The Vibe Guide: How to find an O-mazing vibrator for men and women

A lot of things changed in these past two years after the pandemic. Many were left isolated at home with no physical contact with another person. Due to these circumstances, the sale of vibrators skyrocketed, and why not? According to studies, self-pleasure is extremely beneficial for mental health and concentration. If you’ve always been curious about sex toys and want to take pleasure into your own hands *literally*, then you’re in luck. We've put together a guide to help you pick the right sex toy that will leave you screaming out your own name in bed. 

First rule to remember is to feel no shame. While sex toys have been ingrained in our mind as a taboo, courtesy ridiculous society standards, the truth us that these toys have plenty of physical and mental benefits. Plus, something with no red flags can’t leave you broken hearted, right? Well, keep on reading to find out what else you need to keep in mind before purchasing a sex toy!

Things you need to know before buying sex toys

a. Where to buy it from 

You can’t cheap out on this. There are plenty of trusted retailers online with a wide range of options to choose from, so avoid purchasing from third-party stores — no matter how sweet the deal seems. These stores don’t guarantee new, authentic toys. And since these sex toys are either going to be in or around your genital area, it’s vital to get legit products. 

b. Know your sensation

For any newbie, browsing through sex toys might get a bit overwhelming with the sea of options available. If this is the one factor that’s left you only adding to cart and not purchasing anything, don’t worry, you just need to figure out what your body needs. Not everyone has the same pleasure spots. If you’re a woman, there are products for pinpointed clit stimulation, suctions and even dual internal and external sex toys. 

Meanwhile guys, have a variety of options as well. From penis stimulators, to anal and prostate stimulators, the list is endless. You have sex toys like open-ended stroker, dick rings, fleshlight, that give the feeling of storking a penis or insertion. There are also prostate massagers, and even vibrating strapons. 

c. Consider the material

Materials are important as well. With vibrators, it’s beneficial to pick medical-grade silicone and/or ABS plastic, which is non-porous. These kinds of materials are easy to sanitise and yes, it’s extremely important to keep these toys clean especially the ones used internally. Glass and steel are also good options for G-spot or [prostate] stimulation.

3 best sex toys for men & what they do

Warming Pulsating Male Masturbator

This one is a combination of vibration and heat. This helps you get close to the real deal.

Fleshlight Turbo

This classic sex toy replicates the sensation of getting a blowjob. It has three distinct sections --- one which acts as lips, another as tongue, and the third as throat. 

Prostate Massager

This kind of sex toy stimulates your prostate, perineum, and deep inside your rectum.

3 best sex toys for women & what they do

The Rabbit

For those looking for internal as well as external pleasure, this is the sex toy for you. Although this might be a bit too overwhelming for those who are just starting out. 

Clit vibrator

Looking for outer stimulation, then look no further as the clit vibrator does just that.  As the name suggests, it is designed to stimulate the clitorus.

The Magic Wand

This bulky vibrator has been around for years and it doesn’t seem like it’s going anywhere anytime soon. Why? This is ‘coz the oversized rubber head distributes vibrations to many clitoral nerve endings at once, giving you the pleasure you need.

Tips for using a vibrator

a. Personal or with a partner

Contrary to popular belief, sex toys aren’t only for solo use but can also spice things up between partners. With your partner's consent, don’t be afraid to experiment and use it all over the body. Just cause they are made for genitals doesn’t mean you can use it only there. You and your partner can also explore how the vibration feels on your nipples or how the silicone of a dildo feels running down your back.

b. Consider lube

Lubes can reduce friction in turn, helping you focus more on the pleasure part. But be aware, There is no one lube that fits all. There are lubes for specific activities a.k.a anal or even for sensitive vaginas. Most lubes will contain oil, water, or silicone as their main ingredient. The formulation is vital. For example, if you're using it with sex toys or condoms, it’s best to use water-based lubricant as it might not react with either of them. 

Oil-based lubes last longer, but can react with condoms and break them down. Whereas you should avoid silicone lube with silicone sex toys at all costs. When silicon reacts with itself, it could damage the toy.

c. How to clean & store

This obviously depends on the type of sex toy you’re using but the general thumb rule is surface and deep cleaning. 

• - For surface cleaning, you can use water and soap. Antibacterial or liquid soap will do. Just ensure to stay away from any harsh soaps. 

Once they are washed, you can dry them with clean paper towels or clean washcloth. 

• - For deep cleaning, a pot of boiling water is the best way to disinfect your sex toys. All you need to do is keep them in boiling water for a couple of minutes to kill any bacteria that may have survived the surface cleanse. 

Aside from orgasms, sex toys are a great way to explore your body and it will also help boost your confidence in the bedroom.