Packers & STPs
Introduction
If you’re new to the world of gender-affirming gear, packers and STPs may seem particularly daunting. In this brochure, we aim to break down what these products are, how they’re used, and how to choose one that’s right for you!
What is a Packer?
A packer - also called a ‘prosthetic’- is any object (sock, silicone, or otherwise) that allows anyone of any gender to ‘sport a package’. We carry a number of different packers in different colours and materials that are explicitly made for this purpose.
How to Choose a Packer
One big thing to consider when choosing a packer is the material it’s made from. We carry packers made with silicone and elastomer. There are pros and cons to both materials – read on for more details!
Silicone is non-porous, easy to clean, and durable. If you find that you sometimes have reactions to some materials, we recommend trying out a silicone packer. Silicone also stands up better to chlorine than porous materials like elastomer - a good thing to keep in mind if you’re planning on frequenting the neighbourhood pool. Elastomer materials are porous, and will last a few years depending on how well it is cared for. However, elastomer packers are less expensive. Elastomer is essentially made from a blend of silicone and mineral oil.
Don’t forget to consider sizing! Packers may seem small on the shelf, but they appear bigger once you’re packing! Choosing a size that works well for you is really a matter of personal preference, with a little bit of trial and error added into the mix. Some people might want to consider their general height and stature as a starting point.
How to Wear a Packer
If you’re new to packing, it’s a good idea to get used to your package in a safe and comfortable location, before venturing out into public. Consider the length of time you plan on packing over the course of a day, and try it out in private! Stand, sit, bend down, jump around, lie on the couch, and see how everything moves and feels.
Packers can be tucked into snug underwear, or you can purchase a packing strap to hold it in place. Get Your Joey even makes an affordable packing pouch that can be pinned to regular underwear.
Care and Cleaning
Clean your packer regularly with mild soap and water. If your packer is made of silicone, you can boil it for a few minutes in order to help sanitize it. Make sure to let your packer air dry thoroughly after washing. If your packer is made of elastomer, you can dust it with cornstarch after it’s completely dry in order to help it retain a soft, silky feeling.
What is an STP?
An STP is a device that enables the user to Stand To Pee in public washrooms or in the privacy of their own home! Some folks find that being able to use public urinals without detection (‘passing’) is integral to their identity or safety, and some just like the convenience of easily being able to urinate while standing.
How to Use an STP
Regardless of the device you choose, it’s a good idea to get acquainted with your new gear before making your public debut. For a lot of folks, this means bringing their STP into the shower and seeing how everything works! Next, while you’re still at home or somewhere private, try using your STP (and any extra supports you might be using- like straps or harnesses) to urinate into the toilet while standing. You’ll want to make sure that you’ve got a good seal – this can be achieved by cradling the STP against the body when urinating. Further, you’ll want to learn how to control the flow of your urine, to avoid overflows! Be patient and practice – these skills will be critical when you’re in a urinal without backup pants!
Care and Cleaning
All of the STPs we carry are made of silicone. Silicone is durable, retains body heat, and is easy to clean. It’s also phthalate-free and latex-free. Wash your STP regularly with mild soap and water, and allow it to air dry. If you’d like to sanitize your silicone STP, you can boil it for a few minutes.
While durable, silicone products can tear, so keep sharp edges away from your STP. When using an STP packer with a harness or packstrap, take care to make sure it doesn’t get cut or damaged by being forced through the opening or hasty zippering!