Entering a hyperbaric chamber is a unique experience, whether for medical treatment, diving recovery, or training. One of the most common questions first-timers ask is what to wear in a hyperbaric chamber. Your clothing choice can impact both comfort and safety during the session. This guide will walk you through essential clothing guidelines, dos and don’ts, and answer common questions to ensure your dive or treatment goes smoothly.

Understanding Hyperbaric Chamber Clothing Requirements

Safety first is the rule when deciding what to wear. Hyperbaric chambers operate under increased pressure, often with high oxygen levels. This environment requires fabrics that are 100% cotton or other approved static-free materials. Synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, or spandex can generate static electricity, which poses a fire risk in an oxygen-rich setting. Always confirm with your facility the specific rules regarding allowed garments.

For those researching What To Wear In A Hyperbaric Chamber, knowing that cotton scrubs, t-shirts, and sweatpants are typically the gold standard provides peace of mind. Avoid anything with buttons, zippers, or metal accessories that could scratch the chamber walls or cause sparks.

Recommended Fabrics: Cotton and Natural Fibers

Always choose 100% cotton clothing for maximum safety. This includes cotton t-shirts, shorts, sweatpants, or hospital-style scrubs. The fabric breathes well and does not hold static charges. Some facilities provide designated cotton garments for you to change into. If you are undergoing treatment for a wound or condition, loose-fitting cotton clothes prevent irritation and allow access to treatment areas without constant adjustment.

Footwear and Accessories: What to Leave Out

Most hyperbaric chambers require you to wear cotton socks and either remove your shoes or use provided non-slip cotton booties. Athletic shoes containing synthetic materials are often prohibited. Inside the chamber, jewelry, watches, headphones, and electronic devices are also banned. They can interfere with the equipment or become hazardous. Simply wear cotton socks, and your facility will guide you on footwear policies for pressure sessions.

Dressing for Comfort During a Hyperbaric Session

After confirming safety compliance, the next priority is comfort. Sessions can last from 60 to 120 minutes. You will be lying or sitting in a controlled environment, so wearing layers can help you adapt to temperature changes. However, ensure each layer is 100% cotton. A cotton long-sleeve shirt over a short-sleeve tee is a great approach.

Keep accessories minimal. Remove hairpins, metal eyeglass frames, and underwire bras (which often contain metal). Instead, opt for a comfortable cotton bra with no wiring. Your focus should be on resting or sleeping—comfortable clothing directly contributes to a relaxed session. This is especially important for those treating conditions like decompression sickness or non-healing wounds where multiple sessions are required.

What to Wear For Different Types of Chambers

There are two main types of hyperbaric chambers: monoplace (for one person) and multiplace (for several people). In a monoplace chamber, you lie inside a clear tube and often wear only provided cotton scrubs as