The Ultimate Dildo Buying Guide
They say the classics never go out of style… and they’re right. Dildos are considered to be the world’s very first sex toy.
In fact, slightly embarrassed archaeologists have dug up ancient toys thought to be almost 30,000 years old. This means humans have been coming up with creative methods of pleasure-seeking since before we even learned how to grow our own food.
What is a dildo?
So, what does dildo mean? Let’s start with the basics. For anyone who has arrived at this point and never heard of a dildo, it’s an object designed in the same shape as a penis that can be used for self-pleasure or as an extra special addition to sex.
How to use a dildo
Using a dildo might seem like a pretty straightforward thing to do, right?! Well, whilst you can get so far on your own, we want to help you out with a little imagination. After all, the angle and speed of penetration can make a big difference. Here are a few ideas to take your dildo play to new levels of pleasure.
Hitting the G-spot
This is a great way to use a dildo to experiment and help you figure out what works for your body. As you pull it out, apply pressure so that it hits the top of your vagina and drags across your G-spot. Once you’ve located that magic spot just aim that way and shoot to thrill!
Do the twist
Many dildos are designed with different bumps and textures along the shaft which add extra sensation as you move it in and out. To maximise the effect of these areas, try rotating the dildo as it you push it back and forth.
Deep or shallow
Mix up the depth of penetration with your dildo with long, deep thrusts and short, shallow thrusts. This means you’ll be more likely to hit those nerve endings towards the entrance of your vagina, as well as the G-spot and pleasure zones deeper in.
Push it down
Similar to hitting the G-spot, this position relies on penetrating at an angle. However, instead of pushing towards the top of the vagina you’re aiming the other way. As you’re laid on the bed, angle the dildo downwards, apply some lube and enjoy the friction against your clit.
Positions: How Do I Use a Dildo?
We’ve looked at ways to use a dildo for penetration, but the position you’re in can also make a big difference when it comes to using a dildo.
Room with a View
Get down on your knees and spread them slightly. This will allow you to stimulate the entire area, working up from the vaginal opening to the clitoris in order to make the most of your natural lubrication before putting in your dildo. This position is particularly good for a suction-based dildo. This will leave your hands free to roam around your vagina and stimulate your clitoris for that elusive multiple orgasm.
The Long Way Around
This position allows you to easily target your G-spot with your dildo. Your G-spot is located in the front wall of your vagina so entering yourself from behind at this angle will help you apply pressure to the spot. Whilst you internally pleasure yourself consider using a vibrating bullet either with your other hand or laid on the bed. This will help you achieve those blended orgasms by stimulating the external nerve endings.
The Fumbling Stranger
Lay on your back and re-position your legs to provide the best access to your clitoris whilst you penetrate yourself with your dildo.
Concentrate on doubling up on the pleasure by gliding your other hand upwards over your clitoris. Rather than stimulating this hot bed of nerve endings in a side-to-side motion, experiment with stroking upwards, giving you direct access to the super sensitive clitoris rather than the clitoral hood.
Choosing the best dildo for you
At Ann Summers, we've developed a huge variety of styles that can be used alone or with a partner. Not sure where to start? Let's take a look.
Realistic dildos
Even better than the real thing? That’s entirely up to you, but it’s as close to the real thing as you’re going to get in a dildo.
If it’s not enough for your toy to just look the part, then add a realistic dildo to your toy chest. They feel the part too, with their skin-soft material, lifelike weight and thick feel. Add plenty of lube, and you’ll struggle to tell the difference.
Just like real penises, realistic dildos options come in all shapes and sizes. Easy to handle, very easy to use and shaped to perfection, they’re perfect for total beginners.
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Vibrating dildos
Addicted to the buzz of your bullet?
While we can’t say we blame you, trust us and try those vibes on a grander scale. Vibrating dildos come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect match.
Don't forget the Rampant Rabbit®, of course. We invented our iconic bunny over 30 years ago and it’s since become the world’s most successful sex toy. Our ever-growing range features plenty of kinds of vibrating dildo, so you can find the sensations that will stimulate you the best. Whether it's twisting, throbbing, thrusting, bending, shaking or rotating, it’s nothing but good vibes from here on out.
Combined with a clit-stimulating vibrator in the bunny ears, Rampant Rabbits® hit every spot for a bed-shakingly, sheet-grabbingly intense orgasm. We sell one every 20 seconds, so what are you waiting for?
