Everything you need to know about tucking, tucking gaffs & tucking panties!
Body-shaping underwear can be helpful for people who want to create a smoother appearance in the pelvic area or who feel uncomfortable with visible contours in that area. Many people choose to wear tucking panties or gaffs because they prefer how their body looks and feels while wearing them. Since tucking involves a sensitive area of the body, it’s natural to have questions when you’re starting out. You might wonder what tucking panties are, how tucking gaffs work, and how to tuck in a way that feels comfortable and responsible. We’ve gathered some of the most commonly asked questions about tucking below.
Before we start, always remember that the safety of your body and genital area is important. Listen to your body and make sure you’re informed about tucking before you begin.
What is tucking?
Tucking generally refers to positioning the genitals in a way that creates a flatter appearance in the pelvic area. The two most common methods are the semi-tuck and the full tuck.
A full tuck involves gently guiding the testicles into the inguinal canals and positioning the penis backward. A semi-tuck follows the same method, except the testicles are not placed into the inguinal canals.
Tucking can be done using tucking underwear or gaffs, with or without Shaping Tape. Shaping Tape can be used to help create a smoother look, but may be less practical for frequent bathroom use or for people with sensitive skin. Some people choose to use Shaping Tape for specific situations, such as performances or styling purposes.
What is tucking underwear?
Tucking underwear — also known as tucking gaffs, MtF underwear, tucking slips, or tucking undies — is a type of underwear designed to apply gentle compression to the genital area. This underwear typically uses firm elastic fabric to help create a smoother, more streamlined pelvic appearance.
Tucking underwear is designed to shape the area externally and can be worn with either a full tuck or a semi-tuck.
Who can wear tucking underwear?
People choose to wear tucking underwear for many different reasons, often because they prefer a smoother appearance in the pelvic area under clothing. While tucking underwear can help create a more traditionally feminine silhouette, there are no gender-based requirements for wearing it.
Tucking underwear can be worn by people of many identities and expressions, including trans women, non-binary people, drag performers, femme-presenting people, or anyone who prefers a flatter pelvic appearance. In short, tucking underwear can be worn by anyone who feels it suits their body or style.
How to tuck?
There are a few ways to tuck, depending on your preference. Before starting, decide whether you want to do a full tuck or a semi-tuck, and whether you want to use Shaping Tape or not.
Full-tuck or semi-tuck (without tape)
Start by wrapping the head of the penis with toilet paper or a soft cloth to help absorb moisture.
If you want to do a full tuck, gently guide the testicles upward into the inguinal canals. Many people find it easiest to do this while lying on their back. Move slowly and gently, without forcing anything, and stop if you feel pain or discomfort.
For a semi-tuck, the testicles are guided backward instead of upward.
Next, guide the penis backward between the legs while keeping everything in place. Once you’re comfortable with the positioning, pull on your tucking underwear to hold everything securely.
Watch the video below for a visual explanation:
Tucking with tape
If you’re going to tuck with tape, always use a skin-safe Shaping Tape that is intended for external use on the body. Do not use duct tape or other household tapes, as these are not designed for skin contact.
Make sure the area you’re going to attach the tape to is hairless, clean, and free of lotions or oils.
Decide whether you want to do a full tuck or a semi-tuck, and position the testicles accordingly. Then, cover the head of the penis with toilet paper or gauze to help absorb moisture. Gently guide the penis backward while holding the testicles in place. Apply one or more layers of Shaping Tape as needed, placing the tape from front to back, between the buttocks and across the pelvic area.
Watch the video below for a visual explanation:
How do I tuck safely?
Tucking can help create a smoother appearance, but it may place strain on the body if done incorrectly or for extended periods. If you’re unsure whether tucking is suitable for you, consult a qualified medical professional. Following general guidelines can help reduce discomfort during wear.
Don’t overdo it
When you’re new to tucking, it’s best to start gradually. Try tucking for a short period, such as an hour, and see how your body responds. Slowly build this up over time. It’s generally recommended not to tuck for longer than 8 hours in a row.
If you feel pain, numbness, or significant discomfort, stop tucking immediately. If mild discomfort occurs, you may try adjusting the positioning to see if that improves comfort.
Prolonged or improper tucking may increase the chance of skin irritation or discomfort. If you notice ongoing or unusual sensations in the genital area, stop tucking and consult a medical professional.
