Dildos: The Basics
Read about the author Megan Barnett
Dildos are typically phallic shaped objects that have been around for centuries, dating as far back as the Ice Age. Once being carved from stone and bones, today dildos are available in a wide range of materials, sizes and designs. While ultimately used for sexual pleasure, in some historic cultures dildos were used in worship, as they were seen as an emblem of fertility.
Historically, dildos were also used to curb the female sexual appetite and to prevent hysteria when husbands were away at war in the Greek and Roman times. In Ancient China, when it was not uncommon for wealthy men to have several wives, dildos cast from special metals were provided to ensure that they remained faithful, satisfied, and didn’t resort to lesbianism to get their fix.
Today, dildos are still used for sexual pleasure and can be enjoyed by both women and men, and they aren’t a stranger to a party bag at a Hen-Do!
Types of dildos available
Dildos are designed for internal stimulation of the G-Spot, but can also be used externally for clitoral stimulation. Dildos are non-vibrating products that have a varying phallic shape, meaning that some are incredibly realistic whereas others, such as the Fun Factory Amor, are less detailed.
While silicone dildos are arguably more “realistic” due to their smooth, soft touch, generally dildos are far more rigid than an erect penis. Metal and glass dildos are not flexible, but their firmness provides fulfilling sexual satisfaction.
Some television shows or literary works of fiction have illustrated food products or homemade items to be used as a sexual stimulant. However, your genitals are sensitive, and introducing something that is not intended for intimate use can be harmful.
Using a dildo
Although they are intended to be used for self-stimulation, dildos that have a larger, flatter base can be worn securely in a harness to be used as a strap-on during sex too. Dildos can also be used for anal play and P-Spot stimulation for men. These dildos can be identified by a flared base, which is designed for easy maneuverability and removal.
Metal and glass dildos can be used for sensory play. For warmer sensations, leave your sex toy in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes until the temperature feels right for you. If you prefer a thrilling chill, use the same process but with cold water. Don’t use boiling water or put your metal and glass sex toys in the freezer, as both could result in skin damage.
It is recommended that dildos are used with a lubricant. Silicone dildos can only be used with an oil or water based lubricant, while non-porous glass and metal dildos can be used with silicone lubricant as well.
The Icicles No.18 is specifically designed for G-Spot stimulation. Not only is it visually stunning, hand-crafted from blown glass, but it delivers intense orgasmic relief.
Some dildos, such as the njoy Fun Wand, are double ended, meaning that both you and your partner can share new sensations together. However, while dildos such as this are designed for both vaginal and anal use, it is strongly advised that you do not use vaginally straight after anal use without properly cleaning the product first. This is because bacteria can be spread, leading to an infection.
Sizing
Some people assume that bigger means better when it comes to sex toys, but often this isn’t the case. If you are a beginner, perhaps start off with a smaller dildo, such as the Tantus Acute. It still provides sexual pleasure, but rather than overcompensating on size, it is angled for pleasurable G-Spot stimulation.
When purchasing a dildo, it’s important to know what’s right for you. The Fun Factory Tiger is a great dildo as it’s quite long and ridged for extra stimulation. The
If you experience any vaginal tightness or pain during penetration, a smaller dildo, Sportsheets Please or Inspire dilator kit may be a better option for you. However, using plenty of lubricant with any dildo will help to alleviate any discomfort that you may experience upon initial insertion. If it feels good for you, you may find that you can relax better and enjoy your sexual experience more fully.
Cleaning and storage
Dildos can be easily cleaned with soap and water, or alternatively an anti-bacterial spray can be used. These sex toy hygiene products ensure for the best results. Do not use cleaning products that aren’t specifically designed for sex toy care, as these can be harmful to your sexual health.
For best results, drying silicone dildos with a hair dryer helps to reduce attracting dust. Most sex toys come with their own drawstring bag for storage, but these are also available if yours are lost or damaged.
If your dildo has come in stylish packaging, alternatively you can keep your luxury sex toys carefully stored in their original packaging.