Ready to spice things up in your bedroom? Kinks are all about exploring sexual interests that go beyond the usual vanilla stuff - things like spanking, role play, light bondage, or even group play. These playful twists bring fresh excitement, variety, and new sensations to your intimate moments, always with consent and mutual fun at the core. While kinks cover a wide range of activities, they’re different from fetishes, which are more specific things you might need to feel turned on. Whether you’re curious to experiment or want to deepen what you already enjoy, trying out different kinks can unlock new pleasures and unforgettable memories. Ready to see which of these 15 kinks might just be your new favorite? Let’s dive in.

The difference between kinks and fetishes

Kinks cover a wide range of sexual interests and activities that fall outside what most people consider “normal,” but they don’t usually revolve around just one thing-like a specific body part or object. Instead, kinks often focus on the vibe or dynamic, like dominance and submission, sensory play, or role-playing, which can add some extra spice and fun to your sex life. They can be anything from light and playful to intense and serious, and you don’t always need them to enjoy sex.

Fetishes, on the other hand, are a bit more specific. They usually involve a strong attraction to a particular object, material, or body part that’s essential for arousal. Take a foot fetish for example, someone with this fetish really needs feet to be part of the mix to feel turned on, not just as a bonus. So, fetishes are actually a type of kink, but more narrowly focused.

Knowing the difference helps you understand how people relate to what turns them on. Kinks tend to be about trying new things and having fun without strict rules, while fetishes are more about needing a particular thing to get aroused. Both are totally normal as long as everyone involved communicates clearly, consents, and stays safe. With those basics in place, exploring kinks or fetishes can be a rewarding part of your sexual journey.

What counts as a kink?

Simply put, a kink is any sexual interest or activity that steps outside the usual “vanilla” stuff. Merriam-Webster calls it an “unconventional sexual taste or behavior,” which can cover everything from spanking and light bondage to role play or group fun like threesomes. The main thing is it's all consensual and different from the typical bedroom routine. Sure, some people still think anything beyond missionary sex is taboo, but honestly, most adults have either tried or at least heard of different kinks by now. Oh, and here’s a quick heads-up: fetishes are kind of like a kink’s more specific cousin.

Fetishes need a certain object or action to get you going, while kinks are more about preferences or ways to mix things up. So, enjoying a little gentle scratching on your back? That’s a kink. But if you need that exact scratch to get turned on? That’s leaning into fetish territory. As long as everything’s safe, consensual, and you’re aware of any risks (think RACK - Risk-Aware, Consensual Kink), you’re in good shape.

A List of Different Kinks that you Need to Try

1. Age Gap Play

Age gap kink is all about exploring power dynamics through fantasy scenarios where there’s a difference in age-but let’s get one thing straight: this is always between consenting adults. Usually, it involves role play where one person takes on a younger vibe-like a sassy college student, an innocent intern, or a playful “baby girl”-while the other plays the authority figure, such as a strict professor, a seasoned boss, or a caring “Daddy.” A popular twist on this is the DD/lg dynamic (that’s “Daddy Dom/little girl”), which mixes nurturing, control, and submission in a consensual, often emotionally connected way.

Sometimes, the fun spills over into outfits, language, or props. Like calling someone “Mommy,” rocking a schoolgirl uniform, or using a pacifier in adult baby play. While it might sound intense or even a bit taboo, this kink is built on trust, clear consent, and firm adult boundaries. It’s all fantasy, not reality. Anything involving minors is not just off-limits-it’s illegal and completely outside the kink. Age gap play can be sweet, structured, sexy, or even silly-it’s just about consensual role play that hits a very specific itch.

2. Cock and Ball Torture (CBT)

Okay, not that CBT - this one stands for cock and ball torture. Yep, it’s exactly what it sounds like: consensually playing with pain or intense sensations on the penis and testicles. For some folks, it’s all about the physical buzz; for others, it’s the thrill of power dynamics, domination, or that mental edge you get when handing over control of such a sensitive spot. Whether you’re the one giving or receiving, CBT can deliver a serious adrenaline rush, and yes, it’s 100% built on trust and clear consent.

Pain can take a bunch of forms: squeezing, slapping, pegging, stretching, or even stepping on the goods (only with a willing partner and the right technique, obviously). Some people bring in gear like cock rings, cages, clamps, or push things further with things like urethral sounding - that’s gently inserting smooth rods into the urethra - or genital flogging. What makes it so intense for many is the mix of pleasure, vulnerability, and high stakes.

