How to Use Nipple Clamps and Suckers

“When I mention nipple clamps, sometimes people shy away,” says sex expert Jess Wilde. “They say it sounds painful… But it’s only painful if you want it to be!”

In this beginner’s guide, we explore just how pleasurable these (often misunderstood!) sex toys can be, and why nipple clamps could be a great addition to your bedside-table stash.

“Like most sensory toys in the bondage category, we’re playing with circulation to heighten sensitivity,” explains Jess. And when you use nipple clamps, those extra-sensitive nips can feel incredible when they’re licked, sucked or teased…”

So let’s get into how to use nipple clamps, and picking the perfect pair.

Only got time for a quickie?

Before you start picking out pretty clamps (honestly, there are some stunning ones out there!), here’s the key info you need to know. Got time to read the full article? Skip ahead!

• What are nipple clamps? Nipple clamps are cute adornments that lightly pinch your nips to increase sensitivity. They’re small and affordable but can deliver serious thrills!
• How nipple clamps work: when you pinch or squeeze a nipple, this restricts circulation which creates sensitivity. Then, when you release the nipple, blood rushes back in – bringing another rush of sensation with it.
• Why this can feel amazing: “Playing with your nipples is a fast track to climax; they get the oxytocin (also known as the ‘happiness hormone’) going in your brain,” says Jess.
• Get aroused first: turning yourself on and massaging your nipples (or getting a partner involved!) will help them to harden. This will make it easier for the clamps to stay in place.
• Pick the right clamps for you: there are a range of styles out there, each offering something a little different. Whether you’re into full BDSM or just some light bondage for beginners, there’s a clamp for you.
• Look after yourself and your nips: don’t skip aftercare, watch out for nipples changing colour and use a safe word if you’re playing with a partner.

Nipple clamps are sex toys that are designed to boost nipple stimulation. They work by first restricting blood flow to your nipples by pinching them, then increasing blood flow (and heightening sensitivity) once the clamp is released.

They’re associated with certain types of kink, like bondage and BDSM – but are often enjoyed by people outside those communities too.

When nipple clamps squeeze your nipples, your brain releases oxytocin – a hormone that floods you with a feeling of relaxation and pleasure. But the fun doesn’t stop there: once you remove the clamps (we recommend only leaving them on for ten minutes, max), “you get a rush of blood to the area that gives you an unusual throbbing sensation that you don’t really experience with any other kind of play,” says Jess.

And there’s more: now, you’re left with extra-sensitive nipples. Simply using your fingers to fondle them – or asking your lover to kiss and stroke them – can leave you breathless. Bringing in a feather tickler at this point can feel fantastic too; “ticklers are great for waking sensitive nerve endings”, says Annabelle.

Take care at this stage, though; while clamps can temporarily increase your pain tolerance, some people might find their nipples are tender after using clamps. So let your partner know to take extra care, and just go with what feels good to you.

Plus, while it’s often thought that women’s nipples are more sensitive than men’s, Annabelle points out that this isn’t always the case. “Nipple play isn’t tied to a particular gender, sexuality or preference… it’s for everyone!”

If you’re not sure whether nipple clamps are for you, there’s no need to invest in any toys yet. “Use your or your partner’s fingers just to have a feel around,” says Annabelle . “You can use any technique you like. Try using the flat of your palm if you’re a little skeptical as to whether nipple play is for you. You can also use your fingertips, or the backs of your hands. You can even create a DIY nipple clamp by using two fingers.”

If you find that nipple pinching and rubbing feels really good to you, and you’d like to graduate from using fingers to toys. Here’s our step-by-step guide to getting the most from your nipple clamps.

Pick a beginner-friendly pair

For nipple-clamp newbies, it’s best to choose a pair with soft silicone tips to avoid metal on skin; this can feel a little intense at first. Adjustable clamps are great for tailoring the level of pressure, so you can choose exactly how gently or tightly you’d like to squeeze.

