A few safety precautions when using clamps are to be careful of how tightly you apply them. The tighter they are squeezing the skin, the less time you can leave them on without damaging the tissues. Clamps cut off blood flow to the area, so be aware that though they may not be painful while worn, the area will hurt when the clamps are removed. Clamps should not be left on tightly for more than 20 minutes, tops. Some clamps, if left on too long can cut the skin and in some cases remove the part which is clamped. (nipples, clit etc.) this is rare, but it is a possibility so keep that in mind. Clamps can cause bruising that is not readily visible. As they cut off the blood flow, this lack of blood flow to the tissues can cause tissue damage or death of the tissues. Also, clamps can cause callouses if used real frequently for extended periods of time. Callouses are the skins way of protecting overly used areas from damage.

   To loosen a clamp so that it does not squeeze too tightly you have to widen the spring mechanism in the clamp. For some items this can be achieved simply by attaching them to a book and leaving them there for a while. This will cause the spring mechanism to stretch and stay that way. This works real well for clothespins. For other types of clamps, you have to unwind the spring itself a bit, or stretch it by hand with pliers. (clover clamps and tweezer clamps may require this method). Clamps which are tightened by a screw mechanism, usually do not need adjusting. Though those who are good at building things can probably put a longer screw in them and therefor stretch their ability to open wider.

   For those with large nipples, applying nipple clamps can be difficult. Many people can not fit into screw type clamps and clover clamps pinch too tightly. For those (like myself) tweezer clamps work best. 

   Clamps applied to wet skin will hold tighter as the moisture will create a seal between the clamp's surface and the flesh it is holding. For clothespins that are wooden, this can cause the surface to actually stick to the skin and abrade the skin when removed. For items with rubber coating, the same thing can happen. To remove a clamp that is stuck in this manner, it is best to hold the skin down while gently easing the clip away from the skin. Pulling too fast or just yanking them off, can take the skin with them.

   Clamps made of porous materials (such as wooden clothespins) that have been applied to an area where they came into contact with bodily fluids, should be discarded and not reused. Wooden clothespins are very difficult to sterilize and will hold bacteria in a nice breeding ground. Reusing them can then transfer an infection to the one wearing them. Plastic clothespins can be sterilized, though the springs may rust. Wooden clothespins can be boiled, which will sterilize them, but will probably ruin them as well.

   Cleaning clamps depends on the materials they are made out of. Please see "caring for your toys" for tips on how to clean items made of certain materials.

   Periodically (and always before use) check the clamps for rough edges, rust and other signs of disrepair or use. If these things are present, do not use the clamps. Repair them or replace them instead. 

   When applying a clamp to the body pinch a generous amount of skin gently and tug slightly away from the body. The clamp should be applied to the flesh that is stretched away from the body, not the skin which is pinched between your fingers. On nipples this means at the base of the hardened nipple, not the tip of the nipple itself. (in other words, the aureole {colored area around nipple} not the nipple itself) For the clit, this means the base of the clit where it meets the body, not the clit itself. For the clit, it is a good idea NOT to push back the clitoral hood as this can provide some protection from damage to the clit itself. The clit is very sensitive and clamping the clit itself can cause severe pain or even damage the nerves and decrease overall sensitivity. Never yank a clamp which was applied tightly  off the clit, you could tear the skin which forms the clit or even remove it completely. When attaching clamps to the scrotum, be sure you are attaching only to skin and not the very sensitive and delicate tissues which make the testes inside the scrotum. 

   Clamps can be a wonderful addition to play and are relatively easy to learn how to use. Many new comers to the lifestyle start with things like clothespins and nipple clamps. They can create many sensations and even increase the intensity of orgasm. With some caution and imagination clamps can be used in any number of deviously enjoyable ways. 

   Play safe and have fun!