By Nicky, Founder of Happy Cloud Adaptive
An IV cover is a soft, stretchy fabric sleeve that goes over an IV site, the tubing and the dressing, so they are out of sight. A small opening lets the line come out. It is clothing, not a dressing: it does not replace the sterile dressing, and it does not secure the IV.
Shop Happy Cloud IV covers in Kids and Adult sizes, or keep reading to see how they work.
What an IV cover does
People wear IV covers during infusions, hospital stays, outpatient treatment and other treatment days. An IV cover:
- Covers the IV site, tubing and dressing with a soft layer of fabric, so they are out of sight.
- Adds a fabric layer over the line, so it is less exposed to bumps and snags.
- Gives some privacy when you are out of your room or around other people.
- Replaces netting or a sock pulled over the arm. It is made for the job, with a small opening where the line passes through.
- Looks like clothing instead of exposed tape and tubing.
What an IV cover does not do
- It does not replace the sterile dressing.
- It does not secure the IV.
- It is not medical equipment. Your care team must always be able to reach and check the site, so the cover needs to come off or move aside when they ask.
Follow your care team’s instructions about what can be worn over or around an IV.
Who wears an IV cover?
Children, teens and adults. Some people simply prefer not to look at their IV tubing and tape during treatment. Parents often choose one for a child who would rather not see the equipment. People also use one on:
- Infusion appointments
- Hospital stays
- Chemotherapy given through an IV in the arm or hand
- Outpatient IV treatments
- Longer stretches of IV therapy
Wondering what to wear with the rest of your outfit? See What to Wear to Chemo or an Infusion Appointment.
How to choose a size
Happy Cloud IV covers come in a child size and an adult size. Measure around the widest part of the bicep (upper arm) with a soft tape.
| Size | Bicep measurement |
|---|---|
| Child | Up to 9 inches |
| Adult | 9.5 to 14 inches |
Each pack has two covers in the same size. See the size guide for the chart and how to measure.
Fabric and care
- 88% nylon / 12% spandex: soft and stretchy
- No metal
- Machine washable and reusable
- Two covers per pack: one to wear, one to wash
The cover goes on over the outside of the dressing. Take it off or move it aside whenever your care team needs to check the site.
Frequently asked questions
What is an IV cover?
A soft, stretchy fabric sleeve worn over the IV site, the tubing and the dressing, with a small opening where the line comes out.
Can children wear IV covers?
Yes. The child size fits a bicep (upper arm) up to about 9 inches (23 cm) around. The adult size fits about 9.5 to 14 inches (24 to 36 cm) around.
How do I pick an IV cover size?
Measure around the widest part of the bicep (upper arm) with a soft tape, then match it to the child or adult range above. The size guide has the chart.
Does an IV cover replace my medical dressing?
No. It is worn over the outside of the dressing. It does not replace the sterile dressing or secure the IV. Always follow your healthcare team’s instructions.
Can I wash an IV cover?
Yes. Happy Cloud IV covers are machine washable and reusable.
Can I wear an IV cover outside the hospital?
Yes. Some people wear one on the way to appointments or during outpatient treatment. Your care team should always be able to reach the site when needed.
If looking at an IV or needle makes you feel dizzy, you may also want our guide: Why Do I Feel Woozy or Faint When I See an IV or Needle?
Shop Happy Cloud IV covers
Pick a print, then choose child or adult. Each pack has two covers.
IV Cover Black (2 Pack)
Kids and Adult sizes
IV Cover Blue Clouds (2 Pack)
Kids and Adult sizes
IV Cover Tie-Dye (2 Pack)
Kids and Adult sizes
Also from Happy Cloud: snap-open adaptive T-shirts that open at the shoulders, sides and chest.
Free U.S. shipping on orders of $50 or more (excludes Alaska, Hawaii and territories). Otherwise standard shipping is $5.99, or $12.99 to Alaska, Hawaii and U.S. territories.
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