Hoods and Muzzles

Both hoods and muzzles are worn on the face during BDSM play. A Top may ask their bottom to wear a hood or muzzle as a symbol of full control of what their sub does with their face, to objectify them, or to deprive them of individual senses. With either bondage hoods or muzzle gags, there are safety considerations to ensure BDSM play is enjoyable without compromising the sub’s health.

What are Bondage Hoods?

During BDSM kink play, a partner may choose to use a hood. A bondage hood covers the head and neck, depriving the wearer of their senses. Bondage hoods are available in latex, leather, lycra, rubber, cloth, and more. Different materials have their unique properties. For example, a user may prefer a leather hood because leather is thicker and will bring them an elevated sense of confinement. Bondage hoods can be used in BDSM for style, to give a feeling of anonymity or objectification, or to humiliate a sub. By depriving the sub of certain senses, other senses may be heightened. Hoods may also be used to silence the wearer. A traditional bondage hood covers the neck, back of the head, forehead but leaves the front of the face open. Bondage hoods may offer even more coverage, hiding the entire face or hiding the face but leaving a hole open for the mouth. Some bondage hoods include padded covers for the ears so that the sub cannot hear anything happening around them. Some hoods may even appear animal-like and may be used during puppy or pony play.

Safety Considerations of Bondage Hoods

As with all BDSM play, the use of a bondage hood must be agreed upon by both the sub and the Dom. Open communication is essential, and a safe word or safe gestures should be established to ensure no limits are crossed. If using a hood covering the entire face or one that conceals the nose or mouth, you should never leave the wearer alone, particularly if their hands or feet are bound. Observe the wearer to ensure their breathing is normal and they are not experiencing any pain, numbness, or swelling on any area of the body. Be prepared to quickly release the sub from the hood or other bondage equipment should there be an emergency.

What are Muzzle Gags?

A muzzle gag was initially designed for animals to prevent the animal from biting or eating. Muzzle gags for BDSM have a similar effect when used on people. When worn, a muzzle prevents the person from speaking as it takes the place of a hand over the mouth. The wearer may still communicate with grunts or other sounds. When a Dom places a muzzle gag on their sub, it means they have taken full control of what goes in and out of their sub’s mouth. Some muzzles have an opening where the Dom may feed the sub food or whatever they please.

Safety Considerations of Muzzles

Using a muzzle on a partner should be consensual. Take care to ensure that the wearer can still breathe normally. Do not stuff the sub’s mouth with any object, and then place a muzzle on top. Since the sub can not speak, establish a safe word or signal that the sub can use when they have reached their limit. Ensure they have good circulation and no signs of numbness, swelling, or pain in their body.

10 Muzzle and Hood Brands / Makers

Hoods and muzzle gags are used during BDSM roleplay. A hood is used to deprive the wearer of some or all of their senses. A muzzle may be worn to give the Dom control of the sub’s mouth. Both may also be used to make a style statement. Some muzzle and hood makers include:

1. SkullFuck
2. Latrine Extreme
3. Lektor
4. Master Series
5. Fetish Fantasy
6. Scandal
7. Rouge
8. Ownpleasures
9. Sex & Mischief
10. Maskaras

Hoods and Muzzles Forum

Learn all about using hoods and muzzles in BDSM and bondage play at our hoods and muzzles forum.