Minimalist line drawing of a calm face adorned with a teal flower, overlaid on a soft aqua watercolor brushstroke—symbolizing thoughtful self-expression, clarity, and the gentle support TOMSCOUT offers through its FAQ and community care resources.

Keep Your Chest Binder in Top Condition

This quick guide will show you step-by-step how to properly wash, store, and maintain your binder—ensuring it lasts as long as possible.

(3-minute read)

Ultimate FTM Chest Binder Care Guide: Wash, Maintain, and Protect

3D imagery of the TOMSCOUT SAPPHIRE swimming chest binder underwater, showcasing its adaptability and resilience in the ocean.

Importance of Proper Binder Care

Taking care of your chest binder is essential to ensure its durability, comfort, and effectiveness.

Proper washing and maintenance help preserve its elasticity and compression while preventing fabric damage. This not only extends the binder’s lifespan but also ensures it continues to provide the support you need.

By following recommended care instructions, you can avoid common issues like fabric degradation, loss of shape, and discomfort—keeping your binder reliable and comfortable for daily use.

Understanding Your Chest Binder Fabric

Matte black performance knit fabric used in TOMSCOUT chest binders, offering high-compression support with a soft-touch finish. Designed for non-binary and FTM wearers seeking secure flattening without skin irritation—durable, breathable, and tailored for daily movement. TOMSCOUT STRENGTH Chest Binder

88% Polyester, 12% Spandex

Gentle wash to maintain stretch and resilience.

STRENGTH

Close-up of breathable mesh compression fabric used in TOMSCOUT chest binders, showcasing advanced moisture-wicking texture and 4-way stretch. Ideal for active trans men, non-binary, and tomboy wearers seeking airflow, comfort, and secure flattening during all-day wear. Machine washable and fade-resistant. TOMSCOUT BECOMING Chest Binder

100% Polyester

Use cold water to preserve durability.

BECOMING

Detailed view of smooth, double-knit stretch fabric used in TOMSCOUT’s premium binder lining—soft on skin with minimal friction. Designed for FTM and gender-nonconforming individuals who value skin-safe compression, durability, and effortless binder care. Wash cold, hang dry for longevity. TOMSCOUT INSPIRED Chest Binder

94% Cotton, 6% Spandex

Wash with cold water to avoid shrinkage.

INSPIRED

Close-up of sleek, satin-finish black fabric used in TOMSCOUT’s luxe gender-affirming apparel line—smooth, lightweight, and ultra-soft against the skin. Ideal for androgynous wearers prioritizing comfort and elegance in dysphoria-safe design. Wash on delicate, hang to preserve silk-like sheen. TOMSCOUT SAPPHIRE Chest Binder

82% Nylon, 18% Spandex

Handle with care, avoid high temperatures.

SAPPHIRE

Dos and Don’ts

✅ Do's

Hand Wash When Possible: Hand washing is the gentlest method to care for your binder.
Use Mild Detergent: Gentle detergents prevent damage to the fabric.
Wash After Each Use: Regular washing maintains hygiene and the binder’s elasticity.
Use Cold Water: Cold water helps preserve the binder's shape and elasticity.
Air Dry: Lay the binder flat or hang it to dry. Direct sunlight is fine, but remove it as soon as it’s dry to prevent shrinkage.

❌ Don'ts

Avoid Bleach: Bleach weakens and damages the fabric.
Skip Fabric Softeners: These reduce the binder’s effectiveness over time.
No Hot Water: Hot water can cause shrinkage and damage.
Don’t Wring or Twist: This can stretch and distort the shape of the binder.
Avoid the Dryer: High heat from a dryer can ruin the fabric and elasticity.

Step-by-Step Hand Washing Guide

1. Prepare the Water:

Fill a sink or basin with cold or lukewarm water.
Add a small amount of mild detergent—just enough to create a gentle soapy solution.

Hand washing a TOMSCOUT chest binder in a sink—recommended for spot-cleaning or delicate care routines.

2. Wash the Binder:

Submerge your chest binder in the soapy water.
Use your hands to gently agitate it, paying extra attention to seams or any areas with dirt or stains.
Be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric.

Rinsing a TOMSCOUT chest binder under cold water in a sink—manual washing option for sensitive care.

3. Rinse Thoroughly:

Hold the binder under running water and rinse until all soap is washed away.
Make sure no detergent remains, as residue can cause irritation.

Gently wringing excess water from a TOMSCOUT chest binder—avoid twisting to protect binder integrity.

4. Remove Excess Water:

Gently press or squeeze the binder to remove excess water.
Avoid twisting or wringing, which can distort the shape.

Freshly washed TOMSCOUT binder standing upright—ready for air drying after gentle cycle wash.

5. Dry Properly:

Lay the binder flat on a clean towel or hang it up to air dry.
If you use direct sunlight, be sure to bring it inside as soon as it’s dry to prevent shrinkage.

Step-by-Step Machine Washing Guide

Placing a TOMSCOUT chest binder into a protective mesh laundry bag—recommended step to prevent damage during machine washing.

1. Prepare the Binder:

Place your chest binder in a mesh laundry bag to prevent tangling or stretching during the wash.

Finger pressing gentle 23-minute wash cycle on the machine—ideal washing mode to preserve chest binder durability and elasticity.

2. Set Up the Wash Cycle

Choose a gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine.
Use cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent.

Pouring mild detergent into a washing machine—start of the TOMSCOUT chest binder washing process using gentle, binder-safe detergent.

3. Avoid Bleach:

Never use bleach, as it can weaken and damage the fabric.

TOMSCOUT chest binder inside front-load washing machine with visible soap suds—gentle cleaning in progress.

4. Run the Wash Cycle:

Start the machine and ensure it remains on the gentle setting throughout.

Air drying a TOMSCOUT chest binder on a flat surface—key step to maintain fabric structure and prolong binder lifespan.

5. Dry Properly:

Lay the binder flat on a clean towel or hang it up to air dry.
If drying in direct sunlight, take it indoors as soon as it’s dry to avoid shrinkage or discoloration.

FAQs

Ensure It’s Dry: Always make sure your binder is completely dry before storing it.
Flat Storage: Store it flat to preserve its shape and elasticity.
Avoid Creases: Avoid folding or creasing the binder to prevent permanent damage.
Cool, Dry Location: Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Rotate Binders: Alternate between multiple binders to reduce wear and extend their lifespan.
Inspect Regularly: Check for signs of wear, such as stretched fabric or damaged seams, and replace as needed.
Keep It Fresh: Use a mild fabric freshener to maintain a fresh scent between washes.
Follow Instructions: Always stick to the recommended care guidelines for washing and drying to protect your binder’s quality.

How often should I wash my chest binder?

For optimal hygiene and to maintain fabric quality, wash your chest binder after every use. Use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics to avoid damage.

Can I machine-dry my chest binder?

Machine drying is not recommended. High temperatures can cause shrinkage and weaken the fabric. Instead, air-dry your binder by laying it flat or hanging it in a cool, well-ventilated area.

Can I wear my chest binder while exercising?

Yes, but it’s best to wear specially designed binders for exercise. For example, bandage binders (like our STRENGTH collection) offer enhanced stretchability and breathability, making them ideal for physical activities.

How long does a chest binder last?

With proper care, a chest binder typically lasts between six months to a year, depending on usage. Regularly check for signs of wear, such as loss of elasticity or fabric damage, and replace it when needed.