What is a sex toy? A sex toy is essentially an object that is designed for sexual pleasure, this could be during sex or masturbation, to use by yourself or with others. In case you did not know some sex toys can actually be used for medical purposes! Who can use a sex toy? Sex toys are for everyone. Some are clearly designed for those who have a vagina (such as a clitoral stimulator) and equally, some are clearly designed for those who have a penis (penis rings). Sex toys can be used during partnered sex or they can be used for solo sex. Sex toys are not a substitute for a partner but rather a happy addition and the stigma around couples using sex toys during sex needs to be challenged. Controlling and using a sex toy on your partner can be pleasurable for both parties. The biggest stigma about sex toy use generally surrounds males and toxic masculinity. Sex toys are often seen as something to laugh about and have negative connotations as some believe the misconception that it means their skills aren’t good enough and it’s not something they would use for their own pleasure. Normalising and breaking the stigma of the use of male sex toys is important, it is not shameful to use sex toys as a male and it can make your sexual experiences better. They are not there to replace you, but to work with you to make sex/masturbation a more pleasurable experience.
Should I use a sex toy? If you want to, yes. Sex toys often come in discrete packaging so no one needs to know if you do not want them to. Masturbation or even sex using sex toys can be a way to control your orgasm, it is a way to set your own pace and to explore your body to find out what works for you as everyone achieves an orgasm differently. For those who have not had penetrative sex, sex toys are still an option! Some sex toys are designed slightly thinner/smaller for those who have not had penetrative sex such as some vibrators and dildos and not all sex toys require insertion into the vagina, for example, clitoral stimulators are a way to achieve an orgasm without penetration. Sex toys help you get to know your own body which will inevitably make partnered sex better as you can better guide them to what you like. In short, if you want to, then go for it. How do I clean my sex toy? Sex toys vary and there will be cleaning instructions on the packaging, so double-check if it is waterproof before cleaning. Cleaning your toys depends on the material you have used. In general, you should wash your sex toys in warm water using a small amount of soap. Silicone is a good material for sex toys, as is hard plastic, break-resistant glass, and aluminium, this is because they do not have pores to absorb germs – and as well, different materials can activate different forms of orgasms. They are also easier to clean. Some sex toys are made from other materials, these can absorb germs and may lead to infections regardless of if you have cleaned your sex toy. Once cleaned, leave your toys to dry where it is free of dirt and avoid using a towel because particles can get attached to your toy and you could be at risk of infection when you go to use it again. Then ensure you store your toy in a cleaned box/bag to prevent dust and other germs from sticking to your toy.
Can I share sex toys? For safe sex, clean your sex toys before allowing another person to use them. For example, if a lesbian couple were to have sex and the sex toy e.g., a dildo was inserted into one female then the sex toy should be cleaned before being inserted into the other female to prevent bodily fluids being passed from one individual to another. This is because sharing sex toys can lead to sexually transmitted infections. Using a condom with sex toys can help to prevent the transmission of STIs from one partner to another but remember to change the condom between each person the sex toy enters. Can I lose a sex toy inside me? A sex toy cannot be lost inside a vagina, this is because the cervix will block it and prevent it from getting lost. However, anal sex toys that do not have a wide base could go all the way in and you may be unable to reach it. This would require medical assistance, so save yourself the trouble and make sure your anal sex toys do have a wide base or handle. Should I use lube? Lube is always your friend no matter where the sex toy is going. If you are using an anal sex toy then lube is essential, the vagina naturally lubricates itself, but the anus does not. The insertion of an anal sex toy into the anus without lube can be painful and unsafe. Ensure to check out the variation of lubes you can get, as anal lube is much thinner and more water-based which means it is less sticky so applies smoother.
