Can Contacts Be Stored In Water? | A Clear View

It is a common thought, especially when caught without proper contact lens solution, to consider using water as a temporary substitute. Understanding the fundamental differences between water and specialized lens solutions is vital for maintaining eye health and avoiding serious complications.

The Simple Answer: A Resounding No

Using water, whether tap, distilled, bottled, or even saliva, for storing contact lenses is not a safe practice. Water is not sterile and lacks the specific properties required to disinfect, clean, and hydrate contact lenses properly. Contact lenses are medical devices that require specific care to remain safe for wear.

The primary function of contact lens solution extends beyond simple hydration; it actively cleanses the lens surface, removes debris, and neutralizes harmful microorganisms. Water cannot perform these critical functions and, in fact, introduces new risks.

The Microscopic Dangers in Tap Water

Tap water, despite appearing clean, contains numerous microorganisms that are harmless when ingested but can be devastating to the eye. These include bacteria, fungi, and particularly dangerous amoebae. When contact lenses are exposed to water, these microbes can adhere to the lens surface and then transfer directly to the eye.

Acanthamoeba Keratitis

One of the most severe risks associated with storing or rinsing contact lenses with water is an infection caused by Acanthamoeba, a microscopic organism commonly found in water sources. This amoeba can adhere to contact lenses and, once introduced to the eye, can cause a rare but extremely painful and sight-threatening infection known as Acanthamoeba keratitis.

Symptoms of Acanthamoeba keratitis include severe eye pain, redness, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and the sensation of something being in the eye. This infection is difficult to treat and can lead to permanent vision loss or require a corneal transplant in severe cases. Prevention through strict adherence to proper lens care is the best defense against this devastating condition. The CDC provides extensive information on preventing contact lens-related infections.

Other Pathogens and Biofilms

Beyond Acanthamoeba, tap water can harbor various bacteria and fungi that pose a threat to eye health. These microorganisms can rapidly multiply on the lens surface and within the lens case when stored in water. They can form biofilms, which are protective communities of microbes that are highly resistant to antibiotics and the body’s immune system.

Biofilms make infections harder to treat and can cause persistent inflammation and damage to the cornea. Common bacterial infections, such as those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, can lead to corneal ulcers, which are open sores on the eye’s surface that can cause significant pain and vision impairment.

Why Contact Lens Solution is Different

Contact lens solutions are meticulously formulated to be sterile and biocompatible with the eye. They contain specific ingredients that serve multiple purposes: disinfection, cleaning, rinsing, and hydration. These ingredients work synergistically to maintain lens integrity and ensure eye safety.

Disinfecting agents in solutions kill or inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and amoebae. Cleaning agents help remove protein deposits, lipids, and other debris that accumulate on the lens surface during wear. Hydrating agents keep the lenses moist and comfortable, preventing dryness and irritation when worn.

The osmotic balance of contact lens solutions is also carefully controlled to match the natural tears of the eye. This prevents the lens from absorbing or losing too much water, which could alter its shape, affect vision, or cause discomfort. Water, with its variable mineral content and lack of disinfecting agents, cannot replicate these essential functions.

Water vs. Contact Lens Solution: A Comparison

Feature	Water (Tap, Distilled, Bottled)	Approved Contact Lens Solution
Sterility	Not sterile; contains microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, amoebae).	Sterile; designed to be free of harmful pathogens.
Disinfection	No disinfecting properties; can introduce pathogens.	Contains active ingredients to kill or inhibit microorganisms.
Cleaning	Cannot effectively remove protein deposits or debris.	Formulated to lift and rinse away deposits and debris.
Hydration/Lubrication	Can cause lenses to swell or shrink, affecting fit and comfort.	Maintains lens hydration and comfort, matching eye’s natural pH.
Biocompatibility	Not designed for ocular contact; can cause irritation.	Tested and approved for safe contact with eye tissues.

The Immediate Risks of Water Exposure

Beyond the long-term risk of severe infection, exposing contact lenses to water can cause immediate problems. Water can alter the physical properties of soft contact lenses. These lenses are designed to maintain a specific water content and shape to fit correctly on the cornea.

