First, what is BDSM? It is a set of practices involving role playing, and exploration of power dynamics.

Second, what are BDSM bondage toys? These are tools designed to enhance sensations, dominance, submission, and role playing dynamics.

And third, why would anyone want to start using BDSM gear? They’re great aids for those who have kinks.

So today, this BDSM beginner guide will cover BDSM exploration and safe BDSM play, the best beginner toys.

Understanding BDSM Play & Safe Exploration

Before you “add to cart” or visit a store grabbing all of the BDSM gear that looks appealing to you, it’s important.

Consent & communication are key

Together, you can talk about your desires, your limits, and your boundaries. This must be confirmed and understood by both partners before any play happens. If it helps, it could be written down. To solidify these desires, boundaries, and hard limits, a safe word should be implemented.

Start with light sensations

Whether you’re brand new or experienced, it’s great to start off light with some sensory play. For example, you could use a feather tickler to caress your partner’s body or perhaps a vibrator to create anticipation and arousal.

Always practice aftercare

BDSM bondage toys for gentle play can be secured at the wrists or ankles, providing BDSM restraint. This allows for light submission without discomfort.

Sensory play & anticipation: blindfolds

Add a blindfold to cover your partner’s eyes which will heighten their other senses. This will aid in mystery and suspense, making each touch more electrifying.

Sensory teasing: feather ticklers.

A flirty way to stimulate your partner’s nerve endings would be to slowly stroke their body with a feather tickler. This can build up anticipation in a non-intimidating and pleasurable way, all the while preparing them for what’s next.

Gentle impact play: floggers & paddles

The keyword here is “gentle”. You can gently start with light, rhythmic tapping before increasing intensity (if this has been agreed upon). Whichever intensity you choose, it is a fun activity as it allows for controlled sensation play without (excessive) pain.

Power play & submission: gags

To really enforce power exchange and submission dynamics, you could secure a ball gag in your partner’s mouth. A ball gag is a simple sex toy that renders the wearer unable to speak, increasing their feeling of submission. There are ball gags, bit gags, and breathable gags to try, enhancing their sensory focus.

Sensation play & arousal control: nipple clamps

Nipple clamps are “clamped” onto the nipples, thus providing hands-free stimulation. The sensation could range from a gentle tugging to a more intense pinching, while at the same time increasing arousal. You could start with gentle pressure and gradually adjust the intensity if you so wish, making it great for beginners. There are adjustable clamps, vibrating clamps, and magnetic clamps to try.

How to Introduce BDSM Toys into Play

Now that we’ve looked at the various BDSM toys for beginners, and we’ve touched on the importance of having open communication with your partner beforehand, let’s get more in-depth about how to introduce BDSM toys into your play time.

Start with one toy at a time

As we mentioned, before you add several items to your shopping bag, why not research and find one that seems intriguing to you. It’s better to start off small so as not to overwhelm yourself or your partner.

Use BDSM toys during foreplay

Try to incorporate your toy during foreplay at first as opposed to making it the main big event. This could be a gentle way in which to introduce it into your play time in an easy, slow manner. Experiment a little and see how you like it.

Take turns with different roles

Perhaps you’re not familiar with if you’d like to be more dominant or submissive. Take the time for both of you to explore both roles and see it as a fun learning experience. It could be that you identify more with one role, or perhaps you’re a switch (someone who likes to be both dominant and submissive).

Communicate throughout the experience

The communication portion doesn’t end when you start playing. Make sure to check in before, during, and after play time. And remember to make use of your safe word if need be.

BDSM Toy Safety Tips & Best Practices

Then, of course, you’re going to want to enjoy every second of your experience with your BDSM gear and play time. In doing so, it’s important to remember these safety tips and best practices.

Sex toy material matters

Be mindful of the material that your sex toy is made of. Aim for medical-grade silicone, leather, or hypoallergenic material. These are not only safe for the body but also are easier to clean and store. Other materials can be harmful for the body, and may be porous, making them difficult to rid of bacteria.

Avoid cutting off circulation with restraints

If you’re opting to use BDSM restraints, make sure that they’re secure but comfortable. They should never be so tight that they cut off blood restriction. Both partners need to be mindful throughout this process.

Slowly introduce impact play

Prepare the body slowly for impact play. It’s better to begin with gentle taps and slow glides before attempting increased pressure. It’s also imperative to continue talking with your partner throughout this process as to their comfort level and what their pleasure and limits are.

Clean sex toys after every use

For worry-free and safe BDSM play, be sure to clean your sex toys after every single use. This is to prevent bacteria build up and infections. After you’ve cleaned your toys, you can store them in a cool, dry place, preferably in a bag to avoid dust.

Have a safe word & emergency plan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in BDSM Toy Play.

If you’re choosing to engage in BDSM play, or using BDSM toys and gear—whether a newbie or not—we urge you to avoid these common mistakes:

We’ve sprinkled some of these common mistakes to avoid in BDSM toy play throughout this article, but they’re all super important and thus, deserve a concise summary for your safety.

We’ve mentioned it before, but having a safe word is of paramount importance. Things may seem to get hot and heavy, but when someone has reached their limit, there has to be a way in which to end things immediately, without fault.

At the same time, if you’re using any BDSM toys that could pose any risks, there needs to be an emergency plan in-place. For example, if you’re using restraints, you may want to keep scissors nearby in case you cannot release the restraints.

BDSM Playtime: Incorporate temperature play with ice cubes or hot wax, electrostimulation with wands for tingles, and chastity devices for control & orgasm denial. Indulge in BDSM role play scenarios using BDSM toys.

The most important takeaway in this BDSM beginner guide is to take it slow, communicate, and experiment safely.

Remember, you are entering a new kind of play with a partner, thus everything that you do involves two people. Consent is a must!

You may love this Clitoral Balm to heighten sensitivity? It gives off a warming effect, encourages blood flow to the clitoris!

Or, perhaps you’d like to go a bit bolder than that? A Tassel Choker? A three-in-one cheeky BDSM accessory… play time!

Discover pleasure with: