Can you take naps in contacts?

Napping in contacts can be bad for your eyes, unless your eye care professional has given you the green light to do so. That's because even a short snooze while wearing contacts can limit oxygen and moisture. Your eyes can get dry and irritated, increasing the risk of infections and corneal problems.

But we get it. Sometimes that nap sneaks up on you. If the couch wins, and you wake up with your contacts in, don't panic. We'll explain what to do next, whether contact lens type makes a difference, and when to call your eye care professional.

Why even a short nap in contacts can be risky

Taking a nap while wearing contacts can be hard on your eyes because the lenses act as a barrier, limiting oxygen flow. As well, when your eyes are closed, there's less tear movement. These factors create a drier-than-usual environment that can lead to discomfort and blurry vision. In some cases (because, full disclosure), bacteria can get trapped on the lenses, increasing infection risk.

Nodding off for 20 minutes might seem harmless, but your eyes need to breathe. They won't love your contacts acting like a bouncer, blocking the door when there's no party happening. 

What can happen if you nap in contacts?

When you wake up with your contacts in, your eyes may be red and scratchy, and the world may seem fuzzier than usual. Sleeping in contacts can also increase the risk of eye infections or corneal problems. 

Your eyes might show their displeasure through symptoms such as: 

• Scratchiness or a gritty feeling

• Redness

• Blurry vision

• Contact lenses that feel stuck

In most cases, all you need to do is take out your contacts and let your eyes recover to feel better. That said, sleeping in contacts can sometimes lead to more serious problems (again, full disclosure) such as:

• Inflammation of the cornea (keratitis)

• Corneal ulcers or sores

• Eye infections

• Vision issues

The bottom line: napping without removing your contacts doesn't mean you're doomed, but do pay attention to how your eyes feel afterward and take symptoms seriously.

What to do if you accidentally napped in contacts

The first thing to do if you napped with your contacts in is to gently take out the lenses. They may be less cooperative than usual because they're dry, but don't turn it into a battle of wills or pry them out. (Translation: save the tough love for stubborn jar lids.)

 The next steps are easy-peasy:

1. Blink a few times to distribute your natural tears across the eye.

2. Use a drop or two of lubricating eye solution. Make sure the drops are contact lens-safe.

3. Once the lenses are rehydrated and move easily, follow the proper steps for taking out your contacts.

4. Inspect your contacts to ensure they're not damaged, and clean and store them as usual. Throw out daily lenses for a new pair. 

5. Let your eyes rest before putting contacts in again. 

Are any contacts safe to sleep or nap in?

While some contacts are designed for extended or overnight wear, not everyone can safely sleep in them. Sort of like bedazzled sneakers — only certain people can pull them off. 

It's best not to assume you can nap in your contacts. Your eye care professional will let you know if it's safe. They'll consider the type of lens, your prescription, and your eye health and tailor a wearing schedule just for you. Perfectly personalized, just like your coffee order. Your eyes are pretty precious, so always follow your eye care professional's advice. 

Daily contacts

Daily disposable lenses aren't designed for sleeping in and shouldn't be reused. Unlike extended wear lenses, they're meant to be worn once and tossed. And a power nap doesn't change things.

If you're settling in for a nap, take your daily lenses out first. Once they're out, thank them for their service. Replace them with a fresh pair instead of inviting them for an encore. 

Extended-wear contacts

Extended-wear contact lenses are designed to be worn for longer periods of time, with some approved for overnight wear. But not everyone gets a free pass to nap or sleep in extended-wear lenses. 

Every eye is unique, so follow your eye care professional's guidance before your power nap. They'll let you know what's appropriate for your vision and comfort. 

How to lower your risk with better contact lens habits

To help prevent issues such as irritation and infections (because who wants those!), remove your contacts before sleeping and properly clean, store, or replace them. Your eye care professional can recommend the right lens care routine for you, which typically includes:

• Washing your hands before handling your contacts.

• Inserting lenses using proper techniques. Our guide on how to put in contacts is a good refresher.

• Cleaning your contacts and storing them according to instructions from the lens manufacturer and your eye care professional.

• Keeping your lens case clean and using new solution each time you store lenses.

• Changing lenses according to the recommended schedule. Use a calendar to keep track if necessary. 

• Avoiding letting water come into contact with your lenses, as this may introduce germs. This includes not showering or swimming in contacts.

• Keeping your glasses and contact lens case nearby so you can nap freely when the urge strikes.

• Going lens-free once in a while to give your eyes a break. Your cornea loves a little me-time, too!

When to call an eye care professional

Don't wait to seek professional care if you're experiencing pain, vision difficulties, and other discomfort. It's normal for your eyes to be temporarily dry or irritated after sleeping in your contacts, but watch for persistent symptoms. 

If your eyes are sending an SOS, get in touch with your eye care professional. Look out for:

• Severe pain

• Red, itchy eyes that don't improve

• Watery eyes or discharge

• Light sensitivity

• Blurry or distorted vision

• Swelling

• Signs of infection

It’s always best to leave diagnosis and treatment to the professionals. The internet may be a starting point for information, but it doesn't come with a framed degree and really cool tools to check your eyes. If symptoms don't get better, find an eye care professional near you who can take a closer look. 

The safest move is to remove your contacts before napping

Your pillow's making a convincing argument for a slumber party, but your contacts don't have to join in. Removing your contacts before a nap takes only a moment, and it's a simple way to reduce the risk of complications. 

If you accidentally wake up with your contacts still in, give your eyes a chance to rehydrate and carefully remove your lenses. Always stick to your wearing schedule and chat with an eye care professional before sleeping in any type of contact lenses. 

And when you wake up refreshed, with healthy, comfortable eyes? Head over to the 1-800 Contacts online store to stock up on your prescribed lenses. You'll get fast, free shipping right to your door.

 

Did you know you can order contacts online? 

Say goodbye to trips to the eye doctor and hello to convenience! With 1-800 Contacts, you can easily order your contact lenses online and have them delivered straight to your door. Plus, our online vision exam makes it simple to get the prescription you need without leaving home. And the best part? You’ll save money on your first order with 1-800 Contacts. It’s never been easier to get your contacts!

Original publish date: 3/29/2024

Updated date: 8/3/2026