3 Ways To Bind Safely

If you have absolutely no other choice than to use a bandage, do not wear it for more than an hour. Never use tape under any circumstances. Tape can rip your nipples off. Even if you put tape over an old shirt instead of on your skin, it’s not safe. [4] X Research source Some people may suggest binding with saran wrap (plastic wrap). Avoid doing this. Saran wrap isn’t breathable, and will leave you swimming in your own sweat, as well as still having the same dangers that come with using a bandage.

This method may not work if your chest is larger than a B-cup.

Unlike binders, sports bras can be used for as long as you want, as they don’t provide much compression around your ribs. If you plan on going somewhere for a long time, consider wearing a sports bra rather than a binder. Wearing two sports bras at the same time works for some people. (However, it’s not safe to do a binder and a sports bra, or to double-bind with anything but a sports bra. [6] X Research source ) A too-tight sports bra can compress your ribs much more than a binder can. [7] X Research source Worn too tight or all day, a sports bra can cause permanent damage, so remember that the safety rules still apply to you.

The average cost of a chest binder varies between websites, but well-known companies such as Underworks and gc2b will range from thirty to sixty US dollars. If you can’t afford one, try searching for sites that will donate new or used binders and apply to receive one, or check out clothing swap sites for trans people. Do careful research on the binder you want to buy. Some binders are no better than bandages. There are plenty of reviews on websites and social media (Tumblr is a good source for this due to its large community of transgender and nonbinary members). If in doubt, stick to a more well-known company, even if it costs more.

Avoid cheap binders. High-quality binders are important to keep you safe. If shopping online, read the reviews. Clasps, velcro, or zippers are usually bad choices. They may dig into your skin, or come undone easily.

Never double-bind. Double-binding is the practice of wearing two binders at the same time. However, double-binding can have the same effect of wearing a binder that’s too small, or a bandage; it can result in minor injury, rib breakage, or so forth. If your binder doesn’t do a good job on its own, you may want to just try a different brand or type of binder.

If you’re wheezing, or your breath makes a rattling sound, this is a problem. Go to the bathroom right away, take off your binder, and cough. [12] X Research source (If people ask if you’re okay, and you’re not out to them, tell them you swallowed wrong and you’ll be fine. )

Exercise Do sexual activities Lift heavy objects Run or jog (even if you’re running late) Mow the lawn on a warm day Sing in choir, or play an instrument that requires breath Ride roller coasters

Drink lots of water. Wear cotton or linen shirts that breathe well. Use ice to cool down quickly if needed. Stay in air-conditioned buildings when you can.

If you start to feel pain, discomfort, or shortness of breath, take off your binder. If you’re in public, go to the restroom to take it off.

If you accidentally fall asleep with your binder on, take it off immediately, and then avoid binding for the rest of the day. Ask your family to wake you if they see you sleeping in a binder, so you can take it off.

You may be able to wash your binder in the sink, using soap, detergent, or shampoo. [18] X Research source If you only have one binder, you may not want to wash it every day, which is fine. Just make sure that your binder doesn’t smell. Use deodorant, spray the binder with a scent remover like Febreeze, and consider wearing a thin and breathable shirt under your binder to reduce sweat and odor.

You get winded after climbing the stairs, but you catch your breath quickly. Your underarms have chafing. Your arms, shoulders, or back are a bit sore. You have more chest and back acne. You’re a little (but not a lot) worried about the tightness. Your chest begins to sag after months or years of binding.

You can’t catch your breath. You feel nauseated, dizzy, or light-headed. Your arms feel numb. You have bruises, a rash, or bleeding. It hurts when you touch it. You’re unable to cough or sneeze. You start feeling too tired to do ordinary things. You have pain for hours or days after binding.

You can’t breathe. Your lips or fingertips look blue. You faint. You’re experiencing claustrophobia or panic attacks. You feel sharp pains in your chest. Your heart is skipping beats or beating too fast. Your ribcage seems to have changed shape. Something else is going on that really worries you. (Play it safe. )

If you aren’t comfortable taking off your binder, see if you can at least switch to a looser binder. [23] X Research source Pain is a sign that something is wrong. [24] X Research source Pushing through discomfort for a time can be okay, but pushing through pain is not. It’s also a bad sign if you are bleeding; it means you’re damaging your skin.

Binding for extended periods of time will break down the breast tissue, creating “floppy” breasts, so it’s not a good idea for cisgender women who just want their breasts to appear smaller. Minimizer bras are probably a better choice.

Fractured ribs Scarring Respiratory infections and pneumonia

Try starting with a half tank binder, instead of a full tank one. These are easier to take on and off, and are a good choice for beginners. [29] X Research source It’s possible to get stuck in your binder if you’re new to binding. Practice taking it on and off first, with a loved one nearby to help if you get trapped. [30] X Research source Putting baby powder or talcum powder on your chest can make it easier to put your binder on if you’re slightly sweaty/damp. (If you’re very wet, dry off first. )

A “masculine chest” does not auto-equal a flat chest. [31] X Research source Never judge your chest size by looking down. You don’t have good perspective from above your chest. Instead, look in the mirror.