How to Choose a Dildo

How do you choose the right dildo? Discover some of the options and how to select the best one for your pleasure with this guide.

If you've never used a dildo before, choosing your first one can be pretty intimidating. Even if you used one with someone else but never had one of your own, you might be a little confused about where to start. The options can be overwhelming, and you want to make sure you choose something that brings you pleasure, not pain (unless you're into that).

It can also be a lot of fun looking at the many possibilities to choose from, and you could just pick one based on what looks good. But before you dive into making a purchase, especially if it's your first dildo, it's worth exploring the topic a little more. There are plenty of things to consider, from size and shape to materials, functionality, and even how easy it is to maintain. So where should you start?

What Is a Dildo?

Firstly, it's a good idea to understand what exactly is meant by a dildo. You might have a certain image in mind, but dildos can come in various designs. Dildos are sex toys that are designed to be inserted into the vagina, anus, or mouth. Some of them are designed to resemble a penis, others might have the vague shape of one, or some might not really look like a penis at all.

Dildos come in different lengths, widths, shapes, and designs. They can have different functionality, such as built-in vibrators or suction cups on the base. And they can even be wearable in the case of a strap-on dildo.

Who Uses a Dildo?

The answer to who uses a dildo is really anyone who enjoys penetration of any kind. They can be used on their own or together with other sex toys, such as vibrators. But their main function is to provide penetration. Not everyone enjoys using a dildo or using sex toys at all. However, many people love them. They're used by people on their own, as well as with partners.

Can Men Use Dildos?

Anyone can use a dildo, regardless of their sex, gender, or sexuality. Many men enjoy using dildos for anal or oral penetration alone or with partners of any gender. Trans men or anyone else with vulvas may also use dildos for vaginal penetration. You don't have to be gay or attracted to men to be a man who enjoys using dildos. In fact, around a quarter of men use sex toys, including dildos, when masturbating. Some dildos are designed specifically to stimulate the prostate, making them great choices for men. Many men who have sex with women enjoy using dildos with their partners, with strap-on dildos giving them plenty of options.

Types of Dildos

There are many different types of dildos that come in varying designs and even have different functions. Here are some of the variations you might come across, in addition to standard dildos.

• Realistic dildos – these dildos are designed to look as realistic as possible, i.e. like a real penis

• Double-ended dildos – as the name suggests, these have two ends designed for penetration, and are fun for two partners to use together

• Poseable dildos – put your dildo into whatever position you want it in with poseable dildos, which often also have a suction cup on the bottom to secure them in place

• Strap-on dildos – for when you want penetrative play with a partner but don't have a penis of your own, these wearable dildos are what you need (many other dildos will also fit into a harness)

• Strapless dildos – a cross between a strap-on and a double-ended dildo, these are worn by inserting them into the vagina, instead of using a harness

• Vibrating dildos – if you like both good vibrations and penetration, a vibrating dildo gives you the best of both worlds

• Self-lubricating dildos – lubrication is always important, and these dildos make sure you don't forget; with just a bit of water, they're slippery when wet

• Squirting dildos – designed to simulate ejaculation, these dildos can give you a more realistic experience

• Glass dildos - ideal for both G-spot and anal stimulation, not only visually stimulating, but their benefits go well beyond aesthetics. Glass dildos are made from strong, durable borosilicate glass that is shatter-proof, durable and resistant to temperature changes, you can heat things up or cool things down, depending on your mood. Take your alone time to the next level with style and sophistication.

Getting the Right Dildo for Your Needs

With so many options available, how are you supposed to choose the right dildo for your needs and desires? Even if you have some experience with purchasing dildos, you might not be too familiar with all the choices and what's best for you. There are a few factors to consider to help you make the right choice, so you pick something that's going to be fun to use.

Firstly, you might want to think about whether you're planning on using your dildo alone or with someone else. It might be that you're planning on a bit of both. If you're buying a sex toy to use with a partner, it can be a good idea to discuss it with them to get on the same page—especially if they're the one who'll be penetrated. You could be looking at standard dildos, but maybe you want to consider a strap-on, double-ended dildo, or something else designed to be used with a partner (or partners). If you're planning on using it alone, you might consider features like a suction cup or poseability for a more hands-free experience.

Another thing to consider is size and shape. This can be especially important for beginners, who may want to start with something smaller. You can consider whether it's important for you that your dildo looks realistic, or if the shape and functionality are more important than what it looks like. Perhaps you specifically don't want one that looks like a penis.

Budget is certainly something to think about too. Everyone's budget is different, and you might not want to spend too much. Or you might want to splash out and treat yourself if you're feeling fancy.

Most of all, choose something that you think is going to be fun and bring you pleasure.

Choosing the Right Materials

Materials are important when choosing any adult sex toy. They can make a difference to safety, as well as look and feel. Some of the materials you can discover include silicone, glass, and metal. These all obviously have different textures and levels of firmness, but they are also hygienic options that are easy to keep clean.

There are both soft and hard materials, which can give you different sensations. Soft materials include silicone, jelly rubber, soft plastics, latex, and elastomer. Some toys will use synthetic skin, which is a mix of different materials designed to emulate the feel of real skin. Hard materials can include hard plastic, glass, crystal, stainless steel, and aluminium.

Which material you choose will depend on what you're looking for. If you want something with more give or a realistic feel, you'll want to look at soft materials. If you want something firmer, you can look at harder materials. Whatever you choose, it should ideally be nonporous and easy to wipe clean.

Our Recommendations

Check out some of our recommendations for finding the right dildo to meet your needs.

Dillio Platinum Big Hero - great for beginners

If you're just getting started, this smaller dildo is an excellent pick for beginners. Its more modest size is perfect for experimenting and finding out what you like.

RealRock Realistic Regular Curved Dildo - best for a realistic experience

When you want something realistic, RealRock has you covered. Their dildos put realism first, with plenty of other great features to make them worth your while.

WhipSmart 6 Inch Ripple & Remote Controlled Vibrating Dildo - Pink - good vibratons

This one from WhipSmart is a good pick if you're looking for a vibrating dildo. Combining the two functions can double your pleasure and makes this dildo amazing solo fun or using with a partner.

Ouch! Textured Curved Hollow Strap-On - for fun together

Available in different colours and sizes, this strap-on is perfect for having fun with a partner. Its textured, hollow design means there's plenty of fun to be had and new ways to find satisfaction.

The Best Advice for Beginners

Anyone who's new to dildos probably doesn't want to rush out and find the biggest one available. As a beginner, the best thing you can do is start slowly and try out something smaller. This is especially true if you're not very sexually experienced. Exploring your sexuality through sex toys can be a lot of fun, but it's important to be careful. There are plenty of dildos that are perfect for beginners.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Dildo

Remember that it's important to use dildos and other sex toys safely and responsibly. This includes keeping up good hygiene and making sure your toys are safe to use. After using your dildo, it's important to clean it before you put it away. Use warm water and mild antibacterial soap, or look for a specialised sex toy cleaner to clean your toys gently.

If you have a dildo made of silicone, be sure to only use it with water-based lube. Oil-based lube can cause silicone to break down, which could make it unsafe to use.

There's a lot of fun awaiting you when you buy your first dildo, or your second or third. Before you buy, it's useful to have some knowledge of what you should be looking for.