How to Choose #3: Vibrators

I talk a lot about all the different kinds of sex toys and romance products out there, but I haven’t said much about how to choose the right one for you. With so many options, those of us who may never have used a vibrator, c-ring or anal plug can be completely overwhelmed.  Even those of us who have experimented a little can have a hard time making a decision.  This is the third in a series of posts about how to choose the right sex toys for you.

If you want to check out the others

Why Do I Want a Toy?

What Should my Sex Toy Do?

Choosing a vibrator.

Let’s start with vibrators.  Just to be clear, I’m lumping any battery- or electrically-powered toy into this category.  There is a wide range of options, with vibrators designed to stimulate pretty much any part of your anatomy, with a focus on the hot spots of the clitoris and g-spot.

What area do you want to stimulate?

Traditional Vibrators

Traditional vibrators are typically shaped something like a penis. They offer the intensity of a steady vibration, perhaps with multiple speeds.  They’re designed for insertion but can be used on the clitoris or other body parts.

G-Spot Vibrators

The main difference between a traditional vibrator and these is that g-spot vibrators are curved, and often shorter, to make hitting the g-spot that much easier.

Clitoral Vibrators (Bullets and such)

These toys have been known to put the ‘O’ back into orgasm. They are some of the most versatile and best loved vibrators around.

They range from mini, non-insertable bullets to non-traditional shapes like the Nea. Many of them are simple and have either one or a couple of speeds, but the best ones have a variety of pulsation modes to really rock your world.

Multi-action Vibrators (Like the Rabbit of Sex and the City fame)

There are also dual- or multi-action vibrators, with a shaft that may rotate in different directions, vibrate, have gyrating beads or “pearls,” be texturized or all of the above; they also have a clitoral stimulator attached at the base of the shaft.  This is where the rabbit got it’s name.  These stimulators are often in the shape of an animal (rabbits, butterflies and dolphins being popular.

Most have separate controls for each action, though these may be found on either the base of the vibe or be attached by a cord or wire to a handpack where the batteries are inserted.

How to select a Vibrator

We know how overwhelming selecting a vibrator can be. Fortunately, if you answer three simple questions, it’s easy!

1. What do you want this toy to do to you (or your partner)?  You’ve probably started thinking about this when you read the previous posts in this series.  Here are a few things to consider that are unique to vibrators.

• Is this your first foray into buying a vibrator? Then consider starting out with something small and gentle.
• Are you looking for something to provide internal stimulation? Then a traditional vibrator is your best bet, but you should also consider a dual-action or G-Spot vibe.
• Looking for external clitoral as well as internal stimulation? A dual-action vibrator is ideal.
• Do you have difficulty achieving orgasm or need something more powerful? If so, you’ll want to look into a vibrator that pulses.

2. What do you want this toy to feel and look like?

• Do you want something that feels as much like skin as possible? If so,  you definitely want something made of silicone, CyberskinTM, or Soft Touch materials; these materials are pricier than plastic, jelly or rubber, but feel uncannily realistic.
• Are you looking for something that feels realistic, but is more affordable? Most vibrators made of jelly or rubber will warm to your body temperature and feel more lifelike. However, these materials are often made with Phthalates, and can carry health risks.
• Would you prefer a toy that you can use in the water? Then any vibe that is waterproof is the best for you; check by looking for a rubber O-ring at the opening to the battery compartment.
• Do you prefer something rigid that transmits the strongest vibration possible? A traditional slimline vibe, generally made of hard plastic and without bells or whistles, is what you’re looking for. Kits and Kaboodles often include a slimline, as well as sleeves made of softer materials such as silicone or jelly.

3. Do you want smaller than average, average or fantasy-sized?

• Are you just beginning to experiment with toys? Then you’ll probably want to start with a smaller vibrator.
• Do you want something of an average size that won’t be as intimidating to bring into your intimate relationship? You should look at the dimensions of the vibrator. If they’re not listed in the description, contact me and ask; don’t just go by a picture. If a toy is so big it’s uncomfortable or too small to satisfy, then you’ll be frustrated and unhappy.
• Is a feeling of fullness most gratifying to you? Again, be sure to look at the dimensions so that you’re not disappointed. or give me a call.

Make Sure You Have All Your Accessories

Finally, after you’ve selected the product that you think meets your needs, make sure you have all of the following:

• Plenty of fresh batteries in the proper size for your battery-operated toy. The description and the box your vibe comes in should say what size is needed.
• Lubricant, Lubricant, Lubricant! There are many different kinds at many different prices.
• Information on how to care for your toy and keep it clean. Unless a toy is made of either 100% medical grade silicone or glass, I recommend using a special toy cleaner. Personally, I think Mighty Tidy, item #7070 is the best, anti microbial and anti-fungal. Kills germs on contact!

Ready to start looking for the perfect vibrator to add to the side of YOUR bed? Buy here.

If this post hit the spot, take a look at these:

• Give Your Girl an Orgasm!
• Lube Baby!
• How to choose a Sex Toy, #2: What Do I Want it to Do?