What is Binding?
Chest binding is when someone wears a tight-fitting top (called a binder) to flatten their chest. Many trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse people bind to feel more comfortable and affirmed in their bodies.

Not everyone binds — and you don’t have to! Your gender is valid no matter your body or what you wear.

So, What Is a Binder?

A binder is:

• A stretchy compression top (like a super structured singlet)
• Made to flatten chest tissue, chest profile
• Usually worn under clothes
• Different from sports bras or compression crop tops, which offer lighter compression

You can buy binders from gender-affirming brands like Sock Drawer Hero, GC2B, Underworks, or local LGBTQ+ groups.

Binding Done Right: Safety Tips

Binding can be a great gender-affirming tool — but it’s super important to do it safely:

Wear it for ≤ 8 hours a day
Start with 1–2 hours if you’re new. Don’t push through pain or discomfort.

Right size = Right choice
Your binder should be snug, not painful. If breathing or coughing is hard, it's too tight.

Don’t bind while exercising
Instead, wear a sports compression crop top or sports bra when working out.

Don’t sleep in your binder
Let your body rest and breathe fully while you sleep.

Wash & Dry
Keep your skin clean and dry before you put your binder on to avoid rashes and infections.

NEVER use duct tape, bandages, or ACE wraps
These can damage skin, limit breathing, and cause serious injuries like broken ribs or fluid in the lungs.

Hot day hacks
Stay hydrated, wear cotton or bamboo crop top underneath, and take breaks if you’re overheating.

These are signs there is a problem with your binder or how you are wearing it: Remove it and see a doctor or your health professional if you notice:

• Skin breakdown, abrasions
• Rashes or infections
• Breathing problems
• Chest pain

Binding Myth-Busting

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“You have to bind to be non-binary or trans masc.”

Not true — binding is just one option some folks to feel more comfortable. Many trans masc folk don't wear a binder!

Quick Quiz: Test Your Binder Brain!

What’s the max amount of time you should wear a binder in one day?

A) 24 hours
B) 12 hours
C) 8 hours
D) 3 hours

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C) 8 hours - That’s the safe upper limit. Less is fine. More can be risky!
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More info

TransHub: Chest Binding Guide

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Geek Out Contributor: Olivia Donaghy, GHA Psychologist

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