Latex, Rubberism, and PVC

Latex fetishism is the attraction to people wearing latex clothing or, in many cases, the garments made from latex themselves.  Since Latex is closely related to rubber, rubber is also commonly included in this fetish.  PVC is a compound made from polyvinyl chloride and is also commonly included in the fetish although it has a much shinier look, similar to patent leather, which also has its own fetish enthusiasts.  Since the three materials are all very similar, they have a tendency to be used interchangeably in the community of its fetishists. 

            These materials are commonly used by fetishists because of not only their aesthetic value, which can be viewed as a “second skin”  of sorts, but also because of their restrictive quality which in turn lends itself as an excellent material for bondage play.  However, not all latex fetishists are attracted to bondage or lingerie style latex and rubber clothes. Some are attracted to other garments found and worn outside the community such as raincoats, skin diving suits, hazmat suits, galoshes and even gas masks.  Since many sex toys are made from rubber, there may be heightened arousal with their use. In addition, many fetishists create expanded fantasies around their use for fetishistic gratification.  Other common latex items, such as condoms and medical gloves, are commonly used for their tactile properties. 

            Latex itself is derived from tree sap and initially dries to a clear yellowish color, although it is dyed to its desired color when used to make clothes.  Ammonia is added to retard spoilage, but the amount is very small in concentration and vents off when the latex dries.  The ammonia also helps enhance polymerization.  Water is the base for liquid latex. Liquid Latex is non-toxic, does not clog pores and does not prevent perspiration from forming.  Liquid latex is used to coat either skin or clothing and forms a highly elastic, strong rubber. 

Since Latex and rubber clothing is expensive and hard to come by (although not as difficult nowadays because of the internet), some people choose to make their own latex fetish wear out of liquid latex.  It is simply applied to the article of clothing desired, and then left to dry.  Usually about three or four coats will work on most garments.  It takes about 5 or 10 minutes for each coat to dry, but the process can be sped up by the use of a hairdryer.  If applied to the skin, make sure to shave the affected areas beforehand and apply lubricant.  Although it is important for the removal of the latex later on, too much lubricant could affect the latex and stretch it too much. 

When coating a piece of clothing in latex, make sure the latex gets between the fibers.  After the initial coat sets in, apply as many as desired or needed for the texture you are desire.  Fabrics such as cotton do not work as well for this because they tend to stretch and retain the shape.  Also, materials such as Lycra are not good candidates as the fabrics will mat together and the fabric loses its stretch.  Denim and tightly woven fabrics work very well and nylon will work as well, as long as the liquid latex soaks through the fabric.  It is a good idea to test the fabric being coated first on a small patch.  Always make sure to use a non-petroleum based product when cleaning your latex garments. 

When wearing your latex garment, be sure to first remove all jewelry so as not to tear or snag the garment.  They could also discolor the latex.  Cover the area the garment will cover with some talcum powder and put on the garment wearing cotton gloves to avoid fingernail damage.  Make sure to hand wash your garments and leave to hang dry in an area out of direct sunlight.  Store the garment in a plastic bag, preferably black to block sunlight, and covered in a thin layer of talcum powder.  Pack the bag away in a drawer or closet, making sure that it is in a place where it will not get damp and will be away from heaters, as it can melt fairly easily.  Latex can permanently stain brown if it comes in contact with copper, bronze, or brass, so be careful even after handling copper coins.  Always attempt to keep dirty or sweaty fingers away from your garment.    Make sure to use latex polish to clean the garment and remember that oils, greases and solvents will damage your latex. Don’t use any oil based creams or lubricants.  Use water based lubricants!  Be sure to wash the garment after use.  Even the best made and well cared for  garment will need repair at some time. Torn seams, small holes, splitting at the joints are common problems and should be repaired immediately or the defect will soon propagate and lead to a major failure. Seams that have come unglued are fairly easy to fix. Clean both surfaces of the seam with a mild solvent (to remove oils or polish) then apply a little rubber adhesive to both sides and allow to dry for a couple of minutes. Then press the two sides together and apply pressure for several minutes. Allow the joint to dry for at least 24 hours before use and tears will require patching.  Clean the inner surface around the hole with the solvent and lightly sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper. Cut a circular patch an inch bigger in diameter than the hole of the thinnest gauge of matching rubber available. Apply glue to the inside surface of the garment around the hole and to the surface of the patch. The patch may curl at first. When both surfaces are dry to the touch, straighten out the patch and press it firmly over the hole. Apply pressure for a couple of minutes, then dust the patch with talc and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours.

If you observe these simple rules, you should have an enjoyable experience with your latex for a long time!However, not all bondHoHo