Take breaks
To give your body time to recover, try to take regular breaks from tucking. When you’re not tucking, wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing to allow the area to rest. Avoid sleeping or napping while tucked, as prolonged pressure during rest may increase discomfort.
As a general guideline, consider taking at least one day per week without tucking.
Listen to your body
The most important part of tucking is paying attention to how your body feels. If you experience discomfort during a full tuck, consider switching to a semi-tuck or stopping altogether. You can also try gently repositioning the genitals to improve comfort. Everyone’s body is different, and what feels comfortable can vary from person to person.
What are the possible risks of tucking?
Some people have reported the following issues when tucking is done improperly or for long periods:
- Reduced circulation or pressure-related discomfort in the genital area
- Skin irritation, including redness or chafing
- Moisture-related skin issues, such as irritation or fungal growth
- Urinary discomfort
- General soreness or sensitivity
If you experience persistent discomfort, pain, or other concerning symptoms, remove your tucking underwear and consult a medical professional.
Tips for secure tucking
- Give your body time to recover after tucking. Do not tuck for more than 8 hours in a day, and try to have at least one day a week without tucking.
- Don’t wear multiple tucking slips or thongs over each other.
- Choose the right size.
- Do not use products that are not specifically designed for tucking.
- Don’t pull on the genitals when securing your tuck.
- Some people prefer to take a cool shower before tucking, as this can make the area feel more manageable during positioning.
- Cover the head of your penis with a soft barrier, such as tissue or gauze, to help reduce friction and manage moisture.
How do I choose the right size for tucking underwear?
Choosing the size of your tucking undies is actually quite simple. Usually you will need the same size as your regular underwear. Measure your waist and hips, and compare these to the size chart of the product you’re interested in. This will guide you to the size that’s your most likely fit.
Your tucking undies should fit snug while still feeling comfortable, they shouldn’t pinch or crush you. Below are some indications that your tucking panties might be too small:
- You feel the seams chafing or cutting your skin
- Your penis feels uncomfortably restricted
- You’re experiencing pain
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should probably size up. Avoid getting a size that’s too small in hopes of getting flatter results.
Lastly, keep in mind that your tucking underwear might loosen over time. It’s normal for stretch fabrics to relax with repeated wear and washing. If you notice your product no longer provides the level of support you’re used to, it may be time to replace it.
Can I still wear tucking underwear if I have a larger penis?
If you have a larger penis you might find it more challenging to achieve a completely flat appearance, but this doesn’t mean you can’t wear tucking underwear. Some people find that different positioning techniques or styles work better for their body. If you choose to use tape, always ensure it is applied carefully and does not cause discomfort or restrict circulation.
What happens if I get an erection while I’m tucking?
It’s possible to experience an erection while tucking. If your tuck is securely in place, it may remain positioned, but you might need to readjust afterward. An erection while tucked can feel uncomfortable due to the restricted positioning. If you experience pain or significant discomfort, it’s recommended to stop tucking and allow your body to relax.
Is tucking harmful for a developing body?
Some people want to start wearing tucking underwear from the moment their genitals begin to grow. This can leave them or their loved ones worried about the safety of a developing body. We can’t provide medical advice, and bodies develop differently. If you’re unsure whether tucking is appropriate for you or your child, it’s best to consult a qualified medical professional.
General safety guidelines still apply: never tuck for longer than 8 hours, don’t sleep while tucked, and make sure you have the correct size by checking the size chart. Especially if it's your or your child’s first pair of tucking undies, check the size chart or contact our customer service for sizing support.
A side note for parents, guardians, friends or other loved ones: some kids will want to figure it all out themselves and may choose the tightest tucking undies they can find. Understand that your child might want the flattest result, but always remind them of the importance of comfort and safety. This can be a sensitive topic, so approach it with patience and care.
Can I exercise in tucking underwear?
The general consensus about exercising while tucking is that it can be done, as long as you pay close attention to how your body feels. Many people choose to avoid very tight tucking during exercise and prefer a lighter tuck or wearing tucking underwear without a full tuck. This can help create a smoother appearance while allowing more freedom of movement. If you experience discomfort, pain, or pressure, stop tucking and allow your body to rest.
How do I care for my tucking undies?
Keeping your tucking undies clean can help reduce the risk of skin irritation. Always check the care instructions for your specific product before washing. As a general guideline, wash tucking underwear in cold water after use. Most styles can be washed in the washing machine or by hand using a gentle soap. Let the panties air dry, as dryers can affect the elasticity of our fabrics.