BINDERS

Binding is a great way to reduce chest dysphoria and become more comfortable with your body. For many, a flat chest affirms identity or helps with identity presentation. The most important thing is to remember that binding is not required for your gender and gender expression to be valid!

If you choose to bind, please ensure that you do so safely. Scroll down to learn more about binding and how to get a free chest binder.

We accept donations of gently used binders.

*Please note, currently binders are only available to folx who can pick them up in person or who win our social media giveaways.

FAQ

DO and DONT

BINDER SHIPPING PROGRAM

For the time being, we will not be re-opening our binder program for new applications. Currently, Genderbands does not have the resources to keep up with the high demand. We hope to open for applications again in the future. We are still processing and shipping out binders to those who previously applied, don’t worry!

BINDERS FOR LOCALS AND EVENTS

Binders can still be acquired by locals by coming to our Headquarters in Orem, Utah, or visiting our booth at Pride events. Keep an eye on our social media to know what events we'll attend!

Set up an appointment to come to HQ: info@genderbands.org

BINDER GIVEAWAYS

Genderbands will periodically host Binder giveaways that are open to ANYONE IN THE WORLD on the trans/non-binary spectrum. Specific rules will be posted for each giveaway. Keep an eye on our social media pages for more information!

BINDER DONATIONS

We will still take binder donations! Please include a note with your binder’s brand and size when making a donation. It’s crucial for ensuring that we are providing the right sizes for folks whom this program serves.

Binder Appointments

Binders can still be acquired by locals by coming to our Headquarters in Orem, Utah. Set up an appointment to come to HQ by emailing: info@genderbands.org

Please put "Binder Appointment" in the subject line of your email

Set Up Your Appointment

All binder appointments will be in-person at the Genderbands office in Orem, Utah. The office is on the basement level down a short set of stairs, and unfortunately there is no elevator in the building. Please let us know in your appointment email if you have accessibility concerns!

We encourage you to wear a face mask during your visit, but they are not required. If you are under 18 you must bring someone who is 18 or older with you to the appointment.

What to expect during your binder fitting: first we will show you the proper way to measure yourself to get the correct size of binder. Then you will measure yourself in a private dressing room in the office. After we get your measurements we will discuss what style of binder will work best for you. We will get you a couple binders from our stock, and you can try them on in the private dressing room. If this is your first time wearing a binder, it might be difficult to put on, by design they are quite tight! If it's the right size then we'll take a moment to talk to you about the do's and don'ts of binder safety, and we'll fill out an exit survey with you. The whole process should take less than an hour.

FAQ

HOW DO I MEASURE FOR A BINDER?

Follow the directions on this video from GC2B https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRVPos4o51A If you are in Utah and need help figuring out your size, you can make an appointment to come into the GB Headquarters for sizing. Email programs@genderbands.org

I APPLIED FOR A BINDER. NOW WHAT?

Just wait. Binder requests are processed in the order they are received. Due to the number of requests, it may take some time to get to yours. Please watch your email inbox and spam folder as you may be sent an email asking some verifying questions. We also recommend adding programs@genderbands.org to your contacts.

WHEN WILL I GET MY BINDER?

Time varies. We process binder requests as quickly as we can but due to the amount of applications, it may take some time to get to yours. Please do not email asking for a status on your binder. Requests are processed in the order they are received and while supplies last.

WHERE DO THE BINDERS COME FROM?

Most binders for our program are donated to us. These donations come gently used and new from individuals and GC2B.

IS SHIPPING DISCRETE?

Packaging is a plain gray or purple envelope. The return address is only a street address and does not have Genderbands' name or logo.

CAN I GET MY BINDER DELIVERED AT A SPECIFIC TIME?

No. Binders are mailed through the US Postal Service so we are unable to take special requests.

DONATE A BINDER

Please include a note with your item's brand and size when making a binder donation. It's crucial for ensuring that we are providing the right sizes for folks whom this program serves.

We also accept gift cards from trusted binder companies and monetary donations.

Binder donations can be sent to:

Genderbands

51 West Center Street

#341

Orem, Utah 84057

United States

Donate

Binding Do's and Don't's

DON'T

Use duct tape or ace bandages

These sorts of materials will restrict your ability to breathe and move properly. They can also cause damage to your ribs, lungs, and back. Tape can tear or otherwise damage your skin.

DON'T

Wear for longer than 8 hours

Binding for long periods of time, especially if you're binding regularly, will break down tissue and can cause a variety of medical issues. If you are new to binding, slowly work your way up to 8 hours.

DON'T

Sleep in your binder

Sleeping in your binder can restrict your ability to breathe and move properly and potentially cause damage to your body. Your body needs rest!

Listen to your body

If it hurts, STOP!

Pain is an indicator that something is wrong. You may need a different size or are wearing it improperly.

Take breaks

We recommend taking breaks every 2 hours, when possible. Take off your binder, raise your arms above your head, and take deep breaths. This will help expand your lungs. If you can't take off your binder, you can still do the breathing.

Wash it regularly

A dirty binder can irritate the skin and cause rashes and sores. Hand-wash in cold water with gentle laundry detergent.

Lay it out to dry.

Binder Styles

The majority of binders donated to Genderbands are from GC2B, but we also have some from Underworks and other brands. Below are a few different styles of binders and why you might prefer one style over another.

Half Binder - Front

Standard binder shoulder style
Half length style has more airflow than full/tank style, keeps cooler in the summer
Similar to a crop top for those who need to be stealth

Racer Back Binder - Front

Greater range of motion than standard binder shoulder style
Strap style similar to sports bra for those who need to be stealth
Half length style has more airflow than full/tank style, keeps cooler in the summer
Less visible under clothing

Full/Tank Binder - Front

Doesn't ride up on bottom hem like half length does sometimes
Better for those with those who have a larger chest size
Similar style to muscle tank for those who need to be stealth

Half Binder - Back

Standard binder shoulder style
Half length style has more airflow than full/tank style, keeps cooler in the summer
Similar to a crop top for those who need to be stealth

Racer Back Binder - Back

Greater range of motion than standard binder shoulder style
Strap style similar to sports bra for those who need to be stealth
Half length style has more airflow than full/tank style, keeps cooler in the summer
Less visible under clothing

Full/Tank Binder - Back

Doesn't ride up on bottom hem like half length does sometimes
Better for those with those who have a larger chest size
Similar style to muscle tank for those who need to be stealth