Contacts vs. Glasses: What’s Better for Your Eye Health?

Whether you’re navigating your workday in downtown Toronto or enjoying a weekend hike in High Park, having clear vision is essential. But when it comes to corrective eyewear, many people find themselves asking: Should I wear glasses or contact lenses? The answer depends on your lifestyle, comfort preferences, and, importantly, your eye health.

Let’s break down the pros and cons of contacts vs. glasses, especially when it comes to hygiene, comfort, cost, and infection risk.

Hygiene and Risk of Infection

Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eye, which means hygiene is critical. Poor lens care can lead to serious infections, including corneal ulcers and bacterial keratitis. Always follow proper cleaning routines, avoid sleeping in lenses unless prescribed, and never rinse with tap water.

Glasses, on the other hand, don’t touch your eyes and carry virtually no risk of infection—making them the safer option from a hygiene standpoint.

Verdict: Glasses win for safety and ease of hygiene.

Comfort and Convenience

Contacts offer a wider field of vision, don’t fog up, and are ideal for sports and physical activities. They also allow you to wear non-prescription sunglasses freely.

However, some users experience dryness or irritation, especially in air-conditioned or windy environments—common in Toronto summers and winters alike.

Glasses are easy to wear and maintain, but some people find them cumbersome or feel self-conscious. They can also be impacted by weather and physical movement.

Verdict: Contacts offer better all-day convenience, but glasses are more comfortable for sensitive eyes.

Cost Considerations

Over time, glasses can be more cost-effective. A quality pair can last several years, especially if your prescription doesn’t change.

Contacts involve ongoing costs—whether daily, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses—plus cleaning solutions and cases. Specialized options like toric lenses or multifocals can further raise costs.

Verdict: Glasses tend to be more budget-friendly long term.

Eye Health and Lifestyle

Your eye health plays a significant role in which option is best. People with dry eye syndrome, allergies, or frequent eye infections may do better with glasses. Others may benefit from hybrid approaches, using both depending on the situation.

Some opt for daily disposable lenses to reduce infection risk, while others wear blue light–blocking glasses at home to relieve digital eye strain.

Verdict: It’s often a personal balance between lifestyle, health needs, and comfort.