About Sex Toys

Learn About Sex Toys

Toys: Mechanical objects used to assist in masturbation or sex play

In theory, almost anything can take the role of a "sex toy".

Other than two human bodies, anything else introduced into sex play qualifies as either a prophylaxis (contraception and disease prevention) or a toy (recreation).

For our purposes, a sex toy is any object brought into sex play to enhance the pleasure of both people involved (Our Private Pleasure).

Keep checking this guide as updates, including more detailed descriptions and pictures, are on the way.

Sex Toys Feel Good. There's no disputing that orgasms feel good. Sex toys help you have better, stronger, longer orgasms, which is always a good thing.

Sex Toys are Fun. Most couples get bored with their sex lives at some point in their relationships. Sex toys add a bit of zest to the relationship and keep things from getting dull. Using a sex toy together can bring you closer; sharing new experiences together can be very intimate.

Sex Toys Make Sex Better. Many women have difficulty achieving orgasms unless they receive clitoral stimulation, which can be difficult to manage during intercourse. Also, many men have trouble sustaining their erections as long as they would like. Sex toys can help in both of those situations. They can also enhance a perfectly good lovemaking session, adding just enough "oomph" to turn a great experience into an outstanding one.

All About Dildos

Dildos

What is a dildo?

Dildos are a favorite of men and women alike, their existence dating back several millennia. When women become sexually aroused the vagina balloons and the uterus elevates; and it is only normal for some women to wish to feel the fullness of penetration. This does not mean that a dildo should be regarded as a surrogate for the penis, as a dildo can take on many different shapes and sizes. For example, take a look at the Atomic Disintegrator a unique design which produces unique sensations. For men, a dildo can offer stimulation of the prostate when used anally. Both hetero and homosexual men use dildos for self-pleasure and with their partners.

What should I look for in a dildo?

Finding the dildo that is right for you can be a very frustrating process. The range of sizes and features is overwhelming. Before buying a dildo, take a moment and think about what dildo is most likely to appeal to you. The key factors to look for in a dildo are shape, size and the type of material used.

Shape

When buying a dildo consider whether it is to be used anally, vaginally or both. If the dildo is going to be used for anal penetration, then you should look at butt plugs or dildos which have a flared base. A flared base prevents the dildo from going in too far.

The shapes of dildos these days is truly amazing. Some look like a penis complete with scrotum and testes while others may be shaped into recognizable figurines. The style of dildo that you choose is all based on personal preference. Some men and women may feel uncomfortable using something that so closely resembles a penis so there are other designs available to you. You can purchase a dildo that has an attachment which will gently massage the clitoris as it is used in the vagina. Watch out for adjustable or "bendable" dildos that have a hard plastic or metallic core. The harder material in the center can break the soft outer layer of rubber or silicone, potentially causing injury.

If you enjoy the traditional dildo shape, you might want to try the Crystal Jelly. This inexpensive 8-inch dildo is perfect for vaginal stimulation. The ridges and texture make this one of the better designed toys on the market. Use with a dab of water-based lubricant.

When using a dildo for vaginal penetration, consider the width. Dildos can range anywhere from 1''to 3'' in diameter, measured at the widest point. You may wish to estimate the width you prefer with your fingers, but the only real way to tell is to experiment. Most women have some idea as to the size they prefer. Size considerations are different for anal toys. If you are beginning to experiment with anal toys then start off small and work your way up. See our section on anal toys for a more detailed discussion. If you think bigger is better, then you're not going to get much bigger.

Dildos are made from a variety of different substances including rubber, wood, glass, plastic and silicone. Each substance has certain advantages and drawbacks. Silicone is considered to be the best material, albeit the most expensive. Silicone is the smoothest and most flexible of all the materials. The fact that a silicone dildo does not have tiny grooves or bumps in the surface makes it an easy toy to clean. Furthermore, it can be made to quickly heat up or cool down. Silicone dildos are a costly item with some models selling for more than $100. The average silicon dildo is priced at around $35.

