24 Types of BDSM Toys You Should Know About

The world of BDSM toys can seem overwhleming at times. So, for any confused kinksters out there, I’m here with the ultimate guide to all the different types of BDSM toys out there!

BDSM itself is a very broad term encompassing all sorts of sexual practices that involve some kind of bondage, discipline, domination, submission, sadism and masochism. Kinky sex can be practiced at many different levels of intensity and generally in many ways!

These types of BDSM toys are simply creative tools that enhance these experiences. Although, the wide range of BDSM practices means that BDSM toys come in a lot of different types and styles. Each designed to cater to specific preferences and kinks.

Today, we’ll delve into the different types of BDSM toys and their uses. Of course, I will also go over some basic BDSM safety tips to ensure a pleasurable and safe kinky experience.

Table of Contents

• Types of BDSM Restraints
• Types of BDSM Toys for Sensation Play
• Types of BDSM Toys for Impact Play
• Other Types of BDSM Toys
• Basic Safety Tips For Different Types of BDSM Toys

Types of BDSM Restraints

Sexual restraints are, in my humble opinion, one of the most basic but also the most important components in a BDSM scene. Of course, they’re not always necessary. Even so, you will often find them at the centre of most kinky scenarios. So, let’s have a look at some of the different types of BDSM restraints out there.

1. Bondage Rope

Bondage rope is a type of BDSM toy used for binding, restraining, or decorating the body in BDSM play. Use this versatile tool in a variety of ways. You can make simple wrist or ankle ties as well as more complex body harnesses or artistic rope patterns.

Bondage rope comes in different lengths, thicknesses, and materials. The most common materials include cotton, nylon, jute, and hemp. Each material has its own pros and cons in terms of flexibility, friction-level, comfort, and suspension-suitability. The material basically dictates which type of bondage you can do with it.

Cotton and nylon ropes are softer and easy to work with. Therefore, they’re great for beginners. Hemp and jute ropes are more durable and hold knots well. These kind of bondage rope are popular choices for more advanced bondage or suspension bondage.

Safe use of bondage rope requires a certain level of familiarity with safe bondage techniques. You should learn how to tie and untie knots quickly, how to avoid restricting circulation, and how to position the body to avoid nerve damage.

Check out Isabelle’s full review of the Kink Bind & tie Initiation Kit which is a set of high quality hemp bondage ropes! Here, you can see some of the basic knots she tried out with the bondage rope kit!

2. Bondage Tape

Unlike your traditional duct tape, bondage tape only sticks to itself and not to skin or hair. This makes it much safer and more comfortable to use for your kinky sessions. It’s typically made of PVC and is available in a bunch of diffent colors.

Bondage tape can be used to bind, gag, blindfold, or even make a cute (mostly kinky) outfit for your sub. I’ve even got another blog post you can check out if you’re looking for different ways to use bondage tape like a pro!

It’s versatile, easy to use, and quick to remove if you’re ever in a pinch! This is why I think its a great options for both beginners and experienced players in the BDSM scene. Its non-sticky nature means it can be used multiple times, and won’t leave any residue or marks on the skin.

The flexibility of bondage tape allows for a variety of uses. It can be used to create elaborate outfits, bind limbs together, or even create makeshift handcuffs. Its ease of use and versatility make it a staple in many BDSM toy collections.

3. Bondage Cuffs

Want a simple yet effective way to restrict your subs movement? Bondage cuffs are great for creating a sense of vulnerability and surrender, enhancing the power dynamics between partners. Handcuffs for sex are suitable for use on different body parts, most commonly the wrists and ankles, and can easily be paired with other kinky accessories.

Bondage cuffs can be made of leather, metal, faux fur, and neoprene. Of course, each material offers a different aesthetic, different level of comfort, and are suitable for different kinds of BDSM play. Some cuffs are also padded or lined with soft materials for added comfort during extended wear.

