How to Clean an Air Cast

An air cast can be a helpful alternative to having to wear a plaster cast following an injury. With air casts, your broken body part is supported by an inflatable liner that provides you with a little more freedom--such as being able to walk on a broken ankle or foot--than a plaster cast allows. Since they are worn constantly, air casts can get quite dirty and smelly, which is why knowing how to clean one is important to keeping it sanitary while your broken bones take their time to heal.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Gentle detergent
• Tub or sink
• Cloth
• White vinegar
• Sponge

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Instructions

• 1

  Remove the air cast from your body by gently unfastening all of its hook-and-look fastener strips and slowly pulling it away from the skin.

• 2

  Pull out the foam insert in your air cast and soak it in warm water and some gentle laundry detergent for 15 to 20 minutes in a tub or sink. Use a clean cloth or sponge to scrub off any stains or spots that may have accumulated.

• 3

  Run your foam insert under cold water until you have rinsed all of the soap out of it, then gently wring the insert out once and let it air dry for a few hours in sunlight or for four or five hours without sunlight.

• 4

  Pour a cup of white vinegar into a small spray bottle with ¼ cup of water and shake the bottle to mix the solution well. An all-natural cleaner is best to use, as chemical cleaners can irritate sensitive skin; white vinegar is a good odor neutralizer and mold and germ killer.

• 5

  Spray the plastic surfaces of your air cast and wipe them down with a sponge. Make sure you get all surfaces to ensure you are removing all of the residue that builds up on your cast.