A practical guide to feeling comfortable and confident on treatment days
Disclaimer: This article offers general clothing advice based on lived experience. It is not medical advice. Always speak to your clinical team for treatment specific recommendations.
One of the most asked questions in cancer support groups is what should I wear to chemotherapy or what clothing is best for dialysis sessions. Treatment days can involve long hours, temperature changes, sensitive skin and medical access points that need to remain easy for clinicians to reach.
This guide brings together everything I learned during my own treatment and everything patients ask us daily.
Step one
Understand where your access points are
Before thinking about fabrics or colours, think about where clinicians need to reach. This might include
• portacaths
• PICC lines
• central lines
• fistulas or grafts for dialysis
• cannulas in the hands or arms
Your clothing needs to allow access to these areas without removing layers.
Porto and Bello sweatshirts and hoodies are based entirely on aligning zip placements with these access points so you can remain covered.
Step two
Choose breathable layers
Most treatment rooms are either very warm or very cold. Many people also experience hot flushes caused by chemotherapy or medically induced menopause.
Layers help you adapt to changing temperatures. Consider
• a breathable base layer such as the Life Is Tough Ribbed Top
• an accessible crewneck or hoodie on top
• a scarf or blanket for colder rooms
• the ability to unzip and cool down quickly
Step three
Consider softness for sensitive skin
Treatment can cause skin sensitivity, dryness, tenderness, or irritation. Clothing should feel soft and gentle.
Natural cotton or cotton rich fabrics are often ideal. Avoid rough seams, tight necklines or heavy fabrics that trap heat.
Step four
Stay comfortable for long sessions
Treatment can be several hours long. Choose clothing that
• stretches gently
• does not dig in around the waist
• allows easy movement
• feels warm without overheating
Clothing that feels good for ten minutes can feel unbearable after four hours, so comfort matters more than ever.
Step five
Dress in a way that supports your emotional wellbeing
You might not feel like yourself during treatment, but wearing something you genuinely like can make a meaningful difference. Many patients tell us that wearing clothing that feels normal helps them face treatment with more confidence.
A simple treatment outfit example
• Life Is Tough Ribbed Top for chest access or drains
• Maroon Accessible Crew for warmth and port access
• Comfortable joggers with a soft waistband
• Socks for cold treatment rooms
Who this guide is perfect for
Anyone who searches for
• what to wear to chemotherapy UK
• clothing for dialysis with arm access
• infusion friendly clothing
• soft tops for PICC lines
• port access clothing
This guide gives you clear, practical advice for dressing confidently and comfortably on treatment days.