Like with any edge play, communication and safety are key. Think safe words, prep time, and aftercare to make sure everyone walks away happy (or at least hobbling with a smile). Sure, CBT might sound wild if you’re new to it, but for fans, it’s a thrilling and deeply satisfying blend of pain and pleasure.

3. Bondage

Bondage is the “B” in BDSM and it’s all about restraint. Whether you’re the one getting tied up or the one doing the tying, bondage uses physical restriction to explore control, trust, and sensation. It can be as simple as wrapping a silk scarf around someone’s wrists and tying them to a bedpost, or as detailed as shibari-intricate rope work that turns the body into a living piece of art. People use all kinds of materials: leather cuffs, ropes, belts, zip ties, even plastic wrap-yes, kitchen kink is real.

So, what’s the appeal? Some people love how a bound body looks, others get a thrill from the vulnerability or the rush of surrender, and some really enjoy the feel of rope, fabric, or leather pressing against their skin. For whoever’s in control, there’s often a satisfying sense of power, while the person being tied up might feel safe, grounded, and completely present. As with all kink, communication and consent are key. Safe words, clear boundaries, and aftercare *(cuddles, water, and reassurance) help to ensure bondage stays sexy and safe. Whether you’re just experimenting with silk ties or deep into rope art, bondage can be an intensely intimate and a seriously hot experience.

4. Dominance

Dominance in the bedroom (or wherever your fun happens) is really about taking the lead - but only with full consent and trust. Think of it as the dominant partner setting the vibe, guiding the rhythm, and calling the shots in a way that feels exciting and safe for everyone involved. And just to be clear: dominance isn’t about steamrolling anyone or ignoring boundaries. It’s all about open communication and knowing what both people want on the table (or bed, or dungeon bench).

A dominant might give playful commands, lay down some rules, or physically guide their partner-whether through words, toys, or restraints. Sometimes it’s more about the mind, using teasing, praise, or anticipation to keep things thrilling. But here’s the kicker: no matter how “in charge” the dominant is, the submissive always holds the ultimate power with safe words and agreed-upon limits. Consent isn’t optional-it’s the whole point.

For some, dominance is a full-on lifestyle, like as in 24/7 dominance (Not my style TBH). For others, it’s a fun and different kink to slip into your playtime. Whatever the case, healthy dominance blends confidence with care and respect. While there is a bossing around element, your partner’s needs should always remain front and center.

5. Discipline

Discipline in kink isn’t about nagging someone for skipping homework. Instead, it’s a consensual game where one partner (usually the dominant) sets some fun rules, and the other (typically the submissive) agrees to follow them-or else face some cheeky “consequences.” And no, we’re not talking real punishments here, but playful, sexy corrections like a spanking, some corner time, or a little teasing at just the right moment. The point isn’t to settle actual arguments, but to dive into that thrilling dance of control and surrender.

This kink can show up in lots of ways-physical, emotional, or even psychological. Maybe the submissive gets a paddle for swearing, or misses out on orgasm fun for forgetting a task. Some couples add verbal teasing or use discipline to build tension and deepen their power exchange. Rules can be serious (“text me when you get home”) or totally silly (“no dessert till you earn it”), whatever fits your vibe.

The bottom line is that everyone’s playing by the same rules. Discipline play is all about open communication, clear consent, and mutual fun-not resentment or mind games. When done right, it creates an intimate mix of structure, tension, and trust that’s seriously hot.

6. Erotic Asphyxiation (Breath Play)

Erotic asphyxiation-or breath play, as it’s sometimes called-is all about intentionally limiting oxygen to boost arousal and make sensations feel more intense. This can look like holding your partner’s breath, applying gentle pressure to the neck, or using things like scarves, hands, or masks to partially block airflow. Why do people like it? Because it combines physical thrills-think tingling, warmth, and a racing heartbeat-with a psychological surrender, plus the powerful rush when you finally get that sweet, sweet breath back.

This kink is deeply tied to trust and power exchange. When someone hands over control of something as basic as breathing, it’s a huge deal. For the dominant partner, it’s about handling that trust carefully and responsibly; for the submissive, it’s about letting go completely in that moment. But here’s the catch: breath play can be seriously risky if you don’t know what you’re doing. We’re talking unconsciousness, nerve damage, or worse.

That’s why breath play demands clear consent, experience, and strict safety measures. No winging it. Partners should agree on non-verbal signals (since safe words won’t work if you can’t talk), understand the anatomy, and always be ready to stop at the first sign of trouble. For some, walking that fine line between danger and desire is what makes breath play so powerful-but it only stays fun when handled with care and total trust.

