As a born and raised Floridian (don’t judge!), I’ve seen my fair share of pineapples—pineapples on pillows, pineapples in drinks, and pineapples on hand towels. It wasn’t until I came across an upside-down pineapple on a door at my aunt’s retirement community, however, that I started to wonder if there was more to the symbol than just feel-good beach vibes. Intimacy coach and swinger Kiley George explains that while pineapples are traditionally associated with hospitality and welcoming, when flipped upside down, they serve as a secret beacon for those in the know.
“Often seen on clothing, accessories, and even as decorative home items, an upside-down pineapple typically indicates that the person is a part of the swinging community or practices ethical non-monogamy,” George explains. “Some lifestylers have suggested that back before the internet, swingers would use the symbol to let others know they were part of the community.” They’d even put a pineapple at their door to let others know a swinger party was in session. Love a theme!
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While no one knows exactly why swingers chose the upside-down pineapple as their symbol, George says there are many theories, most of which make total sense. “First, the sexy fruit has long been associated with eroticism,” she explains. In John Parkinson’s 1629 book Park-in-Sun's Terrestrial Paradise, Eve used a pineapple (instead of a regular apple) to seduce Adam. Then there’s the pineapple’s association with sexual health. Some people claim that eating pineapple will make vaginal secretions or semen taste sweet, George says. Tbd on that one, but whether the pineapple works as a tasty aphrodisiac or simply looks the sexy part, you can’t deny the fruit has a certain je ne sais quoi.
Truthfully, the upside-down pineapple symbolizes more than just hospitality; it hints at a world of adventurous, consensual, and ethical non-monogamy. Keep reading for everything you need to know about what the upside-down pineapple really means and how to use it yourself if you’re curious about entering the vibrant world of swingers.
What Does an Upside-Down Pineapple Actually Mean?
Brett Chamberlin, the founder and executive director of OPEN (Organization for Polyamory and Ethical Non-Monogamy), explains that the upside-down pineapple indicates that a couple or individual participates in the swinger lifestyle and may be open to flirtation and play. It doesn’t necessarily mean you’re down for anyyyyything, but you are down to start a convo on the topic.
“Like any good coded signal, an upside-down pineapple is specific enough to communicate a clear message while mundane enough not to raise questions among those unaware of its hidden meaning,” Chamberlin says. While the pineapple doesn’t *have* to be upside down to indicate swinging status, he explains that this detail helps make it clear that someone is part of the lifestyle and not just a fan of tropical fruit.
And considering the fact that pineapples are often associated with openness and sharing, the reference is sort of a wink, wink, nudge, nudge in the swinging community.
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Do Swingers Really *Use* the Upside-Down Pineapple Symbol?
The short answer is yes. The longer answer is that as of April 2024, the hashtag #upsidedownpineapple had over 50.2 million views on TikTok. So, like, YES. “Many of us have upside-down pineapple tattoos, wear pineapple jewelry, and stick pineapples on our cars. We wear them on shirts, purses, anything,” George says. “If we can put an upside-down pineapple on it, you better believe we will. It’s really become a way for us to show our identity. The symbol isn’t just a trend; It’s a way for us to find each other and create community.”
It’s important to note that the upside-down pineapple isn’t always used for sexual purposes (although odds are you will see them on the occasional cruise ship door or hotel room as an invitation). Instead, George says the upside-down pineapple is more often simply used as a pride symbol.
“Usually, when swingers use upside-down pineapples, we do it in community settings, like we’ll wear pineapple bathing suits at events or have pineapple-themed parties,” she explains. “With the rise of social media and ethical non-monogamy dating apps, we no longer need to rely on the upside-down pineapple to signal other swingers, but it’s a subtle nod to who we are.”
In fact, George recalls a moment when she saw a person at a red light with a pineapple sticker on their car. She rolled down her window and said, “Hey, sir, I like your pineapple, but it would be better upside-down.” He smiled, winked, and gave her his number, telling her to call anytime.
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Other Swinging (And Ethical Non-Monogamy) Symbols
Both experts say that while the upside-down pineapple is the most well-known swinging symbol, there are plenty of others associated with non-monogamy. The infinity heart symbol—which has become a part of the polyamorous community’s flag—is rapidly growing in popularity. A few other signs and symbols swingers sometimes utilize include rocking toe rings, wearing their wedding ring on the right hand, and pink lawn decorations.
Just like with the pineapple, though, that doesn’t mean everyone with a ring on their toe or a flamingo in their yard is a swinger. It might just mean they’re a fan of bright birds and foot jewelry.
Okay, So How Can *I* Use the Upside-Down Pineapple to Cue Other Swingers In?
Before you tattoo an upside-down pineapple on your face, let’s have a quick lil refresher: Swinging is a form of ethical non-monogamy where individuals or couples engage in sexual activities with others. It's all about consent and openness and doesn’t typically count as cheating because everyone involved is aware and approves.
How to Use the Upside-Down Pineapple:
If you’re ready to signal to other swingers without saying a word, here’s how the pros suggest using the upside-down pineapple:
- Accessorize: Start small with accessories like pineapple pins, earrings, or charms. Wearing these items can subtly signal your lifestyle choices at events or in daily life.
- Home Decor: Incorporate upside-down pineapples into your home decor. A flag, door knocker, or even a porch light cover can act as a discreet nod to those in the know while still looking chic to the uninitiated.
- Vehicle Decals: Consider a pineapple sticker or magnet for your car. These are especially popular in RV parks or at adult-only resorts.
If you spot someone sporting a pineapple and want to confirm their interests, make a light-hearted comment about it. For example, you could say, "I love your pineapple; does it have a special meaning?" If they’re in the know, their response will likely make it clear. If not, just play it off as a compliment to their style and move on. Easy peasy!
I'm not sure whether I’ll bring that up the next time I visit my aunt, but for now, I finally understand why people always get extra flirty when they’re next to the pineapple lamp in my living room. The more you know!
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Rachel Varina is a full-time freelance writer covering everything from the best vibrators (the Lelo Sona) to the best TV shows (The Vampire Diaries). She has over 10 years of editorial experience with bylines at Women's Health, Elite Daily, Betches, and more. She lives in Tampa, Florida, but did not feed her husband to tigers. When she's not testing out new sex toys (100+ and counting so far!), she's likely chilling with her dogs or eating buffalo chicken dip. Ideally at the same time. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter.
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