Lou Paget, a certified sex educator and best-selling author based in Los Angeles, isn't surprised by a recent surge in interest in toys. "We've seen a definitive change in attitude where there is recognition that a woman's pleasure matters," she explains. "Sex toys can play an important role in boosting a women's abilities to really enjoy themselves during sex." So whether you're trying it for the first time, or you've got some experience under your belt, we've got a suitable enhancer for you. 1 Want to test the waters? most convenient sex toys emojis DANA TEPPERGETTY IMAGES Before you head to the adult novelty shop, look around: Chances are, you have something in your house right now that will do double duty as a pleasure enhancer. Paget suggests looking to your bathroom for potential stimulators. "A hand-held, detachable shower head or Jacuzzi jets can be arousing," she says. Start slow and use indirect pressure to the area around your clitoris, but not direct, until you have a sense of how it feels. Her advice for the beginner: Take baby steps and try basic toys first. And remember to have fun! "As adults, our ability to play is driven out of us and we lose it," explains Paget. "We like gadgets in the kitchen and outside of the bedroom, so why not take the opportunity to enjoy them in the intimate part of our lives, too?"
2 Planning some solo exploration? curious novice sex toys DANA TEPPERGETTY IMAGES To kick-start your libido, there are tons of easy-to-use options for novices and experts alike. One classic, the Rabbit,was best known for its role in a Sex in the City episode. Now the Happy Rabbit 2 G-Spot has been entirely revamped to provide more clitoral stimulation via its "ears" and a whopping 150% surge in power. Kudos also for the extra quiet motors – ideal for not disturbing your partner sleeping next to you. And if you're with a partner but not feeling, well, satisfied, New Yorkers Alex Fine and Janet Lieberman came up with a solution. Their company, Dame Products, is geared "to empower the sexual experiences of woman kind." Their first product, Eva, is a hands-free, strap-free, non-intrusive vibrator created with clitoral stimulation in mind. Intended to be used by a couple, it's held in place by pressure between bodies (or just the touch of a finger.) Whatever the sex toys, Paget suggests "practicing" by yourself first, even if you plan to use them with a partner. Get acquainted with how they work and feel. Also important to keep in mind (especially for a vibrator like the Rabbit) is a good lubricant. You'll be more comfortable with whatever you're using when things slip and slide easily, Paget advises. A water-based one has easy cleanup if it gets on your bed sheets, or a silicone-based formula works best if you're in the tub or shower. Oil-based lubes (like baby or coconut oil) are not compatible with condoms. Still others have tingling, warming or cooling sensations.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 3 Looking for another sensation? oral sex emoji sex toys DANA TEPPERGETTY IMAGES Sadly, not all partners are adept at providing good oral sex. Jaw cramping and bad technique might leave you thinking about tomorrow's to-do list, instead of what you're actually, you know, doing. Try a little helper: Oral sex simulator Sqweel 2 became an earth-shattering success among women. It doesn't vibrate or thrust but features a wheel of realistic-feeling "tongues" that rotates to send arousal levels soaring. Or, Lelo's ORA 2 is a smaller, vibrating option to try. 4 Interested in role play? sex toys 101 DANA TEPPERGETTY IMAGES Ever since Fifty Shades of Grey got couples thinking kinky, more have wanted to incorporate a little whip-and-chain action into their sex lives. Role playing is a classic starting point. You can incorporate handcuffs, costumes ("yes, sir, Mr. Officer"), or a variety of other playful options without veering into total BDSM territory (unless both partners want to go that route, of course.)
If you're a total newbie, or the idea of being completely restrained is a little scary, you might want to dabble in some "vanilla kink," as Paget calls it. Try using a long ribbon of toilet paper to tie up your partner, or vice versa. If it's not titillating, one quick tug and you're free. Ready to stock your adult toy box with some goodies? Adventurous twosomes can get the essentials for a foray into light BDSM with a Fifty Shades of Grey Hard Limits Bed Restraint Kit, Hard Limits Bed Restraint Kit, complete with blindfold, adjustable Velcro ankle and wrist cuffs. If you're doing a re-creation of a certain steamy scene from the movie, then you will, of course, need these: Nipplettes Vibrating Nipple Clamps. Paget's biggest advice is to keep an open mind — and it's okay to stop when you feel uncomfortable. "Anytime you are trying something new, you're a beginner," she says. "Be patient as you explore through trial and error. Listen to what your body is telling you." Advertisement - Continue Reading Below 5 Spicing things up when you're apart? sex toys long-distance DANA TEPPERGETTY IMAGES Sure, technology and sex have been linked since long before Kim Kardashian's viral tape. Meet Siime, the "GoPro of sex toys." It combines the feature of a typical vibrator with a built-in camera and a small light mounted at the tip to capture all the action. Just plug it into your laptop to take video or photos. Share them with your lover, whether that means in bed next to you or across the globe.
