How to shower with IV line and protect your site from infection

October 1, 2025 •

5 min read

According to one study, catheter-related bloodstream infections are a significant risk, with tap water cited as a potential source of contamination, emphasizing the necessity of keeping IV sites dry during bathing. For individuals with an intravenous (IV) line, navigating a daily routine like showering requires careful attention to prevent infection, but with the right techniques, knowing how to shower with IV line safely is manageable.

Quick Summary

Properly protecting an IV site from water exposure is critical for preventing infection and dislodgement. This guide provides essential steps and methods for safely covering and showering with various IV lines, including PICC and CVCs, to maintain hygiene without risk. It details both commercial and DIY waterproofing techniques, outlining key precautions and what actions to take if the dressing becomes wet.

Key Points

Infection Prevention: The primary reason to protect your IV site is to prevent infection, which can be caused by water contamination.
Waterproof is Non-Negotiable: Never submerge the IV site in water, like in a bath or pool, and ensure the cover is completely watertight during a shower.
DIY vs. Commercial: Both plastic wrap/bags and commercial waterproof sleeves can be used, with commercial options generally offering higher reliability.
Stay Safe in the Shower: Use warm water for brief periods, direct the spray away from the site, and hold the IV arm elevated to minimize water exposure.
Act Immediately if Wet: If the dressing becomes wet, call your nurse or doctor immediately for a professional dressing change to prevent infection.
Consult Your Care Team: Always follow the specific instructions from your healthcare provider regarding the care for your particular type of IV or central line.

For many patients receiving intravenous therapy at home or during a hospital stay, maintaining personal hygiene is an important aspect of a normal routine. However, getting the IV site wet poses a significant risk of infection, which can lead to serious complications. Keeping the site, dressing, and connections completely dry is the primary goal, and with the right strategy, it can be done safely.

Essential Preparation Before You Shower

Before you even turn on the water, a few steps can minimize risk and make the process smoother. Always consult with your healthcare provider for specific instructions regarding your type of IV or central line, as care can vary.

Inform your caregiver: If you have assistance at home, let them know you're planning to shower. An extra set of hands can be very helpful for applying waterproof covers and staying safe in the shower.
Gather supplies: Have your chosen waterproof cover (either homemade or commercial), tape, and a clean, dry towel ready and within reach. Avoid using any products near the IV site that haven't been cleared by your care team.
Prepare the shower area: Place a non-slip mat in the shower or tub. Consider using a shower chair for stability if you feel unsteady. Ensure your shampoo, soap, and other toiletries are easy to access without having to stretch or maneuver awkwardly around the IV.
Disconnect or cover IV pump: If your IV is connected to a portable pump, never take it into the shower. Ensure the line is properly disconnected and capped according to your nurse's instructions before entering the shower.

Waterproofing Your IV Line

There are several effective ways to protect your IV site from water. The best method for you will depend on the type of line, its location, and your personal comfort level.

DIY Waterproofing Solutions

Using common household items can provide an effective, inexpensive barrier if done correctly.

Plastic Wrap: A popular and easily accessible option is plastic kitchen wrap. For an IV in the arm, wrap the plastic around the entire dressing and overlapping itself multiple times to create a strong seal. Secure the top and bottom edges with waterproof tape to prevent any seepage. For a central line on the chest, cut a large square of plastic wrap, place it over the site, and tape down all four edges securely.
Plastic Bags: A clean, unused plastic bag (like a large Ziploc or even a bread bag) can work, especially for lines on the arm. Cut the sealed end of the bag open, slip your arm through, and use waterproof tape or rubber bands to create a snug seal at both ends. Make sure the rubber band is not so tight that it restricts circulation.

Commercial Waterproofing Solutions

For more robust and reliable protection, or for longer-term use, commercial products are highly recommended.

Waterproof Sleeves: These reusable, watertight sleeves are designed for PICC lines and fit snugly over the arm to keep the site completely dry. They typically feature a tight, waterproof seal made from materials like soft silicone or neoprene and are highly effective.
Adhesive Covers (e.g., Aquaguard): These medical-grade, self-adhesive sheets provide a sterile, waterproof barrier. You simply peel and stick the cover over the IV dressing, ensuring the tape does not touch the original dressing. They are often provided by a healthcare team, especially for central lines.

