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Shower sex is plenty steamy, but could you, would you…in a tub? “Sex in a bathtub can be fun, different, and hot!” says sex educator Rebecca Blanton, aka Auntie Vice, cohost of the Fat Chicks on Top podcast. “The trick is figuring out which bathtub sex positions work for you and a partner, and prioritizing safety.”
First, the safety part. “Almost nothing in your tub or shower was designed as a handhold for sex,” says Carol Queen, staff sexologist at Good Vibes. You can get stick-on grab bars, but you still have to be extra careful and test the grip strength before getting it on. A grandma-style non-slip bathmat is also helpful.
Next, stock your love tub with some luxe bath products, a supply of ultra soft towels and, most importantly, the right lube. Just because your body is wet, doesn’t mean your vagina will follow suit. “Water is drying (go figure!), so lubricant is necessary for comfortable play,” says sex expert Renee Denyer, owner of Sh! Women's Store, who recommends a silicone-based lube for a more comfortable, longer-lasting experience—just make sure to proceed with caution. “Silicone-based lube makes tiles and tubs slippery, so be careful when stepping out,” says Denyer.
Follow the basic laws of tub physics. “Don’t overfill the bath. With two bodies moving around, water will spill onto your floor,” says Denyer. “Bathtub sex is better for gentle rocking rather than wild trips to Pound Town.”
And finally, waterproof toys only, pls. Sex educator Searah Deysach, owner of feminist sex shop Early to Bed, says to make sure your toys are rated “submersible,” not just shower-proof. “Toys that are rated IPX-7 (meaning they can be submerged up to 30 minutes) are your safest bet,” she says.
Here are some ways to take the plunge, whether you’re with a tub buddy, or getting it on solo.
The Drenched Doggy
Doggy can work in the tub, especially if the receiver leans over the side of the tub for more comfort/less sloshing around. You can spice it up with a waterproof vibe, or, if you want to take it even further, try some butt stuff. “If you’re new to the world of rimming (or the proper term, analingus), the tub is the perfect time to explore! It's much easier to get dirty when you’re relaxed knowing you and your partner are squeaky clean,” says Sophie Takooree, co-founder of UK sex toy retailer Our Guilty Pleasures.
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Underwater Yab Yum
Modify the intimate tantric Yab Yum position (also known as the Lotus position) for the tub. The penetrating partner sits down with their legs straight out and the receiver sits on their lap and wraps their legs around them. “This allows for deep penetration and can be fun with very little movement (less splashing!)” says Deysach. Related: Waterproof vibrating cock rings are a thing that exist...just FYI. 👀.
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The Slippery Slope
Combine cuddling, orgasms, and the primal vibe of a warm bath. “Sit with your back against their chest so they can reach around and fondle you,” says Denyer. “Use fingers or a waterproof vibrator to get off.” Before you get too prune-y, trade places and return the favor.
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The Solo Voyage
“I am a fan of solo tub sex,” says Blanton. “Lying in warm water with good lighting helps me get in touch with my own body and needs. Fill the tub with warm water and add a bit of bath oil or bubble bath. Gently run your hands over your body, touching yourself and appreciating how your body feels to your fingers.” And if the handheld shower head ends up involved, all the better.
SHOP NOW Womanizer Wave Water Massage Stimulator, $119, Good Vibes
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