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Handcuffs
Why Use Cuffs and Restraints During Sex?
Play handcuffs are great if you want to discover bondage and restraint in a simple, comfortable and accessible setting. In fact, handcuffs are often one of the first steps into the world of bondage and BDSM more generally, as you don’t have to learn advanced tie techniques to use them.
Partial or total immobilisation of a partner helps to reinforce trust, anticipation and the ability to let go. The cuffed partner temporarily gives up some control, whilst the other takes charge of what happens next.
Play cuffs can be used in different ways:
- To attach the wrists to the headboard
- To immobilise the ankles
- To bind the wrists together
- To keep the arms behind the back
You can also make use of handcuffs in soft BDSM role play, such as police/prisoner scenarios, where authority is key.
For many couples, handcuffs are the perfect intro to the BDSM world. With cuffs, you can explore dynamics of control, submission and immobilisation before trying out more advanced bondage accessories.
Choosing the Right BDSM Cuffs
There are multiple types of BDSM cuffs, each one adapted to different play styles and experience levels. Before you choose your material and locking mechanism, you need to think about what part of the body you want to immobilise.
What part of the body do you want to immobilise?
Type of cuffs | How they're used |
Handcuffs | To immobilise the hands and the arms. Are used mostly in light bondage, control and submission situations |
Legcuffs | To limit foot and leg movement. Can be used alone or in combination with handcuffs to intensify immobilisation. |
The different materials available
Each material will give you a different experience in terms of comfort, aesthetic and intensity.
Material | Characteristics | Recommended experience level |
Faux fur | Gentle on the skin. Often considered the ideal choice if you’re new to bondage play. | Beginner |
Silicone | Supple, resistant, easy to clean and generally more affordable. | Beginner to advanced |
Leather | Long-lasting, comfortable and emblematic in BDSM circles. The perfect balance between restraint and comfort. | Beginner to advanced |
Metal | Looks the most realistic, provides a more marked feeling of restraint. Popular in police, prisoner and generally authoritative scenarios. | Intermediate to advanced |
What fastening system should you pick?
The locking mechanism impacts things like safety and comfort levels, as well as how easy the cuffs are to remove.
Fastening system | Advantages | Recommended experience level |
Velcro | Easy to adjust and to remove rapidly. Reassuring option for beginners | Beginner |
Adjustable buckle | The perfect compromise between hold, comfort, and ease of use | Beginner to intermediate |
Snap hook or clip | Makes it easy to link multiple bondage accessories together | Intermediate |
Padlock and key | Reinforces the feeling of control and immobilisation. Needs to be used with care, with a quick release option at hand | Intermediate to advanced |
For first-timers, fur, silicone or leather options with fastening tape are generally the most comfortable, accessible options.
Precautions to Take When Using BDSM Handcuffs
Handcuffs are generally easy to use, but a few precautions will ensure that both partners are safe and having fun.
Before you get started, make sure the handcuffs are properly adapted to the person who will be wearing them. An adjustable model will be more comfortable, and will also reduce the risk of the cuffs being too tight.
A few key things to remember:
- Choose adjustable cuffs that adapt to various wrist and ankle sizes
- Try the handcuffs on beforehand to make sure they’re comfortable
- Make sure blood circulation isn’t cut off
- Make sure the cuffs can be easily removed at any point if needed
- Never leave a handcuffed person alone or unsupervised, even for a few minutes
- Keep an eye on your partner’s comfort levels and their reactions throughout
To keep your accessories in tip-top shape, make sure to look after them properly:
- Clean your handcuffs using warm water and a mild soap
- Dry your cuffs thoroughly before putting them away
- Check the seams, and fastens each time before using them
Take your time, communicate with your partner, choose the right accessory, and you’ll be enjoying safe, sensual bondage play in no time.
