People reach for sex toys for all kinds of reasons — and all of them are valid:

1. Enhanced Pleasure

Toys can create sensations that hands, mouths, or genitals simply can’t replicate. Vibrations, suction, thrusting, texture — they can all intensify arousal and orgasms.

2. Solo Exploration

Sex toys allow you to learn what your body responds to. This can improve your confidence and make partnered sex more satisfying because you know how to guide your partner.

3. Partnered Play

Using toys together can:

• add novelty and excitement
• help you explore fantasies
• improve communication
• build intimacy

4. Support for Sexual Health

Toys can also help with:

• low libido
• erectile dysfunction
• difficulty reaching orgasm
• pelvic floor strength
• post-menopause changes
• disability-related sexual challenges

5. Expanding Sexual Horizons

Sometimes toys reveal desires you didn’t know you had — whether that’s loving anal play, enjoying deeper penetration, or discovering your love of vibration.

Below is a breakdown of the most popular categories, what they’re used for, and who might enjoy them.

1. Dildos

Best for: Internal stimulation (vaginal or anal), thrusting, g-spot or p-spot play
Key features: Firm, shaped for penetration, no vibration

Dildos are simple but incredibly versatile. They come in silicone, glass, stainless steel, and more. Some have curved tips for g-spot or prostate stimulation, and others are designed for temperature play.

Why people love them:

• They offer deep, controlled pressure.
• They’re great for exploring anatomy.
• They pair well with harnesses for strap-on play.

2. Vibrators

Best for: Clitoral stimulation, internal stimulation, nipple play, full-body pleasure
Key features: Vibrating motors, different speeds/patterns, wide range of shapes

Not all vibrators are the same — each type creates a unique sensation:

Clitoral Vibrators

Small and powerful. Perfect for beginners and for boosting orgasms during partnered sex.

Rabbit Vibrators

Dual-stimulation toys with internal and external arms. Provide a blended orgasm that many people find intense and satisfying.

Wand Massagers

Large, strong, rumbly vibrations. Ideal for those who want very powerful sensations.

Air Pulse / Suction Toys

Stimulate the clitoris without direct contact, using pulses of air that mimic suction. Known for producing fast, intense orgasms.

3. Anal Toys

Anal toys are for anyone with a butt — not just one gender. With the right preparation, anal play can lead to heightened orgasms, deeper pleasure, and exciting new sensations.

Butt Plugs

Stay-in-place toys designed to create fullness and pressure.

Anal Beads

Inserted gradually; provides a unique “wave” sensation when pulled out during orgasm.

Prostate Massagers

Shaped to stimulate the prostate (a pleasure center sometimes called the “male g-spot”). These can create extremely strong orgasms.

Important:

Always use plenty of lube and choose toys with a flared base to prevent slipping inside.

4. Penis Toys

Cock Rings

Worn around the base of the penis to help:

• maintain stronger erections
• delay ejaculation
• intensify orgasms

They come in silicone, rubber, or sometimes vibrating versions that stimulate both partners.

Penis Strokers / Masturbators

These mimic the sensations of oral, vaginal, or anal sex. Some have internal textures, suction features, or vibrating functions.

Why people enjoy them:
They create unique sensations that hands alone can’t reproduce.

5. Couples’ Toys

Strap-Ons & Harnesses

Used for pegging, queer sex, role play, and switching dynamics.

Remote-Controlled Vibrators

Great for long-distance play or teasing during date nights.

Love Eggs / Wearable Vibrators

Inserted or worn under clothing; can be controlled by a partner for discreet, playful fun.

Double-Ended Toys

Designed for shared penetration during partnered sessions.

Here’s how to narrow down your options:

1. Decide what sensation you want

• Deep pressure? → Dildo
• Intense buzz? → Vibrator
• Feeling of fullness? → Plug
• Stronger erection? → Cock ring
• Hands-free anal pleasure? → Prostate massager

2. Choose a safe material

Look for:

• medical-grade silicone
• stainless steel
• glass (borosilicate)
• ABS plastic

Avoid toys made of jelly or anything that smells strongly of chemicals.

3. Consider your experience level

Beginners should start smaller and softer.
More advanced users may enjoy larger, firmer, or textured designs.

4. Think about budget

High-quality toys cost more but tend to be:

• safer
• quieter
• longer-lasting
• more powerful

Lube: Your Best Friend

Lube improves pleasure, reduces friction, and makes everything safer.

Water-Based Lube

Safe for all toys and easy to clean. Good all-round choice.

Silicone-Based Lube

Super slick and long-lasting. Great for anal play.
Do NOT use with silicone toys unless you know it’s compatible.

Oil-Based Lube

Best for body-to-body massage, not ideal for latex condoms or most toys.

✔ Always clean toys before and after use
✔ Use a flared base for all anal toys
✔ Start slow, especially with new sensations
✔ Use plenty of lube
✔ Store toys in clean, dry places
✔ Do not share toys without condoms
✔ Check charging ports and batteries for damage

Here are safe, versatile, beginner-friendly options:

A toy cleaner or gentle soap

A small clitoral vibrator

A silicone dildo with a gentle curve

A beginner butt plug

A basic silicone cock ring

Water-based lubricant