What to Look for When Choosing a Sex Toy
The best sex toy is the one that fits what you want it to do, how you plan to use it, and what feels comfortable for your body. There’s no single sex toy that’s right for everyone, and you don’t need to find one. Instead, a few simple factors can help you compare your options and find a toy that makes sense for you.
Whether you’re shopping for your first sex toy, adding something new to your collection, or looking for something to enjoy with a partner, you’re in good company. Sex toys are a common part of many adults’ sex lives, and there are more styles and features to choose from than ever.
So, what should you look for before you buy? Start with these six things.
1. Material and Ease of Cleaning
Look for a product that clearly identifies its material and provides straightforward cleaning instructions. Common sex toy materials include silicone, ABS plastic, glass, and stainless steel, but care requirements can vary by product.
Non-porous materials such as silicone, glass, and stainless steel are generally easier to clean thoroughly. Other materials, including some jelly, rubber, TPE, and PVC products, can be more porous and may require additional care.
Always check the manufacturer's instructions for the specific toy before cleaning or storing it.
2. Power and Controls
Think about how you actually want to use the toy. If you prefer simple controls, look for easy-to-find buttons and straightforward settings. If you don't want to worry about batteries, a rechargeable design may be more convenient.
Planning to use a toy with a partner? A remote-controlled or app-enabled toy can put the controls in either person's hands, including some options that allow remote play.
Pay attention to things like:
Rechargeable versus battery-powered operationAvailable vibration or intensity settingsButton placement and ease of useRemote or app compatibilityStated battery life or runtime
The most advanced controls aren't necessarily the best controls. Choose the features you'll actually enjoy using.
3. Water Resistance and Waterproofing
Don't assume a toy is waterproof just because it looks like it could handle water. Check the product description for its specific water-resistance or waterproof rating.
Some toys can be rinsed under water, while others are designed for use in the shower or bath. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and water exposure, particularly around charging ports and battery compartments.
4. Lubricant Compatibility
Lubricant can make many types of sex toy use more comfortable, but not every lubricant is compatible with every toy material.
Water-based lubricant is generally a versatile choice, but always check the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific toy. In particular, silicone-based lubricants may not be compatible with some silicone toys.
When in doubt, check the product details before you buy.
5. Size, Shape, and Fit
A toy can have all the features in the world, but if its size or shape isn't comfortable for you, you're probably not going to reach for it very often.
Think about:
The type of stimulation you're looking forThe size and shape you find comfortableWhether you'll be using the toy internally, externally, or bothHow easy it is to hold or controlWhether you'll use it alone or with a partner
If you're new to sex toys, starting with a simpler or smaller design can make it easier to learn what you like before exploring more specialized options.
6. Safety Features
Safety features are especially important when choosing products designed for specific types of play.
For anal toys, choose a product specifically designed for anal use with a flared base, retrieval loop, or another appropriate stopping feature. These features are designed to help prevent the toy from becoming fully inserted.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use appropriate lubricant for anal play.
What About “Best Sex Toy” Lists?
You’ll find plenty of articles promising the “best sex toys for women,” “best male sex toys,” “best couples sex toys,” or the best toy for a particular type of stimulation.
Those lists can be useful for discovering products, but a label doesn't automatically make a toy right for you.
Instead, think about what you want the toy to do.
Looking for external stimulation? Explore clitoral vibrators, bullets, and magic wands.Interested in internal stimulation? Consider dildos and internal vibrators.Shopping for penis stimulation? Look at masturbators, sleeves, penis rings, and other male pleasure products.Exploring anal play? Choose products specifically designed for anal use and look for appropriate safety features.Shopping with a partner? Consider couples' toys, wearable products, and app-enabled designs.
The right choice comes down to your preferences, comfort, experience level, and how you plan to use the toy—not simply whether a product appears on a “best of” list.
Types of Sex Toys: What They Do and How to Choose
Once you know the main types of sex toys and what each one does, choosing gets a whole lot easier. Here’s a quick guide to the most popular types, with links to the Adam & Eve categories where you can explore your options.
- Wand massagers. A large, rounded head on a long handle gives you broad external vibration and easy reach without bending or stretching. Browse wand massagers.
- Clitoral and air-pulse toys. These focus on external stimulation. Some vibrate, and some use pressure waves around the clitoris rather than direct contact. Compare clitoral vibrators or air-pulse and suction toys.
- Bullets and eggs. Small, simple, and easy to start with, and some can be run from a remote or an app. You'll find them under bullets and eggs.
- Rabbit and G-spot vibrators. Curved insertable toys, some with a second arm that stimulates externally at the same time. Take a look at rabbit vibrators and G-spot vibrators.
