Sex toys: why you need them and how to choose them

Why try sex toys

“Everything should be natural,” some will say. “But what’s the point of naturalness without orgasm,” others will retort. So the first reason is banal: pleasure. This is especially true for women who find it difficult to reach orgasm without strong clitoral stimulation, and for men who tend to finish too quickly.

The second reason is also not particularly original. Sex toys bring variety to the lives of single people. Of course, they cannot completely replace a live person (although manufacturers of sex robots are working in this direction), but they will definitely brighten up the gray everyday life.

The same goes for people who have been in a relationship for a long time. A little variety in sex will only refresh the union.

After all, even the purchase of sex toys can turn into a little adventure. Provided that for this you both go not to specialized sites, but to an adult store. And if for your couple it has not yet become a routine.

How to choose sex toys

A newcomer may feel confused in the world of sex toys. Therefore, the optimal solution for starting is to determine which area and type of stimulation interests you the most and choose the simplest model. Rushing into the purchase of a multifunctional and expensive device risks wasting money. Start with the basics. After that, it will be clear where to go next and whether you even need it.

User reviews will also be a good clue. They will help you form a more complete idea of the upcoming purchase.

For those who want to test as many devices as possible—advice: start with cheap products. They are not suitable for long-term use, but they will vividly demonstrate what’s what. After that, you can choose a higher quality model.

Materials

It is believed that the best devices are made of non-porous materials: silicone, glass, and stainless steel. Their structure does not allow bacteria to penetrate inside. For owners, this means ease of care, safety, and long-lasting use.

ABS plastic, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), and thermoplastic rubber (TPR) are usually hypoallergenic and safe. However, they belong to porous materials, so they require more careful maintenance and caution during use.

The greatest danger comes from products made of PVC, jelly, and vinyl, which may contain harmful chemicals (phthalates and others).

Latex is also a controversial material. It can cause allergies, have an unpleasant smell, and, moreover, is not very durable.

How to add toys to a couple's sex life

We have already written about how to tell your partner about your desire. But there are a few more rules for sex toys.

First, discuss with your partner the possibility of using such devices. Be tactful so that they do not suspect that you are monstrously dissatisfied with your sex life.

Before introducing the device into the common play, test it out on your own. A bad first impression can put off the desire to try again for a long time.

In any case, it’s better to start using the toy gently and carefully. In the early days, having feedback is especially important in order to find the optimal way to apply it.

If you have been a fan of toys for a long time and want to introduce them to a new partner, choose the right moment for this meeting. It is better not to spring such news during the first sexual contact: there are already enough new impressions. But you shouldn’t delay too long either, otherwise, it may give the impression that you are keeping some shameful secret.

Precautions

1. Read the instructions before use. This will significantly reduce the risk of various incidents.
2. Remember the hygiene rules. Always wash your hands before and after using toys. The toys themselves should also be washed (preferably with antibacterial soap) and stored in a clean place. Some devices require special cleaning, so don’t forget about the first point.
3. It’s better to dry the toys in the open air. If you don’t have that option, use a towel. But before hiding the devices, make sure each part and every nook is dried.
4. Try to use condoms. Especially if your toy is porous. Otherwise, you might gift yourself with some kind of disease.
5. Do not use the same toy for anal, and then immediately for vaginal penetration (and vice versa). There is a serious risk of infection. However, condoms can solve this problem.
6. If you are using intimate lubricants, remember: water-based lubricants are suitable for silicone products. Other lubricants may damage the toy. The lubricant itself is also better to test on your skin first and make sure that it doesn’t cause an allergic reaction.

Types of sex toys

Let’s get to the most interesting part: what kinds of sex toys there are. The division here is fairly conditional: many devices can be used by both women and men, and both partners at once. But for the sake of simplicity, we have divided them into three groups.

Sex toys for women

Phallus imitator

The meaning follows from the name: a phallus imitator is an imitation of a phallus. Without vibration, pulsation, and other pleasant properties. Designed for vaginal and anal stimulation (sometimes both together). Depending on the configuration, it can also stimulate the clitoris and G-spot.

There are very realistic models and those that do not resemble a penis, although they perform their functions just as well. Some of them are equipped with a suction cup or handle. There are also double-sided models for mutual use.

Vibrator

A sex toy that allows you to achieve orgasm through vibration in the most sensitive areas. Modern models have several modes, can move, change shape, react to ambient sounds, and be controlled via a mobile app.

