Curious about dildos? You’ve come to the right place. Spencer’s sexperts have put together an in-depth guide just for you. There are various types of dildos, so depending on whether you’re using one for solo play, with a partner, or for strap-on sex, there will be different ways to use it. Adding a dildo to your sex toy collection can give you more options for enhanced pleasure. Dildo play is very popular with sex toy users of all genders.
Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about dildos, including the purpose of a dildo, dildo types, dildo materials, the best lubricant to use with your dildo, and more.
What is a dildo?
A dildo is a phallic-shaped sex toy that is used for penetration. These toys come in many shapes, sizes, and styles, from realistic dildos with balls and veins (mimicking the anatomy of the penis and testicles), to colorful, ridged, suction cup dildos, strap-on dildos, double dildos, and more! Dildos can be made from an assortment of materials, with glass and silicone being the most popular. Most dildos can be used with an appropriate lubricant if desired; lubricant should always be used for anal penetration. Most dildos don’t require a battery, which means they can be used anywhere (vibrating dildos are the exception and likely will need a battery). While a dildo is not meant to be an exact substitute for a real penis, a realistic dildo can mimic human anatomy in many ways.
Can everybody use dildos?
Anyone can use a dildo because they’re a versatile sex toy for people of any gender. Dildos can be used for vaginal penetration, and if they have a flared base, such as a realistic dildo with balls, they can be used for anal penetration. If you’re looking to try different sex positions with a partner, you can use a dildo to experiment.
What type of dildo is best for you?
As we mentioned, there are several different types of dildos, and they all provide a different experience. If you’re looking for deep penetration, you’ll want to choose a large dildo. If you’re looking for a dildo that will feel like the real thing, opt for a realistic dildo. If you want to experiment with different positions and try hands-free dildo use, go for a suction cup dildo.
How to select a dildo
Selecting a dildo will depend on which type of experience you’re looking for and who you’re using it with. If you’re using a dildo for anal penetration, you’ll need to make sure that it has a flared base for safety (This is also why butt plugs have a flared base). If you’re looking to use a dildo with a partner, you can use almost any type of dildo. You may also want to consider strap-on dildos, which are generally worn in a harness for hands-free penetration. A strap-on dildo can also be good for deep thrusting if that’s your preference.
You may opt for a silicone toy, which is a popular dildo choice because they are known for being durable. It may take some trial and error to figure out which dildo suits your individual needs. For temperature play, go for a glass dildo, which is better at absorbing warmth or cold temperatures than a silicone dildo. Glass sex toys are known for being sleek and sturdy. Some glass dildos are clear, and others have colorful patterns on them. Glass dildos may include ridges and other design elements for additional stimulation.
If you want to use a dildo with a partner, you can opt for a double-ended dildo (sometimes called a double dildo), which has two ends for insertion that are joined in the middle.
Suction cup dildos are popular with those who want hands-free pleasure. They allow you to suction the dildo to a hard surface, such as a floor or wall, and position your body for easy vaginal or anal insertion.
For beginners, you can use any dildo style or material type you’d like. You may want to opt for a smaller dildo instead of a larger dildo to get used to the sensation. You can build up to using a bigger dildo as you get accustomed to it. It’s important to always feel comfortable with every step of the process. If you find that a dildo feels too big or doesn’t feel good, you may want to downsize to a smaller version temporarily.
Lubricants to use with your dildo
There are several types of sex lubricants, and each type of lube serves different purposes. You can add lube to yourself and/or the toy you’re using for a smooth entry. Remember that a little lubricant goes a long way. You don’t need to slather your dildo with lube because it could get too slippery. You can always add more lube and insert the dildo again later if you find yourself dealing with unwanted friction.
Here’s more information about the various types of lube and their uses:
- Water-based lube is the most versatile and can be used with any sex toy. This is a good option if you are looking for a bedroom staple.
- Silicone-based lube often lasts longer than water-based lube, but cannot be used with silicone sex toys (if it is, it will break down the material of the toy). For the easiest option, select a water-based lube.
