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Is the “special suitcase” you keep under the bed getting a bit tired? Are you having to resort to kitchen implements to keep your love life alive? Or are you just bemused by the incredible amount of sex products out there and don’t know where to start.

Never fear! We’ve been working night and day to bring you this list – which is in NO PARTICULAR ORDER – of the 24 different types of sex toy you should always have to hand.

All that said, some of the products featured are for male bodied or female bodied people only, so you may not find a use for all of them. It’s unlikely, for example, that our lesbian readers will find a lot of use for a penis pump but, in this day and age, you never know.

1 Dildos

We’re guessing you already know what dildos are. These ubiquitous penetrative sex toys are a bedroom staple and come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. They’re usually at least vaguely penis-shaped but not always. There are plenty of interesting variations out there, some of which don’t look remotely human.

There are squirting dildos, glass dildos, anal dildos, horse dildos, and a whole bunch of wildly-imaginative ‘fantasy-themed dildos’ designed to bring your fantasies to life.

Everyone needs at least one dildo in their life, so if you haven’t got one yet, it’s time to start shopping. Our boffins recommend choosing a dildo made of body-safe silicone with a slight curve and an interesting texture.

A suction base is another must if you want to use it hands-free – it’ll allow you to mount it on your wall or in the shower so you can back up against it instead of using your hands.

Length, girth, and firmness are also important, so think carefully about what you usually like to work with before you hit the buy button.

2. Vibrators

Vibrators are another staple sex toy that every woman should have in her collection. There are two different categories of vibrators to choose from: internal and external. 

Internal vibrators go inside your vagina and stimulate your G-spot, whereas external vibrators focus the vibes on your clit. The best vibrator for you will depend on which of these pleasure spots is best at getting you to orgasm.

Most vibrators have adjustable intensity levels and patterns so you can tailor the way you play for maximum pleasure. The key things you want to look for in a vibe are power, adjustability, and good ergonomics. Also, think about whether you prefer ‘rumbly’ or ‘buzzy’ vibes and how you want to control the action.

For example, if you want to use your vibrator with your partner, a smart remote control vibrator that can be operated remotely via an app and worn discreetly is ideal.

Massage wands are a specific type of vibrating sex toy with larger motors, long ergonomic handles, and more powerful vibrations than other kinds of vibrators. 

They usually plug into a power outlet like regular appliances (rather than run on batteries), but rechargeable and cordless models are also available. Massage wands are typically easier to grip and use than other types of vibrators.

Because they have large motors, they also tend to operate at lower frequencies, which means deeper, more ‘rumbly’ vibes that will make you weak at the knees. 

They’re reportedly more effective than smaller vibrators at getting women to climax, especially if your clit isn’t very sensitive. A lot of women swear by massage wands and report having rapid, mind-blowing orgasms again and again after using them.

The most well-known massage wand on the market is probably the Hitachi Magic Wand, but there are plenty of other great products out there too.

4. Suction toys

There’s also a whole category of suction-based sex toys for women that use vacuum pressure to stimulate the pleasure spots. This includes clit suction toys that mimic the sensation of oral sex and nipple suction toys.

Clit suction toys are best for women who have not-very-sensitive clits. If you’re very sensitive down there, you’ll probably find the sensation too intense (some women even find it painful). 

5. Butt plugs

Butt plugs are versatile sex toys used by both men and women. They have two main functions: pleasure and preparing yourself for anal sex.

For men, the pleasure comes from the way butt plugs stimulate your P-spot (prostate); for women, who don’t have prostates, the pleasure comes from the pressure the plug applies on the back of your vagina wall, as well as the nerve endings around your anus. 

Some people just use butt plugs to loosen up the anus in advance of anal sex for easier penetration.

Butt plugs are designed in such a way that they can be used in your back passage safely. They have narrow tips and bases with the widest point in the middle in order to make it easier to put them in and take them out. 

They also usually have a flared base or external arms to stop them from getting stuck inside you. This is important as the anus can act like a vacuum and pull toys inside if there’s nothing to stop them.

Experts recommend choosing a butt plug made from a non-porous material like silicone, stainless steel, or borosilicate glass. Silicone is easier to insert for beginners. If you’re new to butt plugs, you should also start out with the smallest toy you can find and, of course, always make sure to use plenty of lube!

