Updated: January 16, 2026
No, showering with contact lenses is not recommended. Tap water contains microorganisms and chemicals that can cause serious eye infections if trapped behind a lens.
- Avoid wearing lenses in the shower to prevent exposure to Acanthamoeba, a water-borne parasite that causes severe corneal infections.
- Close your eyes tightly if you must wear lenses to keep water, soap, and shampoo from contaminating the lens surface.
- Remove and disinfect lenses immediately if they come into contact with water during a shower.
- Use daily disposable lenses if you are in a situation where lenses must be worn near water, then discard them immediately after.
- Keep a lens case and solution in the bathroom so you can safely remove lenses before starting the water.
Tap water is not sterile and can cause lenses to swell or stick to the eye. Removing lenses before showering is the most effective way to protect your vision.
Disclaimer: This information is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References:
Arshad M, et al. Compliance and behavioral risk factors for contact lens-related microbial keratitis (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33211568/). 2021.
Zimmerman AB, et al. Water and contact lenses, A review (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28212176/). 2017.
Carnt N, et al. Acanthamoeba Keratitis Risk Factors for Daily Wear Contact Lens Users, A Case Control Study (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35952937/). 2023.