Ankle cuffs, thigh cuffs, leg cuffs, you name it! There are so many different types to choose from. Some can be used by themselves, while others can be connected with chains, ropes, or other hardware for more complex bondage scenarios.

Cuffs often feature adjustable straps or buckles. The fastening points allow you to use all those previously mentioned attachments or to secure someone to a piece of furniture. The adjustability make them a lot more accessible to a wide range of body sizes and shapes.

Types of BDSM Restraint Systems

4. Harnesses

Ready for some full-body restraint? With these kinky little devices, you don’t need a bunch of different products to tie your sub down limb-by-limb. One single product can offer a whole lot of restriction. A restraint harness can restrict movement more generally and provide a stronger sense of confinement.

They’re often made of leather or nylon and wrap around various parts of the body, such as the chest, waist, or limbs.

Restraint harnesses can have a lot of different designs and styles depending on their intended function. Some er more decorative with more intricate designs but less suitable for heavy duty bondage. Others focus more on the restraint functionality with several attachment points (D-rings, O-rings, buckles etc.) or multiple straps and buckles to bind the arms, legs, or entire body.

As with all BDSM gear, it’s important to use restraint harnesses safely and consensually. This includes checking for a proper fit. Make sure the wearer can breathe and move comfortably – whatever that means for them!

5. Hogties

In a classic hogtie, the wearer’s ankles and wrists are tied together, with the ropes or straps pulling their hands and feet towards one another at the back. This intensely restricts movement and can put the wearer in a very vulnerable position, often lying on their stomach.

You can easily make a hogtie out of other bondage equipment, like ropes, cuffs, or evne bondage tape. Although a ready-made hogtie restraint may make things a lot easier. Also, I personally enjoy the look of a hogtie restraint and would prefer it over a make-shift hogtie any day! This type of hogtie usually consists of a central O-ring or bar with several attachment points for cuffs or ropes.

In terms of safety, it’s important to keep an eye on your sub. This position can be tiring over time, so check in with them. Make sure they can breathe comfortaly and that circulation isn’t being cut off.

6. Spreader Bars

A spreader bar is the type of BDMS toy that has that classic kinky look and feel. This piece of equipment will keep a person’s legs or arms spread apart, so they stay open and ready for anything…

The bar is usually made of metal and can be coated in leather or nylon. There’s often several cuffs and attachment points at each end where the wrists or ankles can be secured. Some spreader bars are also adustable in length so you can spread your sub’s legs wide open.

During use, it’s important to make sure the cuffs are not too tight and that the wearer can maintain their balance when their legs or arms (or both) are spread.

Check out Erin’s in-depth review of the Fifty Shades of Grey Spreader Bar! And if you need some inspiration for the best spreader bar positions, you can have a look at Edwina’s blog post.

Types of BDSM Facial Bondage

7. Ball Gags

Want to silence your sub? Perhaps you just love the sounds of them desperately sputtering out muffled moans? Well, a bondage gag might be something for you. Bondage gags and ball gags restrict a person’s speech and keep their mouth open. There are so many different types of bondage gags out there! There’s the classic ball gag, bit gags, o-ring gags, panel gags, dildo gags, fleshlight gags, hook gags, funnel gags, you name it!

The insertable parts of bondage gags are usually made of silicone, ABS plastic, or, in some cases, metal. The straps are then usually made of leather, faux leather, nylon, or silicone. They are often adjustable to accommodate a range of different sizes.

Bondage gags are very versatile and can be used as a decorative or functional accessory. They’re great at enhancing that sense of submission or objectification. The sense of vulnerability can also intensity with this muffled features. The person wearing the gag cannot speak clearly and must rely on non-verbal communication which might elevate the power dynamics in a BDSM scene.

8. Bondage Hoods and Masks

A bondage hood or BDSM mask is a type of BDSM gear that covers the head partially or completely, often restricting sight, hearing, or speech to some degree. Depending whether they’re made of leather, latex, lace, or rubber, your bondage hood experience can vary greatly!