6. Cock Rings

Cock rings are circular rings worn around the base of the penis. They’re designed to restrict your blood flow to help you to maintain an erection. Some guys think that they make their penises look bigger and firmer on account of the extra blood trapped in there. 

Certain cock rings also claim to be able to improve sensitivity and prolong ejaculation, which can lead to more powerful orgasms. Be very careful when buying a cock ring; only choose products from reputable brands and remember to choose the right size for your girth.

Lasso/quick-release cock rings are usually the best choice for beginners as they’re safer and quicker to get on and off.

7. Erotic Furniture

Erotic furniture, or sex furniture, is a broad category of sex toys that includes any kind of furniture designed to enhance your sexual experiences. We’re talking about things like sex wedges/pillows, sex swings, sex chairs, balls, beds, bondage furniture… you get the idea.

The main reason to invest in some erotic furniture is to make exciting new sex positions possible. Sex furniture can make it easier for you and your partner to try out kinky positions comfortably and without injuring yourself. 

For example, door swings make standing sex a lot easier. Even something as simple as a sex wedge can be used to prop up certain body parts and really enhance your positions.

8. Strap-Ons

Strap-ons are artificial appendages worn around the waist. You can use them just like a penis, i.e., for hands-free penetrative sex. 

Anyone can use a strap on, but they’re mainly used by members of the LGBTQ+ community who are looking for new ways to have sex and straight women who enjoy pegging (that’s when a woman penetrates a man, FYI). 

There are many different types of strap-ons to choose from. The standard go-to type for beginners is the harness strap-on, but strapless strap-ons that penetrate both partners at the same time are also available.

Experts recommend involving your partner in the decision when you’re shopping for a strap-on. After all, it’s not just a toy for the wearer – both of you get to enjoy it.

9. Strokers / Male Masturbators / Pocket Pussies

Strokers are one of the most popular types of male sex toy. They’re sometimes known as male masturbators or pocket pussies, and they’re essentially artificial holes for guys to penetrate. They’re a huge improvement on jacking off with your hands and make the whole masturbation process a lot more realistic and enjoyable.

There are many different types of strokers on the market, ranging from your standard fleshlight (vulva-shaped masturbation sleeves in a hard plastic tube) to fully-automated pocket pussies that use a motor to move up and down and do the work for you.   

10. Sex Dolls

Sex dolls are life-like, full-sized dolls complete with artificial vaginas or penises for you to enjoy. They usually don’t come cheap, which we guess is to be expected as you’re paying for a lot of material.

Some masturbators, like Onaholes, are more like mini sex-dolls in that the hole comes attached to realistic body parts, like torsos and buttcheeks.

11. Ben Wa Balls

We use the term ben wa balls to refer to any type of vaginal exercise weights. Other similar products are sometimes referred to as kegel balls, love eggs, geisha balls, and a few other names. 

These are one of the least well-known but most-exciting sex toys for women. You put them inside your vagina and clench your pelvic muscles to hold them in there in order to strengthen your pelvic muscles or just to enjoy the pleasant sensations of having them roll around.  

Some ben wa balls are designed to be worn while having sex for added pressure and an interesting internal sensation, whereas others are exclusively meant for pelvic training and meant to be worn all day. 

The advantages of using them to exercise your pelvic muscles are many. They can increase bladder control, help you to get a ‘tighter squeeze,’ improve sexual performance, and even lead to better, more fulfilling orgasms.

If you’re a beginner, look for ben wa balls that are attached by a cord as it’ll make it easier to get them in and out. Separated ben wa balls are available for more advanced users.

12. Love Eggs

Love eggs, or ‘Yoni Eggs,’ are similar to ben wa balls in that they’re another kind of vaginal exercise weight used to strengthen your kegel muscles. The difference is that love eggs are a single, large, egg-shaped insertable, rather than several small balls linked together.

There is some debate around whether or not they’re effective, but that hasn’t stopped them from becoming hugely popular sex toys. Some love eggs even vibrate for added pleasure.

