Routine lens care and immediate first aid are different
Tap water is safe for many everyday uses, but it is not sterile. Do not rinse, clean or store contact lenses or their cases in tap water. Water can expose a lens to microorganisms and can change the shape of a soft lens, increasing the risk of irritation or infection.
A chemical splash is different. Begin rinsing the affected eye immediately with plenty of room-temperature running water. Remove contact lenses and continue rinsing for 15 to 20 minutes, then contact Poison Control for guidance. Do not delay rinsing while looking for saline.
Why water and contact lenses do not mix
Tap, pool, lake and hot-tub water can contain microorganisms. Water can also cause a soft lens to swell or stick to the eye, making irritation and infection more likely.
Use approved lens-care products
Clean, disinfect and store reusable lenses only with products and routines recommended for those lenses. Saline can rinse lenses when directed, but it does not disinfect them.
If a chemical enters the eye
Start flushing immediately with plenty of room-temperature running water. Remove contact lenses, keep rinsing for 15 to 20 minutes and then contact Poison Control for case-specific guidance.
When symptoms need evaluation
Persistent pain, redness, light sensitivity, discharge or blurred vision after water exposure or contact lens wear can signal a problem that needs prompt medical assessment.
At a glance
- Never rinse or store contact lenses in tap water
- Remove contact lenses before swimming, showering or using a hot tub
- Use the lens-care system recommended for your specific lenses
- For a chemical splash, rinse immediately with running water for 15 to 20 minutes
- After a chemical exposure, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance
- Seek prompt medical evaluation for persistent pain, redness, light sensitivity or blurred vision
Good questions deserve clear answers.
Can I rinse contact lenses with tap water?
No. Do not rinse, clean or store contact lenses or their case in tap water. Use the care products and routine recommended for your specific lenses.
Should I use tap water if a chemical splashes into my eye?
Yes. Begin rinsing immediately with plenty of room-temperature running water, remove contact lenses and continue for 15 to 20 minutes. Then contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.
What if water touched my contact lenses?
Remove the lenses as soon as possible. Follow the replacement or cleaning and disinfection instructions for your lens type, and seek care for pain, redness, light sensitivity or blurred vision.