Wearing contact lenses can be a game-changer for many, offering clear vision without the bulk of glasses. But with that convenience comes a serious responsibility: proper care and smart habits. One of the most common and risky mistakes people make is sleeping with their lenses in—something that can lead to dry eyes, inflammation, and even corneal ulcers.

Dr. Rishi Raj Borah, Country Director at Orbis, explains that unless your lenses are specifically designed for overnight wear, sleeping in them can be harmful. “When we sleep, our eyes get less oxygen and produce fewer tears,” he says. “If lenses remain in place, it can create the perfect environment for infections. In some cases, this leads to corneal ulcers, which may result in long-term vision problems if untreated.”

That’s why good lens hygiene and keeping track of expiry dates are essential. But there’s another habit worth adopting: always keeping a spare pair of contact lenses and a travel case with you. Whether you’re unexpectedly staying over at a friend’s house or your business trip gets extended by a day, not having your lens care gear can tempt you to sleep in your lenses or skip cleaning them—both of which put your eyes at risk.

A compact, emergency contact lens case—especially one that attaches to your keys or bag—can be a simple but important addition to your daily routine. It ensures you’re always prepared, no matter where the day (or night) takes you. Your eyes will thank you.