13. Fucking Machines

Fucking machines are exactly what the name suggests – machines designed to ‘fuck’ the user. They typically consist of a dildo attached to a large motor and a flywheel, which creates the motion. 

There are different types of fucking machines out there. The most common type is the standard ‘thrusting’ sex machine, which thrusts back and forth to penetrate the user. There are also mountable saddle-style machines that gyrate or rotate, as well as handheld fucking machines.

The advantage of fucking machines over other sex toys is that they’re hands-free and extremely powerful. They can also thrust at much faster speeds than any mere mortal can. 

14. Electrostimulation Toys

Hoping to electrify your sex life? These toys are sure to make some sparks fly in the bedroom. But in all seriousness, electrostimulation toys might sound a little scary, but they provide a unique form of stimulation that you just can’t get with other sex toys.

They use electric pulses to stimulate your nerve endings and provide a unique range of satisfying tingling sensations. Plus, the electricity causes your muscles to involuntarily clench, which leads to hands-free internal stimulation. 

There are all sorts of electro-sex toys out there, some designed for solo use and others designed for partner play. Shop around and see if anything catches your eye!

Warning: be careful when using electrostimulation toys as they can be dangerous. Do your own research, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, and make sure you’re aware of the risks.

15. Rabbit Vibrators

A rabbit vibrator is a must-have addition to your sex toy collection. These 2-in-1 vibrators have both an internal shaft and an external vibrating arm (called a ‘tickler’), so you can stimulate both your G-spot and your clit at the same time. 

They can help women to achieve the infamous blended orgasm that’ll send shockwaves through your whole body. There are hundreds of rabbit vibrators on the market to choose from, but we’d recommend opting for a body-safe silicone model with a flexible tickler and plenty of adjustable vibration modes. 

16. Vibrating Panties

Vibrating panties sit at the junction between clothing and sex toys. They’re exactly what you think – a pair of panties that vibrate to stimulate your clit and other erogenous zones. 

The beauty of vibrating panties is in how discreet they are. You can wear them underneath your clothing and go about your day as usual without anyone realising you’re currently using a wearable sex toy. They’re your naughty little secret.

In fact, the notion that you’re doing something so naughty in public is part of the thrill and what makes vibrating panties so appealing. 

And they’re even better for couples. When you’re out on a romantic date with your significant other, you can hand control over to your partner and let them use the app or remote to dictate the vibes. Sounds pretty fun, right?

17. Prostate Massagers

Prostate massagers are the essential sex toy for guys that are open to anal play. They’re purpose-built to stimulate the prostate gland, with the right shape and curve to go exactly where you want them. All you have to do is pop them inside your butt and let them do their thing until you reach an explosive full-body prostate orgasm. 

The most well-known prostate massager brand is probably Aneros. All Aneros massagers follow the same broad design, with an insertable prostate massager and two external arms; the ‘p-tab’ and the ‘k-tab.’ 

The external arms are there to stop the massager from being pulled inside your anus (because nobody wants to be the guy in ER with a sex toy stuck in his rectum) but also to stimulate your prostate externally. The p-tab applies pressure to your perineum, an important pleasure spot, and the k-tab stimulates your Kundalini spot. 

There’s a knack to getting the most pleasure out of your prostate massagers and plenty of different techniques you can try.

18. Penis Sleeves

Guys, if you’re not happy with what mother nature gave you, a penis sleeve might be just what you need. Also known as ‘cock sheaths’ and ‘hollow strap-ons,’ penis sleeves are the secret to getting well-hung overnight.

They’re essentially dildos with a hole in the middle that you can fit over the top of your manhood – think of it kind of like a ‘costume’ for your penis. The result is a bigger, thicker penetrative tool for your partner to enjoy. 

They’re a great sex toy if you’re into roleplaying too. You can get all kinds of crazy, creative, and imaginative penis sleeves to bring your wildest fantasies to life. Some sleeves are open at the top, so the head of your penis still sticks out so that you can still feel plenty of stimulation while wearing it.

19. Penis Pumps

If you haven’t already heard of penis pumps, they’re vacuum erectile devices that are meant to pull blood into your penis and give you stronger, firmer erections. 

They’re often marketed as tools that can help you to make your penis bigger, but there’s little solid evidence that they’re effective at this. 

