Etsy to ban sales of most sex toys, explicit content and more
Since then, I have come a long way. Because I have endometriosis, my relationship with pleasure – especially penetration – is complicatedto say the least. Testing sex toys isn’t just a fun task (although it certainly is); It’s something I’ve pursued throughout my career so I can fix my sex life and find products that work for my body. I have zero tolerance for anything that looks cheap or uncomfortable – which is a pretty good standard anyway. Although this list includes products for pelvic pain, like Ohnut, there are plenty of heavy hitters here for everyone and every body type.
I’m also in the process of testing and reviewing more toys to include in this guide. In particular, I’m taking a closer look at the mythology hitachi magic wand vibrator and all genders Enjoy Pure Wand Stainless-Steel DildoBoth of which have excellent reputations.
What things should be kept in mind while buying sex toys?
Visiting a sex shop (or browsing the web) can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. There are so many options to choose from, and it can quickly become confusing (and expensive!) if you’re not sure what you’re looking for.
After testing hundreds of products and consulting experts, I’ve narrowed it down to a few non-negotiable products.
Physical matters (do the smell test).
If there’s one rule you follow, let it be this: No mysterious rubber or jelly ingredients. If the specific ingredients aren’t listed or you’re actually in the store and it smells like a chemical fire or new car tires, put it down.
“Look for medical-grade silicone, stainless steel, or glass,” Emily Lambert Robbins, LCSW and AASECT-certified sex therapist, tells Mashable. These materials are generally non-porous and easy to clean. Robbins also suggests avoiding PVC, jelly rubber and any materials containing phthalates.
Start simple.
It’s tempting to buy the most advanced or aesthetic toy with multiple vibration modes and app connectivity, but more features don’t always mean more fun. To be honest, I’m not a fan of toys with all the bells and whistles because if I press the wrong button or mess with an app, I’ll lose interest Fast!
“Start simple, stay curious, and stay true to yourself,” advises Sarah Kelleher, LCSW and sex and relationship therapist. “ask yourself: What type of stimulation am I most attracted to? internal? external? Tender? intense? This kind of self-awareness is more useful than any recommended list,” she adds. “Your first toy doesn’t need to be the most powerful or high-tech—it needs to feel acceptable, whatever that means to you.”
Buy toys that work with your body, not against it.
It’s easy to get caught up in marketing hype or friendly recommendations (or even things you see in porn), but one of the most important things to remember is that you’re buying this toy for your body. Therefore, it should work with your body, not against it. (This is something I learned the hard way.)
“The biggest mistake to avoid is making purchases based solely on popularity or what you want or need based on what your body feels/does/or likes, not based on what it does or what you currently like,” says Kelleher. “This doesn’t mean not being curious and willing to expand your horizons, but it’s important to know and accept your body and what feels good and what doesn’t when purchasing a toy.”
According to board-certified sex therapist and sexuality educator at Hili: Dating App, Mindy DeSetta, PhD, it features a “comfortable grip, intuitive controls, appropriate size, and shape that complements natural anatomy.”
Final note: Don’t forget lube.
Finding the right lube can make a big difference, especially when you’re using vaginal or anal penetration. But not all lubricants are compatible with sex toys. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best lube:
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Water-based lubes are the gold standard – they’re compatible with sex toys and condoms, and they’re very easy to clean.
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Silicone-based lubes are not compatible with silicone toys, but you can use them with latex condoms.
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Oil-based lubes are longer lasting, but they are not compatible with latex products (i.e., condoms) and may stain clothing.
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Flavored lubes are great for oral sex, but you really shouldn’t use them for vaginal or anal penetration, even if they’re water-based.
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