7. Impact Play

Impact play is basically the fine art of consensually giving your partner a good (or gentle) smack. It can mean anything from a light slap on the butt to a serious flogging that might leave some marks-whatever feels right for you both. The whole point is about mixing physical sensations, a bit of psychological spice, power dynamics, or sometimes all three. It can be playful and fun, deeply sexy, or even a way to release tension-totally depending on what you and your partner are into.

When it comes to the tools, the options range from good, old fashioned hands to paddles, crops, floggers, whips, and yep, even household stuff like wooden spoons. Each one hits differently-some thuddy, some stingy, some somewhere in between. Common spots to target are the fleshy, safer parts of the body like thighs, butt, or shoulders. Sensitive areas-think kidneys, spine, or face-are a no-go unless you really know what you’re doing. Some people use impact play as a kind of “punishment” in power play scenes, while others just love the rush of sensations and endorphins.

As with any kink, talk it out first. Set boundaries, agree on safe words or signals, and check in during and after-especially if things get heated. Whether it’s a playful spanking or a full-on leather crop session, impact play can add a whole new level of excitement and connection, as long as it’s safe, sane, and consensual.

8. Urethral Sounding

Urethral sounding might sound a bit intimidating (or even downright scary) if you’re new to it, but for some, it’s a seriously thrilling kink. Basically, it involves sliding smooth, medical-grade metal rods-called “sounds”-into the urethra, that tiny tube that carries urine out of your body. For folks with penises, this can be especially intense, since that area is packed with nerve endings begging for attention.

The sensations range from a deep, buzzing internal thrill to pinpointed prostate stimulation if you’re feeling adventurous enough to go deep. Some people love the challenge of pushing boundaries here, while others find it an intimate way to connect with their bodies and minds. Prostate orgasms through this method is totally a thing. No stroking required.

But here’s the deal: the urethra is delicate, so safety has to come first. Think sterilized tools, plenty of lube (sterile is best), and lots of patience and communication. This isn’t a “jump right in” kind of kink-it needs respect, research, and slow, careful practice. For those curious about sensation play with a surgical twist, sounding can be a wildly intense and satisfying experience.

9. Wax Play

Wax play is basically candlelight, but dialed up in sensation. Instead of just setting the mood, you’re playing with warm drops of wax on skin, turning heat and texture into a whole new kind of tease. Those little drops can feel anything from a soft tingle to a sharp zap-perfect for mixing up temperature and touch to tease both body and brain.

People love wax play for different reasons. Some enjoy the slow, tasty build as each drop hits, while others crave that spicy, sizzling sting. The way warm wax meets cool air makes your skin extra sensitive, so every touch feels electric. Watching the wax drip and harden is almost hypnotic-like a little ritual, especially if you’re into power play vibes.

Heads up though: safety matters. Regular candles can burn way too hot, so stick to body-safe wax made just for this. Always test on yourself first, avoid super sensitive spots like the face or genitals, and keep a towel nearby for easy cleanup. When done right, wax play can be slow and sexy while remaining safe.

10. Autozoophilia

Autozoophilia might sound like a mouthful, but it’s actually one of those kinks that flies under the radar. Basically, it’s about getting turned on by imagining yourself as an animal or slipping into an animal persona. It’s not about actual animals, but more about seeing yourself in an animal form or tapping into those wild traits when you’re feeling frisky.

You’ll find some crossover with the furry community, who are people that love dressing up as animal characters and bringing those vibes into their sex lives. But autozoophilia is more of an inside game: it’s about what’s happening in your head during arousal, rather than just the costume or roleplay. For many, this opens a playful, imaginative space where human desires mix with animal instincts, adding a whole new flavor to their sexuality.

Like any kink, autozoophilia is about self-expression and fantasy. It’s a good reminder that sexuality is wonderfully diverse-and sometimes, the key to turning things up is simply embracing your inner wild side, whether that means rocking a tail, paws, or just a fierce mindset.

11. Consensual Non-Consent

Or “CNC” for short, is basically a kink where partners act out scenes that look like one person is overpowering the other - think of it as “pretend” non-consent, with everyone fully on board. It plays with the fantasy of being swept away or taken sexually, which, for many, is a major turn-on. But-and this is key-it only works because everyone agrees to it beforehand, making communication and trust the foundation of the whole thing.

Because CNC involves playing with the idea of losing control, clear rules are a must. Partners have to agree on what’s okay, what’s off-limits, and have a way to stop the scene immediately if anyone feels uncomfortable. That usually means a safe word or a hand signal, something easy to use when things need to pause or stop.

