Ah, dildos, man’s/women’s best friend!
Recognised as the “original sex toy”, they have been providing humankind with pleasure since way back in the Stone Ages – the earliest of these ancient tools dating back to some 30,000 years ago.
Today, the phalluses on the market come in an overwhelming variety that can often make finding the best dildo a daunting task…
Luckily, Olivia Grey is here to steer you lovingly in the direction that always ends in an ”Oh”!
Looking to explore your own sexual “depths” (in all senses of the word)?
Want to spruce up your own solo play?
Or surprise your partner with a new phallic friend for when you’re away?
This article shares some general info on these classic sex toys as well as 7 key things you should be considering before dipping in.
Read on towards sexual enlightenment!
What is a Dildo?
“A dildo is a phallic-shaped sex toy used by both sexes to gain sexual pleasure from vaginal/anal penetration.”
Even though the common perception is that dildos are made to resemble that of a penis, the designs of these weird and wonderful adult sex toys have evolved significantly in recent times.
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Much like humans, sex toys are objects of pleasure that are all very different and special in their own way.
A dildo is among the most versatile of these toys and made in many, many different materials, colours, shapes, sizes, textures, vibrating/non-vibrating, suction-cup/strap-ons…
I’m sure you get the gist of what I’m trying to say here!
Watch how these sex toys are made below:
So, with all these amazing options at your disposal, how do you go about finding the perfect “little” bedside buddy for you/your partner?
#1 Size (DOES) Matter
If you’re reading this article, chances are that you’ve engaged in some form of sexual intercourse before and you might have an idea of the size you’re comfortable with handling.
Your personal preferences about what gets you going sexually are usually the best starting point for choosing the “right” sized dildo.
Just to help put things into perspective for you all, the average size of an erect penis is 12.9cm or 5.1” (inches) in length.
Now, if you’re totally comfortable with taking this in (and some), it’s recommended that you look at opting for something between 17,78 – 20.32cm (7-8”) in length.
A dildo of this length is usually about 3.81cm (1.5”) in diameter.
The best thing about selecting a toy of this size is that it’s bigger than what you’re used to — which means that you’re not going to be left wanting — and you have some extra “mileage” to progress and explore with as you grow more comfortable with it.
It’s important to note that you don’t necessarily need to penetrate the dildo all the way in to find the pleasure you’re looking for.
At the end of the day, it’s all about how you like it and that comes with experimentation, but also good to know that if you want to dive deeper you can!
#2 Life-like Dildos Or Not?
It goes without saying that visually the penis is not exactly the most flattering sexual organ…
But, like with size, your sexual preferences or taste will very likely determine if you decide to go for a dildo that looks like the real McCoy, or if you opt for something a little more colourful.
A lot of people that choose a life-like dildo do so because it is the most accurate simulation of the real thing and that’s what gets them off.
These kinds might come with a set of family jewels at the base, retractable foreskin and even fake pubic hair to boot!
* If you’re in a relationship think about how buying something like this might make your partner feel. It’s always a good idea to consult each other so you can explore the wonders of sex toys together.
For those who hold a different stance when it comes to the visual aspect of things, there are many non-phallic shapes (see #3 below) available in a multitude of colours that are perfectly capable of providing you with as much entertainment.
After all, your sexual pleasure is in your hands!
Looking to spice up your sex life?
#3 The Shape of Pleasure
Classic Dildos
Not all dildos are made equal (and that’s a good thing).
When some clever human coined the phrase “different strokes for different folks” I’m pretty sure they weren’t talking about sex toys (even though it’s wildly appropriate).
As for dildos and their shape, we’re inclined to suggest that it’s “different pokes for different folks”!
By figuring out what you want your “friend” to accomplish in the bedroom, you’ll be a few steps closer to picking the best dildo for your needs.
There are so many shapes to choose from that you really need to ask yourself a few questions:
- Do you want your dildo to have a banana-curved tip to be able to hit that G-spot or P-spot?
- Do you want a double-headed dildo to enjoy with a partner or for double penetration yourself?
- Do you want it to have a beaded head and smooth tip combo for switching up sensations?
- Do you want it to have a curved shaft or straight as an arrow?
- Do you want something specifically for anal penetration?
- Do you want a dildo that feels like the real thing? One with a sliding skin?
