Can You Sleep with Contacts In?

Everything you need to understand about the risks of sleeping with contact lenses and how to protect your eye health

Key Takeaways

• Never sleep with regular contacts - it increases infection risk by 6-8 times and can cause serious eye damage
• Even naps are risky - any closed-eye time with contacts reduces oxygen flow to your corneas
• Extended-wear contacts exist but still require careful monitoring and aren't recommended for everyone
• Immediate removal is crucial - if you accidentally sleep with contacts, remove them safely and watch for symptoms
• Prevention is simple - make contact removal part of your bedtime routine to avoid complications

Looking for safe, comfortable contact lenses? Discover Bellalense's premium contact collection designed for optimal eye health and comfort.

After a long, exhausting day, the last thing you want to do is fumble around removing your contact lenses before bed. But can you sleep with contacts in without consequences? The short answer is no—and the reasons why might surprise you. Understanding the risks and proper care practices can mean the difference between healthy vision and serious eye complications.

Sleeping with contacts is more common than you might think. Approximately one-third of the 45 million contact lens wearers in the United States admit to sleeping with their contacts in at least occasionally. However, this seemingly harmless habit significantly increases your risk of developing serious eye infections and other complications that could permanently affect your vision.

Understanding Why Sleeping with Contacts Is Dangerous

Your corneas require a constant supply of oxygen to stay healthy. Unlike other parts of your body, the cornea has no blood vessels—it gets its oxygen directly from the air. When you're awake, your corneas receive oxygen through the tear film that coats your eyes, which is refreshed every time you blink.

Contact lenses naturally reduce oxygen flow to your corneas, even during normal wear. When you add sleep to the equation, the situation becomes significantly more problematic:

• Your closed eyelids further restrict oxygen availability
• Contact lenses create an additional barrier to oxygen flow
• Without blinking, there's no tear film renewal or lens movement
• The combination creates an oxygen-starved environment

This oxygen deprivation, called corneal hypoxia, makes your eyes vulnerable to infection and damage. Even a short nap can you nap with contacts poses similar risks because the fundamental problem—reduced oxygen flow—occurs whenever your eyes are closed with lenses in place.

The Infection Risk Factor

When you sleep with contact lenses, you create an ideal environment for harmful bacteria and microorganisms to thrive. Here's what happens:

Bacterial Growth: Without the natural cleaning action of blinking and tear renewal, bacteria can multiply rapidly on and around your contact lenses. The warm, moist environment under closed eyelids provides perfect conditions for bacterial growth.

Compromised Defense: Oxygen-deprived corneal cells lose their ability to fight off infections effectively. Your eye's natural defense mechanisms become weakened, making it easier for bacteria to cause damage.

Trapped Contaminants: Throughout the day, your contacts collect dust, debris, and microorganisms. Sleeping with contact lenses traps these contaminants against your eyes for hours, increasing the likelihood of problems.

Risk Factor	Normal Wear	Sleeping with Contacts
Infection Risk	Baseline	6-8x higher
Oxygen Flow	Reduced	Severely restricted
Natural Cleaning	Active (blinking)	Inactive
Bacterial Growth	Controlled	Accelerated

Serious Health Risks of Sleeping with Contacts

Microbial Keratitis

The most serious risk of sleeping with contact lenses is microbial keratitis—an infection of the cornea that can lead to permanent vision loss. This condition affects approximately 18-20 out of every 10,000 people who sleep in contacts, with nearly one million Americans visiting emergency rooms each year for keratitis infections.

Symptoms of microbial keratitis include:

• Severe eye pain and discomfort
• Intense sensitivity to light
• Excessive tearing or discharge
• Blurred or decreased vision
• Red, inflamed eyes
• Feeling like something is stuck in your eye

Corneal Ulcers

Another serious complication is the development of corneal ulcers—open sores on the cornea that can cause permanent scarring and vision loss. These painful conditions often require immediate medical treatment and can result in the need for corneal transplants in severe cases.

Other Complications

Are contacts bad for your eyes when worn during sleep? Additional risks include:

• Corneal abrasions from dried, stuck lenses rubbing against the eye surface
• Giant papillary conjunctivitis causing bumps to form under the eyelids
• Corneal neovascularization where new blood vessels grow into the cornea
• Contact lens-induced dry eye from reduced tear film quality

What About Extended-Wear Contact Lenses?

FDA-Approved Options

Some contact lenses are FDA-approved for overnight wear, designed with materials that allow more oxygen to pass through to the cornea. These extended wear contact lenses include:

• Silicone hydrogel lenses with higher oxygen permeability
• Continuous wear contact lenses approved for up to 30 days
• Night contact lenses specifically designed for overnight use

However, even with these advanced materials, eye care professionals often recommend removing them whenever possible. The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that sleeping in any contact lens still carries increased risks compared to daily removal.

