The Ultimate Dildo Guide

Whether you’re seeking solo pleasure or fun with a partner, dildos are an exciting way to spice things up in the bedroom and take your sexual satisfaction to new heights.

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. Perhaps the most popular sex toy on the market, nothing enhances sex and masturbation quite like the dildo does. This versatile sex toy comes in a range of shapes and sizes and can be used in more ways than one. From popular types of dildos to our favourite dildo positions, we’ve collated all there is to know about dildos in this handy guide.

When were dildos invented?

The first dildo can be traced back to the stone age. 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?

A dildo is 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. Dildos are perhaps most commonly made from silicone, but can also be made from glass, PVC and other types of plastic. Dildos come in a range of sizes, shapes and colours so you’ll be sure to find a dildo just right for your sexual needs.

How to insert a dildo

If you’re using your dildo for penetration, get yourself into a dildo riding position (we’ve got a few suggestions below) and ensure the tip of the dildo is in line with either your vaginal or anal hole. For easy insertion, apply lube to the dildo and gently lower yourself onto it until it’s fully inside you. Once inserted, you can then ride the dildo at a pace which suits you…

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.

number 1

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!

number 2

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.

number 3

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.

number 4

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.

How to ride 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.

Wooden doll in the position 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. Once inserted, ride your dildo up and down at a pace you feel comfortable with. Experiment with the speed and the angle of your back until you find that sweet spot.

Wooden doll in the position 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.

Wooden doll in the position 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.

Different types of dildos

From the best dildos for beginners to the best dildos for men, no matter what you’re after, there’s something for everyone. Not sure where to start? Let's take a look at our best dildos.

Realistic dildos

A realistic dildo is a dildo designed to look and feel like a real penis. Made from skin-soft material, realistic dildos are lifelike in weight and thickness. If you close your eyes and add a bit of lube, you’ll likely forget you’re not riding the real thing.

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

Vibrating dildos are phallic-shaped toys which vibrate to create sexual simulation. Vibrating dildos come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect match.

If you’re looking for the best vibrating dildo, the Rampant Rabbit® is a strong contender. 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 bestfind out more in our guide to the best Rampant Rabbits.

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

Anal Dildos look the same as vaginal dildos but are also designed to slide up your rear end. Anal dildos have a flared base to avoid the dildo getting stuck up your back passage. 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 guideclosely.

Anal dildos are the best dildos for men who want to play alone or with a 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.

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Strap-on and dildo harnesses

Strap on dildos are attached to a harness which fastens around the hips and legs for added comfort. If you want to indulge in a little pegging or strap-on sex, then this is the toy you need.

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

A double-ended dildo has two ends, giving you and your partner the option to ride it simultaneously. 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

A dildo with a shaft measuring 6 inches or longer is classified as a large dildo. Not for the faint-hearted, these big 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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Beginner dildos

If you’re using a dildo for the first time, we recommend trying a small to medium single-ended dildo. A regular sized dildo will allow you to comfortably try it out for the first time without causing you discomfort. Once you’re comfortable and confident riding your dildo and you’ve used it a few times, you may want to experiment with a larger dildo or double ended dildo if you’re using it with a partner.

What are dildos made of?

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

Silicone dildos are 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.

How to clean a dildo

Dildo cleanliness is highly important, and you should take the time to clean it after every use. To find out exactly how to clean your dildo, check out our how to clean sex toys guide.