Get aroused

It’s helpful for the nipple to be erect before you attach the clamps. Take time to relax and slowly masturbate, without bringing yourself to climax just yet. Gently massage your nipples to encourage blood flow, until they become hardened and raised.

Place the clamps around the base of the areola

Fully open each nipple clamp, and slide it around the base of the areola; that’s the area behind the main nub of the nipple. The clamp should lie on its side flat against your body, with the silicone grips pointing up as they grip your nipple and the adjustable metal clamp itself hanging below.

Tighten slowly

If you’re new to nipple clamps, start by keeping them loose at first – then tighten them slowly to find the level of pressure that feels good to you.

Tease other erogenous zones

Part of the joy of using nipple clamps is, once they’re in place, they’re a hands-free sex toy! Take advantage of this by pleasuring other erogenous zones while you’re wearing your clamps; this could lead to a breathtaking blended orgasm. (That’s when you come from stimulating multiple erogenous zones at once!)

Try using a slick of lube to stroke your clitoris or penis, and treat yourself to a masturbation session as you enjoy the nipple stimulation. If you’re playing with a partner, try mutual masturbation or penetrative sex while the clamps keep your nipples erect and aroused.

Play for short times at first

It’s best not to leave on your clamps for any more than ten minutes, to make sure you’re not restricting blood flow for too long.

If you’re using clamps as part of the fun in a bondage position, agree on a safe word before you play – in case you need to ask your partner to loosen them or remove them during your session.

Remove carefully

Slowly adjust the clamps to loosen them before removing them. Keep an eye on your nipples for any colour changes; if you notice your nipples turning red, purple or even white, remove the clamps to allow blood flow to return to the area.

Taking off the clamps and feeling the blood rush back into your nipples can feel incredible; a thrilling bonus sensation after all the clamping fun!

Practice aftercare

Your nipples have just gone on a bit of a journey, so it’s important to give this sensitive area some care and attention! Holding an ice cube to your nipples right after play can feel amazing. It’s a good idea to wear a soft, loose top after you’ve finished nipple play to avoid irritation, too – and to carefully massage in some soothing aloe vera moisturiser.

It’s all about personal preference. “You can choose a clamp that provides a very pronounced and intense pinch,” says Jess, “or you can go for something quite gentle that teases the area with a bit of light pinching and enhanced blood flow afterwards.”

Bull nose clamps

These are very easy to adjust, thanks to the crocodile-style clamps with screw pins. They come as individual clamps or linked together by a connecting chain like these ones.

Opting for clamps with a connecting chain means you (or your partner) can gently pull on the clamps during play for added stimulation.

Tweezer clamps

Looking for something a little more delicate? Tweezer clamps have a slimmer silhouette but are just as adjustable thanks to their slide-to-fit design. They’re also available as solo clamps or with a chain; this option with decorative pearls is a particularly glamorous pick, we think.

Vibrator clamps

Once you’re used to the feeling of nipple clamps, vibrating nipple clamps can add an extra dimension of pleasure.

If you want to try out the feeling of a vibrating clamp before committing, hold a bullet vibe to your nipple and see how it feels. “Vibrators are perfect for drawing circulation to an area and increasing sensitivity,” says Annabelle.

Weighted clamps

The next step up is adding extra pressure to your nips by using weight. These gorgeous weighted clamps have four adjustable points, keeping them firmly in place.

Plus, they look fabulous! “If you’ve got an open-cup bra, decorative clamps can make a beautiful addition to your look,” says Annabelle.

Nipple suckers

For a slightly different sensation, nipple suckers and pumps “allow you to apply the sensation of sucking to your nipples, while keeping your mouth free for other activities,” says Jess.

Use a dab of water-based lube to help suction these toys into place, and enjoy the gentle increase in sensitivity thanks to the boost in circulation. Just make sure you remove them after ten minutes, or sooner if they start to feel uncomfortable.