- Dildos. Non-vibrating insertables in many shapes and materials, and some work with a harness. Browse dildos.
- Strokers and masturbators. A textured sleeve for the penis, either manual or automatic. Compare male masturbators.
- Penis rings. Worn at the base of the penis, and the vibrating versions add sensation for a partner during sex. See penis rings.
- Prostate massagers, plugs, and beads. Anal toys, each with a base or retrieval loop that keeps it where you put it. Browse prostate toys and anal toys.
- Couples and wearable vibrators. Worn during sex or under clothing, usually with a remote or an app so either of you can change the setting. Browse couples vibrators.
Once you know the different types of sex toys, it’s easier to narrow things down based on what you’re looking for. Think about where you want to use it, who will control it, how it’s powered, and whether it’s waterproof or water-resistant. From there, you can focus on the features that fit your preferences and the kind of experience you want.
Matching Sex Toys to What You Want
Not sure which sex toy is right for you? Start with the experience you’re looking for, then look for the features that can help you get there. Whether you want powerful external stimulation, something small and discreet, a toy to use with a partner, or something designed for anal play, there’s a category that can help narrow down your choices.
Here are some common ways to shop based on what you want, along with examples that show what those features can look like in a real product.
Want Powerful, Broad Stimulation? Try a Wand
Wand vibrators are known for their powerful vibrations and larger heads, making them a popular choice for broad external stimulation. Their longer handles also make them easy to hold and position without having to reach or bend at an awkward angle.
For example, the Magic Wand Rechargeable has a 13-inch overall length and a 2-inch silicone head. It’s cordless, offers up to 3 hours of runtime per charge, and has four speeds and four patterns. It’s also compatible with most wand attachments.
If you're comparing wand vibrators, look at the size of the head, handle length, vibration settings, battery life, and whether attachments are compatible with the model you’re considering.
Want Something Small and Simple? Try a Bullet or Egg
If you’re looking for something compact, a bullet or egg vibrator can be an easy place to start. These smaller toys fit comfortably in your hand and can be convenient for travel, discreet storage, or exploring different types of stimulation without committing to a larger toy.
The Lovense Lush 4, for example, is an insertable egg with a 3.5-inch insertable length. It can be controlled using the button on the toy or a compatible app and is designed to be waterproof.
When comparing small vibrators, consider size, controls, noise level, battery life, and whether the toy is waterproof or water-resistant.
Want a Toy You Can Wear With a Partner? Try a Couples Vibrator
Couples vibrators are designed to be worn during partnered sex, so comfort and fit are especially important. Look for a design that can adjust to your bodies rather than one that feels locked into a single position.
The We-Vibe Chorus is one example. Its flexible, adjustable design is made to fit between partners during penetration, while its squeeze remote and compatible app give you different ways to control the settings. It’s also described as waterproof and offers up to 90 minutes of runtime per charge.
If you’re comparing couples’ toys, pay attention to flexibility, size, controls, battery life, and how the toy is designed to fit during use.
For more ideas, explore our guide to sex toys for couples.
Want Remote or Long-Distance Control? Try an App-Enabled Toy
App-controlled sex toys can give you another way to control a toy, whether your partner is right beside you or somewhere else. Depending on the product, an app may let you adjust settings, create custom patterns, or hand control to a partner.
For example, both the We-Vibe Chorus and Lovense Lush 4 offer app connectivity. For long-distance play, the app uses an internet connection to allow a partner in another location to control compatible features.
If app control is important to you, check the product page for information about app compatibility, Bluetooth requirements, available features, and whether the toy supports remote control.
Explore app-controlled vibrators and remote-controlled vibrators to compare more options.
Want Penis Stimulation? Look at Masturbators and Strokers
If you’re shopping for a stroker or masturbator, start by looking at the sleeve design, texture, size, and how easy the toy is to clean. These details can make a bigger difference in your experience than simply choosing the most feature-packed option.
The Adam's Quickshot by Fleshlight, for example, is a compact masturbator with an open-ended design. The sleeve can be removed from the case for cleaning, making it easier to wash and dry between uses.
The sleeve is made from TPE, so follow the manufacturer's cleaning and storage instructions and treat it as a personal, one-person toy.
If you’re comparing masturbators, also consider the internal texture, overall size, flexibility, opening style, and cleaning routine.
For more options, explore our guide to men’s sex toys, including masturbators, penis rings, and prostate toys.
Curious About Anal Play? Start With Safety and Size
If you’re interested in anal play, start by looking for toys specifically designed for anal use. A flared base, retrieval loop, or another appropriate stopping feature is an important safety feature because it helps prevent a toy from becoming completely inserted.