When done right, CNC can be intense and deeply emotional. It mixes trust, vulnerability, and desire in a way that lets you explore fantasies safely-without ever crossing real boundaries. It’s all about feeling empowered, even in the “pretend” loss of control.

12. Orgasm Control

Orgasm control-often called edging or peaking-is all about learning to hit the pause button just before the big finish. Instead of rushing straight to climax, you bring yourself (or your partner) right up to the edge, then back off just in time. Think of it as a pleasure tease, a stop-start rhythm that cranks up the intensity and makes the eventual release feel like fireworks. It takes a bit of mental focus and body awareness-and yeah, some practice-to nail the timing, but once you get it, those waves building toward orgasm become just as thrilling as the finish itself.

But edging isn’t just for kicks. The “stop-start method” has been a go-to technique for years to help manage premature ejaculation by training your body to slow down. Whether you’re edging for extra sensation, to playfully tease, or to boost your sexual stamina, it’s a clever way to turn patience into pure pleasure-and trust me, it can seriously upgrade your bedroom game.

13. Rope Bondage (Shibari)

Rope bondage, or shibari if you want to get fancy, is way more than just tying someone up. It’s a stunning Japanese art that uses rope not just to restrain but to decorate the body, blending beauty with sensation and connection. Depending on what you and your partner are into, it can feel soft and tender or wild and intense. The person doing the tying is the “top,” and the one getting tied up is the “bottom”-and how you two play shapes everything, from intricate patterns to full-on suspensions.

These ropes don’t just hold you in place; they create real visual art on your skin, boosting trust and vulnerability while delivering a mix of pressure and sensation that’s hard to beat. It’s a mix of physical and emotional that makes shibari a favorite for slow, mindful play. Want to know more? Midori’s The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage is a classic on the why and how. For gear and step-by-step tutorials, Twisted Monk has been the go-to since 2004, with great ropes and beginner-friendly knot videos.

Whether you want to start with simple wrist ties or jump straight into elaborate patterns, rope bondage offers a creative, intimate playground-and yeah, it looks pretty damn cool, too.

14. Degradation and Humiliation

Degradation and humiliation kink are all about exploring power dynamics through playful “put-downs” - verbal or physical - that some people find surprisingly exciting. Think of it as roleplay where one partner might ask the other to bark like a dog or act a little less human. Humiliation steps it up a notch with teasing, cheeky insults, or commands that can feel a bit embarrassing, like being told to lick a shoe clean or confess to a secret fantasy that might feel “shameful.”

Sounds intense, right? But at the core, this kink is built on trust and clear consent. Both partners set boundaries beforehand, making sure the dominant keeps things safe and never crosses into real harm or emotional pain. When done right, degradation and humiliation can open the door to powerful feelings - vulnerability, release, and a deeper connection. It’s about turning taboo feelings into something thrilling and consensual. And as with any kink, honest communication before, during, and after is key to making sure everyone feels respected and satisfied.

15. Gagging

Gagging is a go-to kink toy in a lot of dom/sub scenes-basically, it keeps the submissive’s mouth busy or open to amp up that feeling of vulnerability and control. The classic? The ball gag-a soft rubber or silicone ball that sits snugly between the teeth. Then there’s the bit gag, which looks a bit like what horses wear, with a flexible rubber bar holding the mouth open. Both add a fun layer of sensory play and dominance to your time together.

Because gagging cuts off speech, safety has to come first. The wearer should always be able to breathe easy through their nose. And since saying “stop” isn’t really an option here, it’s smart to agree on some nonverbal signals-like tapping, specific grunts, or hand gestures-to call a time-out. If you want a little more airflow without sacrificing the vibe, wiffle ball gags are a great safer bet. When done right, gagging can boost trust and turn quiet moments into intense ones.

Finding What Turns You On - No Judgment, Just Fun

Exploring new kinks is like opening a door to a whole new world of pleasure, connection, and a bit of delicious adventure. Whether you dip your toes into light spanking or dive headfirst into rope bondage, the key is always communication, consent, and a genuine curiosity about what makes you and your partner(s) tick. No pressure, no judgment - just a safe space to play, experiment, and maybe even surprise yourself.

So, which kink from this list caught your eye? Maybe a few? Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to explore your desires, follow what feels good, exciting, and be respectful to everyone involved. Ready to turn up the heat and rewrite your bedroom script? The fun starts when you say yes to trying something new. Let the adventure begin!