A dildo resembles a phallus and is a sex toy. Although not all dildos have the appearance of a penis – some come in different shapes – they provide a sensation similar to that of a penis during use.
Dildos can be used for sexual stimulation when having sex (i.e. two partners having sex). For example, a heterosexual couple might want to try double penetration for the woman, or the man might want to experience anal penetration while having sex to stimulate the prostate (instead of just playing "in the hole" using a finger). A dildo might also increase a woman's sexual pleasure as it can stimulate the G-spot and vibrate (which can also stimulate a man's erogenous zones) in addition to regular penetration.
All promotional information correct as of 3rd May 2023. AgeGroup is not responsible for changes to promotions or content on third-party websites.
Are you looking to experiment or take things into a different gear in the bedroom? Browse our panel of retailers to find sexy lingerie, toys, and more!
Women might, furthermore, use dildos when masturbating (i.e. solo play), using them to play with their vagina or anus. Likewise, men might want to use it while masturbating instead of anal sex. Using a dildo for masturbating can help you figure out what you want from a partner.
And note that wanting to try anal sex, whether male or female, has nothing to do with your sexuality. You can be straight and enjoy anal sex. Just like oral sex, it provides a different kind of sexual stimulation.
What kind of different dildos are there?
Dildos come in all different shapes and sizes, including:
- Double ended.
- Strap on.
- Lifelike (i.e. shaped like a penis).
- Curved tip (shaped to hit the G-spot).
- Anal (shaped for anal sex, meaning it has a base so it can't disappear into your anus)
- Vibrating.
- Textured.
- Fantasy (i.e. shaped as something other than a straight bar or penis).
- Squirting.
People often purchase many dildos (sometimes together with other sex toys) to try different sensations and use them for various purposes.
What is a dildo made of?
Dildos come in a variety of different materials, including:
- Glass.
- Plastic.
- Jelly rubber.
- Silicone.
- Smooth hardwood.
- Metal.
Sometimes other materials are used to create dildos, but the above are some of the most popular ones.
It's important to remember that there are no set regulations concerning the materials used in these products. Unfortunately, rubber commonly contains phthalates, which can potentially be harmful as research has linked them to cause cancer risks in humans. Likewise, not all types of silicone are certified for medical or kitchen use, but some silicone variations are still used in the production of dildos.
To stay safe, use your rubber dildo with a condom or buy dildos made of glass or metal.
Caring for your dildo and how to clean it
To stay safe when using a dildo, it's crucial to clean it. How you clean it depends on whether the material is porous or non-porous.
Cleaning dildos made of non-porous materials
You can wash a dildo made with a non-porous material such as glass, medical grade silicone, or steel with antibacterial soap and warm water. If you share it with others, disinfect it with a sex toy cleaner and rinse it in water. Alternatively, you can boil it in water for 1-3 minutes, keeping it submerged.
Cleaning dildos made of porous materials
Dildos crafted from porous materials pose a challenge. Simply rinsing it off isn't sufficient, as bacteria can remain trapped inside.
If you have a dildo made of porous materials, like rubber, that is unsuitable for boiling, you have to use a condom on top of it to stay safe. You still need to wash it with soap and water, however.
If the dildo, on the other hand, is made with a porous material that can be boiled, like stone, you should boil it after use.
Note that you should never share a dildo that is made of a porous material unless you use a condom on top of it. Even then, you should be careful.
Drying and storing your dildo
Whenever you wash your dildo, dry it with a clean towel. Otherwise, bacteria from the towel can transfer to the dildo. To protect their dildo, most people store it in a drawer or cupboard inside a bag made of lint-free fabric or a clean non-plastic container.
A note of warning
Naturally, if a dildo has any electronic parts (i.e. operates as a vibrator), the electronic components cannot come in contact with water, nor can it be boiled.
How many people use dildos?
Mr & Mrs Toys did a survey in the UK in 2017 that revealed that about half the British population uses sex toys.
Do older people use dildos?
The hit Netflix show Grace and Frankie revolves around two women who start a new company after they retire. A company selling dildos. But are dildos popular with older generations?
YES!
According to the Mr & Mrs Toy survey, 27% of over 55s own a sex toy, and 45-54-year-olds own the most sex toys. About a fifth of over 55s also masturbate 2-3 times weekly.
In Australia, the brand Wild Secrets made some marketing efforts to market their sex toys to those over 65. It paid off, with an 11% rise in sales. Plus, people aged 55-64 are now their fastest growing market, with sales among this age group growing 15%.
According to Idealo, vibrators and dildos are the most popular sex toys on the market, with Brits spending about £444 million per year on sex toys!
Opt for body safe and medically safe
When shopping for a dildo, consider the material - is it safe? As mentioned earlier, rubber and plastic aren't always regarded as safe. Similarly, if you purchase one crafted from a porous material, use a condom with it and, ideally, avoid sharing it (even with your partner).
It's best to opt for steel glass or medical-grade silicone when buying a dildo.
Always clean a dildo after use (see above for instructions). If you use a dildo in the rectum during sex, wash it before entering the vagina. If the dildo is made from a porous material, use a condom or boil the dildo after use. This is important for women's health as any bacteria from the anus that comes in contact with the urethra or vagina can cause UTIs and other infections.
Also, consider its size and how you insert it. Start small, go slow and not too deep. It should fill you, but not be so large it hurts you. Likewise, the shape should feel comfortable, as should how you position it. If you use it for anal sex, ensure it has a base so it can't "disappear" into your body.
Using lube is always a good idea. Make sure it's safe to use with the material of your dildo.
Can you use a dildo to extend the size of your penis?
No, you don't place a dildo over your penis; it's a separate object that can't increase your length or girth. While men and women might care less about the size of penises than you might think, you can extend the size of your penis if you want to. You just have to use a cock ring or an extender sleeve. Chat with your partner to find out how they feel about it.
Some men and women enjoy playing with sex toys to make a penis feel bigger, but some prefer other means of pleasure. Using the mouth for oral sex, or getting fingered, might be more pleasurable than penetration with a penis, for example. Others might enjoy a vibrator for increased sexual satisfaction instead of a cock ring or penis extender sleeve.
Add a harness for hands-free play
When you use dildos on sexual adventures, it can be fun to try a harness. A strap-on dildo that is, as the name suggests, strapped on for hands-free play. You can wear it halfway between your pubis and your belly button (that's typically the recommended approach, but feel free to experiment for yourself). Having your hands free allows you to pleasure your partner with your hands while using the dildo.
The things to remember about using a dildo
Firstly, have fun with them! They're there to increase sexual pleasure, whether you use them with sexual partners or on your own when masturbating. Find one that feels good to use and play around with it.
Secondly, stay safe. Pick one made of a non-porous material that's safe to use. Wash it properly after use and disinfect it if needed. Alternatively, use condoms if you can't wash it or wish to share it with someone.
Likewise, never use a dildo for anal play and then vaginal play without first washing it.
Lastly, remember that having a dildo is nothing to be ashamed of–more than half of the UK population enjoys using sex toys!
Is a dildo right for me?
The decision to incorporate a dildo into your intimate experiences is a personal one. Whether you're looking to enhance your solo play, explore new sensations with a partner, or simply embrace your curiosity, a dildo can be a valuable addition to your journey of self-discovery and sexual wellness. Remember, your desires and preferences are unique, and the key is to approach this choice with an open mind and a focus on enjoyment.
Image Credit: Anna Shvets at Pexels
