BDSM Gag Safety Tips: Safe, Sane, Consensual

Gag safety is imperatively important. That cannot be stated more simply, or soon enough. While BDSM play is a normal and highly exciting erotic activity, safety, like with "normal" sex, is vital. Gag safety, in particular, requires special attention, because it directly involves the participant's ability to breathe.

There are several kinds of gags, and each of them has separate considerations for gag safety. Ball, ring, tape, and cloth gags are some common choices for BDSM play. We will consider each in turn, and how gag safety principles can be applied to them. First, however, some basic gag safety principles that apply to all types.

Make sure that the gag fits the wearer's mouth properly, and is not too tight. Gags should never be used if the wearer feels ill, as unexpected vomit may be blocked by a tight gag and cause suffocation. Gags that involve the nose and mouth simultaneously should never be used. If at all possible, serious gag play should be done with a partner. Safe practitioners of BDSM arrange a signal that the gag wearer can use to indicate distress. Such signals might be three moans or sounds (just as three whistle blasts are used by a lost hiker to indicate distress) dropping an object held in the hand, or some other prearranged signal. The most important general gag safety rule of all: Never leave a gagged subject unattended!

Ball gags are one of the most common, classic gags used in BDSM. These are a plastic or rubber ball, with two straps attached, one on each side, which buckle together behind the head. Some ball gags may have a third strap, that goes up, between the eyes, to buckle with the other straps at the back of the head. It's important to make sure the ball gag is not too big, especially if it is to be worn for an extended period. Some ball gags are hollow, with perforated holes that allow the wearer to breathe (or drool) through the ball. These are a good choice for extra gag safety.

Ring gags are similar to a ball gag, except they consist of a metal or plastic ring worn in the mouth, holding it open. These are even safer than a ball gag, as the mouth's airway is totally open.

Tape and cloth gags are identical in that they consist of material that is simply wrapped around the person's face and mouth. Tape gags, such as using duct tape, are a very poor choice for gag safety, as the adhesive can create a complete seal of the mouth. If the person's nose were to become blocked for any reason, they could quickly suffocate. Tape should not be used except under close and constant supervision at all times.

Cloth gags are the simplest, and a good choice for gag safety, but not as fulfilling or effective as other types. Cloth gags are simply a strip or piece of cloth tied tightly or loosely around the wearer's mouth. They do not obstruct breathing unless tied extremely tightly, are easily slackened, and can usually be forced out by the wearer if necessary.

Gags are a fun, vital, and erogenous part of BDSM, allowing strong feelings of dominance, submission, control, and helplessness. However, as with safety in all recreational activities, gag safety is imperative.