Quick answer: Wet wrapping, also called wet wraps or wet dressings, is a treatment for severe eczema flares. After a lukewarm bath, your child's prescribed cream and moisturiser are applied, then covered with a damp layer of cotton clothing or bandage and a dry layer on top. It can give relief from heat and itch, protect the skin from scratching, and help moisturisers and cortisone creams absorb better.¹ Australian children's hospitals recommend using it when a child is hot, itchy and waking at night despite their usual treatment.² Use it only with guidance from your doctor or healthcare professional.
What is wet wrapping?
Wet wrapping is a way of applying a cool, damp layer over the skin during an eczema flare. It has two layers:
- a wet layer: cotton clothing, bandages or linen dampened with lukewarm water, placed directly over the skin after creams are applied
- a dry layer: dry cotton clothing or a crepe bandage over the top, to hold the wet layer in place
Wet wrapping doesn't replace daily skincare. Daily bathing and moisturising remain the foundation of eczema care, and wet wraps are an extra step for flares that aren't settling. For everyday care, read our guides on how to bathe a baby with eczema and how to apply emollient cream.
When can wet wrapping help?
During a severe flare that isn't settling with usual treatment. The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne recommends wet dressings when a child is hot and itchy, wakes at night because of the itch, leaves blood on the sheets from scratching, or still has eczema despite cortisone ointments and, moisturisers.²
Wet wraps can be applied at home when they're only being used for short periods.¹ If your child's eczema is severe, ask your GP, paediatrician or dermatologist whether wet wrapping is right for them. The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne also runs eczema workshops where nurses show parents how to apply wet dressings.
How does wet wrapping help eczema?
According to Australian children's hospital guidance, wet wrapping can:
- cool the skin and reduce itch: itch is worse when the skin is hot and inflamed²
- protect the skin from scratching: the layers act as a barrier against fingernails¹
- hydrate the skin: the damp layer helps keep moisture in¹
- help creams work better: wet wraps improve how moisturisers and topical corticosteroids are absorbed into the skin¹
How do you do wet wrapping at home?
Ask your doctor or healthcare professional to show you the first time. The general steps are:
1. Bathe your child. Give a lukewarm bath using a soap-free wash such as Stelatopia Cleansing Oil, then gently pat the skin dry.¹
2. Apply creams. Apply any cortisone cream or ointment your doctor has prescribed to the eczema areas, as directed. Then apply moisturiser generously to the rest of the skin, such as Stelatopia+ Lipid-Replenishing Cream
3. Add the wet layer. Soak tight-fitting 100% cotton clothing, such as a onesie, long-sleeved top, leggings or tights, or bandages in lukewarm water. Wring it out so it's damp but not dripping, then put it on over the creams.³
4. Add the dry layer. Put dry cotton clothing or a crepe bandage over the wet layer. Bandages should be firm but not tight.²
5. For the face, use a cool compress. Soak a soft cloth in cool water and hold it gently against the skin, rather than wrapping the face.²
6. Check the dressings. Wet dressings are best applied at night, or during the day if the eczema is severe. They dry after a few hours, so re-wet or remove them once they're dry (unless your child is asleep), as dry dressings can irritate the skin.²
7. Moisturise again after removing the wraps.
Is wet wrapping safe?
When used as your doctor or nurse directs, wet wrapping is generally safe.
A few precautions:
- Watch for infection. If your child's skin is weepy, crusted with yellow scabs or they have a fever, see your doctor before using wet wraps.
- Use fresh wraps. Wraps worn over infected eczema should be thrown away.⁵
- Keep it short-term. Wet wraps are a flare treatment, not an everyday routine. Follow your doctor's plan for how many days to continue.
What should your baby wear to bed after wet wrapping?
Choose soft, breathable 100% cotton pyjamas that can double as the dry outer layer. Avoid wool and rough or synthetic fabrics, which can irritate eczema-prone skin and trap heat. For more tips, read our guide on what babies with eczema should wear.
Frequently asked questions about wet wrapping
Can I use wet wraps without steroid cream?
Yes. Applying moisturiser under wet dressings helps rehydrate the skin.² During an active flare, though, doctors often prescribe a cortisone cream to apply first. Ask your doctor which creams to use under your child's wraps.
How often should wet wraps be applied?
Follow your doctor's plan. The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne notes that wet dressings are best applied at night, and during the day if the eczema is severe.² Some hospital-at-home programs apply them twice a day, in the morning and before bed.⁵
Are wet wraps safe in winter?
Yes. Children's Health Queensland notes that wet wraps are safe even in winter, as they warm to body temperature within a few minutes.³ Keep the room comfortably warm while you apply them.
References
- Sydney Children's Hospitals Network. Wet dressings for eczema factsheet.
- The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Department of Dermatology. Wet dressings for eczema.
- Children's Health Queensland. Eczema Action Plan.
- Hindley D et al. (2006). A randomised study of "wet wraps" versus conventional treatment for atopic eczema. Archives of Disease in Childhood.
- Gold Coast Health. Eczema and Wet Wraps Information – Children's Hospital in the Home.
This article provides general information and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your GP, paediatrician or dermatologist before starting wet wrapping.