The shape of pleasure you choose all depends on what gets your rocks off…
But, like with most ventures into your sexual exploration, you’re probably never going to know what does the trick until you try them all!
#4 Materials and Safety
Sticking foreign objects into your hoo-ha or where the sun doesn’t shine presents some health risks if you don’t do your due diligence beforehand.
Dildos are made from a range of different materials such as silicone, ABS, glass, wood and metal.
Each material presents its own pros, cons and properties depending on the kind of feel you’d like, but when it comes to safety, it’s best to understand the distinction between porous and non-porous materials:
Porous (toxic)
All materials that include phthalates fall under the porous category — materials that have pores in them where toxins can soak through and trap dirt/bacteria.
Phthalates are toxic and they should be avoided at all costs!
It’s important to look for a phthalate-free sex toy for greater peace of mind (especially if you’re not going to be using a condom with it).
Non-porous (non-toxic)
All the safe materials like silicone, wood, glass and stainless steel fall under the non-porous category — safe to use and easy to clean and maintain.
These materials are definitely a bit more on the pricey side, but there is no price you shouldn’t be willing to pay to ensure you/your partner’s sexual health — cucumbers kill people (I’m just saying).
Getting ready for intimate play with a sex toy?
#5 Textures To Tickle You The Right Way
How your plaything ‘feels’ to the touch plays an important role in your overall satisfaction (if you’ve ever tried ribbed condoms before you may be in the know) as well as how much extra lubrication you’ll need to apply.
The smoother a dildo the easier it is to insert, even without lube, so if all-natural sounds like your vibe, then you should opt for materials such as plastic, glass, wood or stainless steel.
Other textures can include anything from bumps, beads, ridges, swirls and veins for added feeling!
* Read product descriptions carefully so you understand what each of the different textures will do for you. These added nuances are bound to increase sexual pleasure so it’s certainly worth taking your time before heading to the checkout.
Travelling with sex toys?
#6 The ‘Base’ Consideration
Those who have ever watched the ‘Big Bang Theory’ should get a wry smile out of the title used above;)
In that breath, anyone looking for a “big bang” with their dildo absolutely needs to consider the base as it affects the way you use it.
If you’re going to be doing the penetrating yourself, then it’s advised that you opt for something that has a flat or flared base.
This allows for a sturdier grip and ultimately harder thrusting.
Good grip + harder thrusting = “OH²”
If you’re considering riding your friend from the top or from behind doggy-style then you can opt for some hands-free pleasure in suction cups
Lastly, a flared base is the choice pick for if you want to pursue anal penetration or use the dildo with a strap-on harness.
Go on lovers, take it to the base!
#7 Special Features
The last of the key considerations is perhaps the most fun as they provide you with that extra little something to take you to infinity and beyond.
There is truly something for everyone here, you just need to be willing to give it a go:
- Temperature play to heat things up or cool things down
- Additional electronic stimulation to provide some more zing
- Dynamic simulation with three internal rotating balls
- Something for G-spot, clitoral and anal stimulation
- Double penetration without the need to share partners
Outside of these “special’ special features, you also have the options of toys that are easier to clean because of their design and the materials used, those that are designed specifically for the community and even those for large toy enthusiasts!
Pleasure Bonus
Your pleasure is our business and our business is your pleasure!
This post would not be complete without mentioning the trusty vibrator.
Whilst most pleasure sticks predominantly focus on vaginal/anal penetration, it’s widely known that the fairer sex also needs external stimulation to get them coming back for more.
Throwing a vibrator into the mix is the perfect complement to any phallic friend (man or man-made) and is guaranteed to take your orgasms to another level!
“Fill” Your Life With More Love
With these key considerations, you should be well on your way to finding your perfect phallic friend.
Whatever you decide to roll with, working sex toys into your sexploration is by far the most rewarding thing you can do for your life (and that of your partner).
Sex is so much more fun when you can be open and honest about how you like it!
Please let us know which dildo you’re thinking of getting in the comments below or what other educational sex content you’d like us to write more about.
All of Olivia Grey’s products come in discreet packaging and we provide free delivery to all major centres in South Africa for orders over R750.
* Submit your email below for 10% off your first purchase!
Here’s to getting your sexual fill,
Au Revoir
Great service from the staff of OG. Ordered, paid and received my package fast and discreetly. Very happy!