6 Hoping to make him — and yourself — happy? sex toys couple DANA TEPPERGETTY IMAGES Some sex toys are meant for him, some for her. Few cater to both, but this one does: The We-Vibe 4 Plus, designed by a Canadian twosome in search of a sex toy that pleased both genders. It has a U-shape with part of the device inserted into the vagina and the other, on the outside, cozying up to the clitoris. A man feels the vibration, too, when he slips inside next to the device. It's even controlled via an app! When considering a gadget like this, Paget says it's important to talk to your partner — beforehand. "Approach a conversation about sex toys with 'I'd like to try this with you,' to ensure that it's an inclusive experience," she advises. "Some partners might be concerned that they might be replaced or feel inadequate, so tread gently." SEX TECH HAS come a long way in the past 10 years—not only in terms of cultural acceptance and awareness, but also technology. Gone are the days of clunky, pink plastic rabbit vibrators and sex toys that feel like knock-off action figures. Today's toys are designed by sex educators, medical professionals, and some of the world’s greatest sexperts. They feature ultra-premium, surgical-grade silicone, robust Bluetooth connectivity, programmable vibration patterns, and multiple motors all designed to help you have a good time.
There’s never a bad time to invest in a little extra self-care. These are some of our favorite sex toys, vibrators, smart vibrators, personal wand massagers, and accessories, all of which we’ve personally tested. There’s something here for everyone, every gender, and every body. The language on these products isn’t always gender-inclusive, but we approached testing with a gender-inclusive mindset, testing these with a variety of different genitals, bodies, and partners. Still don't see anything you like? Be sure to check out our other bedroom-related guides on the Best Sounds for Sleep, the Best Mattresses, and the Best Sound Machines. Updated May 2022: We added the Lelo Enigma, Coconu Lube, added a section on erogenous zones, removed the Lora DiCarlo Ose 2, Fun Factory Laya II, and adjusted prices. Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off). This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com and our print magazine (if you'd like). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.
Sex ToysIf you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more. Please also consider subscribing to WIRED Image may contain Screen Electronics Projection Screen and White Board Which Toys Are For My Body? Beyond P & V The sex tech industry has conditioned us to think of toys in terms of male and female, penis and vagina, but that’s reductive, inaccurate, and contributes to a larger narrative about the relationship between genitals and gender. It’s unhelpful and I have a lot of feelings about it. To that end, we opt to be as specific as possible and use anatomical terms to describe individual erogenous zones—and there are way more than just P and V. The vulva is the exterior part of the vagina. It includes the labia majora, labia minora, the urethra, and the clitoris. The clitoris is the center of erogenous nerves in the vulva, and it’s actually much larger than just the exterior portion. Its internal structures extend down to either side of the vagina, which is where you’ll find the G-spot—the area stimulated by toys that curve toward the front of your body.
The phallus is what’s commonly referred to as the shaft of the penis, and it includes a couple different erogenous zones. The glans is the top of the phallus, usually referred to as the “head,” and the frenulum is a thin strip of connective tissue on the underside of the glans that can be particularly sensitive to targeted stimulation. Last but not least, the anus is, well … it's the butthole. The rectum is the interior portion that attaches to the anus. Both of these areas can be sensitive to internal and external stimulation. For people assigned male at birth, there’s an additional erogenous zone here: the prostate or P-spot. This is a walnut-sized gland that lives between the internal structures of the penis and the rectum, and it can be reached by toys that curve toward the front of your body. sex toy PHOTOGRAPH: MAUDE Best Vibrator Maude Drop This tiny little vibrator packs a punch. It might be the most intense palm-sized vibrator we’ve ever tested. It has only three intensity settings, which is fewer than most toys on this list, but for the Maude Drop, it’s about quality over quantity. Each of its levels provides deep stimulating vibrations, but if you’re particularly sensitive you may want to be careful with the highest setting. It’s rumbly, powerful, and fast, which can be a nice way to end a session of solo use. It’s a great vibrator if you’re looking for something simple, discreet, and approachable.