If you're looking for the most realistic texture and all around most wonderful dildo - then spend the money on a silicone model. The Rhythm (pictured) is specially curved for g-spot stimulation and ridged for maximum pleasure. Silicone will retain body heat and last a lifetime. To keep your silicone toy clean, you can boil it in water for a couple of seconds. Tip: You can place your silicone dildo in the microwave for 30 seconds before use. You'll appreciate the warmth!

Another possibility to check out are the e-glass dildos. These dildos can also be heated or cooled to your preference and offer a unique sexual experience with their smooth glass surfaces. Their elegant design allows them to double as fine glass art that can be kept and displayed on a shelf as opposed to hidden in a drawer.

Why would I want to use a dildo?

Dildos are a completely different form of penetration. They allow the person being penetrated to be in complete control of the range, speed and type of motion as well as the angle of penetration. Dildos have many benefits, only one of which is the pleasure of stimulating the vagina or anus.

When using a dildo, the user has the unique opportunity to fully control the speed of the thrusting. In addition, dildos allow the user to adjust the size and thickness of the penetration. Even if your partner’s penis or fingers offer a great deal of sexual pleasure, a dildo can supplement your typical lovemaking. A dildo can also provide a welcome change when you are masturbating, acting as another source of stimulation. Imagine controlled exploration of your body, without fear that a slip or misjudgment by your partner will cause pain or discomfort.

Dildos can also help contribute to better sexual health. Menopausal women can use dildos to help decrease the effects of menopause on the vaginal wall. Menopause often causes thinning of the vaginal walls. Regular use of a dildo will maintain vaginal tone by exercising the vaginal muscles. Dildos can also help lessen the effects of vaginismus. This is a condition where the muscles in the vagina become tense, which can make intercourse quite painful. A dildo allows controlled penetration to ease the tension, readying a woman for penetration by her partner.

How do I use a dildo safely?

You can probably guess that dildos are not the most difficult sex toys to use. Nonetheless, if dildos are not used properly then they can cause harm or discomfort.

Sharing dildos

Virtually all dildos are made from a porous substance (i.e. rubber, jelly, wood) and these materials can collect infected semen, blood, urine or vaginal discharge. When a person shares a dildo, they risk sharing infections and STDs as well. Whenever you are using dildos with multiple partners you should cover the dildo with a condom. Change the condom after every partner.

Keeping it clean

If you are using a dildo with a regular partner with whom you feel safe, then the precautions focus on keeping your dildo clean. A regular washing with soap and water can keep the dildo fairly clean. Silicone dildos, like the Hot Rod Luxury Silver do not have a porous surface, and therefore they do not have the same propensity to collect fluids. When using a dildo by yourself or with a partner make sure you wash the dildo thoroughly after each use. If you are moving from the vagina to the mouth or other part of the body, make sure that you wash the dildo well in between uses. Warm, soapy water is the best way to wash your dildo. Silicone dildos can be boiled to eradicate any infected fluids.

The anus contains bacteria that could be harmful to the rest of your body. Before using a dildo anally, always cover it with a condom. Remove the condom after each use. Whether with an old or new partner, it's important to protect your toys from the bacteria found in the rectum.

Keeping it wet

Whenever using a dildo, lubricant is a must. Ensure that you use a liberal amount of the slippery stuff, both on the dildo and in the vagina or anus. Lubricant allows for smooth and comfortable insertion and will aid in stimulation. A water-based lubricant (we recommend Astroglide) * is absolutely necessary for anal penetration because the inside of the rectum tends to be sticky. Without lubricant you can tear the delicate tissues on the rectal lining or find it difficult to remove.

Respecting your partner

When using a dildo be respectful of yourself and your partner’s body. Dildos should be carefully because sudden pressure can cause discomfort. Always take it slow, speeding up as you feel more comfortable. For safe vaginal penetration, make sure that the dildo follows the natural path of the vagina. When using a dildo anally, go very slow following the natural curvature of the rectum. If at any moment you experience any discomfort, slowly remove or readjust the massager.

Using a dildo is supposed to be fun and enjoyable. Solitary experimentation is a good place to start; you can determine which part of the dildo feels best to you. Report your findings to your partner. Once your partner knows what you like, it will be much easier to satisfy you.

You may also choose to use your dildo in combination with other toys. Try out some combinations for yourself.