Never put a sex toy that has been into the anus into a vagina without it being washed and thoroughly cleaned first. Germs from the anus can enter the vagina and potentially cause vaginitis. If you are using any other sex toy, then lube is always a good option and can make masturbation and sex more pleasurable. If you are using a silicone-based sex toy, then do not use silicon-based lube as it can damage your sex toy. If in doubt always use water-based lube with sex toys and condoms. Oil-based lubes can react with latex condoms and cause them to break. Which sex toys are directed to those with vulvas and vaginas? Vibrators Vibrators are sex toys that vibrate as the name suggests, most sex toys have different levels of vibration. Always begin with the lowest setting and work your way up to higher settings, explore where the vibrations feel the most pleasurable but for those with vulvas generally the sex toy is used around the clitoral area. Vibrators can come in different shapes and sizes and some can be inserted into the vagina or even the anus while others are meant to remain solely outside of the body. Vibrators could also be used to stimulate other areas of the body such as the nipples. Bullet vibrators are one of the most common starting sex toys, they are small and designed for clitoral stimulation. When using vibrators, you may want to be aware of the noise it may make if you want to be discreet, try reading reviews to determine if the level of noise is manageable for you, if in doubt using lower settings and using it under covers can help to mask the vibrating noise. Dildos Dildos are probably the most thought of sex toy. Dildos are specifically meant for insertion, they can be inserted into the vagina, anus, or mouth. Dildos again may come in different shapes and sizes, but they are generally to designed to mimic the shape, look, and feel of a penis, you can even get mould your own dildo kits. Dildos are often curved too; this is to allow for the stimulation of the G-spot or prostate and can also be used as strap-ons.
Rabbits Rabbit sex toys look a bit like rabbits, hence the name. It is also a two in one as it can serve as a dildo and vibrator. Rabbits are designed for insertion and have two shafts. The large shaft is for vaginal insertion and mimics a penis whilst the smaller shaft is for clitoral stimulation. These often are seen as the ultimate stimulation tool, that allows you to orgasm from both penetration and clitoral stimulation. Which sex toys are directed to those with penises? Penis rings Penis rings are designed to go around the scrotum and/or penis. They reduce blood flow from the penis while it is erect, allowing the penis to stay harder for longer. This also increases the sensation of sex. Penis rings should be flexible and easy to remove, penis rings made from silicone or rubber are the safest to use. Some may have vibrators attached which will further increase stimulation. However, it is very important to not wear penis rings for long periods (generally more than 10 minutes) because the blood flow is reduced. Penis rings should never be painful or uncomfortable so if you start to feel that way remove it immediately. It is also worth noting that those with any kind of bleeding disorder or anyone taking medication such as blood thinners should consult a medical professional before using penis rings.
Masturbation Sleeves Masturbation sleeves are tubes, typically made from soft materials such as silicone that the penis is inserted into. Sleeves – like all sex toys – come in different shapes and sizes. Different sleeves can also have different textures for increased stimulation. Sleeves could also have a vibrating or suction element to them. Strokers are like masturbation sleeves but are more suited to those with smaller penises or trans men on hormone therapy. Masturbation sleeves are designed to mimic the sensation of sex. Penis Pumps Penis pumps create suction around the penis thus driving blood flow to the area, increasing the sensation. Penis pumps can be beneficial for those who struggle to become erect, it is again important to consult a medical professional before using a penis pump if you are on blood thinners or have a blood flow related disease. Which sex toys are genderless? Some dildos and vibrators can be used by anyone regardless of gender as they are inserted into the anus. When using anal sex toys always use lube. Those who use anal sex toys often work their way up to using anal sex toys by first penetrating their anus with their smallest finger and working their way up to larger or multiple fingers before inserting any kind of sex toy. Remember to always wash your hands and any toys used after and can be advised to have a shower before and after to ensure your anus is clean. Do not put a sex toy that has been in the anus into the mouth or a vagina without it being washed first. Anal toys such as plugs, anal beads or wide-based dildos are made specifically for anal stimulation and can be used by anyone with an anus, all having different levels of penetration.
