Is salt water good for eyes?
Sarah Duran
Updated on February 23, 2026
If you don't have access to an eye wash, you might be wondering if you could use a salt water solution instead. Our tears are naturally saline, so this can be an effective way of cleaning and soothing them. Salt is also naturally antimicrobial, which makes it effective against eye infections.
Can salt water damage your eyes?
Since no sea water is completely sterile, goggles are a must-have when it comes to swimming in the sea. Exposing the surface of your eyes to seawater can lead to swollen corneas or bacterial and viral infections. Not to mention the pain that comes with salt water stinging your eyes!Does salt water help eye infections?
Saltwater has the same properties as tears and is a natural antiseptic. Saltwater kills germs and may kill some of the bacteria in your eye. Using saltwater is one of the most common eye infection treatments.How do you make a salt water eye wash?
Add three teaspoons of salt and one teaspoon of baking soda into the pot and stir to dissolve. Carefully pour the solution from the pan into the jar or bottle and put the lid on. Refrigerate solution and use within 24 hours.How can I clean my eyes naturally?
Dirt or Debris
- Use your tears. Gently pull your upper eyelid down so it hangs over your lower lashes. ...
- Flush it. You can also rinse your eye with cool water from a sink. ...
- Wipe it. If you see the small object on your eyeball, you can try to get it out by gently swiping with a wet washcloth. ...
- Don't rub.