Dildos are non-vibrating sex toys usually shaped in the form of an erect penis. They are used for penetration, both anal and vaginal. Dildo properties that vary with design are:

Dildo Shape

Depending on what your dildo is intended to do, the shape of your dildo must compliment it's use. Anal dildos are usually shorter and have a flared base so you do not lose the dildo while inserting in the anus. This happens all too often.

Dildo Size

The size of your dildo should be considered carefully because the dildo penetrates the body. A dildo that is too big can be harmful and a dildo that is too small can be unsatisfying. If you are not sure what size your dildo should be, start small and thin and experiment your way up the scale.

Color of Dildo

Because a dildo is used to simulate an erect penis, fantasizing with a dildo is common. The color of your dildo can help you pretend it is something in your fantasies. Or if an incognito color is selected then the dildo may be more easily hidden from the embarrassment of others finding it.

Dildo Texture

A dildo that is coarse and rough could be uncomfortable and a dildo that is slippery and smooth may not be stimulating. Dildo texture is extremely important and because it is often difficult to feel sex toys prior to purchasing, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the common materials.

Dildo Material

There are rubber dildos, silicone dildos, hard plastic dildos, glass dildos, metal dildos, jelly dildos, ultra-realistic dildos and so on. New advances in technology have provided sex toy manufacturers a cost effective life-like material that simulates real skin. Some of the common life like materials are UR3 (Ultra Realistic 3) and Cyberskin.

Dildo Firmness

Different materials provide different levels of firmness or durability to withstand excessive forces. Silicone, rubber and jelly dildos are all very soft and flexible. On the other end of the scale are Pyrex glass and hard acrylic dildos.

Cleaning of Dildo

It is important to clean your dildo properly. A dildo will last longer with proper care and cleaning your dildo after use is a safety precaution against germs. Some materials may require special cleaning steps or can not be cleaned with some soaps. Check with the manufacturer if not sure.

Dildo Shapes

If there were one thing you could change about your partner's penis what would it be? Would you make it longer? Shorter? Wider? Sure, we know you'd like to say "I wouldn't change a thing." We all have fantasies, though, and the best part about fantasizing is that any and all whims and fancies are fair game. Whatever it is you desire, don't worry - you'll be able to find it when searching for a dildo.

What shape is right for me?

Realistics

Perhaps the best-known dildos in the world are what those in the business call Realistics. These can range in size from the modest to the enormous, with some models cresting 15 inches in height. A realistic dildo typically consists of a soft rubber material with a realistic skin tone. Many are molded directly from an actual penis, and have all the nuances you'd expect from the real thing. The Natural 6-inch mimics the look, feel and shape of a real penis and testicles, with molded with realistic ridges, veins and wrinkles

Fans of adult cinema will rejoice at the sheer number of famous dildos available. Each year more and more stars have their penises cast in rubber to bring their fans the ultimate virtual encounter. The two most popular are the Jeff Stryker Realistic and the John Holmes Realistic.

If you're excited by the look of a real penis, a realistic dildo may be the one for you. Some women find that these faithful replicas contribute to the erotic effect, while others find the realism creepy and off-putting. Again, to each her own.

Smoothies

Slip slidin' away! As the name implies, smoothies are slick and smooth. Generally, smoothies are made of a rubberized gel-type material whose translucency adds that certain je ne sais quoi to the experience. Soft, pliable, and very smooth, the Smooth Double Dildo has a rounded tip and is double-headed for twice the fun!

For a single-headed smooth dildo it's well worth checking out the silicone line. Silicone dildos, such as the Silk Lavender offer a wonderfully crafted finish along with all the typical benefits of silicone products. For a smaller version see the Silk Lavender Pearl.

Friction fanatics beware: these dildos may not be for you

G-Spot (curved dildos)

These dildos have a rounded end meant for G Spot stimulation. The G Spot is located on the upper wall of the vagina about 1/3 of the way up the vaginal canal. After insertion, the curved end should be pointing upwards towards your naval. While the idea is theoretically a good one, in practice the G Spot dildo isn't always precise enough to really hit every G spot. No G-Spot is the same - some women report not being able to find theirs at all - but nonetheless you still might want to give these a try.