Comparison of Waterproofing Methods


Feature	DIY Method (Plastic Wrap/Bag)	Commercial Cover (Sleeve/Adhesive)
Cost	Very low	Moderate to high, depending on product
Effectiveness	Moderate. Requires careful application and sealing to prevent leaks.	High. Specifically designed for a watertight seal.
Convenience	Readily available. Application can be tricky, especially for solo users.	Easy to apply, especially reusable sleeves.	Risk Factor	Higher risk of leaks if not sealed properly. Potential for skin irritation from tape.	Lower risk of leakage and skin irritation (latex-free options available).
Reuse	Not reusable; must use new materials each time.	Reusable sleeves are more environmentally friendly and economical for long-term use.

The Showering Process Step-by-Step

Waterproof the IV site: Securely apply your chosen cover, double-checking the seals at the top and bottom.
Adjust the showerhead: If possible, angle the showerhead so that the water stream is directed away from your IV site.
Use warm, not hot, water: Excessively hot water and steam can loosen the adhesive on dressings or cause discomfort. A warm, brief shower (under 15 minutes) is recommended.
Keep the IV arm elevated: If the IV is on your arm, hold it up and away from the direct spray of water throughout the shower.
Wash carefully: Use a hand-held shower nozzle or washcloth to clean unaffected areas. If you need assistance washing your hair or back, ask a caregiver for help.
Exit and inspect: After turning off the water, carefully step out. Dry off the waterproof cover with a clean towel before removing it.
Post-shower check: Gently remove the cover and inspect the dressing and surrounding skin for any moisture, redness, or irritation. If the dressing is wet, proceed with the next steps immediately.

What to Do If Your IV Dressing Gets Wet

If water gets under the dressing, it becomes a major infection risk and must be addressed promptly. You should not attempt to change a medical dressing yourself unless you have been explicitly instructed and trained to do so by a healthcare professional.

Notify your healthcare team immediately: Call your nurse or doctor to report the issue. They will provide specific instructions for your situation.
Do not delay: A wet dressing needs to be changed as soon as possible by a professional to prevent bacteria from entering the bloodstream.
Keep the site clean and dry: While you wait for medical assistance, keep the area as clean and dry as possible, but do not apply new bandages or ointments without instruction.

Conclusion

Showering with an IV line, while initially intimidating, can be done with confidence by following the correct safety protocols. Keeping the site and dressing dry is paramount to preventing infection and other complications. Whether you opt for a simple DIY cover or a specialized commercial product, careful application and a cautious approach in the shower are essential. By preparing properly and knowing how to react if the dressing gets wet, you can maintain your personal hygiene without compromising your health or treatment. Always remember that your healthcare provider is the best resource for personalized advice and specific care instructions.

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

No, a standard bandage is not sufficient to keep an IV site dry. It will not create a watertight seal and can become soaked, which increases the risk of infection. You must use a dedicated waterproof cover, either a commercially available one or a carefully sealed DIY option.

A shower is generally recommended over a bath. You should never submerge an IV site in water, so baths, hot tubs, and swimming are strictly prohibited. A shower allows you to keep the IV site elevated and away from the direct water stream more easily.

For securing a waterproof cover like plastic wrap, a waterproof medical tape is best. This type of tape is designed to hold up against moisture and create a more reliable seal than standard tape.

Keep your showers brief, ideally under 15 minutes. This helps to minimize the amount of steam and the chance of the waterproof seal failing. A warm shower is better than a hot one for this reason.

No, unless you have been specifically trained and instructed by a medical professional to do so. IV dressings are sterile and must be changed by a nurse or other healthcare provider to prevent infection.

Signs of infection at an IV site include redness, swelling, increased warmth around the area, pain, or any drainage. A fever is also a sign of a potential infection. You should monitor your site daily and call your healthcare provider immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

Yes, but you will likely need assistance. To avoid getting the IV site wet, a caregiver can help you wash your hair, or you can use a handheld shower nozzle to keep the water stream away from your arm.