A Wartenberg Pinwheel is so much of an essential for many people who are into BDSM that it's almost a given. And for good reason - this pocket-sized toy can provide endless different sensations to all parts of the body.

Seven inches long altogether and made of shiny steel, this is an actual medical device that was originally used for testing nerve sensitivity as it is rolled across the skin. Of course, it can (and is) used for much more INTERESTING "sensitivity testing" in the bedroom.

The head of the wheel spins easily, is about an inch in diameter and is surrounded with even-spaced steel spikes. You use this like you would use a pizza cutter - roll it along. But gently, at least until you're used to how it works! You don't need to press hard to get a response - in my experience the best use of this is with an extremely light hand, in combination with a blindfold. Try it on arms, legs, (gently!) feet or hands - be creative. And as always, be careful, you can accidentally (...or intentionally) hurt someone with this if you aren't - it's sharp.

The pinwheel lends itself well to temperature play as well, but you absolutely must be careful when heating this and handling it after it is hot. It's steel, and steel gets very hot, very fast - a dip in hot water should be fine. Never put this in the microwave (...it's metal). And for a chilly experience, put it in the freezer for a while before use or give it a quick soak in ice water.

As this is not a insulated toy in any way, I do not recommend using this for electrical play, no matter how tempting the idea is. You will end up shocking yourself, and then you will probably feel stupid, and nobody likes that.

Due to its all-steel construction, this is an extremely easy toy to clean. You can sterilize it in boiling water (be absolutely sure to dry it very well or it can rust!), in an autoclave, with alcohol or a bleach solution. You can wash it with hot soapy water or run it through the dishwasher, although I'd have to ask, what HAVE you been doing to get it that dirty?!

Whether you are just beginning to get into S&M, or are an old hand at it, if you do not have a Wartenburg Pinwheel, definitely add one to your collection.

I actually have owned one of these for quite a long time, and the first one I owned I got from my doctor of all people - I had some nerve damage in my wrist when I was younger and that is the first time I ever was introduced to one. I thought it was so cool, aesthetically, that he actually gave it to me. It didn't take me long to figure out other uses for it. Trust me, these little things are SO much fun.

Still my very favorite BSDM Toy. Well made, holds up to use, should last a lifetime if you treat it well.