Beginner’s Guide to BDSM Restraints for Hands and Wrists

Some people like to use restraints on their partners because it turns them on to see the other helpless. Meanwhile, others like it because their partner can be quite a handful so they may feel the need to use something to keep them in place. Whatever the case may be, you have a lot of options to choose from (which is a great thing wink*)

The handcuffs or wrist cuffs are probably the most used form of restraints when you want to incorporate some kinky play in the bedroom. These are great for beginners. When you cuff your partner’s wrists they won’t be able to touch you or the toys you are using on them. You can use the cuffs to restrain their wrists in front or behind them. You could even handcuff them to something like a post.

On the other end, you have ankle cuffs. Similar to handcuffs but as the name suggests it is for the ankles. Ankle cuffs will also make it harder for your partner to walk since their ankles are stuck together. You will be happy to know ankle cuffs also come in a variety of materials and designs.

Bondage mittens or mitts are just mittens for the hands. But these are usually made of leather. The good thing about them is they restrain the hands and fingers completely, so it will be impossible for your partner to escape or grasp anything. Hence, mittens also increase sensitivity because it makes touching anything almost impossible. Oh and they also work amazingly with other restraints wink*

Arm binders are the way to go when you want something pretty restrictive. Although you do need to have more experience with restraints to use them (so it is not advisable for beginners). They bind the arms at the back, so your partner will be completely immobilized. But do be careful because they can lessen the circulation around the hands and shoulders. Even so, arm binders are completely worth it.

For a little extra something in penetration, spreader bars are the way to go. Different models of it are available and some are even lined so they won’t hurt the skin. It consists of a bar to stretch the legs in the position you want them to be and your partner won’t be able to move them. It is adjustable. But if you prefer, you can use it to spread your partner’s arms instead.

Rope restraints are probably the most common type. For good reason, they get the job done. Best of all, they can be used by both beginners and experts. They are very durable and strong. If you tie them right, your partner will be unable to escape. But you do need to know what you are doing and how to tie the knots (a slight learning curve). If you want to, you can also play with more complicated types of bondage using a rope as well, just make sure to read more about them beforehand so you can do it right.

Body harnesses are a form of restraint often used in suspension play. These devices look pleasantly attractive and most of them have rings so you can attach other forms of restraints to them. You can use them to keep your partner right where you want them. However, do not attempt suspension bondage if you don’t know anything about it. If you want to try it, be sure to look for some classes online or around your town to learn more about it.

For those who want to take it to the extreme, a straitjacket is the answer. Bear in mind, straitjackets are for the most experienced players. So beginners should stay far away from them. They last a long time and there is no chance of escape. If you want to use one you need to build up tolerance for it as they can restrict circulation and can cause shoulder pain. But seeing your partner in a straightjacket can also be quite a view, yet still not for the faint of heart.