What is the Purpose of Draping in a Massage?

One of the most common questions about massages is why draping is necessary.

Draping refers to using sheets or towels to cover parts of the body that are not being massaged while only exposing the area that's receiving treatment.

The purpose of draping in a massage is to maintain modesty and protect the client's privacy.

Ideally, this practice ensures that only one part of your body will be exposed at any given time during the session, providing you with a sense of comfort and security throughout your treatment.

You can expect the use of clean sheets, blankets and or towels on each client to prevent customer cross-contamination.

Can I have a no drape massage?

The short answer: it depends on what state you are in.

In NYS, you may not legally have a no drape massage even if you wanted to consent to it.

For information you can check out this NYS massage therapy regulations website.

https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/massage-therapy/guidelines-practice

What if I want a no drape massage?

Ultimately, there is a someone out there for everyone, but I personally will not take a client who doesn't want to use a drape while laying on the table unclothed.