Eye injuries can happen in an instant. Whether you’re scrubbing the bathroom, playing your favorite sport, or just cooking dinner, the risk of a scratched eye is more common than most people realize. Even playful moments with your dog or cat can end with a painful corneal abrasion.
Knowing how to treat a scratched eye quickly and safely is essential—and that’s where having the right first aid supplies on hand makes a big difference. As a trusted first aid kit manufacturer, we created our specialty Eye Care Kit to help treat minor eye injuries effectively and protect your vision when every moment counts.
What Does a Scratched Eye Feel Like?
A scratched eye, or corneal abrasion, can range from mildly irritating to extremely painful. Common symptoms include:
- A gritty sensation, like something is stuck in your eye
- Redness and tearing
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Headaches
If you see a blood spot or scratch on the white of your eye (the sclera), or feel discomfort even when your eye is closed, it’s likely you’ve scratched the surface. A scratch on the cornea—the clear dome covering the iris and pupil—can affect your vision and should be treated seriously.
Quick Tip: Our Eye Care Kit includes sterile eye pads to protect your eye if it’s too painful to keep open or if you need to shield it from light.
Can a Scratched Eye Heal on Its Own?
Minor scratches often heal on their own within a few days. However, because the eye is delicate and prone to infection, it’s best to get a professional opinion, especially if symptoms worsen.
Over-the-counter redness-relieving drops can actually make things worse. Instead, flush your eye gently and keep it protected until you can see a doctor. The Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding medicated drops unless prescribed, especially for corneal injuries.
Our Kit Helps: Use the 4 oz. Eyewash bottles in our Eye Care Kit to safely rinse debris or irritants from the eye. Pair that with an eye pad and tape to keep the area clean and shielded.
How to Treat an Eye Scratch: Step-by-Step
Here are the essential do’s and don’ts when treating a scratched eye:
DO:
- Rinse with clean water or saline solution. Our included Eyewash bottles are ideal for flushing out irritants.
- Blink or gently pull your upper eyelid over the lower one. This can dislodge small particles.
- Use an eye cup to administer eyewash. Our kit includes 6 eye cups for precision rinsing.
- Cover with an eye pad if discomfort or light sensitivity persists. Secure it with our included tape.
- Apply a cold pack if swelling or bruising develops. Our Instant Cold Packs (2 included) reduce swelling quickly.
DON’T:
- Rub your eye—this can make the scratch worse.
- Use fingers, cotton swabs, or tools to remove objects.
- Wear contact lenses until your eye has fully healed.
- Use redness-reducing eye drops.
How Long Does a Scratched Eye Take to Heal?
Most minor scratches heal in 1–3 days. Deeper abrasions may take longer and require medical attention. If symptoms persist or worsen, always contact an eye care professional.
During your recovery, ask your ophthalmologist:
- How long should I continue using eye protection?
- When can I resume wearing contact lenses?
- Are prescription eye drops needed?
Why a Dedicated Eye Care Kit Matters
When an eye emergency happens, time and preparation matter. Our Eye Care Kit was designed specifically for fast, effective treatment of common eye injuries, from minor abrasions to black eyes and debris exposure.
Each Eye Care Kit includes:
- 2 Instant Cold Packs (5″ x 6″) for swelling or bruising
- 6 Eye Cups for safe rinsing
- 8 Eye Pads to protect and cover the eye
- 2 Bottles of 4 oz. Eyewash to flush irritants
- 1 Roll of 1/2″ x 5yds. Tape to secure pads
Compact and convenient, it’s ideal for home, workplaces, or on-the-go use. It’s your first line of defense when every second counts.
For more tips and detailed guides on treating eye injuries, browse our full blog section and stay prepared for life’s unexpected moments.
Final Thoughts
A scratched eye can be painful and scary, but with the right care and supplies, most minor injuries heal quickly. Remember: rinse, protect, and rest your eye—and never hesitate to seek medical care if you’re unsure.
With our Eye Care Kit in your first aid arsenal, you’re ready to protect your vision and help others do the same.
Learn more about when to seek emergency care from the Cleveland Clinic’s first aid guidelines.
Stay safe. Stay prepared.
