Can you swim with contact lenses? No. Keeping your vision clear in the water matters, but contact lenses and water are a poor combination. Whether you are heading to the pool, swimming in the sea or relaxing in a hot tub, leaving your lenses in can expose your eyes to potentially harmful microorganisms.
This affects both soft and rigid contact lenses. Soft lenses can absorb water, causing them to swell and change shape, while any lens can hold contaminated water against your eyes. A lens that moves or no longer fits correctly may also cause tiny scratches to the cornea, creating an opportunity for infection.
Acanthamoeba: a small organism with serious consequences
One of the biggest risks is Acanthamoeba, a free living amoeba that can be found in swimming pools, lakes, rivers and even tap water. If it reaches the cornea, it can cause a rare but painful infection called Acanthamoeba Keratitis. While it is uncommon, the condition can lead to corneal scarring, permanent sight loss, or in very severe cases, the need for a corneal transplant. Treatment may continue for up to 12 months because the organism can form resilient cysts that are difficult to stop and even remove from the eyes.
A 2023 case study found that reusable soft lenses had nearly four times the odds of developing the infection compared with daily disposable users. Rigid contact lens wearers also had increased odds. Reinforcing the importance of keeping your contact lenses away from water.
Showering, hot tubs and the sea: does the same advice apply?
Yes, it’s not just swimming pools or open water that present risk. The British Contact Lens Association recommends that you never allow water to come into contact with your lenses or even your storage case. Even identifying swimming, showering and hot tub use as risk factors for Acanthamoeba keratitis.
Never rinse lenses or their case with tap, bottled or distilled water. Only use the care products recommended by your contact lens practitioner.
What should you do with your lenses when swimming?
The safest approach is to remove your contact lenses before entering the water, making sure that they aren’t exposed or trapping any water behind them. If you do take your contact lenses out during a swim, it’s important to remember now to put them back in straight away.
If you wear daily disposable lenses, make sure you throw them away and use a brand new pair afterwards, while using reusable soft or rigid contact lenses, you can clean disinfect and store them correctly in your recommended solution before wearing them again. Either way, make sure you have thoroughly washed your hands and face before putting them back in.
Prescription swimming goggles: clear vision without the risk
If you want to see clearly in the water, prescription swimming goggles can help provide clear vision without exposing your lenses to water. Our team of Optometrists are ready to help advise on suitable options and find the perfect pair for your needs, meaning you can swim with confidence and keep your contact lenses out of the water.
Alternatively, another option would be Ortho K lenses, which are specially designed lenses, worn while you sleep. They are specifically created to allow you to enjoy clear vision during the day, including in the water, without the need to wear lenses during the day at all.
What are the symptoms of an eye infection?
Symptoms of an eye infection can include irritation, pain, redness, blurred vision, light sensitivity, watering or a persistent gritty feeling. Remove your lenses and seek prompt professional advice if you experience any of these symptoms.
Talk to our team about contact lenses and swimming
At Rawlings Opticians, we want you to enjoy the freedom and clear vision that contact lenses provide, safely. If you have questions about swimming, lens care or suitable prescription goggles, our team will be happy to offer advice tailored to your eyes and lifestyle.
Ready to talk to us about swimming and contact lenses?
