Ticklers

Same with other kinky acts, such as paddling, tickling has somewhat a dark origin. It didn’t start as an erotic activity but more of a torture method for law violators. They use tickling to dominate, humiliate and harass the culprit.

Tickle torture started in China, specifically in the courts of the Han Dynasty. They would use tickling as a way to make criminals confess, and if they were proven guilty, they would start tickling them as punishment. This activity wasn’t implemented solely in China, as some countries in Europe and Asia have used this method for their violators.

Eventually, this form of torture has been halted by the said countries. BDSM has also emerged from the scene in this period. And because of the “punishment” nature of the act, doms and subs started incorporating this act in their kinky plays. It became so common for kinksters that ticklers were invented for this frisky act. As of today, tickling has become a pleasure staple for BDSM plays.

BDSM Ticklers are divided into three types— feather ticklers, strand ticklers, and unconventional ticklers. Knowing these types will help you find the tickler that matches your preferences and skill level.

Feather ticklers are probably the type you’re most familiar with. They usually come in a thin handle and have feathers on them. Some variants have one large feather on them, while others come with a chunk of feathers in them.

The next type is the strand ticklers. As the name suggests, this type has silicone strands at the end of the handle. What makes this type stand out is its versatility. Unlike feather ticklers, you can use this type as a whip— it can provide mild stings to your submissive’s body.

Last on the list are unconventional ticklers. These types don’t look like your regular ticklers. Some have pinwheels or fur on them. Now, if you’re experienced with regular kinky ticklers and want to try something out-of-the-box, we suggest getting ticklers under this type.

Washing your ticklers is pretty simple. Start by wiping the handle with a damp and soapy towel. If there is residue on the feathers or silicone strands, you can then wash it through running water and gently scrub the dirt away— emphasis on “gentle” as you may end up plucking up the feathers if you’re not careful enough. Wipe it with a dry towel and then let it air dry for a few minutes.

Aside from the good ‘ol mild soap and water, you can also clean your ticklers with a sex toy cleaner. It has a unique formulation specifically designed for love toys but can also be universally applicable to silicone, latex, and rubber items.

Once the toy’s all dried up, keep it inside a satin or velvet pouch— this will minimize the ticker’s exposure to dust and dirt and prevent cross-contamination with other toys. Store it inside a dry, cool, and secure place, such as your closet. Keep it away from children’s reach.