Another popular use of these dildos is for male prostate stimulation. By all accounts the G Spot dildos get the job done in this regard.

If you're interested in trying out some g-spot oriented dildos you'd be advised to sample the Jeff Stryker Realistic. As for a silicone option, the Large Red Atomic Disintegrator does an admirable job of stimulating hard to reach places.

Non-phallic Dildos

For a variety of reasons, many women are looking for alternatives to penis-shaped dildos. Some of the most beautiful dildos out there look nothing like a penis. You'll find dolphin dildos, vegetable dildos, and even object d'art dildos that resemble nothing at all.

It's difficult to generalize about these dildos because they come in such a variety of shapes. They range in shape from the Snake to the Paisley, the Dolphin to the Small Silver Atomic Disintegrator.

Dildos

Dildo. Ever wanted to buy one? Seems simple enough but there are a wide array of issues to consider before your trip to the boutique. In our dildos section, you can read about dildos, strap-ons and even ben wa balls.

Click a link below to get started.

Why Buy A Dildo?
Explore the possible reasons why one would use a dildo.

Strap Ons and Harnesses
What to know before you strap one on.

Ben Wa and Duotone Balls
The truth about ben wa and duotone balls.

Dildo Shapes
Choose the one that's right for you.

The joys of the dildo...

Dildos offer a completely different form of stimulation from vibrators. They allow the person being penetrated to be in complete control of the range, speed and type of motion. Some may prefer a deep, slow massage, while others prefer a fast, thrusting movement. You choose the length, width, texture, shape and even color of the dildo according to your personal tastes.

Pleasure is only one of its benefits...

Dildos can even contribute to better sexual health. Women who are approaching or have reached menopause can use dildos to help decrease the effects of menopause on the vaginal wall. Menopause can contribute to the thinning of the vaginal wall. Regular use of a dildo can help maintain vaginal tone and decrease the effects of menopause. Dildos can also help lessen the effects of vaginismus. This is a condition where the muscles in the vagina are very tense, which can make intercourse quite painful. By helping to maintain vaginal tone, dildos have been known to reduce the effects of vaginismus.

How do I decide which dildo is right for me?

Finding the dildo that is right for you can be a very frustrating process. If you walk into any sex boutiques the range in size and features of can be overwhelming. Generally you're looking for "the right tool for the job" - a dildo which is a perfect size for you, easy to clean, and reasonably priced.

Some men and women prefer realism, and the for many people the experience of a dildo is one of simulating a sexual experience with a man's penis. You'll find an assortment of dildos of varying authenticity, some more realistic than others. Try to find the dildo that best suits your budget and tastes.

Others prefer different shapes and styles, their preferences being more stimulation-oriented. You'll likely see the classic dolphin shape, assorted figurine shapes, as well as curved and spherical dildos designed for a new experience far removed from the phallocentric world of realistic dildos. Choosing the shape and style of a dildo is as personal a task as deciding what to do with it.

The joys of the dildo...

Pleasure is only one of its benefits...

How do I decide which dildo is right for me?

Strap On

Strapping a dildo to your body can be quite a thrill, especially for women. It's no surprise, then, that strap-ons have become some of the most popular sex toys on the market. The Ultra Harness 2 is a perfect starter set for anyone who wants to try out using a harness. This set includes an ideal starter harness and a realistic 6" dildo which work together using Doc Johnson's patented Vac-U-Loc system. When you're ready for an upgrade, you can use the same harness with other dilos in the Realistics line, such as the 8-incher.

Which ever type of harness you chose, it's important to select an appropiate dildo to go with it. If you're not using the Vac-U-Loc system, you should try and get a dildo that widens considerably at the base so that it stays in its place in the harness. Most silicone dildos are designed with this capability in mind. For example, the Hot Rod Luxury dildos offer a flared base for mounting in a harness.

Why use a strap-on?

For hetero and homosexual couples alike, the strap-on gives the users a rare opportunity to experience a different side of their sexuality. Popular fantasies are brought to life as couples change their roles and inherit a new appendage along the way.

