Short answer: it’s generally not safe to nap with contact lenses in, unless you’re wearing lenses specifically approved for overnight wear and your eye care professional has advised this for you. What to consider

• Oxygen supply and dryness: Contact lenses sit on the eye’s surface and can reduce oxygen flow, especially during a nap when eyelids are closed for an extended period. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and a higher risk of infection.

• Infection risk: Sleeping or napping with lenses increases the chance of eye infections, with the risk rising the longer lenses stay in during sleep or nap periods.

• Extended wear lenses: Some lenses are approved for overnight wear (extended wear or continuous wear). These are prescription-only and must be used under a clinician’s guidance. Even then, risks remain and aren’t suitable for everyone.

• Short naps vs. full sleep: A brief nap can still reduce oxygen to the cornea and raise infection risk, though the absolute risk is lower than a full night’s sleep for most people. However, many eye care professionals still advise removing lenses for short rests.

Best practices

• If you need to rest, remove your lenses first and use fresh lubricating eye drops if your eyes feel dry.
• If you regularly need to nap or sleep with lenses due to lifestyle, discuss with your eye care professional whether you might benefit from extended wear or orthokeratology options, and follow their specific guidance.
• Watch for warning signs after napping with lenses in: redness, pain, blurred vision, discharge, or light sensitivity. Seek prompt eye care if these occur.

If you’d like, I can tailor guidance to your type of lenses (monthly, daily, or extended wear) and your typical nap duration, or help locate a clinician near you for a quick consultation.