LingerieUsing anal sex toys as a man does not make you gay, despite what stigma, stereotypes and insecurities might tell you. It is completely okay for males to enjoy anal stimulation. Taking ownership of your sex life is powerful. Remember to wash your sex toys, keep them in a dry/clean space, use lube and happy exploration! Buying a sex toy is fun, sexy, and shows that you’re prioritizing pleasure for yourself and your partners. But it can also be intimidating, with dozens of styles, and literally thousands of models to choose from. There is no ‘right’ way to choose your first sex toy, it’s a process. Start by considering who you’re using it with, and what sensations you and your partners already enjoy. Then, like an erogenous Marie Kondo, ask yourself, will this toy spark that joy? If not, find one that will! Sex toys increase pleasure by bringing in novel forms of stimulation that go beyond fingers, tongues, and more. Once relegated to the back of nightstands, there’s been a toy renaissance over the last few years as people have begun to own their sexuality.
Forget about hiding them inside a drawer, modern toys are sleek enough to display. There are elegant rose-gold bullets, handsome prostate massagers that beg to be touched and discrete couples’ massagers that slip effortlessly in between bodies or in panties. Toys are never about replacing another person, they’re about enhancing an experience. They’re a portal to passion, helping find new ways to turn yourselves on and get yourselves off. And when used with a partner, they’ve been proven to almost instantly increase communication and sexual satisfaction. It’s important to buy safe sex toys. The industry is largely unregulated, and cheaper products are often made with hazardous materials like PVC plastics and phthalates. Over time, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria, break apart, and leak chemicals into your body. Buy your products from trusted sources, like Lickerish Love, and look for nonporous materials like medical-grade silicone, glass, and stainless steel. They’re easy to clean and they’ll last for years. We recommend toy cleaners with bacteria fighting agents like the Before & After Toy Cleaner and Sliquid Shine. LUBE Lube is the secret to great play. It reduces friction and is oh-so-fun to apply. Be generous with it, especially when it comes to anal. We recommend staying away from oil-based lubricants, because they’re messy, irritating and not condom safe. Instead, try water or silicone-based lubes. Water-based is the most versatile and can be used with condoms and silicone toys. It won’t stain your sheets and is easy to clean up. Silicone-based lubes are luxurious, long-lasting and waterproof – but will ruin a silicone toy. Intimate Earth lubes are great for all kinds of play. They have flavored ones for oral, and a special anal lube with bisabolo extract to help relax the muscles.
EXTERNAL VIBRATORS Use external vibrators all over the body, and have fun finding new places to tease, like nipples, vulvas and around the penis head. The Iconic Bullet is perfect for first-timers, delivering powerful vibrations and climaxes through external play. Their small size makes them portable for play and delivers precise stimulation, and it’s easy to slide over your clitoris or perineum while being penetrated. If the tip is too intense, you can hold it horizontally to stimulate a broader area. These aren’t recommended for penetration. ANAL BEADS Anal beads are perfect for beginners because they offer different sizes to play with, which help stretch out the sphincter muscles. Slowly insert and pull them out to tease the sensitive nerve endings around the anus. If you get vibrating beads, like the B-Vibe Cinco, you and your partners can enjoy the sensations too. As with any anal play, you’ll want to be very generous with lube and take your time. G-SPOT VIBRATORS If you love penetration, G-spot vibrators are a fun way to achieve orgasm for vulva owners. Unlike bullets, they’re designed to go inside you, and are specially curved to hit the elusive G-spot (and they work like regular vibrators too, so you can still use it on your clitoris or anywhere else that feels good). Try using it while getting head or being taken from behind for an incredible vaginal orgasm. DILDOS Dildos can be used anally, orally or vaginally. They come in almost every shape and style imaginable, from ultra-realistic to sleek and modern, and everything in between. The Bouncer is a good starter toy, because it has an approachable design with a surprising addition – each ridge has a rotating ball which responds to your motions. It is harness compatible for pegging or strap on fun, and it can also stick to smooth surfaces so you have multiple ways to play. Try attaching it to a shower tile, so you can please yourself and your partner at the same time.