When soft lenses are immersed in water, they can absorb water and swell, changing their curvature and potentially leading to a poor fit. A poorly fitting lens can cause discomfort, blurred vision, and increase friction against the cornea, leading to abrasions or irritation. Water can also wash away the conditioning agents that keep lenses smooth and comfortable, making them feel dry and gritty.

This immediate irritation can tempt individuals to rub their eyes, further increasing the risk of introducing pathogens or causing physical damage to the corneal surface. Even a single instance of water exposure can compromise the lens and the eye’s delicate surface.

Best Practices for Contact Lens Care

Adhering to a strict contact lens care routine is fundamental for preventing complications and preserving eye health. This involves more than just using the correct solution; it encompasses proper hygiene for your hands and lens case as well.

Always Use Approved Solutions

Always use the specific type of contact lens solution recommended by your eye care professional. There are different types, such as multi-purpose solutions and hydrogen peroxide systems, each with unique instructions. Multi-purpose solutions clean, rinse, disinfect, and store lenses. Hydrogen peroxide systems require a neutralization step and are often recommended for individuals with sensitivities or heavy deposits.

Never mix different brands or types of solutions. Always check the expiration date of your solution and discard it once expired. Using fresh solution each time you store your lenses is critical; never “top off” old solution in the case, as this dilutes its disinfecting power and allows microbes to grow.

The FDA offers guidance on safe contact lens use and care practices.

Proper Case Hygiene

The contact lens case itself can become a source of infection if not cared for properly. After placing your lenses in your eyes, empty the old solution from the case. Rinse the empty case with fresh, sterile contact lens solution, not water. Then, leave the case open and upside down on a clean tissue to air dry completely. This prevents moisture from accumulating, which could encourage microbial growth.

Replace your contact lens case regularly, typically every three months, or sooner if it becomes damaged or dirty. A new case ensures a clean environment for your lenses and reduces the risk of biofilm formation. Never use a cracked or damaged case, as it can harbor bacteria.

Essential Contact Lens Care: Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s	Don’ts
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, then dry with a lint-free towel before handling lenses.	Never use water (tap, distilled, bottled, saliva) to rinse or store contact lenses.
Use only fresh, sterile contact lens solution for cleaning, rinsing, and storing lenses.	Do not “top off” old solution in your lens case; always use fresh solution.
Rub and rinse lenses according to solution instructions, even with “no-rub” solutions.	Avoid showering, swimming, or using hot tubs while wearing contact lenses.
Empty, rinse with solution, and air-dry your lens case daily; replace every 3 months.	Do not sleep in contact lenses unless specifically approved by your eye care professional.
Follow your eye care professional’s prescribed wearing schedule and replacement frequency.	Never share contact lenses with others.

When You’re Caught Without Solution

Finding yourself without contact lens solution is an emergency situation, and using water is not a safe alternative. If you are away from home and realize you do not have solution, the safest action is to remove your contact lenses and discard them, especially if they are daily disposables. If you wear reusable lenses and cannot access solution, you should still remove them.

If you absolutely cannot discard your lenses and must store them temporarily, seek out a pharmacy or store that sells travel-sized contact lens solution immediately. Until then, keep your eyes clear of the lenses. It is always better to go without lenses for a short period than to risk a severe eye infection by using an improper storage method. Always carry a small travel kit with solution and a case for unexpected situations.

Recognizing Signs of Eye Infection

Despite best efforts, eye infections can sometimes occur. Recognizing the signs early is important for prompt treatment and preventing serious complications. If you experience any of the following symptoms, remove your contact lenses immediately and consult your eye care professional without delay:

• Persistent eye redness or irritation
• Unusual pain or discomfort in the eye
• Blurred vision that does not improve with blinking
• Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Excessive tearing or unusual discharge from the eye
• A feeling that something is in your eye
• Swelling of the eyelids

These symptoms can indicate a range of issues, from mild irritation to a severe infection. Early intervention by an eye care professional is critical for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Delaying care can lead to more serious and potentially irreversible damage to your vision.