If you’re new to anal toys, smaller plugs and graduated trainer sets can give you the option to start at a comfortable size and explore at your own pace. Plenty of appropriate lubricant can also make insertion more comfortable.
Explore anal training kits and beginner anal toys to find options designed for getting started.
Want Added Sensation During Partnered Sex? Try a Vibrating Penis Ring
Vibrating penis rings are designed to be worn around the base of the penis and can add vibration during partnered sex. Some are simple and compact, while others include additional features or controls.
When comparing vibrating penis rings, consider the fit, flexibility, vibration settings, battery type, and how the controls work during use.
Explore penis rings to compare different shapes and features for both vibrating and non-vibrating options.
Choose What Fits You
There’s no single type of sex toy that works for everyone and that’s part of the fun. Your gender, your partner's gender, and the type of relationship or sex you have don't determine which toy you should choose.
Start with what sounds good to you. Think about the type of stimulation you want, how you plan to use the toy, and which features would make the experience more comfortable or enjoyable. From there, you can compare products and find an option that fits your preferences.
Comfort, Materials, and Safety in Sex Toys
Here's some good news: keeping sex toy use comfortable and safe doesn't have to be complicated. A few simple habits such as choosing the right material, using compatible lubricant, cleaning your toy properly, and paying attention to size and design can make a big difference.
What Materials Are Best for Sex Toys?
The material of a sex toy can affect how it feels, how easy it is to clean, and how you care for it.
Non-porous materials such as silicone, ABS plastic, glass, and stainless steel have smooth surfaces that are generally easier to clean thoroughly. Other materials, including some jelly, rubber, TPE, TPR, and PVC products, can be more porous and may require additional care.
The most important thing is to know what your toy is made from and follow the manufacturer's cleaning and care instructions. If a product's material isn't clearly identified, consider choosing one that provides more complete product information.
How Do I Know If a Sex Toy Is Safe to Use?
Start with the basics: choose a toy that clearly identifies its material, is designed for the type of play you have in mind, and comes with clear instructions for cleaning, use, and storage.
Pay attention to the product's construction, too. Toys designed for internal use should be appropriately shaped and sized for that purpose, while anal toys should have a flared base, retrieval loop, or another appropriate stopping feature.
If you're ever unsure whether a toy is intended for a particular type of use, check the manufacturer's product information before trying it.
What Lubricant Should I Use With a Sex Toy?
The right lubricant depends on the toy's material and how you're using it.
Water-based lubricant is a versatile option and is compatible with many sex toys and condoms. However, always check the manufacturer's recommendations, especially when using silicone lubricant with a silicone toy.
When you're shopping, look for lubricant compatibility information on the product page. It's a small detail that can save you from damaging your toy or having to guess which lubricant to use.
How Do I Clean a Sex Toy?
Cleaning your sex toy after each use is one of the easiest ways to keep it fresh and ready for next time.
Follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions, since the right method can vary depending on the toy's material, construction, and whether it contains electronics.
For many toys, mild soap and warm water or a sex toy cleaner are appropriate, but don't assume every toy can be submerged. Check whether the product is waterproof or water-resistant before getting it wet, and pay attention to seams, grooves, and other areas where residue can collect.
What Should I Know About Sharing Sex Toys?
If you're sharing a toy with a partner, cleaning it between users is important. Depending on the toy and how it's being used, you can also use a new condom or other appropriate barrier between users.
If a toy moves from one person's body to another, or from the anus to the vagina, change the barrier or clean the toy thoroughly before switching areas.
It's also perfectly fine to keep certain toys personal. If you don't want to share, you don't have to.
What Makes an Anal Toy Safe?
Anal toys need a little extra attention when it comes to design. Because the rectum doesn't have a natural stopping point, choose an anal toy with a flared base, retrieval loop, or another appropriate stopping feature that helps prevent the toy from becoming completely inserted.
Start with a size you're comfortable with, use plenty of appropriate lubricant, and take your time. Anal toys should be designed specifically for anal use and never substitute a household object or a toy that doesn't have an appropriate stopping feature.
If you experience significant pain, bleeding, fever, or can't remove a toy, seek medical care.
How Can I Make a Sex Toy More Comfortable?
Comfort starts with choosing a toy that fits your body and the experience you're looking for. Size, shape, flexibility, texture, and vibration intensity can all make a difference.
If you're trying something new, start slowly and use a lower setting until you know what feels comfortable. Appropriate lubricant can also make many types of play more comfortable.
