Can you swim with contact lenses in?

Published: April 24, 2025
Last reviewed by: Leightons Clinical Team
Last reviewed: February 02, 2026

If you’re an avid swimmer who also happens to wear glasses, you might be wondering whether you can go swimming with contact lenses in? It might seem like a simple switch but there are considerations to factor into whether you should wear contacts while swimming.

Can you wear contact lenses when swimming?

It’s not advised that you wear contact lenses when swimming. This is because of the presence of chemicals used to treat the water, bacteria, and other irritants. The porous material that contacts are made of can easily absorb chemicals and bacteria from the pool as well, which isn’t good for your eyes. They can also contract and tighten, causing discomfort. Not only that, but when exposed to the water, your contacts are likely to detach from your eye and float away, meaning it was pointless putting them in, in the first place.

Can you swim in the sea with contact lenses?

No. Because of the salt and sand in sea water, as well as pollutants depending on where you swim, it’s not a good idea to wear contact lenses in the sea. Getting sand trapped in your contact lenses can lead to scratched corneas which can be very painful and potentially cause vision issues.

Can you swim in contact lenses with goggles?

If you can’t avoid swimming while wearing your contact lenses, there are some ways to do so more safely.

You can wear goggles with contact lenses when you’re swimming. Make sure you choose a high-quality, water tight pair of goggles and don’t wear them too tight so that they cause too much suction on your eyes. Wear disposable daily lenses to minimise the risk of bacteria sticking to them and, once you’re done swimming, replace them with a fresh pair as soon as you can.

A good alternative to wearing contact lenses in the pool is to get a pair of prescription goggles. They let you see clearly in the water without the risk of contamination or your lenses floating away.

What are the risks of swimming with contacts in?

Swimming with contacts in natural bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, and the sea are more risky than in chlorinated pools. However, even in treated water, there is the risk of bacteria and infections being absorbed by the lens and transferring to your eye.

Swimming with your contact lenses can increase the risk of several issues, including:

  • Corneal ulcers
  • Corneal abrasions or scratches
  • Inflammation from the lens sticking to your eye
  • Eye infections like conjunctivitis
  • Dry eye syndrome and dry eyes, particularly from saltwater or chlorinated water

Woman suffering from eye inflammation, with red eyes and visible discomfort.

Takeaway

Although it might seem like a good option, and you can’t wear your glasses in the water, swimming with contact lenses in is not advised. This is due to the risk of bacteria, pathogens, and debris from getting into your eyes and causing problems. Additionally, your lenses could warp, fall out, or shrink and cause discomfort. If you have any concerns about your eye health or contact lenses, or you want to explore a different type of contact lens, contact your local Leightons Branch and book your free eye appointment.

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