Dildos are sex toys used for sexual pleasure and exploration. They serve as a means of personal discovery, allowing users to understand their bodies and preferences. These tools have a long history, appearing across various cultures and eras as instruments for intimacy and satisfaction.
What Dildos Are and Why People Use Them
A dildo is fundamentally a sex toy, typically phallic in shape, designed for penetration or external stimulation without vibration. Historical records indicate their presence for thousands of years, with some of the earliest examples dating back over 28,000 years, crafted from materials like stone, wood, or bone. These ancient tools highlight a continuous human desire for sexual exploration and pleasure.
People choose to use dildos for diverse reasons, including solo masturbation, enhancing partnered sex, and exploring different sensations. They can be employed for vaginal, anal, or oral penetration, providing manual control over sensation. Dildos also facilitate sexual exploration, body familiarity, and can serve as an alternative when a partner is not available.
Selecting and Using a Dildo Safely
Choosing a dildo involves considering body-safe materials to ensure a healthy experience. Medical-grade silicone, glass, and stainless steel are widely recommended due to their non-porous nature, which makes them easy to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria. Materials to avoid include jelly, PVC, and certain types of rubber, as these are often porous and can contain phthalates or other harmful chemicals that may leach into the body.
Dildos come in various shapes, sizes, and textures, allowing for personalized pleasure. Once a dildo is selected, safe use involves applying ample water-based lubricant, especially for silicone toys, as silicone-based lubricants can degrade silicone dildos over time. Begin slowly and adjust pressure and angle according to comfort, always listening to the body’s signals to avoid discomfort or injury.
Cleaning and Caring for Your Dildo
Proper hygiene for dildos is crucial for both user health and the longevity of the toy. Dildos should be cleaned immediately after each use to prevent bacterial growth. Warm water and mild, unscented soap are generally effective for cleaning most materials. Specialized sex toy cleaners are also available and can be used according to the product’s instructions.
After washing, it is important to dry the dildo completely before storing it. Store dildos in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Ideally, store dildos of different materials separately, especially porous ones, to prevent material degradation or chemical reactions.
Mistakes to Avoid When Using Dildos
Several mistakes can compromise safety and pleasure when using dildos.
One common error is using dildos made from unsafe materials, which can pose health risks and are difficult to clean properly.
Improper lubrication is another mistake, as using the wrong type can damage your dildo and be unhygienic, potentially making it unusable.
Neglecting proper cleaning before and after each use can lead to bacterial and fungal infections or cross-contamination.
Finally, forcing a dildo or continuing use despite pain or discomfort can cause physical injury. Always listen to your body and stop if pain occurs.