For many, BDSM sex toys feel a little out of their initial comfort zone. There’s a common misconception that BDSM toys are only for ‘kinksters’ and people who have a fruitful sex life. However, this simply isn’t the case. These toys can be used for fun and experimentation by anyone! Whether you’re looking to spice up a weekday evening, try something new or enhance intimacy with a partner, these are the perfect remedy.
This week, the Little Miss Vanilla team take a closer look at the world of BDSM toys, practices to follow and some of the best toys to consider if you’re beginning your journey of exploration!
What is BDSM?
BDSM is a term that encompasses a variety of consensual erotic practices involving bondage, discipline, dominance and submission, sadism, and masochism. Here's a breakdown of what each component stands for:
Bondage and Discipline
Bondage involves the physical restraint of a partner using ropes, cuffs, or other devices. Discipline refers to the use of rules and punishments to control behaviour.
Dominance and Submission
Dominance involves one person taking control or authority over another. Submission involves one person willingly giving up control to another.
Sadism and Masochism
Sadism refers to deriving pleasure from inflicting pain or humiliation on a partner. Masochism refers to deriving pleasure from receiving pain or humiliation.
Communication is Key
Before using BDSM sex toys, it's essential to understand the principles of safe and consensual play. Communication, trust, and mutual respect are the cornerstones of any BDSM activity. Discussing boundaries, establishing safe words, and continuously checking in with your partner(s) are crucial steps to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved. All parties involved must agree to and understand the nature of the activities.
Top Safety Tips
To ensure you’re on the right track, here are our top safety tips for using BDSM sex toys:
Start Slowly: After establishing preferences and boundaries, you can start the exploration process! Be sure to start with lighter play and gradually increase intensity as you and your partner(s) become more comfortable and experienced.
Use Safe words: Establish clear safe words to signal when play should stop immediately. Common choices include "red" for stop and "yellow" for slow down.
Educate Yourself: Research each toy and its proper use. Many BDSM communities offer online workshops and resources to help you learn safe practices.
Clean and Maintain Toys: Regularly clean your toys according to the manufacturer's instructions to prevent the spread of infections and maintain their longevity.
Most Popular BDSM Sex Toys
If you’re looking for guidance on what BDSM toys to use as a beginner, look no further. Here are our top recommendations:
Handcuffs and Ropes: Handcuffs and ropes are staples in bondage play. They’re used to restrain movement, heightening sensations and creating a sense of vulnerability. When using these items, it's crucial to ensure they are applied safely to avoid causing injury. Soft restraints like silk ties or padded cuffs are excellent options for beginners.
Restraints and Bondage Gear
Blindfolds: Blindfolds can significantly enhance sensory experiences by depriving the wearer of sight, making every touch, sound, and scent more intense. This can build anticipation and heighten arousal.
Bondage Tape: Unlike regular tape, bondage tape sticks to itself and not to the skin, making it a safe and versatile option for creating quick and easy restraints that can be stuck on or removed swiftly.
Impact Play Toys
Floggers: Floggers have multiple tails made of leather or suede are used for impact play. They can deliver a range of sensations from light, teasing strokes to more intense whipping depending on the material and how they are used.
Paddles: Paddles come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, offering different sensations. A paddle with a smooth surface will provide a sharp, stinging sensation, while those with a padded surface will offer more of a thudding impact.
Sensory Play Toys
Feathers and Ticklers: Feathers and ticklers are perfect for exploring sensory play. They can be used to tease and tantalise the skin, heightening arousal and anticipation.
Wartenberg Wheels: This rubber spiked wheel can be rolled over the skin to create a unique, tingling sensation. It's great for exploring different levels of pressure and sensitivity.
Get in Touch
There are many different BDSM sex toys to choose from! If you’re looking to explore more, why not check out bondage for beginners range?
At Little Miss Vanilla, we are experts in all things seductive and erotic for every gender. With a passion for delivering the highest quality lingerie and sex toys to our vast customer base, we are strong believers that everybody can benefit from what we have to offer!
Our team are always open to questions or queries, so if you’re wondering, we’d love to hear from you. Simply get in touch with our expert team by filling out our contact form today.
