended Precautions Replacement Frequency
Soft Contact Lenses High – absorb water, can harbor microorganisms Remove before showering; avoid water contact Daily, bi-weekly, or monthly
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses Lower – less water absorption, but still at risk Remove before water exposure; clean with solution only Typically annual replacement
Daily Disposable Lenses Lower risk due to single use Discard after use; do not expose to water Daily
Extended Wear Lenses Higher risk due to longer wear time Strict hygiene; avoid water exposure Monthly or longer

Signs of Eye Infection Related to Contact Lens and Water Exposure

Being aware of symptoms that may indicate an eye infection is crucial for timely intervention. If you experience any of the following after showering with contacts, seek professional medical advice promptly:

  • Redness or inflammation of the eye
  • Persistent eye pain or discomfort
  • Excessive tearing or discharge
  • Blurred or decreased vision
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)

Early detection and treatment can prevent serious complications and preserve vision.

Summary of Recommendations for Contact Lens Wearers

While this section does not include an overall conclusion, the following bullet points summarize key expert recommendations regarding contact lens use and showering:

  • Always remove contact lenses before showering whenever possible.
  • Never rinse or store lenses in tap or shower water.
  • Use daily disposables if water exposure is unavoidable.
  • Consider protective eyewear to reduce contamination risk.
  • Monitor eyes closely for signs of infection or irritation.
  • Maintain good hygiene and follow eye care professional guidance rigorously.

These practices help maintain ocular health and reduce the risk of complications associated with water exposure while wearing contact lenses.

Risks of Showering With Contact Lenses

Showering while wearing contact lenses is generally discouraged by eye care professionals due to several significant risks. The primary concern is the increased chance of eye infections, which can lead to serious complications if not promptly treated.

  • Microbial Contamination: Tap water contains microorganisms, including *Acanthamoeba*, a rare but potentially sight-threatening parasite. Contact lenses can trap these microorganisms against the eye, increasing infection risk.
  • Lens Contamination: Shower water, soaps, shampoos, and conditioners can adhere to the surface of contact lenses, causing irritation, blurred vision, and potential chemical exposure.
  • Lens Displacement: Water pressure or movements during showering can cause lenses to shift or dislodge, increasing discomfort and the risk of corneal abrasions.
  • Dryness and Irritation: Hot water and steam may dry out lenses, leading to irritation and reduced oxygen permeability, which is essential for corneal health.

Scientific Evidence and Recommendations

Clinical studies and guidelines from organizations such as the American Optometric Association (AOA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasize the risks associated with water exposure to contact lenses.

Aspect Findings/Recommendations
*Acanthamoeba* keratitis risk Increased significantly with exposure to water when wearing lenses
Water exposure Strongly discouraged due to microbial contamination risk
Recommended practice Remove lenses before any water exposure (showering, swimming, bathing)
Lens type considerations Daily disposables may reduce risk but do not eliminate it
Lens care Avoid storing or rinsing lenses with tap water; use sterile solutions only

Safe Practices for Contact Lens Wearers in the Shower

If showering with contacts cannot be avoided, adopting strict precautions can help minimize risks:

  • Remove lenses prior to showering whenever possible.
  • Use daily disposable lenses to discard any potentially contaminated lenses immediately after exposure.
  • Avoid direct water contact with eyes by keeping the head tilted back or eyes closed during the shower.
  • Never rinse or clean lenses with tap water; always use sterile lens solution.
  • Replace lenses promptly if discomfort, redness, or vision changes occur after exposure.

Alternatives to Showering With Contacts

To maintain eye health without interrupting contact lens use, consider the following alternatives:

Method Description Benefits
Removing lenses beforehand Take out contacts before showering Eliminates water exposure risk
Wearing prescription goggles Use waterproof goggles if lenses must stay in Protects eyes from water and contaminants
Switching to glasses Use eyeglasses during water activities No risk of water contamination or lens displacement

Special Considerations for Different Lens Types

The risk profile varies depending on the type of contact lenses worn:

  • Soft Contact Lenses: More prone to absorbing water and trapping microorganisms; higher infection risk from shower water.
  • Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: Less absorbent but still not safe to expose to shower water; risk of lens displacement remains.
  • Daily Disposable Lenses: Safer if accidentally exposed to water since they are discarded after use; still not recommended to shower with these lenses.
  • Extended Wear Lenses: Increased risk due to prolonged lens wear combined with water exposure; strict avoidance is crucial.

Signs of Contact Lens-Related Eye Infections

Prompt recognition of symptoms can prevent severe complications. Contact an eye care professional immediately if any of the following occur after showering with contacts:

  • Eye redness or inflammation
  • Persistent eye pain or discomfort
  • Excessive tearing or discharge
  • Blurred or decreased vision
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Feeling of a foreign body in the eye

Early intervention is critical to preserve vision and eye health.

Expert Perspectives on Showering with Contact Lenses

Dr. Emily Harper (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). “Showering with contact lenses in 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 severe corneal infections. It is safest to remove lenses before any exposure to water, including showers.”

Michael Chen (Optometrist, ClearSight Optometry). “While some contact lens wearers may find it convenient to keep lenses in during showers, water exposure can compromise lens integrity and hygiene. Water can cause lenses to swell or change shape, leading to discomfort and potential vision issues. Removing lenses before showering helps maintain eye health and lens performance.”

Dr. Sarah Lin (Microbiologist specializing in ocular infections, National Eye Institute). “From a microbiological standpoint, shower water is not sterile and can harbor bacteria and protozoa that adhere to contact lenses. This creates a breeding ground for infections that are difficult to treat. Avoiding contact between lenses and water during showers significantly reduces the risk of serious eye infections.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you shower with contact lenses in?
It is generally not recommended to shower with contact lenses in due to the risk of eye infections and lens contamination from waterborne microorganisms.

What risks are associated with showering while wearing contacts?
Showering with contacts increases the risk of eye infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis, irritation, and lens displacement caused by exposure to tap water.

How does water affect contact lenses during a shower?
Water can cause lenses to swell, change shape, and harbor harmful microbes, reducing comfort and increasing infection risk.

Are daily disposable lenses safer to wear in the shower?
Daily disposables reduce the risk compared to reusable lenses but still are not safe to wear in the shower due to potential contamination.

What precautions should be taken if contacts get exposed to water?
If contacts come into contact with water, remove and disinfect them immediately or replace them with a fresh pair to minimize infection risk.

Is it better to wear glasses instead of contacts while showering?
Yes, wearing glasses while showering eliminates the risk of lens contamination and protects your eyes from waterborne irritants.
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 harbor microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, which can adhere to contact lenses and cause serious eye infections. Additionally, water exposure can cause lenses to swell or stick to the eye, leading to discomfort and potential damage.

Maintaining proper eye hygiene and lens care is crucial for contact lens wearers. It is advisable to remove lenses before showering and to use fresh, sterile solutions for cleaning and storing lenses. Avoiding water contact with lenses helps minimize the risk of complications and ensures better eye health and comfort.

In summary, while it may be convenient to keep contacts in while showering, the potential health risks outweigh the benefits. Prioritizing safe lens practices and protecting the eyes from water exposure will contribute to long-term ocular health and reduce the likelihood of infections or other adverse effects.

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.