BUTT PLUGS For a more long-lasting feeling of fullness, plugs are a great option. Vibrating plugs can deliver powerful P-spot, or prostate, orgasms during play. A weighted plug, like the Snug Plug is comfortable and discrete, so you can wear it during sex, or while running errands. No one will ever know, and sometimes, that makes it even hotter. PROSTATE MASSAGERS Prostates are basically the male equivalent of a G-spot. It’s a small, walnut-sized organ that is full of nerve endings. Treat it right, and it delivers powerful, waves of full body orgasms. The Hugo is a great option, because it also has a secondary motor that can stimulate the perineum, and it’s remote controlled for fun partner play. PENIS SLEEVES The technology of men’s sex toys has come a long way lately, and nothing proves that as much as the futuristic Flip Hole by Tenga. Between squeezing, ribbing, rotating and pulsing, it stimulates every inch of the shaft and the head. Combine it with a strip tease or rim job for a totally mind-blowing climax. COCK RINGS If you’re curious about adding a new toy to your couples’ collection, consider a cock ring like the Pivot by We-Vibe. Made of soft silicone, this vibrating ring slips over penis, slightly restricting the blood flow to allow for longer, harder erections. The motor can supply orgasmic vibrations to the clitoris or the anus depending on your play.
RESTRAINTS If you want to add a dimension of kink or power play to your sex, you don’t have to go full 50 Shades. Start off slowly by adding a few restraints to your toy chest. A simple Leather Buckle Blindfold or pair of Mink Faux Fur Handcuffs can instantly upgrade vanilla sex, by putting one partner at the mercy of another. By removing the ability to see or move, you can tease and tantalize all you want. Try experimenting with textures, temperatures and toys until they’re begging for a release. Health & Wellness Wellness Women's Health Men's Health Mental Health Sexual Health Relationships Skin & Hair Sleep CBD Home
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The Greatist Community Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest TikTok Spotify YouTube About Greatist Who We Are Our Editorial Process Our Product Vetting Process Content Integrity Conscious Language Health & Wellness Food Fitness Faves Connect SUBSCRIBE 25 O-mazing Sex Toys to Gift Yourself or Someone Special This Year Types of sex toys We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. Why do we love opening gifts? It’s the thrill of guessing what’s under the wrapping, that sweet carnal release at the first tear of paper, and the warmth that lingers from knowing someone cared enough to get you something nice. You know what does those same things? Orgasms! So why not give the gift of the Big O with a sex toy this holiday season? Rhetorical question! Assuming you and the gift recipient are close, there’s no good reason not to.
That’s why we put together this list of 25 sex toys that totally live up to the buzz. Design by Alexis Lira How we chose Pleasure and pleasure products aren’t one size fits all, so it’d be impossible to point to just one sex toy and say “Get this!” Instead, we rounded up 25 high quality, body-safe sex toys and pleasure aids, including descriptions of the type of pleasure they’re designed to provide — plus, what types of bodies and sensation-seekers they’re best for. Pricing guide $ = under $50 $$ = $50–$125 $$$ = $125–$200 $$$$ = over $200
Best vibrator for newbies We-Vibe Tango X Price: $$ Slightly bigger than an adult’s thumb, the We-Vibe Tango X is the perfect gift for anyone who is new to (or scared of) sex toys. This petite powerhouse of a vibrator features 8 different intensity levels, giving new sex toy users and opportunity to explore just how much rumble they wanna add to their rumble and tumble. And (!) it only has two buttons, making it easier to use than many vibes on the market today #Bless. Best bullet vibrator Drift Warming Bullet Vibrator Price: $$ Cue Nelly because it’s getting hot in here… literally.