How to Keep a Cast Dry

When you break a bone in your body, in many cases a doctor will encase your broken bone in a cast, which holds the bones in place so they can heal properly. Many casts are still made of plaster, but synthetic casts are also used. Keeping the cast dry is very important. If a plaster cast gets wet it starts to soften and needs to be replaced, an expense your insurance probably won't cover. Even synthetic casts that are water-resistant need to be kept dry. The padding near your skin is not water-resistant. Keeping a cast dry is key to allowing the broken bone to heal quickly, and is easily accomplished.

Things You'll Need

• Cast protective cover
• Trash bag
• Rubber bands or masking tape

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Instructions

• 1

  Avoid coming into contact with water. This includes baths, swimming, boating and other water activities.

• 2

  Place a protective cast cover over the cast. Medical supply stores sell cast covers. They completely cover the entire cast to prevent water from getting on the cast. The covers are very convenient and effective. Wear the cover when showering to keep the cast dry, as well as when you must walk outside in the rain.

• 3

  Wrap a plastic trash bag around the entire cast. Use the entire bag to create a few layers. This is especially important if the trash bag is thin and tears easily. Hold the bag in place with a large rubber band or use masking tape to keep the trash bag wrapped securely around the cast. Use this makeshift cast cover when showering and in rainy weather.