However, they can be effective treatments for erectile dysfunction and may cause small temporary size gains when used just before sex. Some men report that their penis looks longer or thicker after using a penis pump compared to their natural erection size, but note that this effect will wear off when your erection does. 

Still, if you struggle to get it up from time to time, they can be a great tool, especially if used in conjunction with a cock ring.

Just make sure you’re careful when using penis pumps and that you always follow the safety advice given in your product handbook. We’d also recommend consulting a doctor to see if you suffer from ED to see whether or not a penis pump is the right treatment option for you.

20. Pussy Pumps

A pussy pump is the female equivalent of a penis pump. It’s a suction device that you place around your vulva and is designed to draw blood to the area. Why would you want to do that, you ask?

Well, it’s all about sensitivity. When you’re aroused, blood flow naturally increases to your vulva, which causes your clitoris to become engorged and appear bigger. When this happens, it gets more sensitive, and the pleasure you get from being touched increases. 

A pussy pump speeds up that process by pulling blood to the area. Use it just before masturbation or sex, and you’ll be more sensitive right from the get-go. This can lead to more satisfying and powerful orgasms.

21. BDSM Gear 

BDSM gear is a very broad subcategory of sex toys that includes many different kinds of BDSM toys and equipment, such as ball gags, cock cages, blindfolds, paddles, whips, and so on. Each of these is a category in their own right and probably deserve their own section on this list. However, if we tried to list all of them separately, this article would have to be a 400-page novel.

BDSM toys can be used to spice up your roleplay and bring a little extra heat into the bedroom. If you’re not familiar with what BDSM is, it stands for Bondage, Discipline, Sadism and Masochism.

You can use things like ball gags and cock cages to exaggerate power roles in the bedroom by making the submissive partner feel even more submissive. Similarly, impact play tools like paddles and whips can make the Dom feel even more dominant.

22. Restraints

Restraints are another kind of BDSM toy, but one that we thought deserved its own separate section on this list. 

Fabric cuffs are one of the most popular types of restraints and one we think every experimental man, woman, or couple should have in their collection. They’re beginner-friendly, versatile, and can be used to roleplay all kinds of kinky scenes. If you want to take things up a notch, under the bed restraint kits are a big step up. 

Important warning: Safety has to be the number one priority when using any kind of restraints in the bedroom. Always make sure you know how to loosen the restraints before you begin and always establish a safeword with your partner. Also, be aware that tying restraints too tightly can be very dangerous and can restrict circulation. Make sure you know what you’re doing and follow your product safety guidelines.

23. Anal Beads

Anal beads are another sub-category of anal sex toys that consist of several round beads attached together by a cord. Contrary to what some people think, they’re not the same as butt plugs or prostate massagers. In fact, they’re not even close.

Both butt plugs and prostate massagers are meant to be put inside your arse and then left there. Anal beads, on the other hand, are supposed to be moved in and out over and over again. 

A big part of the stimulation they provide actually comes when you pull them out. As you remove them slowly, the beads rub against all those sensitive nerve endings in your anus and rectum to provide lots of stimulation.

There are lots of different types of anal beads out there; some of them have beads that are all the same size, whereas others will increase in size gradually the lower down the cord you get.

Experts recommend first-time anal bead users should try them out in the shower (assuming they’re waterproof) as you can thoroughly clean the area first, and the moisture will help make entry easier. As with all anal toys, you’ll want to use plenty of lube to minimise friction as your anus isn’t self-lubricating. 

24. Nipple Toys

Last but not least, let’s talk about nipple toys. A lot of people forget about their nipples when they’re shopping for sex toys. Ladies, it isn’t all about your vagina – your nipples need some lovin’ too. 

Your nipples are erogenous zones, which means they’re full of sensitive nerve endings and can be a powerful source of erotic pleasure. In fact, it’s even possible to have a nipple orgasm through nipple stimulation alone if you know how.

There are plenty of toys out there designed for nipple play. These include nipple clamps, nipple vibes, and suction devices. We’ve listed a few of them below.

Massive thanks to our friend Rachel from schoolofsquirt.com for her invaluable help in compiling this article. 

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Fifi Goldberg

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