Do Autistic People Have Tactile Stims (e.g. Rubbing Fabrics)?

PostedDecember 8, 2025

UpdatedDecember 8, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, many autistic individuals engage in tactile stimming, using touch-based behaviours like rubbing, stroking, or tapping to regulate their senses. Tactile stimming in autism often includes actions such as feeling different textures, playing with soft objects, or running fingers over fabrics. These behaviours help manage sensory input and bring emotional comfort.

Touch is a powerful sense, and for autistic people, it can be either intensely pleasurable or overwhelming. Tactile stimming in autism allows for control over this sensory experience, especially in environments that may feel unpredictable or overstimulating.

Common Types of Tactile Stims

Tactile stimming can vary in form, depending on individual preferences and sensory needs. Here are a few examples:

Fabric rubbing and texture play

Fabric rubbing in autism is a frequently observed stim. It involves stroking clothes, blankets, or plush toys, often focusing on soft, smooth, or patterned materials. This activity can feel calming and grounding, especially in stressful moments.

Repetitive texture behaviours

Some individuals engage in repetitive texture behaviours, such as tapping fingers on textured surfaces, picking at seams, or repetitively brushing hair or skin. These can help reduce anxiety or provide a focus point.

Exploring sensory touch

Whether through clothing tags, beads, or squishy items, sensory touch in autism is often a key part of self-regulation. Sensory tools like textured toys or fidget fabrics can offer safe, soothing options for tactile engagement.

Understanding tactile stimming in autism helps support the need for sensory balance, rather than discouraging the behaviour.

For personalised guidance and support planning, visit providers like Autism Detect.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Stimming (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking).

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.