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Are you into hot bondage games and enjoy being restricted in your movement, or do you like tying up your partner on the bed, chair, or St. Andrew’s cross? Like many bondage enthusiasts, you can use ropes or handcuffs, or you can opt for a special bondage tape. This article explains what bondage tape is and what to watch out for when using it.
Bondage Tape Is More Than Ordinary Adhesive Tape
If you think you can just go to the hardware store and grab some duct tape or gaffer tape, you’re mistaken. Bondage tape may look like regular tape, but it has completely different properties. Notably, it lacks adhesive backing. Adhesive would be counterproductive in erotic bondage play as it’s difficult to remove, can irritate the skin, and painfully pull out hair on the arms, legs, or head.
Bondage tape, on the other hand, is made from thin plastic or PVC and has a very smooth surface, allowing it to stick only to itself. You might recognize this effect from cling film. This feature makes it possible to tape your partner’s mouth, nose (NEVER BOTH TOGETHER!!!), or eyes safely. Thanks to its self-adhesive nature, bondage tape is quick and easy to remove. When using handcuffs, ropes, or similar tools, freeing the bound person requires more effort.
Material Properties of Bondage Tape
The tape is usually between 5 and 7 centimeters wide, providing broad contact with the skin, which is more comfortable than a rope. Its smooth surface on both sides minimizes the risk of friction injuries. However, if the restrained person sweats, the tape can slip. If it twists or is applied too tightly, it might cut into the skin. Too tight an application can also cause numbness in the restrained person.
Since it lacks adhesive backing and has a smooth surface, tape doesn’t leave any sticky residue when removed.
One important property of tape is its complete lack of breathability, which is especially relevant if you’re engaging in so-called edge play, such as breath control by blocking airways. When gagging with bondage tape, always ensure the gagged person can breathe freely.
You can also use bondage tape to secure your partner to furniture such as beds, tables, or chairs without damaging the surfaces. This smooth-surface advantage also applies when pairing bondage tape with other exciting sex toys. For instance, you could use the tape to keep a dildo in place in your partner’s rear. Bondage tape is compatible with the materials of such toys. You can also use it to secure a gag—like a cloth or sock placed in your partner’s mouth—by carefully wrapping the tape around their head. Always ensure the gag isn’t too large and doesn’t unintentionally obstruct their airways.
What Bondage Tape Is Good For
In principle, tape can be used for all kinds of restraint games. It’s suitable for simply binding hands and feet, as well as for blindfolding your partner. Fans of erotic boundary-pushing, such as edge play, will also find bondage tape useful. However, the physical and psychological well-being of your partner should always be the priority. Because the tape is completely airtight, never leave the gagged or restrained person alone, and immediately remove the tape if they show any signs of discomfort or distress.
When engaging in edge play, always ensure the person’s nose is free or can quickly be uncovered if you’re controlling their breathing. Although bdsm tape is easy to remove, keep a pair of scissors on hand to cut it in an emergency. Despite the thrill of risk-taking and exploring boundaries, the safety and well-being of participants in these erotic adventures must always come first.
What Tape Is Not Suitable For
Many bondage enthusiasts enjoy suspension bondage—hanging the restrained person from one or more suspension points above their head. For such play, the adhesive strength of bondage tape is too weak and cannot support the person’s weight. Any activities requiring the tape to bear significant weight are not feasible. However, there are plenty of other erotic games to explore.
Bondage Tape Is Reusable
Unlike ordinary adhesive tape, which is discarded after use because its stickiness wears off, bondage tape can be reused. Since it doesn’t have adhesive backing, it can be cleaned thoroughly, for example, with a sex toy cleaner, after use. Properly roll it back up, and it’s ready for the next session. This makes bondage tape a cost-effective option for your steamy games.
To avoid confusion and potential pain during removal, never store bdsm tape alongside household adhesive materials like duct tape or gaffer tape.
Health Comes First
Even with bondage tape, the health and safety of all participants should always come first. While edge play explores sexual boundaries, bondage and gagging with tape must always be conducted in a way that ensures no one gets hurt. Take all necessary precautions to make bondage play an erotic adventure rather than a nightmare with lasting physical or emotional harm.
A fundamental rule for bondage and gag play is never to leave the bound person unattended. Regularly check that the tape hasn’t slipped and isn’t blocking airways (especially the nose). Some people, due to anatomical or health reasons, cannot get enough air solely through their nose and need to breathe through their mouth. For such individuals, blocking both the nose and mouth can quickly become dangerous.
Bondage Tape as an Exciting Toy for Sexual Fantasies
Despite some risks (such as its lack of breathability and the danger of confusing it with duct or gaffer tape), bondage tape is an exciting toy that can help fulfill many sexual fantasies, particularly in bondage and BDSM. Its material properties and ease of use make it an excellent choice, especially for beginners exploring the world of bondage. Additionally, its reusability and easy cleaning make it appealing to bondage fans. Given the cost of acquiring toys, tools, and outfits in this realm, a more affordable option like bondage tape is a doubly welcome addition.
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