If your CGM patch has ever peeled off after a swim or given up mid-summer jog, you're not imagining it. In 2025, many CGM accessories are marketed as waterproof, sweatproof, or even kidproof—but what do those claims actually mean?
More importantly, do they hold up in the real world, where water, heat, and little hands can put any adhesive to the test? Let’s break down the fine print behind those bold words and find out what really matters when choosing the right CGM patch.
What Does 'Waterproof', 'Sweatproof' and 'Kidproof' Even Mean?
These terms are catchy, but they’re not legally defined or regulated for CGM accessories. Here’s what they typically imply:
- Waterproof: The patch should remain adhered after exposure to water, including swimming, bathing, and showers.
- Sweatproof: The patch can endure intense perspiration without lifting or peeling.
- Kidproof: While not a technical term, it suggests a patch can handle physical activity, fidgeting, clothing friction, and unpredictable movement.
The issue? These claims are usually based on limited lab conditions—not real, messy, humid, high-friction, toddler-filled life. If you’re dealing with a little one scratching or tugging at their patch, you may find this helpful: Why Kids May Scratch at Their CGM Patch – and How to Stop It
What Real-World Testing Reveals
Here’s what you should keep in mind when evaluating those claims:
|
Claim |
What It Means |
What to Watch Out For |
|
Waterproof |
Withstands water contact like showers or short swims |
Salt and chlorine can break adhesive down faster |
|
Sweatproof |
Performs in heat, humidity, and workouts |
Oils, lotions, and body chemistry still affect adhesion |
|
Kidproof |
Holds through movement, tugging, and friction |
Depends heavily on patch shape, stretch, and material |
Even if a patch is labelled as waterproof, its staying power often depends on how it’s applied, how long it's been worn, and what kind of skin it’s applied to.
How Type Strong Patches Hold Up
At Type Strong, we don’t throw around words like waterproof or sweatproof lightly. Every patch is designed to handle the reality of daily wear—not just pass a checklist in a controlled lab.
We choose materials that combine skin-safe adhesives with breathable, flexible backings, built to stay secure through:
- Showers, rain, or even quick dips in the pool
- High-sweat activities like workouts or hot weather outings
- Daily movement, shirt snags, and curious little hands
Each patch is tested for 10+ days of wear, and refined using feedback from people living with CGMs—whether that’s Dexcom, Libre, Omnipod, or infusion sets. Our goal? Keep your device secure without sacrificing comfort or skin health. Explore the full CGM patch collection here.
How to Make Any Patch Last Longer
Even the best patch can fail if it’s not applied properly. These tips help ensure you get the best possible wear:
- Clean the skin properly: Use an alcohol wipe to remove any oil, lotion, or sunscreen before applying.
- Let it set: Wait 30–60 minutes before exposing the patch to water or sweat to let the adhesive bond.
- Apply with pressure: Smooth down the patch and press firmly, especially around the edges.
- Avoid tug zones: Don’t place the patch where tight clothing or waistband edges might rub against it.
- Touch up as needed: If corners lift, trimming or smoothing them early can prevent full detachment.
Still not sure which patch suits your setup best? With our Build Your Own Patch Bundle, you can test multiple options until you find your perfect fit. Prefer a custom fit from the start? Our popular Cut-to-Fit Tape Roll gives you flexible coverage for any sensor.
What the Science Says
Lab tests are helpful, but they only go so far. A 2022 study on medical adhesive wear times showed that adhesives break down faster in high-moisture environments and with friction—especially when not applied under ideal conditions – NIH. That’s why performance in real-world settings matters most.
And if you're noticing your patch is lifting early, peeling at the corners, or leaving skin red and irritated, it might not just be the environment. Application technique and skin sensitivity play a big role too. We cover warning signs and helpful remedies in our post on how to tell if your CGM patch is causing a reaction.
Final Thoughts
Waterproof, sweatproof, kidproof—it’s easy to get swept up in the promises. But real performance comes from good design, trusted materials, and smart application. That’s exactly what Type Strong patches are built for.
Whether you’re chasing kids, finishing a 5K, or heading to the beach, your patch shouldn’t be the thing that slows you down.
Explore the full patch range today and find the one that keeps up with you.