Your binder does a lot of work. Look after it and it'll keep doing its job for longer.
Here's how to wash it, dry it and know when it's time for a new one.
How to wash your binder
Hand wash it in cold water with a gentle detergent. That's it.
- Cold water only (heat breaks down the fabric and the stretch)
- Gentle detergent
Wash it regularly. Sweat and oil build up against your skin, and a clean binder helps avoid breakouts, rashes and other skin irritation.
How to dry it
Lay it flat to dry. Keep it out of the dryer (heat wears out the fabric and it loses compression faster).
Make sure it's completely dry before you put it back on. A damp binder against your skin all day can cause irritation.
Have two on rotation
If you bind most days, two binders makes life a lot easier. One on, one in the wash. You're never stuck waiting for it to dry, and each one lasts longer because it gets a break.
When to replace your binder
Binders loosen a little with wear. That's normal. But at some point it won't do what it used to. Signs it's time for a new one:
- It doesn't flatten like it did when it was new
- The fabric looks stretched, thin or bobbly
- Seams are coming apart
- It rolls up or shifts around more than it used to
Your body can change too. If your binder suddenly feels tight, or you can't take a full deep breath in it, it's time to re-measure and size up. A binder that's too small is never worth it.
Quick recap
- Hand wash cold with gentle detergent
- Lay flat to dry, no dryer
- Only wear it fully dry
- Keep two on rotation if you can
- Replace it when it stops compressing or starts falling apart
Not sure what size you need for your next one? Our binder sizing guide walks you through it. And if you're new to binding, start with how to bind safely.
The NOBI team