Tucking in a Swimsuit: Best Options & Expert Advice

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LGBTQIA+ Activist and Educator NV Gay shares some of their favorite tucking tips and products

Co-authored by NV Gay and Amber Crain

Last Updated: February 11, 2026 Fact Checked

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• With Tape
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• With a Gaff
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• With Specialized Swimwear
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• Additional Advice
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Whether you’re trans, nonbinary, trying to pull off a drag look, or just looking for some extra coverage, wearing a swimsuit can be a little tricky. Luckily, tucking makes it easy for you to wear that cute bikini or bathing suit with confidence! In this article, we’ll talk you through a few tried-and-true methods for tucking while swimming–using tape, wearing a gaff, and choosing specialized swimwear. We also spoke to LGBTQIA+ Activist and Educator NV Gay for their insights and recommendations.

Best Way to Tuck for Swimming

LGBTQIA+ Activist and Educator NV Gay suggests using tape to tuck when you want to wear a swimsuit. Cup your testicles with 2 or 3 fingers and guide them up into the inguinal canals. Then, pull your penis back between your legs, place a piece of toilet paper over it, and secure it in place with pieces of tucking tape.

Steps

Section 1 of 4:

Using Tape

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1. 
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   Shave or wax your pubic area. In order for tape to stick well and come off painlessly, you’ll need to remove the hair around your genitals. If you’re shaving, start by carefully trimming away any excess hair with sharp scissors or electric clippers. Take a warm shower or soak the area in warm water for 10 minutes to soften the hair. Then, lather on shaving gel or cream and carefully shave with a clean, sharp razor, moving against the grain of the hair.

   • Be extra careful when shaving your testicles (balls) and consider using an electric razor or clippers for that area. There’s less risk of nicking yourself.
   • Alternatively, you could wax the area. It’s a bit more painful, but less likely to cause accidental cuts or scrapes.
   • To minimize irritation, shave 1-2 days before you plan to tuck.

   Meet the wikiHow Expert

   NV Gay is an LGBTQIA+ activist and educator based in Columbus, Ohio who focuses on empowering and uplifting marginalized communities. They are also the author of The Queer Allies Bible and host of the Born This Way podcast.
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   Get a roll of medical tape or a tucking kit. You can use medical or sports tape, tucking tape, or buy a tucking kit that has pre-cut tape strips (if you want to make things super easy). Skin-friendly fashion tape (like the kind designed to lift breasts or hold swimwear in place) is also an option if that’s more readily available to you. Just make sure your tape is waterproof and sweatproof so it stays in place.

   • Gay recommends the tuck kit from Unclockable, as it’s a safe tucking tape that is waterproof and easy to apply and remove.
   • Other options are gaffa tape and microspore tape. Whatever tape you end up using, make sure it’s formulated for use on skin. You may need to experiment until you find the one that works best for you.
   • “If you choose to use medical-grade tape in order to keep your tuck in place, make sure you follow safe methods as illustrated by TransHub,” advises Gay.
   • Gay says to never use duct tape for tucking. Also, avoid super glue or any other tape not designed for skin.Doing so could be painful and cause severe irritation.
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   Lie down and gently push your testicles up into your body. This is optional, but it will give you a tighter, smoother-looking tuck. Stand or lie down with your knees drawn up. Gently cup your testicles with 2 or 3 fingers and guide them up into the inguinal canals (the place your testicles move into when you’re cold). If you’re having trouble finding it, feel for a bit of skin right above your balls. Push your balls under the skin at the front of your body so they’re sitting just above your penis on each side.

   • It can help to take a cool bath or shower first, since this will cause your testicles to naturally retract a bit.
   • Can my balls get stuck inside my body? Nope! They’ll actually fall out as soon as you stop holding them in place (which is why you need tape).
   • What if it hurts? If you experience pain or nausea, stop. Try again later, or skip pushing up your testicles altogether. As an alternative, gently push them out to either side so your penis can nestle in between them.
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   Pull your penis back between your legs. Reach around from behind and take hold of your penis. If you’re lying down, you might have to lift your hips off the bed or floor to do this. Then, Gay advises to pull your penis back towards the taint right between your butt cheeks.

   • It’s normal to get aroused while you’re doing this, but you won’t be able to tuck while your penis is erect. If it happens, take a break and wait for the feeling to pass. Then, try again.
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   Place a piece of toilet paper or gauze over your penis and scrotum. This will prevent the tape from sticking directly to the delicate skin on your genitals. Alternatively, use a gauze pad or some other type of breathable bandage. You could also use a thin, soft piece of cotton (like a baby washcloth or cut-up underwear).
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   Secure your penis in place with pieces of tape. Grab a strip of tape (about 12 inches (30 cm) long). Once your penis is in place, place one end of the tape about 1 inch (2 cm) above the base of your penis. Apply the tape down the middle or two pieces of tape on either side (or both for extra security) so it holds your penis back securely in the center of your body. The rest of the tape goes up over your butt (similar to a thong if you go down the middle, or a jock strap if you place it along the sides).