Bondage hoods are a good option for anyone who enjoys certain levels of sensory deprivation, or even just some mystery and anonymity to a scene. Some hoods will restrict the wearer’s ability to see, hear, or speak, which can heighten other senses and create a more intense experience.

There are many different types of bondage hoods and masks, each with its own unique features. Some are simple and only cover the eyes, while others may include built-in gags, blindfolds, or ear plugs. Some hoods even have attachments for other BDSM gear, like collars or leashes.

Regarding safety, it’s crucial to be aware of the wearers ability to breathe during use. Check in with them to also make sure that they are feeling safe and comfortable with the different levels of sensory deprivation you may be exploring.

9. Collar & Leash

BDSM collars are basically functional bondage gear and stylish accessories all at once. There are so many different styles and designs. They’re mostly made of leather, metal, or fabric. Some are simple and unadorned, while others have many decorative elements like studs, spikes, or extra D-rings for attaching a leash or other restraints. The leash is typically a chain or leather strap that clips onto the collar.

In a BDSM context, wearing a collar can symbolize submission to a dominant partner. It can also be a sign of ownership or a relationship status within the BDSM community.

The collar should fit comfortably without restricting breathing, and both partners should agree on how the leash will be used. Remember to always lead your sub with slow and firm tugs, never rapid yanks! This can cause damage to the neck.

10. Arm Binders

Arm binders er pretty self-explanatory. They’re bascially more extravangant cuffs for your forearms. They bind the arms and hands together either behind the back or in front of your body. This limits the wearer’s ability to move their arms or hands independently of each other.

Arm binders can look very different and they’re available in many different types of materials, including leather, latex, and canvas. Some are simple sleeves that encase the arms, while others may incorporate straps, buckles, or laces for a more secure fit. Some arm binders also have rings or other attachment points for connecting to other restraints or bondage furniture.

Using an arm binder can require a certain level of flexibility, and it’s important to ensure that the binder is not too tight or causing any discomfort. Also, help the wearer into a comfortable position, since this kind of restraint significantly limits their mobility.

You can have a look at Tawney’s review of the Saffron Gauntlett Cuffs to see if these arm binders would be something for you!

11. Anal Hooks

Ah yes, anal hooks… Intimidating, exhilarating, and just plain intense. Ever wanted to combine anal with bondage? The anal hook is the answer!

Anal hooks are typically made of stainless steel and feature a curved shape, similar to a fishing hook, but with a ball at one end and a ring at the other. Insert the ball into the anus. Align the other end with your back. Now, you can tie ropes or clip leashes, or other restrains to the loop. For example, attach a rope to the hook. Tie this a collar or hair. Now you’ve got a unique form of bondage that can stimulate the wearer with every movement.

Anal hooks basically let you experience a certain type of predicament bondage. Say the anal hook is connected to a collar pulling on your neck in an (intentionally) uncomfortable position. Any movement you make with your neck will pull on the bulb in your anus. You’re then forced to endure either sense of discomfort with this kind of predicament bondage.

Types of BDSM Toys for Sensation Play

12. Wartenberg Pinwheel

A Wartenberg pinwheel is actually a medical device made to test nerve reactions. However, it has lovingly been adopted by the BDSM community as a tool for sensation play.

A sturdy hands with a rotating wheel at the end, which is covered in sharp, evenly spaced points. When rolled across the skin, the pinwheel can produce a variety of sensations, from a tickling feeling to a more intense prickling or scratching sensation, depending on the amount of pressure applied.

In a BDSM context, the Wartenberg pinwheel helps you explore different sensory experiences and enhances the spicy anticipation of it all. I personally enjoy the idea of my partner having control over my sensation by controlling the pressure.

It can be especially effective when used in areas with a high concentration of nerve endings, such as the back, the inner thighs, or the soles of the feet.

13. Ticklers

A tickler is a very common type of BDSM toy. A staple tool in the world of sensation play. Obviously, it creates a tickling sensation on the skin, which can be both arousing and teasing.

The design and materials can look very different in ticklers. It all depends on your preferred sensations!

