Gags are generally used to inhibit use of the mouth by inserting something into it to prevent speech or noise or to keep it open.
In the world of kink, the purpose for the use of gag can be so much more far-reaching. It could be the sight, control, or even the function it provides. No matter what your purpose, it’s a big world of gags and it can be hard to know which one to choose.
Do’s
•Have non-verbal safewords
•Ensure gag is made from safe material
•Frequently check on your bottom
•Set time limits if you’re just starting out
•Have scissors for quick release in case of emergencies
•Make sure the gag is in good condition to prevent any accidental swallowing
•Make sure your bottom can breathe
•Clean and disinfect your gags
•Remember that some materials are porous and fluids can not be completely cleaned from those
Don’t
•Leave your bottom unattended with a gag in
•Play with a gag with a bottom that has a cold or any sinus problems
•Leave a gag in for too long, especially for those just beginning
•Use a gag on a bottom that has an upset stomach
Types
Most all gags inhibit any kind of coherent speech, though they all won’t keep your bottom silent, and drooling seems to be a pretty common side effect of the use of most types of as well.
Ball Gag- A typical ball gag is a round gag, generally made from rubber, silicone, or plastic with a strap to secure it around the bottom’s head. To use this gag, the ball is put in the mouth behind the teeth and secured by the strap around the head. A ball gag can be solid or may have small holes that make it easier for breathing, known as a wiffle ball gag.
O-Ring- This is much like a ball gag, only instead of a ball it has on open O-shaped ring in its place. This type of gag is very breathable and allows for full access to the mouth.
Bit – This type of gag is cylinder shaped and can be made from a variety of materials such as leather, plastic, or rubber. The gag is placed between the bottom’s teeth and is held in place by either a harness or straps. Since this gag is worn much like a bridle, some feature reigns for added fun.
Inflatable- These come in all shapes and sizes. Inflatable gags start off small and are fully adjustable to fill the bottom’s mouth. Some, like a round or penis shaped bulb, are inserted into the bottom’s mouth and pumped up to the desired size. The butterfly gag is another inflatable gag, it is very difficult to keep in because the bulb goes behind the teeth, while the wings are placed between the teeth and the lips. Most inflatable gags have adjustable straps or require the use of an O-ring to secure it.
Over the mouth- This type of gag can include a wide variety of styles and materials. Tape, muzzles, scarfs…you get the idea, pretty much anything you put over the mouth to hinder the bottom’s ability to speak could fall into this category. The cleave is a type of over the mouth variant that includes pulling the material in between the bottom’s teeth and securing it around the head.
Forniphilic-This type of gag is used to objectify and humiliate a bottom. The gag is a mount that allows for a variety of tools to be attached. It is secured with a muzzle gag to give the bottom better control of the of the mounted tool. The attached tool, like a toilet brush, an ashtray, or a dildo, allows the bottom to perform a task or a service for the Top.
Funnel- This gag is popular for those into water sports. It is pretty much what it sounds like, a funnel that is connected to a tube that is placed in the bottom’s mouth and secured by straps to the head. This type of gag is used to force the bottom to drink a fluid or fluids of the Top’s choosing. Caution should be used to prevent choking.
Medical- Used for medical play, gags like the Whitehead or the Jennings, hold the mouth open for full access. Most all are made from stainless steel and can be ratcheting or have springs.
This is not a comprehensive guide to gags just a short overview of some of the most important do’s and don’ts and some of the gags available.