How to Use a Dildo: 9 Types of Dildos

A dildo is a sex toy designed for penetration, but it can be used in many ways. Dildos are generally phallic-shaped with a defined tip to resemble a human penis. Dildos come in many different styles, materials, girths, and lengths. A dildo can enhance many sexual experiences, including clitoral stimulation, vaginal penetration, and anal penetration.

There are nine common types of dildos:

1. 1. Hard: Hard dildos are made with non-flexible materials like glass, stainless steel, or even crystal. These harder dildos can be great for stimulating very specific areas, like the A-spot.
2. 2. Soft: Soft dildos are typically made from silicone and are more flexible or even squishy.
3. 3. Representational: Also known as realistic dildos, representational dildos are designed to look just like a human penis—some even have testicles.
4. 4. Non-representational: These dildos do not necessarily look like a human penis. They might have a subtle, rounded shape or look like a kinky object.
5. 5. Vibrating: Vibrating dildos are generally made of silicone and feature a bullet vibrator inside.
6. 6. Double-ended: These toys are designed to be used by an individual (both vaginally and anally) or by two partners simultaneously.
7. 7. Strap-on: Many dildos can work with or without a harness or strap, but if you want to try a wearable strap-on dildo, check to make sure the base of your dildo is compatible with a harness.
8. 8. Pack-and-play: Part sex toy and part prosthetic, pack-and-play dildos are designed to be worn with a harness under your pants to create a realistic bulge or pack. When you're ready to play with your partner, you can bend the dildo into an erect position.
9. 9. Suction cup: Featuring a suction cup at the base, this type of dildo can attach to a surface, allowing for hands-free penetration.

If you're using a dildo for the first time, be sure to read the manufacturer's directions since different materials will react differently to lube and heat. In general, here's how to use a dildo:

1. 1. Clean the dildo. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Some dildos can be boiled, while others should be cleaned with soap and water or a special sex toy cleaner.
2. 2. Warm up the dildo. Unless you're going for temperature play, a warm dildo will feel best against your skin. Check the manufacturer's suggestions to see if your dildo can be run under warm water.
3. 3. Add lube. To decrease friction between your skin and the dildo, use plenty of lubrication. Water-based lube is generally safe for silicone toys but needs to be reapplied often. Silicone-based lube lasts longer and is a good option for glass or steel dildos.
4. 4. Start with foreplay. Like all sexual activities, using a dildo can be greatly enhanced by foreplay. Start by rubbing the lubricated dildo on you or your partner's inner thigh. Lightly caress the anus, clitoris, and/or vaginal opening with the tip of the dildo before going for full-on vaginal or anal penetration.
5. 5. Try penetration. Any type of play can involve a dildo, including masturbation or sex with a partner. If penetration is the goal, go slowly, especially when using a large dildo.
6. 6. Clean up. You'll want to clean the dildo the same way you did in the first step, then store it somewhere safe.

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