   • The tape should be tight enough to securely hold your tuck, but not so tight that you’re in pain. You might need to practice a little until your tuck is both comfortable and secure.
   • If you’re sweating, pat your skin dry with a clean, dry towel before you apply the tape to help it stick better.
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   Pull up your swimsuit or bikini bottoms. It may help to already have your swimsuit bottom partway on before you start. Make sure your swimsuit bottoms fit snugly to help keep everything in place. Then, check the fit in a mirror to make sure everything looks nice and smooth.

   • For an extra-smooth tuck, go for a tighter swimsuit bottom. Thick bikini bottoms made from compression material, such as Lycra or spandex, work great for this purpose.
   • If you find that your skin hurts or gets inflamed after taping, try gentler methods, such as using a gaff without tape.
   • “If a tuck does come undone, don’t fret. You can discreetly excuse yourself and re-tuck if needed,” assures Gay.
   • How do I untuck everything later? Peel the tape away gently. If it won’t come off easily, soak it in warm water (using a washcloth) for a few minutes. Then, move your penis back into its normal position and guide your testicles out of the inguinal canals with your fingers.
   • Is tucking safe? It’s generally safe, but there are a few risks, including urinary tract infections, problems with urine flow, and twisting or inflammation in the testicles. The best way to avoid these problems is to limit tucking to 4-8 hours at a time and untuck as often as you can.

Section 2 of 4:

Wearing a Gaff

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1. 
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   Choose a gaff in the same size as your regular underwear. A gaff is a type of compression underwear made with strong elastic material designed to smooth out bulges in your crotch area and keep your genitals tucked away. Typically, they’re sized just like standard underwear, but if you’re not sure of your size, measure around your waist and compare it to the seller’s size chart.

   • Several transgender-owned clothing companies have designed swim-specific gaffs that are meant to create that natural look in a safe manner, says Gay.
   • Check out sellers like En Femme or Origami Customs. You can also look at Etsy. Point of Pride is an organization that provides free femme shapewear to trans women and trans femmes who need it but cannot afford it or access it safely.
   • If you’re worried about the gaff showing under your swimsuit, pick one that’s thong-shaped or specially designed for use with swimwear, like the Lili Gaff.
   • In a pinch, a regular tight thong made of thick material will work as a basic gaff.
   • If you can’t find or afford a gaff, make your own! Cut the elastic waistband off of a pair of nylons, then cut a narrow tube from a sock cuff or the leg of the nylons. Slip the elastic waistband through the tube you just cut, and use the loops of elastic on either side as “leg holes.” The fabric piece in the middle will help hold your crotch in place when you tuck.
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   Lie on your back with the gaff pulled halfway up. You can also stand, but lying down will help prevent you from losing your balance. Pull your gaff up to your knees so that you can easily pull it up the rest of the way once everything is tucked into place.
3. 
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   Push your genitals back between your legs with one hand. If you want, gently push your testicles up inside your body first. To do this, use 2-3 fingers to carefully push your testicles up into the inguinal canals—those spaces they tend to move into naturally when you’re really cold. You can also just push them off to either side. Carefully pull your penis back between your legs and tuck it snugly between your butt cheeks.

   • For extra security, some people prefer to tuck with tape first before putting on a gaff. However, you may find that doing just one or the other is enough.
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   Pull the gaff up with your free hand. Keep your genitals in place with one hand and work your gaff the rest of the way up your hips with the other. You may need to fiddle with the gaff a little to make sure it feels snug enough and everything is where it needs to be.

   • If anything hurts, undo the tuck and try again. A little discomfort is normal, but your tuck shouldn’t be painful!
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   Put on your swimsuit over the gaff. Once you’re satisfied with how your gaff is sitting, simply slip on your suit or bikini bottom over it. You might need to experiment to find a suit that looks good with your gaff of choice. For instance, it will likely work best with a swimsuit that matches the color and cut of your gaff.

   • “Always bring a backup gaff or tape in case something happens,” recommends Gay. “It’s better to be prepared.”

Section 3 of 4:

Wearing Specialized Swimwear

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1. 
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   Check out online stores that sell trans-friendly swimwear. Today, there are more options for inclusive swimwear styles than ever! If you don’t want to mess with tape or a gaff, look for a swimsuit that’s already designed to smooth out your crotch area. Companies like Rubies, TomboyX, and UNTAG all make swimsuits for trans bodies.

