How to Cover Cast for Shower | Keep It Dry

Cover a non-waterproof cast for showering with a waterproof cast cover, or seal two layers of plastic above the cast with tape.

Plaster and fiberglass casts with conventional padding are not waterproof, so a wet cast can soften, irritate your skin, or breed infection. The fix for how to cover your cast for the shower is simple: keep it sealed, keep it dry, and check the seal before the water turns on.

What Is The Best Way To Cover A Cast In The Shower?

The most reliable option is a purpose-made waterproof cast cover. These slide over the limb and form a snug seal that keeps water out. Mayo Clinic advises that if you don’t have a cast cover, you can cover the cast with two layers of plastic and seal it above the cast with a rubber band or duct tape.

For a plastic-bag setup, the critical detail is the seal. It must sit above the cast on bare skin, not on the cast material itself.

How Do You Use A Waterproof Cast Cover?

One rule matters most: do not seal the cover directly on the cast or the wound. The seal needs bare skin above the cast. When you’re done, remove it by lifting under the cuff to let air back in, then slide it off gently.

What Mistakes Ruin A Cast Cover’s Seal?

Most leaks come from a handful of errors. The biggest is sealing directly on the cast or wound—the seal must land on skin above the cast. Another common mistake is letting the cast sit in direct spray; keep the limb out of the water stream and out of any immersion, like a bath. Wrinkles or gaps in the plastic are equally risky, so smooth everything out before you step in.

Failing to verify the seal is the final trap. If balance is a concern, shower seated. If the cast gets damp despite your best effort, stop and call your doctor—moisture can damage both the cast and the skin beneath it.

If you’re ready to buy a purpose-made cover rather than rig a bag, our tested roundup of the best cast covers for showering breaks down the options that actually hold a seal.