For couples, the draw of the strap-on often has to do with exploring fantasy. For example, in a heterosexual couple, when the woman's doing the penetrating, the power dynamic changes. The male takes on a submissive role while being penetrated. This shift can be incredibly exciting for both partners. In fact, the role reversal phenomenon has spawned, at the time of writing, spawned no less than two video series entitled Bend Over Boyfriend and Babes Ballin' Boys, both of which help instruct heterosexual couples in the art of using a strap-on. If you're looking for a little role-play, the strap-on just might be the trick. Women, however, aren't the only ones who use these devices. Men who have trouble getting an erection, or who want to masturbate during penetration, use strap-ons as well.

Four Types of Harnesses

"Thigh Support" Harness - This harness straps around the waist but is held steady by two straps that fit around the upper thighs. This model ranks among the most popular because it is generally more comfortable and the genitals remain open and uncovered.

"G-String" Harness - This harness fits around your waist with one strap extending from the base of the dildo to the back of the harness forming a "G-String" type effect. The G-String helps secure the harness in place. This one won't work well for the boys out there. As for the girls, we recommend this model only if you tend to enjoy the sensation of a G-String. Otherwise, stick to number 2.

"Spandex" Harness - Ever owned a pair of biking shorts? Essentially, that's what these harnesses are - a pair of biker shorts with a cutout for a dildo. Very comfortable and offering the pleasing appearance of tight-fitting underwear, these harnesses can cause problems if they're shared between partners of varied sizes. As well, with most models your genitals are hidden away during all the fun.
Thigh Harness - A very popular and useful harness that straps on your thigh. The positions available are extremely exciting. Certainly recommended.

Leather harnesses

If you're a seasoned harness lover, or plan to be, there's only one choice for you and that's a leather harness. These harnesses are well made and secure snugly to the body. These harnesses will last you for years and do not break easily. This comes at a price, though: leather harnesses typically cost anywhere from $45 to $85.

Vinyl harnesses

Great for starters, vinyl models vary in quality so make sure you're getting it from a reputable manufacturer. Vinyl harnesses won't last quite as long as their leather counterparts, but they're considerably cheaper, ranging from $15 to $35.

Elastic harnesses

There are not a lot of good things you can say about these harnesses. They're cheap and don't hold dildos in place very well. So why buy one?

Strap OnStrapping a dildo to your body can be quite a thrill, especially for women. It's no surprise, then, that strap-ons have become some of the most popular sex toys on the market. The Ultra Harness 2 is a perfect starter set for anyone who wants to try out using a harness. This set includes an ideal starter harness and a realistic 6" dildo which work together using Doc Johnson's patented Vac-U-Loc system. When you're ready for an upgrade, you can use the same harness with other dilos in the Realistics line, such as the 8-incher.

Why use a strap-on?

Four Types of Harnesses

"Thigh Support" Harness - This harness straps around the waist but is held steady by two straps that fit around the upper thighs. This model ranks among the most popular because it is generally more comfortable and the genitals remain open and uncovered.
"G-String" Harness - This harness fits around your waist with one strap extending from the base of the dildo to the back of the harness forming a "G-String" type effect. The G-String helps secure the harness in place. This one won't work well for the boys out there. As for the girls, we recommend this model only if you tend to enjoy the sensation of a G-String. Otherwise, stick to number 2.
"Spandex" Harness - Ever owned a pair of biking shorts? Essentially, that's what these harnesses are - a pair of biker shorts with a cutout for a dildo. Very comfortable and offering the pleasing appearance of tight-fitting underwear, these harnesses can cause problems if they're shared between partners of varied sizes. As well, with most models your genitals are hidden away during all the fun.
Thigh Harness - A very popular and useful harness that straps on your thigh. The positions available are extremely exciting. Certainly recommended.

Leather harnesses

Vinyl harnesses

Elastic harnesses

There are not a lot of good things you can say about these harnesses. They're cheap and don't hold dildos in place very well. So why buy one?

Ben Wa Balls and Duotone Balls

What's the difference between Ben Wa Balls and Duotone Balls?

