Is It Safe to Wear Contacts in the Shower?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

Wearing contact lenses has become a convenient and popular alternative to glasses for millions of people worldwide. From daily activities to intense workouts, contacts offer freedom and clarity without the hassle of frames. But when it comes to everyday routines like showering, many contact lens wearers wonder: can you wear contacts in the shower? This seemingly simple question opens up a broader conversation about eye health, hygiene, and the best practices for contact lens care.

The idea of keeping your contacts in while showering might seem harmless or even practical, especially when you’re in a rush or want to avoid fumbling with lenses in a steamy bathroom. However, water and contacts don’t always mix well, and understanding the risks and precautions involved is essential. Whether you’re a new wearer or have been using contacts for years, knowing what experts say about showering with lenses can help protect your eyes from potential infections or discomfort.

As you read on, you’ll discover the key considerations around wearing contact lenses in the shower, including the possible dangers and safer alternatives. This overview will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your eye care routine, ensuring your vision stays clear and your eyes remain healthy in every situation.

Risks of Wearing Contacts in the Shower

Wearing contact lenses in the shower can significantly increase the risk of eye infections and complications. Shower water is not sterile and often contains various microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and amoebae. When these microorganisms come into contact with lenses, they can adhere to the surface and potentially cause severe eye infections. One of the most serious infections linked to showering with contacts is Acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but sight-threatening condition.

Additionally, tap water contains minerals and chemicals that may irritate the eyes or cause deposits to build up on the lenses, reducing comfort and vision quality. The combination of moisture, warmth, and microbial contamination during showering creates an ideal environment for pathogens to thrive on or under the lenses.

Wearing contacts in the shower can also cause lenses to shift or dislodge due to water pressure and movement, increasing the risk of losing a lens or scratching the cornea.

Best Practices for Contact Lens Hygiene Around Water

To minimize risks associated with water exposure while wearing contact lenses, adhere to the following guidelines:

  • Avoid wearing contacts while swimming, showering, or using hot tubs whenever possible.
  • If accidental water exposure occurs, remove lenses immediately and disinfect them using an appropriate cleaning solution.
  • Use daily disposable lenses if you anticipate frequent water exposure, as they reduce the risk of contamination from reused lenses.
  • Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling lenses.
  • Store lenses in a clean case filled with fresh disinfecting solution; never use tap water to rinse or store lenses.
Activity Recommended Contact Lens Use Risk Level
Showering Avoid wearing lenses; remove before showering High
Swimming (pools, lakes, ocean) Use waterproof goggles or avoid lenses High
Hot tubs Remove lenses prior; water is warm and bacteria-prone High
Handwashing Safe if hands are thoroughly cleaned and dried Low
Using eyedrops Use only recommended drops for contacts Low

Alternatives and Precautions When Contact Use Is Necessary

If contact lens wear during water exposure cannot be avoided, consider these alternatives and precautions to safeguard eye health:

  • Use high-quality, tightly fitting swim goggles to create a water barrier.
  • Opt for daily disposable lenses to ensure a fresh, uncontaminated pair after exposure.
  • Immediately remove lenses after exiting the water and clean them thoroughly.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes with wet hands to prevent transferring microorganisms.
  • Consult your eye care professional about specialized lenses designed for water activities.

By maintaining strict hygiene and following these precautions, you can reduce the risks associated with water exposure while wearing contact lenses.

Risks of Wearing Contact Lenses in the Shower

Wearing contact lenses in the shower can expose your eyes to several potential hazards due to the interaction of lenses with water and shower environments. Understanding these risks is essential for maintaining eye health and preventing complications.

  • Microbial Contamination: Tap water, including shower water, contains microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, bacteria, and fungi. These pathogens can adhere to contact lenses and cause serious eye infections, notably Acanthamoeba keratitis, which is difficult to treat and can lead to vision loss.
  • Lens Contamination: Water exposure can cause lenses to swell, change shape, or trap impurities, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, or even lens displacement.
  • Increased Risk of Eye Irritation: Soap, shampoo, conditioner, and other chemicals commonly found in shower water can irritate the eyes and exacerbate discomfort when lenses are worn.
  • Potential for Lens Loss or Damage: Water flow and rinsing action may dislodge lenses from the eyes or cause tearing or warping of lenses, compromising their effectiveness and safety.
Risk Factor Description Potential Consequences
Microbial Exposure Contact with waterborne pathogens like Acanthamoeba Severe eye infections, keratitis, vision loss
Lens Contamination Water causes lenses to trap impurities and swell Discomfort, blurred vision, lens displacement
Chemical Irritants Exposure to soap, shampoo, and other chemicals Eye redness, irritation, allergic reactions
Mechanical Risks Water flow can dislodge or damage lenses Lens loss, damage, need for replacement

