Mummification

In BDSM, mummification refers to extensively wrapping or restraining a living person so that they can move little or not at all and visually resemble a mummy. Depending on the style of play, materials may include plastic wrap, bondage tape, fabric strips, gauze bandages, elastic bands, body bags, or straitjackets. The aim may be a sensation of tightness, helplessness, immobilization, sensory reduction, or intense control.

This practice carries significant risks and requires careful preparation, clear consent, experience, and continuous monitoring. Breathing, circulation, body temperature, and psychological stress must be watched throughout. The mouth and nose must never be covered, the chest must be able to expand sufficiently, and there must be no dangerous pressure on the neck, joints, nerves, or blood vessels. Numbness, tingling, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, panic, severe pain, pale or bluish skin, and cold extremities are warning signs and require immediate release.

Mummification should never be done alone; a capable supervising partner and suitable emergency cutting tools, such as safety shears, must always be within reach. Extra caution is necessary with cardiovascular disease, respiratory conditions, claustrophobia, panic tendencies, pregnancy, limited mobility, or substance use. Full plaster casts or very rigid forms of restraint are especially dangerous because of pressure injuries, overheating, circulation problems, and difficult emergency removal, and are generally not recommended for private BDSM play.