By and large, Ben Wa balls don't offer the kind of stimulation Duotone balls provide. Ben Wa balls are just two large ball bearings which are meant to be inserted into the vagina. Typically ¾" in diameter, these balls do not have the mass or the texture to provide adequate stimulation for most women.

Duotone balls are two ball bearings that are encased in a slightly larger plastic sphere. These plastic spheres are then covered with 100% pure silicone. These two balls are joined together with a piece of string or nylon cord, which allows the user to retrieve the balls from the vagina after use. The plastic casing allows the heavier bearings inside to roll around causing different sensations as the wearer's hips move about. Duotone balls can provide some interesting sensations and we have a number of suggestions below to make your experience more pleasurable.

Using Duotone Balls

Duotone balls are simple to use, but they do have some tricks to them. Some of the most exquisite stimulation from duotone balls can be had by just placing one in the vagina while letting another hang out. This will ensure that the most sensitive area of the vagina is stimulated while allowing the duotone balls to rock to their maximum effect. Another sensation which many women find pleasurable is the insertion and removal of duotone balls while their vaginal muscles are tightened. This allows the duotone balls to rock in the most sensitive area while they are removed.

Duotone balls are versatile in that they are one of few sex toys that can be worn to the office, out to dinner or anywhere you go. Their pleasant stimulation is great for those tough days at the office or those long commutes.

Buying Duotone Balls

Duotone balls are a fairly easy sex toy to shop for because you only have to look for a few key qualities. First, look at what the duotone balls are covered with. Silicone is generally the best material both for its hygienic properties and its texture. Silicone duotone balls are normally a bit more expensive because of this. Latex is a good material but it is less than a perfect substance because it is hard to keep clean. It has some porous elements, and some women may have an allergic reaction to latex. It is, nonetheless, cheaper than silicone.

Erotic electrostimulation

Another form of sex toy for both men and women are those for erotic electro stimulation.

Erotic electrostimulation refers to the act of using electricity for sexual stimulation. Electrostimulation dates back as early as the mid 1700s. By the mid 1970s, medical transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) machines were widely available. The machines work by stimulating nerve endings with electricity, sending signals of stimulation to the brain. Electrostimulation works off this same principle, when the brain received a signal of stimulation from the genitals, pleasure hormones are released.

Erotic furniture

Erotic furniture is furniture specially shaped for comfort, penetration levels, and stimulation.

General penetrative toys

A type of Ben Wa balls

Ben Wa balls are hollow metal balls inserted vaginally which can be worn inside the vagina for extended periods of time. The internal rolling is claimed to enhance orgasms.
A dildo is a non-vibrating device which is used for sexual stimulation of the vagina and/or anus. Dildos are generally made of silicone rubber, but can be made of other materials such as metals or glass. They are often made to resemble a penis.A horseshoe is a non-vibrating sex toy which is shaped similar to a horseshoe, which is put into the vagina and anus at the same time. It is made with softer plastics.
- A double penetration dildo is a long, usually flexible dildo with both ends designed for penetration. It allows for mutual penetration between two persons (or for double penetration of a single female, both anally and vaginally).
- A strap-on dildo is a dildo worn in a harness, used to penetrate another person.
Kegel exerciser, also known as vaginal barbells or jugglers are designed to improve muscle tone in the pelvic floor, and can be used for sexual pleasure as well as enhancing vaginal response.
A sex-machine is a motor-driven device that combines penetration with rotational and/or reciprocal movement.

Anal toys

Two butt plugs

Anal beads
Butt plugs are often shorter dildos intended for anal insertion. They tend to have a flared base to prevent the device from becoming sucked into the rectum.
Prostate massagers are devices designed to stimulate a man's prostate for health and pleasure.

Glass sex toys.

Glass Dildo

Glass sex toys are commonly made from clear medical grade borosilicate glass ("hard glass"). This particular type of safety toughened glass is non-toxic and will withstand extreme temperatures, as well as physical shock without compromising its structural integrity.

The choice of this high-grade material provides safety in use and the option to heat or chill the toys. Borosilicate glass is also non-porous and can be sterilized to help prevent infection with reuse. The highest quality glass toys can even be put in the dishwasher making them easier to keep clean. As well as their practical qualities, a main selling point of glass sex toys is their visual appeal.