And don't ignore what your body is telling you. If something hurts, stop. Sex toys are supposed to add to the experience—not make you push through discomfort.
What About Safety and Consent With a Partner?
When a toy is part of partnered play, comfort and consent go hand in hand. Talk about the toy beforehand, make sure everyone is comfortable with using it, and check in with each other as you go.
Whether you're trying something completely new or using a favorite toy you've had for years, both partners should have a say in how it's used.
A little communication can make experimenting with a new toy feel much more relaxed and a lot more fun.
Choosing Sex Toys: What to Check Before Buying
You've found a type of sex toy that sounds interesting, and now you have a product page open. Before you add it to your cart, take a minute to check a few important details.
A good product page should make these basics easy to find. If you can't find the information you need, don't be afraid to keep looking until you find a product with clearer details.
Material
What is the toy made from? Look for the specific material rather than a vague description such as “soft” or “realistic.”
Materials such as silicone, ABS plastic, glass, and stainless steel can have different care requirements, so check the product details and manufacturer's instructions. If a toy uses a porous material, make sure you're comfortable with the additional cleaning and care it may require.
Power and Battery Life
Is the toy rechargeable or battery powered? If it's rechargeable, does the product page tell you how long the battery lasts?
Think about how you'll actually use it. If you don't want to stop and recharge between uses, a longer stated runtime may be important. If you're buying a rechargeable toy, also check how long it takes to charge and whether the manufacturer provides instructions about using it while charging.
Water Resistance
Can you use the toy in the shower or bath, or is it simply safe to wipe or rinse?
Don't guess. Look for a specific water-resistance or waterproof rating on the product page, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for water exposure. If the product doesn't provide a water rating, don't assume it's waterproof.
Controls
How do you want to control the toy?
You might prefer simple buttons, a wireless remote, a squeeze remote, or an app. Think about which controls will feel easiest to use when you're actually holding or wearing the toy.
If you're shopping for partnered play, consider whether you want to be in control or give your partner access to the controls.
Size and Shape
Size matters, particularly for anything designed for internal use.
Check the overall length, insertable length, width or diameter, and shape before buying. If you're new to a particular type of toy, starting with a size you're comfortable with can make the experience easier to explore.
For wearable toys, also look at the dimensions and flexibility to get a better idea of how the product is designed to fit.
Noise Level
Privacy can be an important consideration, especially if you'll be using a toy around other people.
If a manufacturer provides a stated sound level, use that information when comparing products. If the product page doesn't provide a noise rating, don't assume the toy is quiet—simply consider the sound level unknown.
Lubricant Compatibility
Check what type of lubricant the manufacturer recommends for the toy.
Water-based lubricant is a versatile option for many sex toys, but compatibility can vary by material. In particular, check the manufacturer's recommendations before using a silicone-based lubricant with a silicone toy.
Anal Safety
If you're considering a toy for anal play, make sure it's specifically designed for that purpose and has an appropriate stopping feature, such as a flared base or retrieval loop.
This is one detail you don't want to overlook. The toy should be designed so it can't become completely inserted.
Cleaning and Care
Before buying, take a look at how the toy needs to be cleaned and maintained.
Can it be rinsed or submerged? Does it need to be wiped down? Does the toy come apart for cleaning? Does the material require any special care?
For masturbators and strokers, check whether the sleeve can be removed and how it should be cleaned and dried. Knowing the care routine before you buy can help you choose a toy you'll actually want to use regularly.
One Last Thing: Your Preferences Matter
Even after you've checked every box, there's no guarantee that a particular toy will feel exactly the way you expect. That's completely normal.
You may discover that you prefer a different size, shape, intensity, texture, or type of stimulation than you originally thought. Every experience gives you a little more information about what works for you.
The goal isn't to find a toy that promises a particular result. It's to find one with features, materials, and a design that fit your preferences, your body, and the way you want to use it.
Choosing Your Sex Toys: Next Steps
You've got the basics down. Now think about what sounds good to you, and let's find a toy that fits.
- For external, internal, and dual stimulation, compare the best vibrators. That's where you'll find wands, bullets, rabbits, clitoral toys, and G-spot toys.
- For strokers, rings, and prostate toys, compare the best men's sex toys.
- For something you'll use together, compare the best couples sex toys, including wearables, remote toys, and app-controlled options.
If you need them, add a compatible lubricant or toy cleaner to your order so you have what you need to use and care for your new toy.
With brands including We-Vibe, Lovense, Fleshlight, Magic Wand, Satisfyer, and Dame, plus Adam & Eve's own collection, you can compare a wide range of sex toys in one place.