For folks who enjoy BDSM, a dungeon can be like a sexy second home. While BDSM organizations sometimes secure space for their members to play, these "public dungeons" are usually open on a membership basis (often with a vetting process) or as a nightclub. The problem is that those spaces aren’t always accessible, and, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, they may not be safe or even available. This is where private or DIY dungeons come into the picture. These at-home play spaces are often fabricated in residential basements or spare rooms but can be customized to fit almost any space. Today we’re going to take a look at DIY dungeons; what they entail, what products work well, and how you can help your customers create their own dungeon that meets all of their needs — and even their budgets.
What Is a Dungeon?
Dungeons are terrific spaces that allow BDSM practitioners to explore in a safe and comfortable environment.
A dungeon is a room or area that is used as a play space to conduct BDSM scene activities. It is common for a dungeon space to be fitted with attachments for shackles and cuffs, as well as numerous other forms of furniture for BDSM play. Sometimes dungeons are elaborately decorated with luxurious furnishings and a cohesive aesthetic but setting one up need not be a huge undertaking — even a simple closet or storage room can be used as a dungeon.
Setting Up a DIY Dungeon
• Take stock of space: First things first, how much space is your customer working with? If it’s not a lot, have no fear; there are plenty of products made to take up very little space, such as an over-the-door restraint system. Portable gear that folds up for easy storage can give shoppers a big BDSM bang for their small-space buck. For folks who have no extra space, products like under-the-bed restraints can turn any bed into a sexy home dungeon.
• If possible, bring out the big guns: For folks who have the space, building a DIY dungeon is a great opportunity to bring in specially designed furniture pieces that cater to their specific desires, such as cages or specialty chairs.
• Add restraints and accessories: Of course, no dungeon would be complete without restraints, which give users maximum utility without taking up a ton of space. Additionally, things like spreader bars take bondage play to the next level, and a DIY dungeon can include any toys and accessories that its owner loves! Whether it be paddles, floggers, whips, vibrators, electro-stimulation tools, or even full-on sex machines, these tools will be what really makes a DIY dungeon one’s own.
• Avoid unwanted “guests”: For folks sharing space with nosy roommates, family members, or curious kids, they’ll also need to pay special attention to where and how they store their gear in between scenes. Focus on accessories and furniture that can fold up and stay stored away when not in use. Not only is it convenient for space-saving, it’s also a game changer for users who don’t live alone. Bonus if your room and closet lock from the outside!
Build the Dungeon of Their Dreams
Knowing how easy and convenient it can be to set up a home dungeon, how can you help your customers find exactly what they are looking for? The answer is to ask a couple of key questions to help them zero in on what they want:
- What activities do they enjoy?
- How much space do they have?
- Will their dungeon stay set up or do they need easily stored items?
Knowing the answers to those questions should go a long way toward finding the right accessories to create the ideal dungeon for your customers.
Dungeons are terrific spaces that allow BDSM practitioners to explore in a safe and comfortable environment. With a little knowledge, patience and creativity, you can help your shoppers figure out how to design the DIY dungeon that satisfies their every desire!
Rebecca Weinberg is the president of XR Brands.