Some glass sex toys vibrate. There are two main ways this can be achieved. Either the toy may have a hole into which a small bullet vibrator can be inserted, or the core of the glass design can be modified to form a standard vibrator. The latter option usually has a plastic cap covering the battery compartment, which will also house any control buttons or switches.

Vibrators

Main article: Vibrator (sex toy)

Vibrators are vibrating devices intended to stimulate the body. Vibrators come in a range of shapes and sizes, for internal or external use. Some vibrators intended for internal use are phallic in shape. Small vibrators may have a stretchy loop attachment for use as a finger toy or cock ring. Penetrative vibrators usually measure twelve to eighteen cm (five to seven inches) in length and two to five cm (one to two inches) wide often to mimic the size of the average human penis.

Anal vibrators are designed to be inserted into the rectum, which may stimulate the prostate in men. The safest ones have a flared base which remains outside the body, that prevents the toy from becoming irretrievable.
Bullet vibrators are small, bullet-shaped vibrators that can be used for direct stimulation or inserted into other sex toys to increase stimulation. Some are sold with stretchy loops for attachment as a finger toy or cock ring.
Luxury vibrators have an increased focus on design and the use of expensive materials that appeal to a more upscale fashion market.
G-spot vibrators are curved at one end to facilitate stimulation of the female G-spot.
The rabbit vibrator, of which there are several variations, is a popular female sex toy popularized by the television series Sex and the City. It comprises an insertable shaft which often has additional functionality, such as rotation and internal beads or a thrusting action. Attached to the shaft is a vibrating clitoral stimulator. For most rabbit vibrators this comes in the form of "bunny ears" which sit each side of the clitoris.
Vibrator wands, such as the Hitachi Magic Wand, are large vibrators that generally plug into an electrical outlet (versus operating on battery power) and are often marketed as back massagers. They are able to produce far more powerful vibration than most battery-powered vibrators. Various attachments made of silicone or a rubber material allow the toy to be used penetratively, or give the toy more interesting texture.

Nipple toys

A nipple clamp is a clamp used to stimulate the nipples by applying varying degrees of pressure.
Suction devices are generally either rubber or glass,

Penile toys

A penis sleeve

Artificial vaginas, also known as “pocket pussies” or “male masturbators”, are tubes made of soft material to simulate sexual intercourse. The material and often textured inner canal are designed to stimulate the penis and induce orgasm. The male masturbators come in many shapes and styles; they can be shaped like vulvas, anuses, mouths, or as non-descriptive holes. Some male masturbators are disposable and some can be washed and used repeatedly. Some are even equipped with sex-machine options that work similar to milking machines.
A ball lock is an ordinary padlock fastened around the male scrotum, separating the testicles away from the penis and not removable except by key or combination.
A cock harness is a more elaborate harness designed to be worn around the penis and scrotum. Its function is similar to that of a cock ring. These devices are often associated with BDSM activities such as cock and ball torture. An Arab strap is one such form of harness, purported to be a device used for maintaining an erection.
Cock rings prolong male erection by holding blood inside the penis. A man may wear a cock-ring to combat erectile difficulties, or for the sensation of tightness and engorgement that wearing one provides. Some models include a protruding clitoral stimulator, designed to stimulate the clitoris during sex. Others vibrate, either vibrating the ring itself, or in a popular 'Dolphin' variant by using two removable bullet vibrators to provide stimulation to both the testicles and clitoris. Some cock rings also have vibrators attached which can be worn to stimulate a partner during sexual intercourse, especially in the scrotum or perineum.A docking sleeve is a cylindrical device similar to a penis sleeve, but is open at both ends, so that two men can dock, a form of mutual masturbation.
- A triple crown is a special cock-ring that has additional rings for restraining the testicles. In orgasm, the testicles usually retract toward the body before ejaculation. A triple crown changes and intensifies the sensation of orgasm by forcing the testicles to stay away from the body.
A fifi (also fifi towel or fifi bag) is a slang term for an improvised vagina, often made of cloth or fabric.
A penis extension is a partially hollow device like a very short dildo, with the hollow end placed on the end of the penis, intended to increase the effective length of the penis, again for the benefit of the person being penetrated. These are generally worn with condoms to prevent them from falling off during use.
A penis sleeve is a cylindrical device that is placed on the shaft of the penis, with the aim of increasing stimulation for the person being penetrated. They often have soft bumps intended to provide further stimulation.

