Kink defines what could be described as the ‘non-conventional’ practices a person takes part in or the fantasies they have. Instead, Fetish describes the focus of their sexual fantasies (whether it’s a living being or an inanimate object). When considering both definitions, both are often regarded as taboo, in terms of prescribed societal norms.

Thankfully, the world has become increasingly sex-positive in recent years and, thus, many fetishes and kinks are now considered ‘normal.’ However, not every fetish (or fetishes) that a person has is always understood, due to varying subcultures that often branch from a single fetish or kink that can leave outsiders uncertain of what they involve.

Today, we’re discussing latex vacuum bondage in BDSM to help eliminate the misunderstandings and uncertainties surrounding the topic. We hope that it will give you a better idea of what it’s like to experience this kink and what someone who takes part in it is into.

Photo courtesy of Kink Engineering. — *Photo courtesy of* *Kink Engineering*.

What is vacuum bondage?

Vacuum bondage is a form of BDSM whereby a person lies down inside a latex bed made explicitly for bondage. With the latex covering their bodies entirely, both above and below them (often covering the head entire, save for a small breathing hole around the mouth), they can then be vacuumed inside by a partner to keep them firmly in place. Often, this is held in place by a frame, but in some cases, it’s more bag-like in appearance.

For a mental visual, think of Star Wars’ Han Solo trapped in carbonite.

Common misconceptions

While the thought may seem daunting to some, many folks who participate in bondage find it comforting. Vacuum bondage presents an added benefit: in addition to leaving the participant immobile — it can also deprive them of their sensory perceptions, since the face is typically covered in its entirety (except for the mouth for breathing).

How to talk about it with your partner

When talking to your partner about your kinks and fetishes, it’s essential to be clear about how you would like for them to participate in your fantasies. This includes reviewing the safety measures that would need to be in place for everything to run smoothly. Be open about your expectations, including how you hope to experience the vacuum bondage once you have entered the latex. Be sure you’re prepared to answer any of their questions or concerns, and to receive complete consent before moving forward.

Things to try

Along with optional breath play (achieved using varying levels of latex hoods and face coverings, or even a gas mask hooked up to a breathing tube), vacuum bondage can incorporate other forms of play. Sensory deprivation (again, by playing with degrees of facial coverings), capitalizing on rubber and latex fetishes, and even objectifying the person who is bound. Folks into sensory play can even enjoy this aspect of vacuum bondage, thanks to latex layers!

Are there risks to consider?

The biggest danger of vacuum bondage is suffocation, mainly when the entire body is covered in latex. The person outside of the vacuum must be fully aware of each participant’s threshold for remaining covered (we recommend starting at no longer than five seconds at a time). For this, have a non-verbal safeword.

When the mouth is uncovered, and breath play is not a goal, a verbal safeword is paramount. This can help relieve the individual vacuumed from such dangers as dehydration, numbness, dizziness, postural asphyxia, respiratory or ear pains and issues, unwanted difficulty breathing, and even pain or bruising from being vacuumed too tightly. Of course, if you have a latex allergy, avoid latex vacuum beds.

How can I learn more?

Because vacuum bondage can be quite dangerous when done incorrectly, we recommend calling your local sex club to see if they offer lessons conducted by a professional to safely learn how to play. For those sexually aroused by watching vacuum bondage occur, there are ethical porn videos to see a scene unfold, with varying bondage elements coming into play. You can also discuss your questions, concerns, and share stories in BDSM chat rooms, including those specifically geared to vacuum bondage!

We hope you now have a deeper understanding of latex vacuum bondage in the realm of BDSM, including what it entails. Should the topic come up in future conversations, you can be more open to speaking about it confidently and knowledgeably. Whether it’s understanding the kink from someone who engages in it themselves or educating another person who may be closed off to the idea, we feel that we have done our job to help make the world a more sexually inclusive place.

Would you be willing to try vacuum bondage with a sex partner? Are there any other aspects of BDSM or bondage you enjoy experimenting with? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Fetish Friday: Vacuum Bondage