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Anal dildos
Beginners might be a little apprehensive about backdoor experimentation, but the key is to start small, work your way up and follow our beginner’s anal sex guide closely.
Anal toys add a whole extra level of sensations, whether you're playing alone or with your partner. For men, the main event is the prostate (the male G-spot). It can only be reached by anal penetration. But don't believe anyone who tells you it's not pleasurable for women too – it'll hit nerve endings you've never even felt before, stimulating you in new and exciting ways.
The most important difference is that with anal toys (from butt plugs and prostate massagers up to anal dildos) you should make sure you choose ones with a flared base if you want to avoid an awkward trip to A&E. Without anything to stop them slipping up inside, toys that aren’t designed for anal have an unfortunate tendency to get stuck. Decide on what you’re comfortable with, try beginner’s butt plugs and move on to more adventurous dildos when you’re ready.
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Strap-on and dildo harnesses
If you want to indulge in a little pegging or strap-on sex, then this is the toy you need.
Anyone can take charge with one of these. They’re the perfect penetrative play item for same-sex or straight couples, and a great way to take anal to the next step if you’d like to try something new. Strap-on dildos are popular in bondage and BDSM play, especially if you’re dipping your toe in the waters of role reversal. But it’s not all about submission, as strap-on play can still be sensual and intimate. Give it a go and see where you end up...
If you’re already the proud owner of a prized dildo, then all you need is a harness to get you ready for action. Most of the harnesses on our site will fit just about any toy, fitting snugly and securely around your waist no matter clothing size you are.
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Double dildos
Two heads are better than one, as the saying goes. So why not experiment with a double dildo? Erotic and experimental, double-ended dildos can turn a fantasy into reality. If you’re part of a straight couple, these toys let the man double-penetrate his woman with ease (something many guys dream of).
For same-sex couples looking to play nicely and cum together, double-ended dildos are a great option. Our designs can be used to take both you and your partner to new heights of simultaneous pleasure.
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Large dildos
Not for the faint-hearted, these big bad boys are perfect for those looking to push their pleasure to the limits.
As the name may explain, if you’re a lover of length and girth, then look no further. Our bigger dildos range from six to nine inches, and they’re all designed for larger than life orgasms. It’s probably not the best place to start your dildo journey, but once you decide to hop on, get ready for the ride of your life.
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Different dildo materials
What your dildo is made of is one of the most important things to consider when it comes to buying your new best friend. Materials are all about adding sensation and pleasure. There isn’t necessarily a ‘best one’ – it all comes down to what you’re going to enjoy most.
Let’s take you through a few options…
Silicone dildos
If you’re brand new to the world of dildos and looking for something to ease into it, then you can’t go wrong with silicone. It’s firm yet flexible (two things you definitely want in a dildo) as well as being soft and smooth. Silicone is medical grade, so you know it’s perfectly safe for your skin. It’s great to use with most lubes but steer clear of silicone-based ones!
Glass dildos
Glass dildos are a thing of beauty, and they feel as good as they look. If you want something a little firmer, it doesn’t get better than this. Glass dildos are also perfect for stimulating the g-spot without any vibrations.
These babies can be heated up under running water or cooled in the freezer if you’re tempted to dabble in sensations play – something you won’t get from other kinds of dildos.
But won’t glass dildos break inside me? Absolutely not, so get playing. Glass dildos are made of incredibly durable borosilicate glass – they can stand up to 3,000lb of pressure. No matter how much you use it, a glass dildo will serve you through years of wear and tear and, because it’s non-porous, it’s super easy to clean.
Metal dildos
Before you think these toys are for the advanced players, let us explain. Metal dildos may be a bit heavier and more rigid, but they look gorgeous and feel incredible.
They’re as smooth as silk and pleasantly cool, perfect for an easy ride. If you’re a beginner looking to take your solo play to the next level, don’t be afraid of investing in some hardware.
How to clean a dildo
As with any sex toy, cleanliness is important. This means giving them a good clean after use and, if sharing with a partner, during. This is especially important if you’re using your toy for both vaginal and anal penetration, as you don’t want anything passing between the two that could potentially cause infection.
There are plenty of sex toy cleaners available, either in the form of wipes or spray, that’ll have your toy sparkling in no time.
Hopefully you’re now feeling educated and excited to get started with some new toys. Have a look through our complete range of dildos and find something that really hits the spot.
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