How Long Can You Wear Contact Lenses?

The answer depends on several factors:

Daily disposables: Designed for single use—remove and discard after one day Weekly/monthly lenses: Can be worn during waking hours and properly cleaned/stored overnight Extended-wear lenses: May be worn continuously for prescribed periods (typically 7-30 days) but require regular monitoring

Your eye care professional will determine the best wearing schedule based on your individual eye health, lifestyle, and the specific lens type.

What to Do If You Accidentally Sleep with Contacts

Despite your best intentions, accidents happen. If you wake up with contacts still in your eyes, follow these steps:

Immediate Assessment

Check your comfort level: Are your eyes feeling normal, or do you notice pain, excessive dryness, or irritation? Your contacts may feel sticky or difficult to remove after being in overnight.

Don't panic: Can I nap with contacts in accidentally? While not ideal, occasional incidents are manageable with proper care. The key is addressing the situation promptly and appropriately.

Safe Removal Process

Use lubricating drops: If your contacts feel stuck or dry, use preservative-free saline solution or rewetting drops approved for contact lens use. Never use tap water or saliva.

Blink and wait: Allow the drops to work for a few minutes. Gentle blinking can help redistribute moisture and loosen the contacts.

Remove carefully: Once the lenses feel mobile, remove them gently. Don't force them out if they still feel stuck—use more lubricating drops and wait.

Post-Removal Care

Give your eyes a break: Wear glasses instead of contacts for at least 24 hours to allow your eyes to recover and return to their normal state.

Monitor for symptoms: Watch for signs of infection or complications over the next few days:

• Increasing pain or discomfort
• Worsening redness or discharge
• Blurred or changing vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Feeling of foreign body in the eye

When to seek help: Contact your eye care provider immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms. Bring your contact lenses in their case—your doctor may want to test them for bacteria or other microorganisms.

Healthy Contact Lens Habits for Better Sleep

Creating a Bedtime Routine

Making contact lens removal part of your regular bedtime routine helps prevent accidental overnight wear:

Set a specific time: Remove your contacts at the same time each evening, well before you're likely to fall asleep unexpectedly.

Keep supplies accessible: Always have contact lens solution, a clean case, and backup glasses easily available.

Use reminders: Set phone alarms or use habit-tracking apps to remind yourself until the routine becomes automatic.

Proper Contact Lens Hygiene

Are contact lenses safe when used correctly? Absolutely, but proper care is essential:

• Clean hands thoroughly before handling lenses
• Use fresh solution each time—never top off old solution
• Replace your case every three months
• Follow replacement schedules for your specific lens type
• Avoid water contact with lenses (no swimming, showering, or cleaning with tap water)

For premium contact lenses designed with your comfort and safety in mind, explore Bellalense's carefully curated selection of daily and extended-wear options.

Travel Considerations

When traveling, it's especially important to maintain good contact lens habits:

• Pack backup glasses in case you need to give your eyes a break
• Bring travel-sized solutions rather than transferring products to other containers
• Set timezone-appropriate removal times to maintain your routine
• Consider daily disposables for convenience during travel

Special Situations and Considerations

Can Anyone Wear Contact Lenses?

Most people can successfully wear contact lenses, but certain conditions may affect your candidacy or require special considerations:

Age factors: Both very young children and older adults may face additional challenges with lens handling and care.

Eye conditions: Dry eyes, frequent infections, or certain corneal conditions may limit contact lens options.

Lifestyle factors: Work environment, sports participation, and daily habits all influence the best lens choice for you.

Professional Monitoring

Regular eye exams are crucial for contact lens wearers. Your eye care provider will:

• Assess your eye health and lens fit
• Monitor for complications before they become serious
• Update prescriptions as your vision changes
• Recommend appropriate lens types for your lifestyle and eye health

Understanding Contact Lens Lifespan

How Long Do Contacts Last?

The lifespan of contact lenses varies significantly by type:

Daily disposables: Single use only—the safest option for reducing infection risk Weekly lenses: Can be worn for up to one week with proper daily cleaning and storage Monthly lenses: Last up to one month with diligent care and cleaning Extended-wear lenses: May be worn continuously for prescribed periods but require professional monitoring

Signs It's Time to Replace Your Lenses

Replace your contacts immediately if you notice:

• Tears, chips, or other visible damage
• Protein deposits or cloudiness that won't clean off
• Increased discomfort or irritation during wear
• Changes in vision quality while wearing the lenses

Emergency Situations

Contact Lens Stuck in Eye

If you have a contact lens stuck in eye, don't panic:

Stay calm: The contact cannot get "lost" behind your eye—it's anatomically impossible.

Use lubrication: Apply preservative-free saline solution or rewetting drops to help loosen the lens.

Gentle massage: Lightly massage your closed eyelid to help move the lens back to the center of your eye.