Great for travel, solo use, and all genitals $49 AT MAUDE $49 AT SEPHORA Dame Com Wand Vibrator PHOTOGRAPH: DAME Best Wand Dame Com Wand Vibrator Dame's take on the classic magic wand (8/10, WIRED Recommends) introduces a new angle on an old favorite—literally. Most wands are straight, and nothing on the human body is straight, so using them to reach your most sensitive areas can be pretty awkward. The Com offers an elegant solution. The wand handle is angled ergonomically so the toy does all the reaching for you. Plus, at $125 it’s cheaper than a lot of premium wireless magic wands. The battery life could use some work though; you’ll only get about an hour out of a single charge. Great for diffuse stimulation to the vulva, phallus, or sore muscles $125 AT DAME PRODUCTS
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ADAM SPEIGHT Image may contain Trophy PHOTOGRAPH: TENGA Best Stroker Toy Tenga Crysta Leaf I'm not a fan of sleeve-type toys. Most of the time they feel weird and awkward to use, even alone. But Tenga's Crysta Leaf changed my mind. This is the first sleeve or stroker toy that I actually want to use again and again. It’s made of a squishy and incredibly stretchy elastomer material, and when you’re using it you can still feel your (or someone else’s) hand applying pressure throughout the toy. It’s a very tactile experience, and if you’ve ever been turned off by hard plastic sleeves and strokers in the past, you might want to check this one out. You’ll need to get a high-quality water-based lube, though, and keep the toy clean. It attracts dust and cat hair like nobody’s business. Great for phalluses $35 AT AMAZON $38 AT TENGA PHOTOGRAPH: LOVABILITY Spice Up Your Baths
Lovability WaterSlyde Ok, this thing looks pretty unusual. It’s a long plastic slide that ties to the underside of your bathtub’s spout and diverts water directly to your most intimate areas. Inspired by the common practice of laying underneath the spout with your legs up in order to stimulate your genitals, which can be awkward and super uncomfy, the WaterSlyde makes it much much easier to have a little extra fun at bath time. And it’s good no matter what genitals you have. It can be a bit of a novel experience for people with penises, but it’s still super fun. Also it’s very affordable, durable, and makes baths a little spicier. $28 AT LOVABILITY PHOTOGRAPH: CRAVE Discreet and Stylish Crave Vesper Vibrator Sex toys are often relegated to closets, drawers, and hidden places to keep them away from prying eyes. Keep it secret, keep it safe; Gandalf knew what he was talking about. This toy is something different, though. It’s a thing you wear, not hide—like the Evenstar. The Vesper, from Crave, is a slender, powerful vibrator that pulls double duty as a bold statement necklace.
Even if you don’t wear it out and about, it’s a remarkably capable little vibe. It has just two vibration modes (steady and pulse), but it is shockingly powerful for such a tiny thing, and it is whisper quiet. The pointed shape makes it a good choice for targeted stimulation, and it’s powerful enough that you’ll feel its vibrations deep in your body. Don’t put it in your body though. Vesper is strictly an external-use-only kind of toy. It’s bold and discreet, stylish and subtle. But above all, it’s a functional addition to anyone’s collection. Great for targeted stimulation on the clitoris, nipples, or frenulum $69 AT UNCOMMON GOODS $69 AT CRAVE Most Popular GEAR The 12 Best Electric Bikes for Every Kind of Ride ADRIENNE SO GEAR The Best Laptop Backpacks for Work (and Life)
Vibrators UKMEDEA GIORDANO GEAR The Best Fitness Trackers and Watches for Everyone ADRIENNE SO Sony Xperia 1 IV phones GEAR Sony’s Xperia 1 IV Is a Nice Android Phone With an Absurd Price ADAM SPEIGHT PHOTOGRAPH: DAME Pocket-Sized and Approachable Dame Pom Flexible Vibrator Just look at this little thing! It's cute and friendly. Pom is one of my favorites from Dame Products (8/10, WIRED Recommends) and is a pocket-sized, waterproof vibrator with five vibration patterns, five intensity settings, and a soft squishy body meant to contour to a wide variety of erogenous zones. The vibrations resonate throughout the toy, but they’re concentrated at the tip. So you get targeted and broader stimulation all in one toy. Experimenting with the intensities, vibration modes, and even just how you touch it to your (or someone else’s) body can be a lot of fun.
