Sex Toys

Sex toys can be a source of great pleasure for one or more. There are many different shapes, materials, and options available.  Be safe, use lube, and have fun!

Dildos
	Dildos  Dildos are hard plastic,  rubber,  or silicone  toys. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and are intended for insertion into the vagina. Many are made to resemble a penis to at least some degree. Some dildos are specifically designed to fit in strap-on halters.  Many vibrators are also dildos.

Vibrators

Vibrators  Many people automatically assume that vibrators are penis-shaped, but they actually come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Some are tiny bullets  that fit inside specially designed, remote-control underwear.  Others can be very large, like the famed Hitachi Magic Wand  (pictured). Sometimes listed as "personal massagers. " Some vibrators only have one speed; top-of-the-line models have variable speeds  and frequently have assorted vibration patterns as well. Some vibrators are listed as "multi-stim" ; this usually means that they have a second (or sometimes a second and third) smaller protrusion, generally intended for clitoral and/or anal stimulation. Other types of vibrators: Vibrating rings (for use on the penis) Clitoral stimulators

Anal Toys

Butt plugs  are specially designed for insertion into the anus. Some are also shaped to stimulate the prostate gland. A sex toy is considered "anal safe" if it has a flared base so that it can't get stuck inside the person using it. Never insert anything into your anus that isn't anal safe! Come in a wide variety of lengths and widths, from about the diameter of a pinky to much larger. Large variety of materials - plastic,  lucite,  metal  and silicone.  Anal beads  look just like what the name implies - a string of four or five beads that can be inserted into and pulled out of the anus. Silicone is a great choice - flexible and easy to clean.

Toys for Boys

Sex toys aren't just for the ladies any more! Sex toys for boys are a growing segment of the market for fellows tired of only using their hands. There are a few types of toys for men in addition to butt plugs, which can be used by anyone. Pictured at left is an oral sex simulator.  There are also vibrating cock rings  (which can be fun for her too). Don't forget the lube - the right one might very well become your favorite "toy".

Material Differences
Hard Plastic Toys  Hard plastic is usually the cheapest kind of toy. Ubiquitous at bachelorette parties because of low price, wide range of colorful paterns. You get what you pay for; these toys are cheap for a reason. Some do have variable vibration intensity; others have only one speed. Hard plastic is also used in some anal toys, particularly prostate massagers.	Jelly Vibrators  Jelly vibrators are inexpensive as well, but offer a softer feel than a hard plastic vibe. Vibes with clitoral and anal stimulators built in are usually jelly vibes. Many jelly vibes have a wide variety of features, frequently controlled by a remote or by a series of sliding switches on the base. These features include twisting action, "pleasure pearls", multi-stim protruberances, lights, variable speeds, G-spot stimulation, and other bells and whistles. Jelly vibrators give off toxic chemicals, especially the scented kind. Protect yourself, and cover your vibe with a condom!	Silicone Toys  Silicone is the latest and greatest in sex toy construction. Silicone is soft like jelly, but without the danger of toxic chemicals. Heat resistant - can be boiled for sterilization. (Silicone is also used in potholders!) Silicone can be molded to a variety of shapes - popular for dildos, anal beads, and butt plugs in particular. Silicone has two downsides: Silicone toys and silicone lube can never be mixed -- the lube will damage the toy by bonding with it. If you must use silicone lube, use a condom on your toy. Otherwise, water-based only! Silicone is expensive -- a good silicone vibe can cost as much as $60 or more. (But most users agree - it's worth it!)	Lucite  and Metal  Lucite can make an attractive, although hard, toy. Never used for vibrators; only used for dildos and butt plugs. Can be boiled for sterilization. Extremely attractive in design. Metal toys provide a greater weight than any other material, and warm quickly. Neither material is porous, reducing the chances that any bacteria can get trapped on the surface.