The Do's and Don'ts of Sleeping in Contact Lenses: Essential Safety Tips

We've all been there – a long day, a nap on the couch, or a late night that ends with you falling asleep without removing your contact lenses. It's a common mistake, but one that can have serious consequences for your eye health. In this guide, we'll explore the do's and don'ts of sleeping in contact lenses, why it's risky, and how to protect your eyes.

Whether you wear daily disposables or monthly lenses, understanding the risks and best practices is crucial. We'll also share some tips for maintaining healthy eyes, even if you occasionally forget to take your lenses out.

Why Sleeping in Contact Lenses Is Dangerous

Sleeping in contact lenses, even for a short nap, significantly increases the risk of eye infections and other complications. When you sleep, your eyes produce fewer tears, which means less oxygen and moisture reach your cornea. This can lead to dry eyes, corneal abrasions, and in severe cases, corneal ulcers that may cause permanent vision loss.

The longer you sleep in your lenses, the higher the risk. Bacteria and other microorganisms can thrive on the lens surface, especially if the lens isn't cleaned properly. Even if you've done it before without problems, the risk is always there. Eye care professionals universally advise against sleeping in any type of contact lens unless specifically designed for extended wear.

• Reduced oxygen supply to the cornea can lead to swelling and blurred vision.
• Increased risk of microbial keratitis, a serious infection that can cause blindness.
• Discomfort, redness, and sensitivity to light upon waking.

The Do's: Safe Contact Lens Habits

To keep your eyes healthy, always remove your contact lenses before sleeping. If you wear daily disposables, simply throw them away and put in a fresh pair the next morning. For monthly or yearly lenses, clean and disinfect them properly with the recommended solution before storing them in a clean case.

Always wash your hands before handling your lenses. Use a fresh contact lens solution, never water or saliva, to clean and store your lenses. Replace your lens case regularly, at least every three months, and never top off old solution. These habits reduce the risk of contamination and infection.

• Remove lenses before any sleep, including naps.
• Always use fresh contact lens solution for cleaning and storage.
• Replace your lens case every 3 months to avoid bacterial buildup.

The Don'ts: What to Avoid

Never sleep in your contact lenses, even if they are labeled as 'extended wear' unless your eye care professional has specifically recommended them for overnight use. Extended wear lenses still carry risks, and not everyone can tolerate them. It's always safer to remove them before bed.

Don't use tap water or homemade saline to rinse your lenses. These can introduce harmful microorganisms. Also, avoid wearing your lenses while swimming or showering, as water can cause the lenses to absorb bacteria and increase infection risk. If you accidentally fall asleep with your lenses in, don't panic – but do remove them as soon as you wake up and give your eyes a break.

• Avoid wearing lenses while swimming or showering.
• Don't use water or saliva to wet or clean your lenses.
• If you wake up with lenses in, remove them immediately and let your eyes rest.

How to Care for Your Eyes After Accidental Sleep

If you accidentally sleep in your contact lenses, the first thing to do is wash your hands and remove them gently. If your eyes feel dry, use lubricating eye drops to rehydrate them. Do not immediately reinsert the same lenses; give your eyes a break for a few hours, preferably wearing glasses.

Monitor your eyes for any signs of redness, pain, or blurred vision. If these symptoms persist, contact your eye care professional. It's better to be safe than sorry. Remember, your eyes are irreplaceable, and a moment of laziness can lead to long-term damage.

• Use rewetting drops to soothe dry eyes after accidental lens wear.
• Switch to glasses for at least a day to let your eyes recover.
• Seek medical advice if you experience persistent discomfort.

Choosing the Right Lenses for Your Lifestyle

If you often find yourself falling asleep in your lenses, consider switching to daily disposable lenses. They are more convenient and reduce the risk of infection because you use a fresh pair each day. Many brands offer high-quality daily lenses that are comfortable and breathable.

At Premium Coloured Contact, we offer a variety of contact lenses to suit different needs. For example, the GLAM contact lenses provide a stylish look while maintaining comfort. If you're looking for a natural enhancement, the Colourvue Glamour Contact Lenses are a great choice. Always consult with your eye care professional to determine the best lens type for your eyes and lifestyle.

• Daily disposables are the safest option for those prone to sleeping in lenses.
• Consult your eye care professional for personalized recommendations.
• Consider lens materials with high oxygen permeability for better eye health.

Your eyes are precious, and the habit of sleeping in contact lenses is not worth the risk. By following these do's and don'ts, you can enjoy comfortable, safe contact lens wear. Remember to always remove your lenses before bed, and if you're looking for high-quality lenses that prioritize eye health, explore our collection at Premium Coloured Contact. Your eyes will thank you!