Sex Bench: Complete Guide to Choosing and Using One

We bought our first sex bench after one too many failed attempts at positions that looked simple online. The bed was too soft and absorbed all the energy. The kitchen counter was too high and too hard. The couch arm hit at a weird angle. When we finally got purpose built furniture the difference was immediate. Suddenly positions that had been awkward or impossible just worked.

Regular furniture was not designed with sex in mind. Beds sink and absorb momentum. Chairs have awkward heights and armrests that get in the way. Tables and counters lack padding. Sex benches exist specifically to solve these problems. Purpose built furniture that supports bodies in positions that regular furniture makes difficult or uncomfortable.

What These Actually Are

A sex bench is specialized furniture designed to support one or both partners during sexual activity. Unlike sex chairs or wedges benches typically position one partner horizontally or at an angle. They provide support while leaving the body accessible from multiple angles.

The basic design usually features a padded surface for comfort and a sturdy frame for stability and a height that facilitates various positions. Beyond that basic concept designs vary significantly in form and features and intended use.

Different Types

Standard position benches look somewhat like padded workout benches or massage tables. They typically have a flat or slightly angled surface at a height designed to align bodies for penetration when one partner stands. The person on the bench might be face up or face down depending on desired positions. These work well for couples wanting straightforward position enhancement without complex features.

Doggy style or kneeling benches are specifically designed to support the receiving partner in a hands and knees position. These often have separate padding areas for knees and chest. Sometimes with cutouts for face comfort. They eliminate the knee and wrist strain of traditional doggy style on a mattress. Good for couples who enjoy rear entry positions but find them uncomfortable to maintain.

Bondage benches incorporate attachment points and restraint options and sometimes adjustable positioning for BDSM play. They range from benches with simple D ring attachments to elaborate furniture with multiple anchor points and adjustable components. For couples interested in incorporating bondage elements into their play.

Spanking benches are designed to position the receiving partner with their bottom elevated and accessible. Often used for impact play these position the body to present the buttocks prominently while keeping the rest of the body supported and comfortable. For those interested in spanking or impact play or simply positions with elevated hips.

Convertible or multi position benches are adjustable furniture that can transform between different configurations. Some fold for storage. Others have movable components that change the angle and position options. These offer versatility but tend to be more expensive. For those wanting variety without buying multiple pieces of furniture.

What Actually Matters

Height is perhaps the most critical measurement. The bench height needs to align bodies correctly when one partner is standing and the other is on the bench. Too high or too low creates awkward angles that defeat the purpose. For penetrative positions with one partner standing measure from floor to the standing partner's pelvic area. Account for whether the receiving partner will be face up or face down. Consider that some positions require different heights than others. Adjustable height is valuable but adds cost and complexity.

Check the weight capacity carefully. You want something that can handle the combined weight of both partners plus the dynamic forces generated during vigorous activity. A 300 pound static capacity might be inadequate when motion is involved. Quality benches typically support 400 to 600 pounds or more. Do not skimp on this. Structural failure during use ranges from embarrassing to dangerous.

Padding matters for extended sessions. Look for high density foam that will not compress flat over time. Adequate thickness of at least 2 to 3 inches for comfort. Waterproof or water resistant covering is essential for cleanup. Material that does not get uncomfortably hot or sticky.

Frame material affects durability and weight. Steel is most durable and heaviest and often most stable. Aluminum is lighter than steel but still sturdy and may be more portable. Wood can look more like regular furniture but quality varies dramatically.

Sex benches take up space. Consider dimensions when set up and whether it will fit in your space with room to move around it. Storage options matter. Does it fold. Disassemble. Or is it always bench shaped. Weight affects whether you can move it easily if needed. Appearance matters for whether it needs to be hideable or can it pass as regular furniture.

Practical Stuff

Benches with metal legs can scratch hardwood or damage carpet. Consider rubber feet or caps on legs. A mat underneath. Placement on area rugs.

The bench needs to stay put during use. Wide base or splayed legs help. Sufficient weight to resist movement. Non slip feet. Placement against a wall if needed.

Cheaper benches can creak or squeak or make concerning noises during use. Quality construction and proper assembly minimize this but read reviews specifically mentioning noise if this concerns you.

Some benches are obviously sex furniture. Others could pass as workout equipment or massage tables or decorative seating. Consider who might see your space and whether obvious sex furniture is a concern.

What Positions It Enables

The main advantage of a bench is ergonomic positioning. Face up positions work well with receiving partner lying back while standing partner penetrates. Oral sex with the receiver elevated to comfortable height. Edge of bed positions without the bed sinking.

Face down positions include doggy style with full body support. Bent over positions without leg strain. Access for massage and other sensory play.

Kneeling positions work for oral giving position with comfort support. Worship style positioning for power play.

Price and Quality

Budget benches from 100 to 300 dollars are basic benches often from mainstream retailers or generic adult brands. May have thinner padding and lighter construction and limited adjustability. Can work fine for occasional use but may show wear with heavy use.

Mid range benches from 300 to 600 dollars offer better construction and thicker padding and more attention to ergonomics. Often from dedicated sex furniture brands. Should last years with proper care.

Premium benches over 600 dollars are high end furniture with excellent build quality and superior materials and often more aesthetic design. May include convertible features or premium upholstery or custom options. Investment pieces that can last indefinitely.

Assembly and Care

Most benches require some assembly. Clear adequate space before starting. Have proper tools ready which is usually just basic wrenches. Follow instructions exactly since skipped steps cause instability. Tighten all bolts fully but do not overtighten. Check stability before use. Recheck bolt tightness periodically with use.

After each use wipe down all surfaces with appropriate cleaner. For vinyl or pleather mild soap and water work well. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage covering. Dry completely before storage to prevent mold or mildew.

For long term care check bolts and joints periodically for loosening. Inspect padding for compression or damage. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Store in climate controlled space if not in regular use.

Alternatives

Before committing to a bench consider whether alternatives might serve your needs. Sex wedges and pillows are more portable and storable and affordable. Good for position enhancement without the commitment of furniture. Sex chairs offer different position options and some prefer the seated dynamic. Some couples find that a quality adjustable bed frame serves multiple purposes including position enhancement. Ottomans or workout benches or padded stools can sometimes serve similar functions at lower cost.

What This Comes Down To

A sex bench is an investment in comfort and possibility. It removes physical barriers that make certain positions difficult. Reduces strain on joints and muscles. Opens up options that simply are not available on regular furniture.

Whether it is worth the investment depends on your specific situation. How often you would use it. What positions you want to explore. Storage and discretion needs. Budget. For couples who find themselves limited by their furniture or bodies purpose built sex furniture can be genuinely transformative.

Start by honestly assessing what positions you want to improve or enable. That guides you toward the right style of bench. Then prioritize build quality and appropriate height over fancy features. A well made basic bench will serve you far better than a poorly made feature rich one.