Getting dust, an eyelash, or a tiny object stuck in your eye can be painful and irritating. If not removed properly, it can lead to scratches, infections, or serious eye damage.
So, what’s the safest way to remove something from your eye? Follow these step-by-step methods to clear your eye quickly and prevent further irritation.
🚨 First Things First: What NOT to Do
🚫 Don’t rub your eye – This can push the object deeper and cause scratches (corneal abrasions).
🚫 Don’t use sharp objects (tweezers, fingers, or cotton swabs) – They can make things worse.
🚫 Don’t wear contact lenses – If you have contacts in, remove them before flushing your eye.
📌 If something sharp or large is stuck (like glass or metal), DO NOT try to remove it yourself—go to the emergency room immediately.
🛠️ How to Get Something Out of Your Eye (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Blink Repeatedly 👁️
✔ Try blinking several times to naturally move the object toward the corner of your eye.
✔ This can help flush out small dust particles or eyelashes.
📌 Best for: Tiny specks of dust, dirt, or eyelashes.
2. Use Clean Water or Saline Solution 💦
✔ If blinking doesn’t work, rinse your eye with clean water or saline solution.
✔ Use room-temperature water (not too hot or cold).
📌 Best Methods for Rinsing:
✔ Cup Method: Fill a small clean cup with lukewarm water, place it against your eye, and blink into the water.
✔ Tap Water Method: Tilt your head sideways and let lukewarm tap water run into your eye.
✔ Saline Solution or Eyewash: Ideal for gentle flushing without irritation.
✅ Best For: Dust, pollen, makeup, or small particles.
3. Pull Down Your Lower Eyelid & Look Up 👀
✔ Use a mirror and pull your lower eyelid down to check for debris.
✔ If you see something, try flushing it out with saline or water.
📌 Best for: Small particles trapped under the lower lid.
4. Flip Your Upper Eyelid & Check
✔ If you still feel irritation, the object may be trapped under your upper eyelid.
✔ Pull your upper eyelid gently over your lower eyelashes—this can help dislodge the object.
✔ If necessary, rinse again with water or saline.
📌 Best for: Tiny particles stuck under the upper eyelid.
5. Use a Damp Cotton Swab (Only If Safe) 🧹
✔ If rinsing doesn’t work and you can clearly see a small speck, use a clean, damp cotton swab to gently touch the object and remove it.
🚨 Warning: ONLY use this method for visible, small particles—never for anything sharp or deeply embedded.
📌 Best for: Small hairs, dirt, or tiny non-sharp objects.
🚑 When to Seek Medical Help
See an eye doctor if you experience:
🚨 Severe pain or burning after removing the object.
🚨 Blurry vision that doesn’t go away.
🚨 Redness or swelling that gets worse over time.
🚨 A feeling that something is still stuck, even after rinsing.
🚨 Bleeding or signs of an eye injury.
📌 If a sharp object is embedded in your eye (glass, metal, or wood), DO NOT touch it—seek emergency care immediately.
🛡️ How to Prevent Getting Things in Your Eye
✔ Wear sunglasses or safety glasses when working with dust, chemicals, or power tools.
✔ Avoid rubbing your eyes with dirty hands—this can introduce dirt and bacteria.
✔ Use eye protection when outdoors, especially on windy days.
✔ Store makeup brushes, contact lenses, and eye drops properly to prevent contamination.
🔍 FAQs About Removing Something from Your Eye
Q: Can I use milk to rinse my eye?
❌ No! Milk is not sterile and can introduce bacteria, making things worse. Stick to water or saline solution.
Q: How do I remove an eyelash stuck in my eye?
✔ Try blinking first—it may naturally move to the corner.
✔ If that doesn’t work, flush with clean water.
✔ As a last resort, use a clean cotton swab to remove it gently.
Q: Can I sleep with something stuck in my eye?
❌ No! If something is stuck, address it immediately. Leaving it overnight can cause scratches, infection, or increased irritation.
Q: What if my eye still hurts after removing the object?
✔ If pain, redness, or irritation continues, see an eye doctor—you may have a scratch (corneal abrasion) or an infection.
🔚 Final Thoughts: The Best Way to Get Something Out of Your Eye
✔ Blink, rinse, and check under your eyelids to remove small particles safely.
✔ Never rub your eye or use sharp objects to remove debris.
✔ If the object is sharp, deeply embedded, or causing severe pain, seek medical help immediately.
✔ Protect your eyes with sunglasses, safety goggles, and good hygiene practices.
💬 Have you ever had something stuck in your eye? What worked best for you? Share your experience in the comments! 👁️👇
