Male model leaning over a red head model preparing to affix a ball gag to her face.

Let’s Talk Safety in BDSM

Jun 16, 2025Rin Musick

BDSM Can Be Playful, Primal, Romantic, or Raw. 

No matter how you explore it, one thing always comes first:

Safety in chalk on red chalk board background.

Not just physical safety, but emotional safety too. When trust is the foundation of your experience, everything else becomes more exciting and more fulfilling. 

Whether you are curious about your first scene or deep into your kink journey, here is how to stay safe while keeping the fun alive: 


Start with Consent and Communication 

Everything in BDSM begins with a conversation. Before any play happens, talk openly about what you enjoy, what is off-limits, what you are curious about, and how you want to feel during and after play. 

Use safe words like "Red" for stop and "Yellow" for slow down so that you always have a clear way to communicate. You can also agree on hand signals or props if verbal communication might not be possible in the moment. 


Understand the Body 

Not all body parts are equally safe for impact, restraint, or pressure. Knowing where to play and where not to keeps the experience pleasurable and low-risk. 

  • Great places to explore include: 
    • Buttocks 
    • Thighs 
    • Upper back (away from the spine) 
  • Areas to treat with caution include: 
    • Wrists 
    • Ankles 
    • Inner thighs 
  • Areas to avoid include: 
    • Spine 
    • Neck and throat 
    • Kidneys 
    • Face 


Keep Checking In 

Safety does not stop once the scene starts. Check in with your partner throughout the experience. A simple question like "How does this feel?" or "Would you like more?" keeps the energy connected and responsive. 

 

Image of woman wearing chained and tamed neck, wrist and ankle brace staring up at male model in boxers


 

After your scene, take time for aftercare. This might be cuddling, water, soft words, or quiet space. Aftercare helps both partners come down from the emotional and physical intensity of the experience.  


Choose the Right Gear 

The tools you use matter. Look for gear made with body-safe materials and designed for intimate use. Avoid anything that causes numbness, cuts off circulation, or puts too much pressure on joints. Sportsheets gear is created to be safe, comfortable, and easy to use for all experience levels. 

 

Features product image of the Original Sportsheet along with an image of the product's package. Text reads: Consent friendly, discreet, and easy to use, the Original Sportsheet  offers the perfect setting for safe and comfortable play you both will enjoy.

 

Respect Limits Every Time 

Consent can be withdrawn at any moment. If someone says stop or uses a safe word, everything stops. No pressure, no questions. That kind of respect builds trust and makes your scenes more satisfying for both of you. 

 

Explore with Confidence 

Safety is not about restriction. It is about creating the kind of trust and clarity that allows you to explore more deeply. When everyone feels safe and seen, pleasure becomes limitless. 

Sportsheets supports safe, curious, and confident exploration. Our gear is designed to help you build connection and create unforgettable experiences rooted in care and consent. 

 

Shop Sportsheets Essentials Now
Follow Us for Inspiration

 

Rin Musick, Sportsheets Brand Ambassador, is a sexual wellness and BDSM expert with over a decade of experience in the adult toy industry. Known for their kink-positive approach and inclusive education, Rin helps people explore intimacy with confidence, creativity, and care, supporting retailers and their teams in understanding and selling Sportsheets’ products effectively.



More articles