5 Types of Restraints for Bondage Play

These days more and more couples are deciding that they want to experiment with bondage, but in some cases they aren't really sure where to start. If this is you, there's no need to stress or overthink this. You can simply start by tying up your partner or using a set of handcuffs. I know that some couples are a bit apprehensive and don’t like the idea of a full-on restraint system, while others want to dive right in. So, what are some types of BDSM restraints for lovers? We've listed out 5 types below, in order from least kinky, to kinkiest.

1. Soft Handcuffs

Unlike standard police handcuffs, which are metal and can seriously dig into your skin (trust me, I have had that experience more than once in the bedroom before soft cuffs were invented) soft cuffs are, well, SOFT. They are often padded and extremely comfortable. A majority of the cuffs come with little clasps so that you can clasp them together, clasp them to other cuffs, or clasp them to other restraint systems. The reason soft cuffs are a nice way to start with bondage is because they are not intimidating and can provide a nice segue into bondage.

Recommended Product: Gold Deluxe Furry Cuffs

2. Rope

Probably one of the most versatile restraint types would be rope. I am not talking about that rough yellow rope you can get by the yard at the local hardware store, no that would not be comfortable. I am talking about bondage rope. Bondage rope is different because it is made from a soft polyester (or even cotton blend) so that it is soft, pliable and will not give you that rope burn that most people associate with rope.

So, bondage rope is available in a variety of lengths and colors and it is so versatile because you can do a lot of tying – or a little bit – and simply enjoy experimenting. Just remember, never tie too tightly, make sure the restrained person can feel their limbs, and always have a pair of scissors around in case you need to make an emergency cut.

Recommended Product: Bondage Rope Kit

3. Pleasure Tape

Again, the word ‘tape’ probably makes you think of duct tape like you would find at the Home Depot, but pleasure tape is a tape of a different…well, it is just different. The wonderful thing about bondage tape is that it only sticks to itself! This means it will not rip your skin or hair off when you remove it.

Bondage tape is a little less intimidating than rope and it can be used in a variety of ways, making it convenient for those “spur of the moment” bondage times. You can twist it and make it like rope, simply use it like tape, wrap certain parts of the body together (like ankles or wrists) or you can even use it to cover up parts of the body such as nipples (you have seen those Xs on women modeling lingerie, right?)

Recommended Product: Dark Amour Pleasure Tape

4. Restraint System

Once you have decided that you like the soft cuff restraints it is a good idea to advance up to a restraint system. There are SO many different types of restraint systems that you can literally find anything possible to attach your cuffs to. There are under the bed restraints, where you can have your wrists and ankles tied at the same time (like the one recommended below).

Some restraint systems are designed to place the restrained person in a specific position, such as hogtied (both hands and feet tied together behind the back), or feet tied behind the head, or even a spider web set up for adjustable ties. Restraint systems add a tremendous amount of variety to bondage and often can be used in more than one way. A great investment for couples interested in bondage.

Recommended Product: Under The Bed Bondage Restraint System

5. Spreader Bars

Finally we have the spreader bar, one of our more advanced BDSM toys. A spreader bar has cuffs attached to either end where, usually, the ankles are cuffed and it “spreads” the feet apart on the bar. You can use a spreader bar to attach the wrists as well, and the bar can be suspended for different options. Spreader bars are a more serious type of restraint because they are very immobilizing and are not flexible at all (some restraint systems have a bit of wiggle room). However, spreader bars can really bring a new level of bondage excitement to a couple and they can experiment with all the ways to use a spreader bar!

Recommended Product: The Kinky Bondage Spreader Bar

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