Finn's Chest Binding Masterpost
Hello! I decided to make a post with information and tips on chest binding. I am trans myself and there's a lot of things I wish I had known before I got my first binder. This is for anyone who binds or wants to bind, whether trans, non-binary, genderqueer, questioning, or even just cis. Enjoy!
Okay, so first of all you're probably going to want to get one from a reputable and trusted brand. Some examples are: gc2b, Underworks, and Spectrum Outfitters. That $18 dollar one with 3 stars on Amazon ain't the best choice.
Binders usually cost around $30-$40, but it depends on the kind and brand you're buying. There's half binders, tank binders, and more. It all just depends on what you want. (Also, try to steer clear of binders with clasps and zippers. They can sometimes cause damage and don't usually bind evenly.)
Sizing! Each website should have a sizing chart and instructions. You'll need to use a soft measuring tape (or whatever they're called), don't just guess. If you're between sizes, always choose the larger one. Never go down a size.
Yay, so you've bought a binder. Here's all the tips and safety things you need to know!
While it does depend a bit on the kind and brand, it most likely won't completely flatten your chest. This was a big shock and disappointment for me when I got my first binder because no one told me this. Binders aren't really supposed to make your chest super flat and smooth, but rather resemble pecs.
Don't bind for more than 8 hours! It can cause damage in the long term if you do it consistently, and short term it can cause pain, irritation, and breathing problems. Also, if you've never binded before, it may take a while before you can work up to wearing it for 8 hours.
If you feel any discomfort or have trouble breathing while wearing your binder: Take. It. Off.
Don't exercise, swim, or sleep (even if it's a nap) in your binder!
I feel like I'm forgetting a bunch of stuff so I'll probably edit this later with more lol.
Maybe you're in an unsafe environment, or you can't afford one, or you just need something asap. Well, there are some ways you can achieve a flatter chest without a binder.
Sports bra method! Put one sports bra on normally, and then another one on backwards. It's not the best, but it's something.
Layering clothes helps a bunch too! Wearing a tank top, then a shirt, then a jacket or hoodie is usually what I do. In the summer, this may be difficult. Don't overheat, and remember to stay hydrated!
Never, I repeat, never use tape to try and flatten your chest. I knew someone who insisted that using duct tape was fine, but it's not. It can cause damage, and we don't want that.
I hoped this helped a bit! I'll probably be adding more in the future, and feel free to comment or reblog this with some things I didn't have on here. I'll try to add them when I can!
Take care, keep hydrated, and bind safely! <3
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