• Do you like ticklish yet soft and supple movements on your skin? Feather ticklers are great for this.
• Do you want something that can send cold or warm tickles down your skin? Metal ticklers are temperature responsive. Heat them up or cool them down prior to your session.
• Do you want something that feels light or heavy? Again, metal ticklers can provide some sturdy sensations, while lighter rubber or feather ticklers feel much lighter to the touch.

Using a tickler can be a gentle way to introduce BDSM play into a sexual relationship. Its non-intimidating and focuses on pleasure. Use them all over the body. Although, they’re especially effective on sensitive areas like the inner thighs, the back of the neck, or the underside of the breasts.

14. Electro-Stimulation Toys

Electro-stimulation toys, or e-stim or electrosex toys may seem scary. But these devices offers a wide range of sensation. The electrical currents stimulate nerve endings and muscles. At different intensities, these currents can go from a tingling, pulsing, or throbbing sensation to outright painful (in the best way)…

There are a lot of different types of electro-stimulation toys. There are adhesive pads to place on the skin, insertable toys like dildos or butt plugs, cock rings, and even specialized devices like violet wands. Some devices also allow for the use of multiple electrodes, which can create a sensation of the electrical current moving from one point to another.

Safety is absolutely crucial when using electro-stimulation toys. Read and follow the instructions carefully! Misuse can potentially cause harm. You should also avoid using these toys if you have a heart condition, are pregnant, or have a pacemaker or other electronic medical device.

15. Sex Candles/Massage Candles for Wax Play

Soy candles, or massage candles, unlike regular candles, soy candles have a lower melting point. This means that the wax doesn’t get as hot when melted. Therefore, they’re safer for wax play, as the risk of burns is much lower. The melted wax drips onto the skin, creating a warm, tingling sensation that many people find arousing.

Massage candles take this a step further. Soy wax combined with skin-safe oils. For fragrance, essential oils are sometimes added. The wax melts into a warm oil when the candle is lit. This is now safe to pour onto the skin for massage. Wax play combined with sensual massage? Um, yes please.

In terms of sex candle safety, you should test the temperature of the wax on a less sensitive area of skin before dripping it onto more sensitive areas. Communicate openly and check in with each other throughout your session. Let your partner know if the sensation becomes too intense.

16. Nipple Clamps

Nipple clamps are a taple in the world of spicy sex. Enjoy a light (or not so light) pinching sensation on the nipples with these bad boys. They apply pressure to the nipples and restrict blood flow. This creates a painful or pleasurable sensation depending on your clamp and your personal preference.

Tweezer nipple clamps, alligator nipple clamps are great for beginners. Butterfly nipple clamps, magnetic nipple clamps, and weighted nipple clamps are on the more intense side. There are so many variations of nipple clamps out there! You can’t help but find something perfect for you. You can also tug on nipple clamps with chains for added stimulation or attached to other restraints.

When using nipple clamps, you should check in with your partner regularly. Make sure they’re comfortable, remove the clamps if they cause excessive pain, and don’t leave them on for too long, as this can cause damage to the tissue.

17. Nipple Suckers

Nipple suckers are a less invasive alternative to nipple clamps. They work by creating a a suction seal and a vacuum around the nipple, increasing blood flow and sensitivity.

Some are simple silicone bulbs that you squeeze and place over the nipple to create suction, while others may have a screw or pump mechanism to adjust the level of suction. Some nipple suckers also have vibrating features for added stimulation.

In addition to the physical sensation, nipple suckers can also enhance the visual aspects of BDSM play. They can cause the nipples to become temporarily enlarged, which some people find very visually arousing.

Similar to when you’re using nipple clamps, you should remove the suckers if they cause excessive discomfort. Don’t leave them on for too long, as this can cause bruising or damage to the tissue from the swelling.

Types of BDSM Toys for Impact Play

18. BDSM Floggers

Floggers are a classic type of BDMS toy for impact play. They consist of a handle and multiple strands, known as falls. The falls are usually made of leather, suede, or rubber.

