How to Care for Gender-Affirming Gear: Chest Binders, Gaffs, Prosthetics, and More
At Lion's Den, we believe in providing affirming support for everyone, including those seeking products that align with their gender identity. Gender-affirming gear, such as chest binders, gaffs, prosthetics, and trans tape, are essentials for many, and knowing how to properly care for these items can extend their life, ensure comfort, and promote overall well-being. In this blog, we'll walk through practical tips for caring for and wearing these important products so that you can feel confident and comfortable every day.
CHEST BINDERS
Washing & Drying: Your chest binder needs gentle care to maintain its elasticity and comfort. We recommend hand washing or using a machine on a delicate cold-water cycle. Never use bleach, as it can damage the fabric, and always air dry your binder flat to prevent shrinking or distortion.
How Long Should You Wear It? Wearing a binder for more than 8 hours can strain your chest and muscles, so it’s important to take breaks. If you need to bind for longer periods, consider getting a looser binder or one size up for additional comfort.
How to Fit Your Binder Correctly: Binders should feel snug but still allow room for breathing and movement. If your binder feels too tight or causes discomfort, it may be the wrong size. A good fit will support and flatten the chest while letting you move easily.
Putting It On: To put on your binder, hold the shoulder straps and step into it from the bottom. Once pulled up to your chest, adjust the armholes and shoulder straps for a comfortable fit that feels secure without cutting into your skin.
GAFFS
Washing & Drying: Gaffs, designed to create a smooth appearance, should also be washed by hand or in a delicate machine cycle. Like binders, they should air dry naturally, as machine drying can cause the fabric to weaken over time.
Comfort and Wear: Gaffs should feel secure but not overly tight, ensuring that you can wear them comfortably for 6-8 hours. If irritation occurs, wearing a soft liner underneath the gaff can provide extra comfort.
TUCKING TAPE
Choosing the Right Tape: Tucking tape should always be medical-grade or sports-specific tape designed for skin use. Regular tapes, like duct tape or bandages, can irritate or harm your skin.
How to Apply Safely: Before applying tape, trim or shave the area where you’ll apply it to minimize discomfort during removal. Use a barrier cream to protect the skin, and when removing the tape, take your time—use adhesive remover or soak in warm water to soften the tape.
Removing Tape Safely: Tape should be peeled off gently to avoid irritating the skin. If you have skin sensitivities, be sure to test small areas before using new types of tape.
PROSTHETICS
Washing & Drying: Prosthetics, whether used for packing or other purposes, need to be cleaned regularly. Wash them with mild soap and water, and be sure to air dry thoroughly before storing. If your prosthetic is made from silicone, you can sterilize it by boiling it for 2-3 minutes.
Storage: Always store prosthetics in a soft, breathable bag or fabric case to prevent material damage or reactions with other fabrics. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat, which can cause discoloration or weakening over time.
Skin Sensitivities: If you have sensitive skin, silicone prosthetics are a great option as they are less likely to cause irritation. Wearing a layer of soft clothing between your prosthetic and skin can further reduce friction and discomfort.
TRANS TAPE
Using Trans Tape Correctly: Trans tape offers more flexibility than traditional binders and allows for full movement without compression. Be sure to only use tape designed for skin use, as non-skin-specific tapes can cause irritation or restrict movement.
Application and Wear: Apply the tape to clean, dry skin for the best results. When it’s time to remove, peel gently and avoid pulling too quickly. Trans tape is waterproof, meaning it can handle intense activity, swimming, and bathing. To ensure it stays in place, press the tape down firmly after applying.
A Final Word on Comfort and Safety
At Lion's Den, we encourage you to listen to your body. If any product—whether a binder, gaff, or tape—causes prolonged discomfort or skin issues, take a break from using it and consult a healthcare professional if necessary. Always prioritize your comfort and health when using gender-affirming products, and don't hesitate to ask questions about fit or care.
Have more questions? Our customer support team is here to help you choose the best products for your needs. For more information on our range of gender-affirming gear, visit us online or at your nearest Lion’s Den location.