We’re all for keeping things interesting in the boudoir. But while you might automatically go out and start buying extra props, the truth is that sometimes, the best way to spice things up is by getting rid of something. In this case, it’s the bed.

While we sometimes long for the comfort and safety of a big bouncy bed with fluffy blankets for an afternoon romp, other times, we might be feeling a bit more adventurous and mix it up. Sometimes we might not even have a bed nearby so we have to get creative. But hey, just because there’s a goalie – or lack thereof – it doesn’t mean you can’t score. 

Not all sex takes place on a bed, so opportunities for sex outside of this environment require some variations to traditional laying down positions,” Lovehoney sex and relationship expert, Christine Rafe, tells Body+Soul. “Even within the household, some folk want to explore something different, spice things up and try new and exciting locations within their home, like the living room, kitchen or shower.”

Rafe also says that for those of us in longer term relationships, taking on a bedless sex challenge might allow you to keep things fun and playful.

“Changing things up from the couples typical ‘sexual script’ supports in maintaining passion, play and novelty, all of which release endorphins, oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine (our ‘feel good’ and bonding hormones).”

Additionally, Rafe says that opting for bedless sex might help those with injuries, disabilities, or mobility variations, who might find boinking on the bed uncomfy or impractical. “Ultimately, it's about adaptability, and creatively considering how you can enjoy intimacy regardless of your environment.”

Behold, the 10 best sex positions that don’t require a bed

If you’re ready to bonk and don’t give a damn that a bed isn’t around (or conversely, rejoice in the idea of doing the deed away from your doona), then we’ve got the 10 best bed-free sex positions to try out, courtesy of Lovehoney.

#1. Mission Impossible

Couples with a big height difference, listen up. If you’ve ever struggled with missionary (things are less than hot when you stare at a belly button the whole time), this sex position might tickle your fancy.

“In this position, the giver stands behind the receiver, who holds onto a chair and pushes their behind up for better alignment and stability,” Rafe says. “Standing positions like this work well when there are size differences between partners, as no one needs to lay or put weight on top of the other.”

For an extra layer of spice, you can add a hands-free toy (Rafe recommends a strap-on clitoral vibrator) which can give some delightful dual stimulation of not just the clitoris, but also the internal g-spot thanks to your penetrating partner. Hot.

#2. The Pretzel

Feeling hungry? ‘The pretzel’ sex position will feed you good and offers deep penetration, smoking eye contact, and easy access (if you know what we mean). 

While it might look confusing, Rafe says it’s actually pretty simple. “The receiving partner lies on their side with open hips and legs, while the giving partner straddles the bottom leg and enters from behind. The top leg of the receiving partner wraps around the giving partner’s hip, creating a tight embrace.”

You can do this one on the floor (just bring extra pillows down for comfort) or consider using a wall if you need extra balance and comfort. Delicious – and not a bed in sight!

#3. The Sandwich

The sandwich is perfect for those with no access to a bed as all you need is a good old floor.

“Ideal for letting you get up close and personal with your lover, this position involves the receiving partner lying face down on a flat surface with their legs tightly closed, creating a more restrictive entry point,” Rafe says. “ The giving partner leans over, supporting their weight with both arms during penetration.”

This position gives intense internal stimulation for the receiver. If you want more, you can ramp it up with a sex toy focused on the clitoris.

#4. Close Encounter

No bed? No problem. Just grab a seat and get going with the ‘close encounter’ sex position.

“This involves the giving partner sitting in a chair, a sofa, or even on the floor against a wall while the receiving partner sits on their lap, legs bent behind them,” Rafe says.

She explains that this one is a good option for those who need shallow or slower penetration as whoever’s on top gets to decide the speed.

#5. Mount Joy

If you really want to start living in that living room of yours, ‘mount joy’ might be the sex position to get you there.

“This one involves one partner sitting on a lounge while the other straddles them, with their legs on either side of the seated partner’s hips and their crotch aligned with the seated partner’s face,” Rafe says. “The receiver can hold the back of the sofa for support, while the giver grips their buttocks to bring them closer.”

This one helps the receiver take control of their oral pleasure as it’s easier to guide the giver. Rafe also recommends adding some flavoured lube if you’re down to spice it up even more. 

#6. Hard Press

For lovers of doggy style, ‘hard press’ is your old faithful sex position, but done lying down. “The receiving partner lies on their front with legs together, while the giving partner kneels behind and supports themselves with hands on either side of the receiver's back,” Rafe says. “This position allows for slow, controlled penetration, stimulating the G-spot or P-spot (for anal penetration).”

#7. On Your Marks

If the Games have you going full sport mode, this bedless sex position might be the perfect accompaniment to watching the hurdles at 4am in your living room with your loved one. 

“This sex position involves the receiving partner squatting on tiptoes with bent knees and palms on the floor for support, while the giving partner kneels behind and enters them,” Rafe explains. “The receiving partner can then control the movement by rolling their hips or bouncing up and down using their thighs, creating movement for deep or shallow penetration at various paces.”

On your marks, get set, go!

#8. The Hammock 

If the photo is daunting to you, then it might be best to leave this one to the professional athletes. Described as a “flying sensation with a side of Pilates”, ‘the hammock’ is challenging, but might make a great alternative to your Sunday morning gym session. 

“The penetrative partner sits on a sturdy surface while the receiving partner lowers onto their lap, facing the same direction,” says the Lovehoney expert. “The penetrative partner holds the rider's wrists and leans back, while the rider leans forward with ankles behind the partner’s back.”

#9. Hitch A Ride

Best to do on an ottoman or a coffee table that can handle the weight, the ‘hitch a ride’ sex position is like riding a bike… if that bike was your partner.

According to the Lovehoney expert, this one is great to explore power-play and is also a more accessible variation of cowgirl (especially for those people who get knee pain). 

“One partner lies on their back, while the other straddles them facing away, with feet on the floor,” Rafe explains. “The straddling partner leads by gyrating, bouncing, or moving back and forth.”

#10. Jingle Bells

It doesn’t need to be Christmas to try out this bedless sex position. Requiring some mild contortion, ‘jingle bells’ is all about the view.

“The receiving partner reclines on a fitness ball or low surface with legs spread wide, and palms flat on the floor for balance. The giving partner kneels between their legs, leaning forward to perform oral sex,” Rafe says.

How to prepare for something new in the boudoir

If some of these positions are intimidating you, don’t fret. It’s totally normal to be filled with both excitement and worry about trying something new in the bedroom. But the key to having a good time when a bed isn’t about is in preparation and communication.

“You are not performative pornstars,” Rafe says of anyone worried about trying something new. “Going into something new with the assumption that there will be moments where things don’t seem to be working or feel awkward means that you give yourselves permission for things to not be ‘perfect’.”

As always, clearly communicate with your partner and set boundaries, use plenty of lube, and hell, even take some time to warm up and stretch before jumping on the pole vault. “Most importantly, approach the experience with a sense of fun and adventure. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to laugh and adjust as you go.”