You’ll experience a range of sensations, from a gentle tickle to a sharp sting or a heavy thud with floggers. These are some factors that effect the kind of sensation you experience.

• The force you swing with
• The weight of the flogger
• The number and width of the falls
• The materials they’re made from.

Use floggers on areas of the body with more muscle or fat, like the buttocks or thighs. These areas can handle more intense impact. However, you can use them gently on other parts of the body for some sensation play.

For optimal flogger fun, I would recommend that you learn some basic flogging techniques to avoid injuring your partner, and to regularly check in with them to ensure they’re okay with the level of intensity.

19. BDSM Whips

BDSM whips are another type of BDSM toy for impact play. In some way, they’re very similar to floggers and yet so different. Again, these are also mostly made of materials like leather or suede. There’s a handle with a single tail, or multiple tails in the case of a multi-tail whip or cat-o’-nine-tails.

Swing the whips with a flick of the wrist so the tail (or tails strike) the body. You’ll either feel a sharp sting or a heavy thud, depending on the type of whip, the material it’s made from, and the force of the swing.

Again, as with floggers, learning the right techniques will make your whipping experience safer and more pleasurable!

20. Spanking Paddles

Spanking paddles are great tools for anyone looking for level up from manual spanking – or simply want to give their hand a break once in a while! They’re flat impact play instruments that aim to mimic (and even elevate) your regular spanking routine. Often made from materials like leather, wood, or ABS plastic. Paddles like this can vary in size and shape, with some being quite small and others being larger and broader, depending on the desired impact.

The sensations that come from using a spanking paddle can range from a mild sting to a more intense thud. This has a lot to do with the shape and thickness of the paddle, the materials, and the force used for the swing. Some paddles have a smooth surface, while others might have a textured or padded surface to alter the sensation.

As with whips and floggers, you should practice your spanking techniques and become familar with the motion before amping up the intensity. Also, concentrate the spanking around the fleshy areas of the body, like the buttocks or thighs, to avoid causing harm.

Other Types of BDSM Toys

21. Chastity Belts

Chastity belts are a type of extreme BDSM device used for erotic denial and control. Worn around the waist, covering the genitals and locking everything in place, this little device prevents the wearer from engaging in any physical sexual activity.

Chastity belts can look more or less intense. The materials and the restrictive design have a lot to do with this. They’re made of leather, silicone, vinyl, and metal most of the time. Some are simple and utilitarian, while others may be more ornate or decorative.

In a BDSM context, chastity belts a great tools to symbolize the extreme power dynamic between and Dom and sub partner. With one partner holding the key (literally) to their sub’s pleasure and even their own access to their body. As always, the use of BDSM devices like this, requires enthusiastic consent and open communication at all times.

22. Chastity Cages/Cock Cages

Cock cages, chastity cages, or male chastity devices, are a type of BDSM toy used for erotic denial or control. They encase the penis, preventing the wearer from achieving a full erection or engaging in sexual activity.

There are a lot of different types of chastity cages! Cock cages come in various designs and materials: plastic chastitiy cages, metal chastity cages, silicone chastity cages, you name it! Some are simple cages that enclose the penis, while others may include additional features like rings that go around the testicles, locks for added security, or built-in urethral sounds.

For adcanced kinksters, the cage can be worn for longer periods of time. For beginners, you should start out slow, a few hours at a time perhaps. Regardless of how long you’re wearing your cock cage, it’s important to keep things nice and clean at all times. Check out Edwina’s detailed guide on chastity cage safety here! We also have a guide on how to measure for a chastity cage. It’s important to find the right fit for you so can avoid any potential pain, swelling or numbness over time.

23. Speculums and Dilators

In a BDSM context, medical play (a type of role-playing scenario where participants play out medical or clinical scenes) is where you will most likely find speculums and dilators. However, curious kinksters who generally get off on enjoying the view of (or simply having full access to) someone’s insides, may enjoy these as well. You can use a speculum to dilate various orifices, most commonly the vagina or anus, allowing for visual inspection, penetration, or other types of play.

