What is chest binding?

Chest binding is used to give the appearance of a flat chest by compressing chest tissue with constrictive materials, such as a tight top called a ‘binder’.

For some trans and non-binary people, their chests are a source of gender dysphoria, as they’re a visual reminder of a person’s birth-assigned sex (1). Binding can reduce gender dysphoria and improve mental health, but it can also cause negative physical health symptoms if done incorrectly (2).

Binding is for anyone, but it can be particularly useful for trans, non-binary, and gender diverse* folk who do not want their chest to look feminine and who may want to have a more androgynous or masculine gender expression.

Binders can be one way to help someone safely express their gender identity.

Full-length binders are considered compression tank tops and can help compress your chest as well as your stomach. They offer more support from your shoulders, which can be beneficial if you are larger chested.

Half-length binders (often referred to as a “tri-top binders”) are often more breathable/comfortable in warm weather.

A sports bra without padding has a similar effect to binders and is often preferred for physical movement.

Swim binders are made out of waterproof material that stay opaque in all conditions. You can also swim in a regular binder.

Finding Your Size

When taking measurements, take them over a shirt, without a bra or a binder on already.

1. Take a snug measurement of the fullest part of your chest.

2. Measure underneath your chest, where the crease is.

3. Add those two measurements together (1 + 2) and divide the sum by two and that is your binder size.

   (1 + 2) ÷ 2 = Binder Size

*Make sure to double-check and follow instructions provided by the brand of your binder, as some brands may require a different method of measurement for sizing.

Putting on Your Binder

When trying on a binder for the first time, it is highly recommended to have a trusted person around in case help is needed.

Option 1: Overhead - Put your binder on over your head like a t-shirt. Put your arms through the armholes and pull it down over your chest, trying not to let it roll up on itself.

Option 2: Step into it - While holding the shoulder straps, step into the neck hole as if you are putting on a pair of pants. Pull the binder up and slip your arms through the armholes.

Look & Feel

1. A binder will feel tight the first time, but you should be able to breathe comfortably when first trying one on. If not, go up a size. Although binders will loosen a little with wear, it is better to go up a size and still get the same effect without causing your body harm. Plus, you can always drop a size in the future. Take deep breathes and start by wearing it only for 1-2 hours a day as your body gets used to the compression. Only bind for 8-12 hours at a time maximum and never sleep in your binder. Take a binder break every few days.

2. Using a mirror, try to flatten your chest towards the armpits, this will help create a pec-like appearance. It is important to ensure the nipples are not binded in a downward position, as it can cause damage to the tissue and skin. This could negatively affect the result of future top surgery.

Removing Your Binder

Option 1: Lift the should straps and pull upwards until the compression reaches your neck. Continue to pull yourself out of your binder.

Option 2. Grabbing from the bottom of the binder, pull it up and over your head inside out.

After removing your binder, make sure to stretch out your arms, shoulders, chest, and back to loosen any tightness, and be sure to take a few deep breaths and cough to clear out any possible fluid build-up in your lungs.

Caring for Your Binder

1. Wash your binder every 2-3 days or every day if you are sweating or wearing it daily. For most binders, it is best to hand wash with soap and warm water. Hang it up to dry and avoid using the dryer as it will shrink and damage it.

2. Bodies change over time and your binder may become loose or damaged through wear and tear. Be sure to re-evaluate your binder to ensure you have a correct fit.

3. It’s a good idea to carry a sports top with you in case you are out and need to take your binder off, this way if you need to change you have a spare option.