Can I use Ace bandages to bind?

Don’t use Ace bandages or duct tape—they aren’t meant for binding, don’t move with your body, and can cause physical harm. They can seriously restrict breathing, cause fluid build-up in your lungs and other serious injuries, such as broken ribs.

How do I bind my chest with an Ace bandage?

Just wear something. Puff up your chest before wrapping: This gives you a slightly looser wrap that’ll still give you pretty good compression. Inhale, and wrap as you usually do, but try to hold your breath the whole time you’re wrapping the bandages around your chest.

Can I use bandages to bind?

Don’t do it. Bandages are the least safe way of binding out there. They can cause permanent damage to your chest tissue, lungs and ribs.

Why can’t I bind with ace bandages?

Never use duct tape or Ace bandages to bind your chest. Binding with these materials can restrict your ability to breathe and move properly. Ace bandages in particular are designed to constrict, so as you breathe, they get tighter and tighter and can really hurt you. If it hurts, stop.

What is the safest way to bind?

The most popular safe methods are to use commercial binders, sports bras, strategic layering, and bandages or elastic materials. If you’re binding frequently, make sure to take breaks throughout the day and take days off, as binding continuously can cause negative side effects (2,4).

Can binding damage your lungs?

Improper binding may result in restricted breathing, cause fluid buildup in lungs, broken ribs, and sometimes permanent scarring and back problems.

How long can I bind with ace bandages?

Always bind for less than 8 hours a day (the more breaks and time you can go without, the better!). Binding for long hours every day over time breaks down tissue and can cause breathing problems, back pain, and skin irritation. Never use duct tape or Ace bandages to bind your chest.