How to Hide Your Diabetes Devices: Discreet CGM & Insulin Pump Hacks

Disclaimer: All content and information in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. For the latest information, please visit the manufacturer’s website. Last updated on 5/14/25.

Some days you might want to show off your CGM or insulin pump with pride or even coordinate it with your outfit. But it you're rocking a neutral fit or just not in the mood to give the person behind at Target your full medical history, we've got a few tips on how to stay discreet.

Whatever your reason, your boundaries are valid. We’re all about owning your diabetes– but that doesn’t mean your diabetes devices need to be everyone’s business. There are plenty of discreet ways to keep your diabetes devices out of sight and out of conversations.

Strategic Placement

Where you place your CGM or insulin pump makes a huge difference in how visible it is–or isn’t. Whether you’ve got a special event coming up or just want a more discreet set up, these strategic placements keep your diabetes devices under the radar. Just remember to consider your outfit details: sleeves or sleeveless, form-fitting or loose, short or long bottoms, or whether your clothes have pockets or clippable spots. It all plays a part in strategizing the perfect placement.

⚠️ Heads up: Some of these spots are off-label and not FDA-approved. Use at your own risk and check in with your care team if you’re unsure.

Discreet CGM or Tubeless Insulin Pump Placement

Back of Upper Arm - Easily covered by both short and long sleeves.
Upper Buttocks & Outer Thigh - Tucked away under pants, skirts, or dresses.
Lower Abdomen (Below Waistline) - Hides perfectly under waistbands, dresses and even cropped tops.
Back (Flank Area) - Almost always hidden, unless you’re wearing an open-backed top or swimsuit.

Inner Arm or Inner Thigh- A stealth move. These are sensitive areas, but totally discreet.

Discreet Tubed Insulin Pump Placement

Clipped Inside Waistband - Tucked in and out of sight– tired and true!
Bra or Sports Bra - Slip it under or clip it to straps for discreet placement.
Thigh Band with Pouch or Compression Shorts - Hidden option perfect for skirts and dresses to keep your pump accessible.
Under Arm or Back - For strapless tops, clip your pump under your arm or back- out of sight yet easy to reach.
Clothing with Built-In Pockets - Yes, please. Pockets make pump placement close and discreet.
Tuck or Tape Tubing - Tuck extra tubing inside your clothing or tape it to prevent tubing from peeking through.

Use Overpatches That Blend In

Bright, bold and colorful overpatches can be fun– but if subtle is your goal, look for skin-tone overpatches, neutral-colored adhesives or clear patches. These help your device stay secure while making it less noticeable.

If you’re looking for a barely there option, look for overpatches without cutouts– they cover the whole device for a next-level subtle impact.

Use Remote Features on Your Diabetes Devices

Many diabetes devices come with remote features– think bolusing from your phone, checking your CGM on your smartwatch or using a paired app instead of digging into your pocket or waistband.

Customize Your Alerts and Alarms

There’s nothing like a loud CGM alert or blaring insulin pump to draw unwanted attention. If you’re wanting to be subtle about your diabetes devices customize your alerts and alarms by:

Switch to Vibration - Most pumps and CGMs have a vibrate option so you can stay on top of your alerts without notifying the entire room.
Customize Your Alerts - Prioritize only the most important notifications. Silence or snooze non-urgent ones if your device allows.
Use a Smartwatch or Phone App - Get discreet alerts sent straight to your wrist or phone– no need to dig into your clothes or hear your pump beep.
Adjust Volume and Tone - Some devices let your lower alert volume or choose softer tones.
Set “Quiet” Times - Use Do Not Disturb features during meetings, dates or events– just be sure urgent alerts are still available.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s awkward stares, curious questions or just feeling “different,” it’s okay to want some space from the visibility of diabetes. But remember, choosing privacy isn’t hiding in shame. It’s about comfort, boundaries and giving yourself the right to exist in your body without an explanation.