Seek professional help: If you cannot remove the lens after several attempts, contact your eye care provider or visit an urgent care center.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Contact an eye care professional immediately if you experience:

• Sudden, severe eye pain
• Significant vision changes or loss
• Signs of serious infection (heavy discharge, extreme redness)
• Injury to the eye while wearing contacts
• Sleeping with eyes open combined with contact lens wear (a rare but serious situation)

The Bottom Line on Contact Lens Safety

Sleeping with contacts poses serious risks that far outweigh any convenience. The potential for vision-threatening complications makes it essential to establish and maintain healthy contact lens habits.

The good news is that when used properly, contact lenses are incredibly safe and can provide excellent vision correction. The key is following proper care guidelines, maintaining good hygiene, and working with your eye care provider to find the right lenses for your needs.

Making the Right Choice

Consider these factors when choosing contact lenses:

• Your lifestyle and schedule - busy lifestyles might benefit from daily disposables
• Eye health history - previous infections or dry eyes may influence lens choice
• Comfort preferences - some materials feel more comfortable for extended wear
• Cost considerations - balance upfront costs with long-term eye health

Ready to find the perfect contact lenses for your lifestyle? Explore Bellalense's premium contact lens collection featuring the latest in comfort and safety technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you sleep with contacts in for just one night?

Even one night of sleeping with contacts significantly increases your risk of infection and complications. The CDC reports that sleeping in contacts increases infection risk by 6-8 times, regardless of how briefly you wear them overnight.

Are daily contacts safer for accidental overnight wear?

Daily disposable contacts are designed for single use and are not safer for sleeping. In fact, they may be more likely to dry out and become difficult to remove if left in overnight.

What's the difference between extended-wear and regular contacts?

Extended-wear contacts are made from materials with higher oxygen permeability and are FDA-approved for overnight wear. However, they still carry increased risks compared to daily removal and should only be used under professional guidance.

How can I prevent accidentally sleeping in my contacts?

Create a consistent bedtime routine that includes contact removal, set phone reminders, keep backup glasses accessible, and consider daily disposable lenses if you frequently forget to remove your contacts.

Is it worse to sleep in contacts or wear them too long during the day?

Both situations increase infection risk, but sleeping with contacts is particularly dangerous because closed eyelids severely restrict oxygen flow and prevent the natural cleaning action of blinking.

Can I take a short nap with contacts in?

Even short naps with contacts pose risks. The fundamental problems—reduced oxygen flow and lack of tear film renewal—occur whenever your eyes are closed with lenses in place.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Your Eye Health

Understanding can you sleep with contacts in is crucial for maintaining healthy vision throughout your life. While the temptation to skip contact lens removal after a long day is understandable, the potential consequences—from uncomfortable irritation to vision-threatening infections—make proper care essential.

The simple act of removing your contacts before sleep, combined with good hygiene habits and regular eye care, ensures you can continue enjoying the freedom and convenience of contact lens wear safely. Remember, your eyes are irreplaceable, and taking a few extra minutes each evening to care for them properly is a small investment in your long-term vision health.

By choosing quality contact lenses, following proper care guidelines, and maintaining regular check-ups with your eye care provider, you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision while keeping your eyes healthy for years to come.

Take the next step in your contact lens journey. Visit Bellalense to discover premium contact lenses designed with your safety, comfort, and eye health as the top priorities.

Referrences

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024). Contact Lens Health and Safety. https://www.cdc.gov/contactlenses/
• American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). (2024). Contact Lens Safety and Care Guidelines. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/contact-lens-care
• American Optometric Association. (2024). Contact Lens Care and Safety. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/contact-lenses
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2024). Contact Lens Safety and FDA Regulations. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/contact-lenses/contact-lens-care-systems
• Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Can You Sleep With Contacts In? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/can-you-sleep-with-contacts-in
• Sleep Foundation. (2025). Sleeping with Contacts In: Health Risks. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/physical-health/sleeping-with-contacts-in
• National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). (2024). Microbial Keratitis Risk Factors and Contact Lens Wear. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7393300/
• GoodRx Health. (2023). Contact Lens Safety and Overnight Wear Risks. https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/eye/can-you-sleep-with-contacts-in
• Warby Parker Eye Care. (2022). Contact Lens Safety Guidelines. https://www.warbyparker.com/learn/sleeping-with-contacts
• The EyeDoctors Optometrists. (2023). Contact Lens Care and Safety. https://www.theeyedoctors.net/eye-care-resources/can-you-sleep-with-contacts
• Kraff Eye Institute. (2024). Contact Lens Complications and Prevention. https://kraffeye.com/blog/can-you-sleep-with-contacts-in

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with qualified eye care providers for personalized medical guidance, especially if you have existing eye conditions or experience any symptoms of infection or complications.