How Long Can You Wear Your Contact Lenses?

As with many things in life, balance is key, especially regarding how long you wear your contact lenses. You may wonder, “How long is too long?” or, “Am I pushing my eyes too far?”

There’s a simple answer: the right wear time for your contacts depends on the type of lenses you use, how your eyes react, and how well you follow recommended guidelines.

The best way to know for sure is by unraveling all the specifics about what makes up a healthy lens routine that’s gentle on both your eyes and the planet.

Understanding Different Contact Lenses and Their Wear Times

Not all contact lenses are created equal, and knowing the differences can help you choose a routine that suits your eyes best.

Here are some of the different lens types:

1. Daily Wear Lenses

Daily wear lenses are the most common type, and they’re designed for everyday use. Typically, these lenses are made to be worn for up to 12–16 hours, but you should always pay attention to how your eyes feel. 

If you experience dryness, irritation, or blurry vision, it’s time to take them out, even if you haven’t reached the 16-hour mark. 

Keep in mind that while these lenses can technically last for 12–16 hours, less can sometimes be more. A little bit of extra care can go a long way in preventing discomfort.

2. Extended Wear Lenses

If you’re someone who prefers the idea of not having to remove lenses at night, extended wear lenses might be right for you. 

Extended wear lenses are made from materials that allow your eyes to breathe, and some are FDA-approved for continuous wear, ranging from 7 to 30 nights, depending on the brand.

Even with the exceptional convenience, extended wear lenses aren’t foolproof. Sleeping in contacts—even the extended wear type—can increase your chances of developing infections and dryness, so following your eye care professional’s advice is essential. Consider removing them at least once or twice a week for a break.

3. Biweekly & Monthly Lenses

Biweekly and monthly lenses must be replaced on schedule to avoid the risk of protein buildup, reduced oxygen flow, and irritation. 

Biweekly lenses should be replaced after 14 days of use, and monthly lenses every 30 days. These types of lenses are designed for longer-term use but require regular cleaning to ensure they remain comfortable and safe. 

Like daily wear lenses, you should remove monthly lenses at the end of each day and allow your eyes to rest overnight.

The Key to Comfort: Listening to Your Eyes

Your eyes are as unique as you are, and they might tell you when it’s time to take a break from your lenses. One of the most important parts of eye care is, thankfully, simple: listen to your eyes.

While some people can comfortably wear their lenses for 14 hours a day, others may find their eyes feeling dry or irritated after just 8 hours of wear. There’s no one-size-fits-all rule, so the most important thing is to always put your eyes first.

Pro Tip: If your lenses start feeling uncomfortable before you reach the recommended wear time, switch to glasses or give your eyes a few hours to rest before putting your lenses back in. Sometimes it takes a little trial and error to find what works for you.

What Happens If You Wear Contacts for Too Long?

Overwearing your contacts can lead to more than just discomfort. When you stretch the lifespan of your lenses beyond the recommended wear time, you run the risk of developing some common, but avoidable, issues:

Dryness and Irritation: The longer your contacts are in, the less oxygen reaches your eyes. This can cause dryness, redness, and irritation.

Infections: Wearing contacts for too long can also increase your chances of developing eye infections. The longer lenses stay in, the more likely bacteria and debris can build, leading to infections like keratitis (a painful infection of the cornea).

Reduced Vision Quality: Over time, your lenses may become coated with proteins and lipids from your tears, leading to blurry or cloudy vision. This can be avoided by replacing your lenses on time and properly cleaning them (if applicable).

Don’t ignore discomfort. If you feel that your lenses are no longer comfortable, it’s best to take them out. It’s better to be proactive and prioritize your eye health.

How to Care for Your Lenses (and Your Eyes)

Caring for your contact lenses is a two-way street: your lenses need care, and your eyes need rest. Here are a few tips to keep your lenses and your vision in optimal shape:

Clean and Replace: Always follow the cleaning and replacement schedule for your lenses. This helps keep your eyes free from harmful bacteria and debris.

Give Your Eyes a Break: If you’re in front of a screen all day or have long work hours, consider taking short breaks where you remove your lenses or switch to glasses. This will help keep your eyes comfortable.

How To Properly Dispose Of Contact Lenses

Our upcycling program makes it easy for you to send back your used contact lens packaging so we can ensure it's responsibly recycled. By taking part, you’re helping reduce the environmental impact of disposable packaging.

Bonus: when you return your used lens packaging to us, you’ll enjoy discounts on your next purchase!

It’s a small but powerful way to take care of your eyes and the planet—turning what would otherwise be waste into something purposeful once more.

The Bottom Line: Less is More

The most important takeaway is that more isn’t always better. You may be able to wear your lenses for long hours, but that doesn’t mean you should. The goal is to find a balance where your eyes feel comfortable, healthy, and well-rested.

By paying attention to your eye health and following the recommended wear times for your specific lenses, you’ll not only extend the life of your contacts but also keep your eyes comfortable.

FAQ: Contact Lens Wear & Care

Q: How do I know if I’m overwearing my contacts?

A: Common signs include dryness, redness, blurry vision, or a gritty feeling. If your lenses become uncomfortable before the end of the day, give your eyes a break.

Q: Is it safe to sleep in contacts?

A: Only if they are FDA-approved for extended wear—and even then, it’s safer to remove them a few times a week. Sleeping in lenses increases your risk of infections.

Q: How often should I clean my contacts?

A: Clean your biweekly or monthly lenses every night using fresh solution. Never reuse old solution or rinse with water. 

Q: Can I recycle my contact lenses?

A: Yes! Through our upcycling program, you can send us your used lens packaging, and we’ll ensure they’re properly processed and kept out of landfills.

Q: Do I need to take breaks from wearing lenses?

A: Definitely. Giving your eyes breaks from contacts—especially during long screen time or dry weather—can prevent strain and irritation.

Q: What’s the best type of lens for sensitive eyes?

A: Daily lenses are often best for sensitive eyes because they’re replaced every day, reducing buildup and irritation.