Recommendations for Contact Lens Wearers During Showering

To safeguard eye health and maintain optimal lens performance, consider the following expert recommendations when it comes to showering with contact lenses:

  • Avoid Wearing Lenses in the Shower: The safest option is to remove your contact lenses prior to showering to eliminate water exposure risks.
  • Use Daily Disposable Lenses: If you must wear lenses during showering, daily disposables reduce the risk because you discard them after a single use, minimizing buildup of contaminants.
  • Maintain Proper Lens Hygiene: Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling lenses, and avoid touching lenses with wet or soapy hands.
  • Keep Water Away from Eyes: Try to avoid direct water spray to your eyes, and do not rub your eyes while in the shower.
  • Have Backup Glasses Available: In case lenses become uncomfortable or dislodged, having glasses ready allows you to remove lenses promptly without compromising vision.
  • Consult Your Eye Care Professional: Always follow specific advice given by your optometrist or ophthalmologist regarding lens wear and water exposure.

Alternatives to Wearing Contacts in the Shower

If removing your contact lenses before showering is inconvenient, consider these alternatives to protect your eyes:

Alternative Description Pros Cons
Prescription Glasses Wear glasses instead of contacts during showering or water activities Eliminates water contamination risk; easy to remove Can be inconvenient for some activities; may fog up
Daily Disposable Lenses Use lenses discarded daily, minimizing infection risk Lower risk of contamination; convenient More expensive; still not recommended for showering
Waterproof Swim Goggles Wear goggles over lenses during shower or water exposure Protects lenses from water; allows lens wear Uncomfortable for showering; not practical for all

Professional Perspectives on Wearing Contacts in the Shower

Dr. Melissa Grant (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Associates). Wearing contact lenses in the shower is generally discouraged due to the increased risk of eye infections. Water can harbor 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.

James Liu (Optometrist, ClearSight Eye Clinic). From a practical standpoint, shower water can cause contact lenses to swell or change shape, leading to discomfort or impaired vision. Additionally, exposure to tap water can introduce bacteria that compromise lens cleanliness. Patients should avoid wearing contacts in the shower and instead use daily disposables if occasional water exposure is unavoidable.

Dr. Anita Patel (Infectious Disease Specialist, National Eye Health Institute). The risk of eye infections increases significantly when contact lenses are exposed to water, including shower water. Microbial keratitis is a serious condition linked to water exposure while wearing contacts. Preventative measures include removing lenses before showering and practicing strict lens hygiene to reduce infection risks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you wear contacts in the shower safely?
Wearing contacts in the shower is generally not recommended due to the risk of eye infections from waterborne bacteria and microorganisms.

What risks are associated with showering while wearing contact lenses?
Exposure to water can introduce harmful pathogens to the lenses, increasing the risk of keratitis and other serious eye infections.

Are certain types of contact lenses safer to wear in the shower?
No contact lenses are completely safe to wear in the shower; however, daily disposable lenses may reduce infection risk since they are discarded after use.

How can I protect my eyes if I accidentally wear contacts in the shower?
If you accidentally wear contacts in the shower, remove and disinfect them immediately, and consult an eye care professional if you experience discomfort or redness.

Is it better to use glasses instead of contacts when showering?
Yes, wearing glasses instead of contacts during showering eliminates the risk of water contamination and protects your eyes from potential infections.

Can shower water damage contact lenses?
Yes, shower water can cause lenses to warp, swell, or trap bacteria, compromising lens integrity and eye health.
Wearing contact lenses in the 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 lead to serious eye conditions. Additionally, water exposure can cause lenses to swell or change shape, compromising comfort and vision quality.

To maintain optimal eye health and lens hygiene, it is advisable to remove contact lenses before showering. If accidental exposure occurs, thoroughly disinfect lenses or replace them as directed by an eye care professional. Following proper lens care protocols and avoiding water contact will significantly reduce the risk of complications.

In summary, prioritizing eye safety by not wearing contacts in the shower is essential. Adhering to recommended guidelines ensures both the longevity of contact lenses and the prevention of potentially severe eye infections. Consulting with an eye care specialist can provide personalized advice tailored to individual needs and lifestyle.

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.