The two hinged blades spread apart once inserted and hold the orifice in place. Some speculums are made of metal and are reusable, while others are made of plastic and are intended for single use.

In terms of safety, you should always make sure the speculum is clean. You should use plenty of lube for insertion. You should always check in with your partner, making sure the speculum is not opening them wider than they’re comfortable with.

24. CBT Toys

Cock and Ball Torture (CBT) toys are a category of BDSM toys specifically designed to apply pressure, constriction, or pain to the male genitals. Mostly used in BDSM scenes involving extreme power dynamics, pain play, or erotic humiliation.

There are quite a few different types of CBT toys out there

Let’s go over the most common ones:

1. Ball Stretchers: These are devices that fit around the top of the scrotum and pull down on the testicles, creating a stretching sensation. Mostly made of materials like leather, silicone, or metal. Some designs add to the torture with added weights or spiked attachments for additional pressure and pain.
2. Urethral Sounding Toys: These are long, thin rods that are inserted into the urethra. They can create a range of sensations, from a gentle stretch to a more intense feeling of fullness or penetration. Some advanced sounding practitioners can even stimulate the prostate from the urethra, if the sounding toy is long enough.
3. Cock Pillories: These are devices that immobilize the penis and/or testicles, often in a stretched or exposed position. They can be great devices to keep someone in place during impact play, sensation play, or humiliation scenarios.
4. Ball Crushers: These are devices that apply pressure to the testicles, often through a screw or vise mechanism. The level of pressure can be adjusted to create a range of sensations and push your sub to their limit!
5. Humbler: A device that locks around the base of the scrotum and sits at the top of the thighs, forcing the wearer to keep their legs bent and their genitals exposed.

It’s important to note that CBT toys should always be used with care, as the genitals are sensitive and can be easily injured. Regular communication, maintaining constant consent, and the use of a safe word are essential.

Basic Safety Tips For Different Types of BDSM Toys

As with all sexual activities, safety should be a top priority when using different types of BDSM toys.

Here are some basic safety tips:

• Ensure enthusiastic consent & share your fantasies. Talk to your partner about why you enjoy a certain kinky practice. What do you like about it? How would you like to do it? Where are your limits? Now your partner will know more about what you’re expecting from your playtime. Now, you can ensure that you’re both interested and willing to take the leap!
• Establish a safe word. Decide on a safe word or a safe gesture that will stop any and all activity straight away. You immediately release that person from any restraints and check in with them.
• Never leave a bound person alone. If someone is restrained, they should never be left alone. Always stay within sight and hearing distance in case something happens or they suddenly feel uncomfortable.
• Check for circulation. If using restraints, always check to make sure that blood flow is not being cut off. My go-to rule of thumb is to always leave room for one or two fingers in between the restraints and the skin, so nothing is ever too tight.
• Start slow. Especially with impact play, start slow and gradually increase intensity. This allows the body to adjust and can help prevent any injury.
• Communication is key. Always communicate with your partner. Make sure all activities are consensual and check in regularly to make sure everyone is still comfortable.

BDSM Toys to Explore Your Kinky Side

Remember, the goal of BDSM play is mutual enjoyment. Always respect boundaries and consent, and don’t be afraid to communicate your desires and limits. With the right precautions, BDSM play is a fun and exciting way to experience lesser explored parts of your sexuality.

If you ever need more information or inspiration for any of your kinky adventures, we’ve got you! We have a whole arsenal of informative pieces on all things BDSM! There’s our post about 40 different BDSM positions, about BDSM for beginners, about the best BDSM accessories you could need during your kinky scenes, and even some ideas for DIY BDSM for crafty kinksters!

We’re here to help your learn everything you need to learn in order to live out your sexual desires in a safe and informed way. Now you know all about the different types of BDSM toys out there! Have fun exploring, stay safe, and keep it kinky!