For millions of contact lens users worldwide, convenience sometimes overrides caution. One of the most common questions among wearers is: “Can you sleep with contact lenses?” While it may seem harmless—especially after a long day—the reality is that sleeping in contact lenses can lead to serious eye health complications. In this blog, we’ll break down the risks, explain why removing your lenses before bed is critical, and explore safer alternatives to protect your vision.
Why Sleeping in Contact Lenses Is Risky
Contact lenses are designed to sit directly on the surface of your eyes, where they rely on oxygen from the surrounding air to keep your cornea healthy. When you sleep in your lenses—especially if they’re not specifically approved for overnight wear—you significantly reduce that oxygen supply.
1. Reduced Oxygen Flow (Hypoxia)
Oxygen is essential for your cornea’s metabolism and repair. Sleeping with lenses restricts airflow between your eye and the environment, causing a condition called corneal hypoxia. Over time, this can lead to swelling, blurred vision, and in severe cases, corneal damage.
2. Increased Risk of Eye Infections
One of the biggest risks of overnight lens wear is the development of microbial keratitis, a potentially vision-threatening infection. While rare, this condition is more likely to occur if your lenses trap bacteria, fungi, or parasites against the surface of your eye. During sleep, your natural tear production and blinking are reduced—two key defenses against infection.
3. Dryness and Discomfort
Even for lenses marketed as “extended wear,” sleeping in them can lead to dry eyes, redness, and discomfort. Without regular lubrication, lenses can stick to your cornea or tear film, making them harder to remove in the morning.
4. Corneal Neovascularization
In response to oxygen deprivation, your eye may begin to grow new blood vessels into the cornea—a condition called corneal neovascularization. This is your body’s way of trying to supply more oxygen, but it can result in long-term vision changes and discomfort.
Are Any Lenses Safe for Overnight Wear?
Some contact lenses are FDA-approved for extended or overnight wear. These lenses are made from silicone hydrogel, a material that allows more oxygen to pass through. However, even with these, the risk of infection and complications is higher compared to daily wear lenses.
Eye care professionals generally do not recommend sleeping in lenses unless absolutely necessary. If you must wear lenses overnight, it’s essential to consult your optometrist, follow their guidelines strictly, and maintain impeccable hygiene.
Safer Alternatives to Sleeping in Lenses
To avoid the dangers of overnight lens wear, here are some alternatives and practices that can help:
1. Switch to Glasses at Night
Make it a habit to switch to glasses once you’re home or winding down for the day. Glasses give your eyes a break and eliminate all the risks associated with contact lenses during sleep.
2. Use Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
Daily disposable lenses are a healthier choice for many users. You wear a fresh, sterile pair every day, minimizing the chances of contamination and buildup. Plus, there’s no need to worry about cleaning or storing them overnight.
3. Establish a Proper Night Routine
Set a nightly reminder to remove your lenses before bed. This simple habit can prevent a host of complications and protect your vision long-term.
Tips for Safe Lens Removal and Eye Health
For lens wearers, good hygiene and proper product use are non-negotiable. Here are a few tips:
• Always Wash and Dry Your Hands
Before touching your lenses or your eyes, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. Dry with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring any debris.
• Use a High-Quality Multipurpose Solution
Choose a contact lens solution that not only cleans but also disinfects and hydrates your lenses. A product like Multisol+ is formulated to remove protein deposits, kill bacteria, and keep lenses comfortable for all-day wear. Using a quality multipurpose solution reduces the likelihood of irritation and infection, especially after long days.
• Avoid Tap Water or Saliva
Never use tap water or saliva to clean your lenses. These contain bacteria and microorganisms that can introduce harmful pathogens to your eyes.
• Replace Your Lens Case Regularly
Dirty lens cases are a breeding ground for bacteria. Replace your case every 1–3 months and clean it daily with fresh solution—not water.
• Give Your Eyes a Break
Just as your body needs rest, so do your eyes. On days when you don’t need lenses, let your eyes breathe naturally without them.
What to Do If You Accidentally Sleep in Contacts
If you’ve unintentionally dozed off in your contact lenses, don’t panic—but do take immediate steps:
- Don’t remove them right away. Your eyes might be dry, and pulling the lenses out can cause irritation or damage.
- Blink several times or apply sterile rewetting drops to hydrate your eyes before attempting to remove the lenses.
- Once removed, give your eyes a break for the rest of the day.
- Watch for symptoms like redness, pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light. If any of these occur, contact an eye care professional immediately.
Final Thoughts: Your Eyes Are Worth the Extra Care
While the idea of sleeping in contact lenses may seem harmless, the risks outweigh the convenience. Eye infections, oxygen deprivation, and long-term vision issues can be prevented with small, consistent habits. Make your eye health a priority—remove your lenses before sleep, maintain proper hygiene, and choose quality products that support your routine.
Remember: you only get one pair of eyes. Treat them well.