Pom’s intuitive, ergonomic shape also makes it really easy to use in the heat of the moment. The button layout is simple and straightforward. You can easily feel which button is which without looking (a huge plus), so you can rapidly switch between modes and intensities. $95 AT AMAZON $95 AT DAME PHOTOGRAPH: TENGA Cute and Cuddly Tenga Iroha Kushi This thing is so cute. I love a sex toy that can double as adorable home decor. The Iroha+ Kushi is shaped like a little hedgehog and features multiple vibration intensities and patterns (plus a charging base and cover to protect it from dust). It’s made from silicone and has a gel underneath, so it’s very soft and squishy. The ridges along its back allow for fun and varied sensations, regardless of the genitals you’re using it with. It’s a unique approach to sex toy design, and I’m a big fan. This little guy has a forever home on my nightstand.
$99 AT AMAZON PHOTOGRAPH: MYSTERYVIBE App Powered MysteryVibe Crescendo Flexible Vibrator + App Sex toys are getting more technologically sophisticated every year. Crescendo from MysteryVibe is a smart vibrator with an app you can use to both control the toy and create and customize your own vibration patterns using its six (!) internal motors and 16 (!!) intensity settings. It’s also flexible; you can bend it in any direction to create a shape that works for your body or someone else’s. Not to mention, it’s waterproof. Great for vulvas and phalluses $183 AT MYSTERYVIBE Most Popular GEAR The 12 Best Electric Bikes for Every Kind of Ride ADRIENNE SO
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This toy is effectively a date night in a box. It’s not cheap, though you could easily spend that much on dinner and a movie and arguably have rather less fun. Cheaper versions of this toy exist, and they do work. But this is the original and the best. Buy now Glass butt plug: £20.99, Loveplugs.co.uk (Love Plugs) Best: For couples wanting to explore Rating: 8/10 If you’re not looking to spend a huge amount of money but you want to take your sex life from sweet to spicy in one purchase, then a butt plug is the best possible use of your money. People of any gender can use a butt plug, so they’re certainly not just for straight couples. But if you’ve never experimented with anything anal before, it’s guaranteed to feel incredibly naughty.
Butt plugs are a great gateway to anal sex because you can remove it privately after sex if you’re self-conscious. Plus they make penetrative sex more intense for women, and can stimulate the g-spot for men. That’s a whole lot of hard work for a little toy costing just over twenty quid. We suggest starting with the smallest size and then working your way up if you’re so inclined. Buy now The verdict: Sex toys It’s incredibly hard to pick just one of these products, especially as they all fulfil such different requirements in a varied sex life. The We-Vibe tango bullet is our overall best buy, but the unofficial best purchase has to be the Pjur lubricant because it’s inexpensive and it will make a marked difference to your sex life, regardless of what genitals you have. If you’re in a straight couple, it’s got to be the Lelo tiani, because you can’t put a price on mutual orgasms, and for men (as long as you’re a little adventurous), it’s got to be the sleek and impressively powerful Bruno. There is a lot of stigma surrounding sex toys, the first time I ever heard anyone talk about sex toys was on YouTube. Hannah Witton is a sex educator on YouTube, and she discusses the different types of sex toys and rates them based on her own sexual pleasure. The only time I have heard anyone discuss sex toys in person has been through CASH. This is why I think this guide is so important. Your sexual pleasure should not be stigmatised, you should be free to enjoy your sex life however you see fit (if everything is consensual of course). So, I am here to answer questions you may have about sex toys. The use of sex toys is personal to you, it is equally okay to not want to use sex toys as it is to use them. This article is a source of information for you to help you explore sex toys by yourself or with a partner.
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.
Sex ToysRabbits 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.
Using 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.
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