   • You can also find trans-friendly swimwear on sites like Etsy.
   • Much like a gaff, these suits are typically designed with thick, stretchy material that will smooth out your crotch area and help you keep your tucked genitals in place.
   • There are a ton of styles available, from bikinis, two-pieces, one-pieces, and beyond.
   • “If money is an object, I would recommend first getting high-waisted swim bottoms, as the high waist can help you create a natural look by providing extra material to conceal yourself,” says Gay.
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   Wear a tight swimsuit or bikini bottom in place of a gaff. If the material is thick and tight enough, a regular swimsuit bottom on its own might be enough to keep everything in place (especially if you purchase it from a trans swimwear brand). Experiment with simply tucking everything out of the way and then putting on your suit. If you feel confident and secure, you’re good to go!

   • Alternatively, try layering 2 snug swimsuit bottoms. For instance, you could put on a thong bikini bottom under a swimsuit with more coverage.
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   Get a swimsuit bottom with a skirt or ruffle. If you’re still feeling self-conscious about what’s going on down there, some extra coverage can make a big difference. Put on a swimming skirt or a suit with ruching or ruffles in front. These are super popular with trans women (and they look adorable)!

   • You can also throw some denim cutoffs over your swimsuit bottom for a cute and stylish look.
   • “The optimal goal for tucking is to create a smooth, natural look that can create a sense of gender euphoria when wearing tighter outfits, swimsuits, and underwear,” says Gay.

Section 4 of 4:

Additional Advice For Tucking

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1. 
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   Pee before you tuck. Once you tuck, going to the bathroom becomes a real challenge—especially if you use tape! Even if you don’t really feel like you need to go, use the bathroom right before you tuck.

   • Once you’ve tucked, you’ll need to untuck before you can pee again.
   • That said, if you need to pee after or while you’re tucked, it’s important to untuck and do that rather than holding it. Holding your pee can cause urinary tract infections.
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   Take extra tape with you. Before you hit the pool or beach, throw some extra tucking tape in your bag. Then, if the need arises, you can always redo your tuck after you go to the bathroom.

   • Don’t forget to bring a towel, too! If you’ve been swimming, you’ll need to dry off before you reapply the tape.
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   Avoid taping if you need to stay tucked for a long time. If you’re planning a long day in the water, consider using gaff or compression swimwear instead of tape. That way, you won’t have to worry about retaping yourself every time nature calls.

   • Taping is also more likely to cause irritation and pain than other tucking methods, so you might want a gentler option for long-term wear.
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   Try to pee regularly throughout the day. Unfortunately, holding in your pee can put you at risk of health problems, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). As challenging or uncomfortable as it may be, do your best to get to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge. If that’s not possible, try to plan a few bathroom breaks into your day so you aren’t waiting too long.

   • Doctors recommend going at least once every 3 hours to keep your bladder healthy.
   • If you don’t feel safe or comfortable using the bathrooms wherever you’re swimming, it might help to ask a supportive friend to go with you.
   • You can also use apps like Refuge Restrooms to help you find the nearest gender-inclusive restroom.
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   Stay hydrated (even if it means more bathroom breaks). You might be tempted to avoid drinking or eating before you tuck, but doing so can put you at risk of dehydration and other health problems. If you can, eat and drink like you normally would before and during the time that you’re tucked.

   • It’s especially important to stay hydrated if you’re going to be basking on a sunny beach!
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   Avoid tucking for more than 4-8 hours at a time. Your penis and testicles are very sensitive, and tucking for extended sessions (or staying tucked 24/7) can cause health issues. You could experience skin irritation or inflammation, UTIs, testicular or inguinal pain, impaired venous and lymphatic circulation, increased risk of inguinal hernia or varicocele, or decreased fertility. As long as you take breaks and don’t tuck for really long periods of time, though, you should be just fine.

   • “Remember that tucking should never be painful. If you are experiencing pain, remove your tuck and try again,” advises Gay.
   • If you notice areas of purple or blue blotching or very pale skin in your genital area after tucking, this means that you’ve tucked too tightly and cut off circulation. Undo the tuck immediately and try it again, a little more loosely this time.
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   See your doctor if you develop pain or other symptoms. Even if you’re careful, you can still sometimes get a UTI after tucking. If you have symptoms like burning when you pee, pain in your lower abdomen, or pee that smells bad or looks cloudy or bloody, call your doctor right away.

   • Most UTIs clear up quickly with a short course of antibiotics.
   • If you have symptoms of a UTI, don’t wait to get help. If you go too long without treatment, the infection could get more serious, move up into your kidneys, or become chronic.

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