Nearly 9 in 10 contact lens wearers admit to sleeping in their lenses despite risks, new study reveals

Almost 90% of contact lens wearers have slept in their lenses, according to a 2026 study by Oculase. The research, which surveyed 300 UK users, warns that this common habit—along with showering or swimming in lenses—significantly increases the risk of sight-threatening infections like microbial keratitis.

The Oculase Contact Lens Study 2026 found that 88% of respondents admitted to sleeping in their lenses. While more than 70% did so occasionally, 16% of wearers reported doing it regularly.

Tariq Ayoub, founder of Oculase – The Eye Clinic, stated that sleeping in lenses reduces oxygen to the cornea. This process leaves the eye’s surface stressed, slightly swollen, and more fragile. Ayoub noted that without blinking, tears cannot refresh, which traps microbes and debris against the eye.

Why is sleeping in contact lenses dangerous?

The combination of oxygen deprivation and trapped microbes makes infections more likely, according to Tariq Ayoub. He specifically identified microbial keratitis as a potential, sight-threatening result of this behavior.

The survey indicated that these risks are often ignored because wearers don’t always feel immediate symptoms. However, Ayoub warned that repeated overnight wear increases infection risk over time.

Did You Know? More than 80% of survey respondents had never heard of acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but sight-threatening infection linked to contact lens use.

What other habits increase infection risks?

Risky behaviors extend beyond sleep, the study found. Roughly 79% of respondents wear their lenses in the shower, and 61% wear them while swimming or using hot tubs. Additionally, 53% admit to rinsing their lenses or cases with tap water.

Sadiq Zaman, an optometrist in East London, said these behaviors have become “normalised.” Zaman noted that many patients express genuine surprise when learning that showering or sleeping in lenses increases their risk of infection.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter suggests the data reveals a dangerous gap between clinical guidance and daily user habits. When sight-threatening risks are normalized, the stakes shift from simple discomfort to potential permanent vision loss, making patient education the primary line of defense.

How common are contact lens complications?

Discomfort is already widespread among users. Over half of the 300 people surveyed reported redness, irritation, or dry eyes. According to the study, 67% of respondents have stopped wearing lenses entirely due to an eye problem or discomfort.

What are the risks of Implantable Contact Lens surgery?

One London wearer, identified as Andy, reported waking up with a red, painful eye after falling asleep in his lenses. An ophthalmologist later confirmed he had a contact lens infection.

What may happen next for lens wearers?

Better awareness of safer behaviors could lead to a decrease in preventable infections. Tariq Ayoub suggested that avoiding water exposure, cleaning lenses properly, and replacing them as advised are essential steps to mitigate risk.

Patients who develop photosensitivity or red eyes may be more likely to seek immediate medical attention if they recognize these as warning signs, according to Ayoub.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to the eye when someone sleeps in contact lenses?
According to Tariq Ayoub, it reduces oxygen to the cornea, causing the surface to become stressed, slightly swollen, and more fragile while trapping microbes against the eye.

Which water-related habits are considered risky for lens wearers?
The Oculase study identifies wearing lenses in the shower, swimming, using hot tubs, and rinsing lenses or cases with tap water as high-risk behaviors.

What symptoms should contact lens wearers watch for?
Tariq Ayoub advises seeing an eye doctor immediately if a wearer develops red eyes or photosensitivity.

Do you follow all the clinical guidelines for your contact lens care?