- Anal lube is specially formulated for anal play. They are designed to be thicker and last longer than other lubricants.
How to use a suction cup dildo
Suction cup dildos are designed to suction to a wall or floor for easy, hands-free access. The suction cup is on one end of the dildo, with the other side available for penetration. Not all dildos have suction cups, so you’ll want to look into the specific shape and design before making your decision. If having access to a dildo you can use in this versatile way is important to you, make sure it has a suction cup base.
You can experiment with the right placement by suctioning the dildo, adding some lubricant, and positioning yourself for maximum comfort. Many people enjoy suction cup dildos for their versatility. If the dildo is waterproof, it can also be used to suction the bottom to the wall of your shower.
How to use a glass dildo for temperature play
Some people enjoy using glass dildos for temperature play. According to Kinkly, temperature play “is a technique often used in BDSM as well as vanilla foreplay that uses heat or cold to stimulate neuroreceptors under the skin and provoke a sensual reaction. Temperature play is often combined with blindfolding and/or bondage to increase the sensation.” Essentially, temperature play means using temperatures for erotic pleasure. A glass dildo can be used for temperature play by warming it up under hot water so it retains the heat or cooling it off with cold water. There are varying approaches you can take to temperature play; it’s best to start with small changes in temperature to get used to the sensations. Think about a piece of ice against your genitals; this would be on the more extreme end of temperature play.
Read the instructions on your glass dildo to make sure you’re using it correctly. Even something as simple as rubbing your glass dildo between your hands quickly can help warm it up.
How to use a dildo for strap-on sex
Strap-on sex is a popular fantasy and can be used for those who want to try pegging, where one person wears a strap-on dildo to penetrate a partner anally.
Strap-ons are used in a similar way to a penis, for vaginal and anal penetration or oral sex. Strap-on dildos go in a harness, where they fit securely, often with the help of a device called an O-ring. If the person wearing the dildo has a clitoris, the dildo often presses against it for added stimulation for the wearer.
One of the most important aspects of using a strap-on dildo is making sure your harness and dildo are compatible. Otherwise, you run the risk of the dildo not staying in place.
Another way partners often use strap-on dildos is to simulate oral sex. You can give or receive the equivalent of a blow job, but instead of involving an actual phallus, the act is performed on the dildo. While the strap-on dildo wearer won’t experience the same sensations, the power dynamic, visual element, and sensation of the dildo being pushed back against the wearer’s body can all feel good. This is a way many people bring dildos into partnered sex. It’s an equal-opportunity form of dildo play because either partner could give or receive oral sex depending on who’s wearing the strap-on.
How to use a vibrating dildo
As mentioned above, there are dildos that also act as vibrators, so you can get the best of both worlds: deep penetration from the dildo as well as vibration. Essentially, a vibrating dildo allows you to experience the deep thrust of a dildo along with the power of a motor, making it a good sex toy for those who want more than just penetration. What differentiates a vibrating dildo from a vibrator is generally the shape of the toy, although a vibrating dildo has many of the same properties as a phallic vibrator. If you’re looking for a sex toy for penetration, like a dildo, but also want the vibrating sensation, a vibrating dildo is a good choice. If you want to use a vibrating dildo anally, make sure it has a flared base, or opt for a vibrating butt plug.
How to clean your dildo
Taking care of your dildo through proper cleaning and storage is essential for protecting your sexual health. Always follow the instructions that come with your sex toy. Most dildos, including glass, silicone, and stainless steel dildos, can be cleaned using a cleaner such as Hott Love Antibacterial Toy Cleaner, or soap and hot water. Store your dildo in a clean, dry place away from sunlight; you don’t want your dildo to attract dust or lint. Make sure you also wash off your dildo after removing it from storage before use. If you aren’t fluid-bonded with the partner or partners using the same dildo, you may want to use a condom on your dildo to care for your sexual health. See more information about how to care for and store your sex toys on our blog.
Check out our wide range of dildos and other sex toys so you can have the best sex of your life, and learn more about the full range of adult items in our complete sex toy guide.
