What Is A Ball Gag | Why & How To Use It

If you’ve ever explored BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Sadism, and Masochism) bedroom activities or watched bondage-related videos online, you’ve likely seen individuals wearing mouth restraints. Ball Gags are popular sex toys in the BDSM community.

If you’re looking to add a kinkier twist to your bedroom routine, these are excellent introductory bondage products.

What is a Gag Restraint?

A mouth restraint is a sex toy worn in the mouth that prevents the wearer from speaking. It typically features a spherical object, often made of hard plastic, rubber, or silicone, connected to a strap that secures around the wearer’s head. Once positioned in the mouth, the sphere rests behind the teeth. The wearer can still produce sounds, such as grunting, but cannot articulate words.

Excessive attempts to speak may cause drooling around the restraint.

What is the sexual appeal of a mouth gag?

Mouth restraints hold appeal as bondage toys for several reasons.

Some individuals enjoy the physical sensation of being restrained.

Others find pleasure in establishing dominant-submissive dynamics.

Some are drawn to the depersonalization that BDSM can provide, finding it sexually stimulating. (1)

A significant power shift occurs when one partner can speak freely while the other is silenced and unable to respond verbally.

For those who enjoy a submissive role during intimacy, being restrained in this way can be highly arousing.

Conversely, if you prefer a dominant role in the bedroom, placing the restraint on your partner can be a major turn-on.

Before introducing a mouth restraint into your relationship, obtaining clear consent is essential. Discuss exactly what activities are planned, as the restrained partner cannot verbally communicate a “stop” once the device is in place.

How to Use a Mouth Restraint

Safety is critical when using a mouth restraint, as most devices limit the wearer’s ability to speak clearly.

Some restraints may also restrict breathing. If the wearer’s nose is blocked, they may struggle to breathe.

Avoid using a mouth restraint if you have a cold, sinus infection, or allergies.

Some mouth restraints allow breathing through the mouth (see products below).

When trying a mouth restraint for the first time, avoid binding the wearer’s hands. This allows them to remove the device if it becomes overwhelming.

If the restraint is hard to remove, establish a nonverbal “remove this now!” signal, such as a pinch or several taps on the back.

This is known as a “safe action,” similar to a “safe word” in BDSM practices.

A safe action signals the need to pause and check on your partner’s well-being before proceeding.

Another safe action option is a noisy object, like a squeaky toy, keys, or a bell. If the restrained partner uses the item, it indicates they’re invoking their safe action. This is particularly useful when the submissive partner is bound, as they can hold and activate the object as needed.

Always negotiate boundaries and rules before engaging in intimate activities to avoid confusion during the moment.

Never leave a partner alone while they’re wearing a restraint or are bound. Stay in the room with a clear view of them to respond quickly if they need assistance. (3)

Here is a helpful video showing how to use a mouth restraint:

Want to buy a mouth restraint?

Look no further! Here are some of the best mouth restraints you can purchase.

 

Author: Erica Cuff

Erica Cuff has been involved in the sex toy industry since 2000. Working behind the motto “Sex Toys should be fun”, Erica provides useful tips & advice from years of hands-on experience and research with adult products.

Happily married since 2005, she knows first-hand how our sex lives can become repetitive if we don't give them the time and effort they deserve. If you're looking to spice things up in the bedroom, then Erica is your gal! She lives to cover topics that empower men, women and couples needing inspiration to keep lovemaking exciting and fun.

Her other focus is teaching women how to properly master the “bald man in the boat” to achieve the best orgasms ever (partner or no partner!) Her informative and unique tips, techniques and advice is up there with certified sex therapists and Sexologists, but with the added advantage of her experience in the adult toy business.

Erica Cuff's LinkedIn profile highlights her professional background, experience and training.