Can You Swim with Contact Lenses? Safety Myths Explained
By The Best COLOR CONTACT Lenses | 800+ | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: Tips & Care
We debunk common myths about swimming with contact lenses and explain why water exposure is risky. Learn how to keep your eyes safe.
Quick answer
No, you should not swim while wearing contact lenses. Water exposes lenses to bacteria and microorganisms that can cause serious eye infections, even if you keep your eyes closed most of the time.
Why water and contacts don't mix
Tap water, pool water, lakes, and oceans all contain microbes like Acanthamoeba that can stick to contact lenses. Once trapped against your eye, these organisms can lead to painful corneal infections that are difficult to treat. Even a quick splash increases risk because lenses are porous and absorb water along with whatever is in it.
The common belief that closing your eyes underwater is enough protection is false. Water pressure can still force a small amount of water past your eyelids, and lenses can shift or trap moisture against the cornea. The only way to eliminate this risk is to remove lenses before swimming.
What about daily disposables?
Some people assume that wearing daily disposable contacts and throwing them away immediately after swimming makes it safe. While daily disposables reduce the risk compared to reusable lenses, they do not eliminate it. The infection risk during water exposure remains because the microbe contact happens while the lens is in your eye, not from reusing the lens later.
Myths vs. Facts: Swimming with Contacts
- Myth: It's safe if you wear goggles: Goggles are not a perfect seal. Water can still leak in, especially during diving or splashing. Even a few drops can introduce harmful microbes to your lenses.
- Myth: Daily disposables are fine for swimming: Daily disposables do not protect against waterborne pathogens. The infection risk comes from the water itself, not from reusing the lens. Remove contacts before any water activity. If you need vision correction while swimming, prescription swim goggles are the only safe option.
- Myth: Closing your eyes keeps contacts safe: Water pressure can push a small amount of water past closed eyelids. Lenses can also shift or trap moisture, increasing infection risk even if you keep your eyes shut. Always remove contact lenses before entering any body of water — pool, lake, ocean, or shower.
Product facts
- EyeCandys Shade Grey: EyeCandys Shade Grey is a high-coverage grey colored contact lens designed for dark eyes that want a noticeable yet natural-looking transformation. If you plan to wear colored contacts for a pool party or beach day, remember that even high-quality lenses like EyeCandys Shade Grey should be removed before entering the water to prevent infection.
EyeCandys Shade Grey
