Warm compresses are useful for temporarily relieving discomfort caused by dryness, irritation and redness in the eye area. Some causes of eye discomfort are bacterial infections, viral infections, sinusitis, conjunctivitis, dermatitis, rosecea, styes, blepharitis and allergies. See your doctor if you experience eye discomfort, especially if it involves inflammation, pain or vision disturbances, which can be indicators of a more serious eye condition. Your doctor may recommend the use of warm eye compresses in addition to medication and other treatments.
Wash your hands with soap and water so you do not transfer bacteria onto the compress.
Fold a clean, soft washcloth in thirds lengthwise.
Fill a medium size bowl with lukewarm tap water.
Submerge the folded washcloth in the lukewarm water to moisten it.
Bend forward over a sink. Remove the folded washcloth from the bowl of water. Without wringing out the washcloth, press it gently against your closed eyes. Resubmerge the washcloth in the bowl of lukewarm water every few 10 seconds to keep it warm. Reapply the warm compress to your eyes about 20 times, or for five minutes.