Health and safety concerns

No safety regulations exist in the sex toy industry. The sex toys are sold as novelty items so they do not need to adhere to certain regulations such as reporting the chemicals and materials used in a product. Due to this status, manufacturers are not responsible if their toys are used for any other purpose than being a novelty. Regulations such as REACH do exist, and some sex toys may be compliant to this though, despite that there is no obligation for manufacturers on attaining compliance. A recent (2006) study conducted by the Greenpeace Netherlands office found high level of phthalates in seven out of eight plastic sex toys tested.

A sign that a toy contains Phthalates may include sweating. If you wash a toy and dry it and it appears to be sweating and has an odor that may cause headache, there is a high chance that contains Phthalates. The reason why sex toys are classified as novelties is because sex toy manufacturers find the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to have extensive testing and financial requirements for sex toys to be classified as medical devices. Therefore, sex toy manufacturers more often choose the less complex production by labelling them a novelty, where their listed ingredients do not have to be accurate in chemical composition or percentage of ingredients. Due to the novelty classification, sex toys are permitted to contain known toxins in them such as phthalates, which have been banned in children’s toys by the CPSC. Phthalates are chemical plasticizers that are added as softeners, to create the malleable and soft effect that many look for in sex toys.

Studies on rodents have revealed that when exposed to very large doses, phthalates can cause damage to the liver, lungs, kidneys, testes and can cause hormonal disruption. The latest research indicates that exposure to these substances can upset the body's ability to regulate hormone production, damage reproduction, can cause liver and kidney defects, and can cause cancer. The most common and external side-effects are rashes, itchiness and irritation to the locations of use.

When choosing a sex toy, one should check the ingredients. If it says it contains PVC, vinyl and/or jelly rubber, it is not safe for usage. Other ways to know that one is not safe is if it is also flexible, soft and squishy, has oily sweat-like beads that discharge (this is chemical degradation) and/or if it has a rubber or chemical like odor.

Before using a sex toy, owners should take precautions. One should check for tears, rough seams or cracks that could harm the inside of the vagina or anus. Condoms should also be used on porous sex toys and sex toys that are being shared between two or more partners. They should also use appropriate lubricants; silicone lube will break down silicone toys, and oil-based lubes will break down latex condoms.

Cleaning sex toys is also very important for sexual health and sex toy safety. Cleaning them will avoid the potential of bacterial infection, transmission of STIs (if shared), or pregnancy (if sperm is present on the toy). Porous sex toys (ridged, flexible, soft and squishy) are difficult to clean and can hide bacterial that multiply and harm the human body. Non-porous toys are easier to clean, being less harmful. When cleaning sex toys, always use warm water and unscented anti-bacterial soap.

Non-porous toys

Glass toys: some can be put in the dishwasher, but it is recommended not to expose them to extreme temperatures and to wash them soap and water.
Stainless Steel toys: boil or soak stainless steel toys in 1-10 bleach-water solution for ten minutes, put it on the top shelf of the dishwasher, or use soap and water (if there are electrical components to the toy).
Hard plastic toys: do not boil the toy, and wash with soap and water.
Silicone toys: put it on the top shelf of the dishwasher, boil for 5–10 minutes or wash with water and soap.

Porous toys

Rubber toys: they cannot be properly cleaned because bacteria is absorbed into the material, so it is recommended to always use a condom.
Cyberskin and Vinyl toys: clean with warm water, air dry, and sprinkle it with a small amount of cornstarch (to keep them dry and not sticky).
Nylon toys: put it in the top rack of the dish-washer or wash with soap and water.

Anal toys (butt plugs, small dildos, etc.)

When using sex toys in the anus, sex toys can easily get lost as rectal muscles contract and can suck an object up and up, potentially obstructing the colon; to prevent this serious problem, it is recommended that individuals use sex toys with a flared base or a string.