A bullet vibrator is a small-sized toy that can be used as a stand-alone device, placed inside a phallus imitator, or attached to an anal plug (suitable for certain models).

A pulsator is a close relative of the vibrator. The device creates pulses, mimicking the movements of a real partner.

Clitoral stimulator

These devices are designed for external stimulation, without deep penetration. Typically, they work through vibration. A classic option is a butterfly, which attaches to the body with special straps.

There are also toys that mimic oral sex.

And vacuum stimulators, which are also designed to recreate the sensations of oral caresses.

Anal plug

The toy serves two main functions: reduces the size of the vagina and works as an anal stimulator. The second can also be used by men.

Sex toys for men

Masturbator

A faithful friend of the bachelor. Different models imitate vaginal, oral, or anal penetration and have various internal structures. They can look very realistic, representing certain body parts, or... not very much.

Some models vibrate and have sucking properties that enhance sensations.

By the way, for lovers of combining the pleasant with the pleasant, there is such a holder for a tablet and a masturbator.

Sex dolls and sex robots

An option for those who do not accept compromises. However, to use them, you have to be either quite wealthy or very undemanding. Because silicone dolls that closely resemble people are expensive, while cheap inflatable ones look so comical that one can only admire their packaging.

Sex robots represent a completely different level of imitation (and price). They move, blink, make sounds, and even talk a little. The list of human traits is relentlessly growing. Experts do not rule out that in the future sex with robots for people will become commonplace. But for now, this is only a dream.

Note: dolls and robots for women also exist, but currently, manufacturers are more focused on the male audience. That is why we placed these anthropomorphic creatures in the "For men" section.

Erection ring

A toy that enhances erection and its duration. Modern models often vibrate, providing pleasure to both partners. There are also options with dual attachment for the penis and scrotum.

Penis sleeve

This device serves two functions: prolongs erection and enhances vaginal (depending on the model and clitoral) stimulation through its textured surface.

There is also another type of sleeves—for penis enlargement.

Prostate stimulator

This toy can be used as a stand-alone device, for additional stimulation during sex, and even for strengthening male sexual health. There are models with and without vibration.

A configuration with an erection ring is convenient for use in a couple.

Sex toys for both partners

Vibrator

Of course, traditional vibrators can also be used in love games, but there are those that are better suited for this. For instance, such a model stimulates the clitoris, G-spot, and leaves room for penetration, which, thanks to the vibration, provides additional pleasure to the man.

A vibrating egg is a mini-device that is often marketed as a product for women, but it can very well be a couple's toy. Especially if it is equipped with a remote control. The egg can be used for vaginal, clitoral, or anal stimulation, to caress the scrotum, penis, and perineum—in general, however your imagination suggests.

A less bulky, but no less interesting option is vibrating finger sleeves. They essentially turn your hands or your partner’s hands into a vibrator. Simple and genius.

Couples toys

A couple’s vibrator is two devices connected by magnets. By separating them, you get a vibrator for the man and a vibrator for the woman.

Manufacturers of sex toys also think about partners who are far apart. They create devices that can communicate via the internet or Bluetooth. Each part of the device (in the photo, a masturbator for the man and a vibrator for the woman) transmits the partner's touches to their own toy. It turns into real cybersex.

Strap-on

A phallus imitator that attaches to the partner. There are models with and without straps. In the latter case, the active partner receives anal stimulation.

Another option for strapping without straps for anal penetration. Fixed with erection rings.

Vacuum pump

These devices work by sucking out air. They are not a couple's toy in the classical sense (although experimentation can be done), but are suitable for both partners since models exist for men and women.

Men’s pumps are designed to enlarge the penis and restore erection. They are also suitable for masturbation and foreplay.

Women’s options include pumps for breasts, vaginas, and clitorises. The first two also train the muscles of the breasts and vagina.

Anal chain

A unisex toy for anal stimulation, made of balls of various sizes. The depth of penetration can be controlled by the partner.

Accessories and related products

These are not toys anymore, but they can ignite desire and bring pleasure. This includes BDSM gear and equipment, erotic costumes, edible paints and lingerie, massage oils, arousal creams, lubricants, and much more.

In general, if you dream of something, it’s likely that it already exists in a specialized store. You just have to check it out.