The Pleasure Edit
Dildo Basics: A Friendly Guide to Shapes, Materials & What to Try First
Introduction: So… You’re Thinking About Trying a Dildo?
Welcome to the wonderful world of dildos – a space where pleasure, curiosity, and comfort all come together. Whether you’re brand-new to the idea or you’re just wondering what’s beyond the stereotypical “plastic penis,” you’re in the right place.
Think of this as your fun, friendly, no-pressure guide to understanding what dildos are really all about – and how to find one that fits you.
A Quick (and Juicy) History of Dildos
Believe it or not, dildos have been around a long time – we’re talking ancient civilization long. In ancient Greece, leather dildos called olisbos were commonly used by women when their husbands were away (no surprise there). Some were even made from bread. (We don’t recommend that today.)
In the 15th century, church authorities in Europe tried banning them, fearing they promoted “sinful pleasure.” Fast forward to today, and dildos have evolved from hush-hush taboo to artisanally crafted toys in luxurious packaging – even earning a spot in museum exhibits.
So if you think you’re alone in being curious… you’ve got about 2,000 years of company.
Different Shapes of Dildos – and What They’re Good For
Dildos are not one-size-fits-all (and thank goodness for that). Here’s a friendly breakdown of the most common shapes:
Straight Shaft: Simple, classic, and perfect for beginners. Great for basic vaginal or anal play.
Curved Tip: Designed to hit the G-spot or prostate with just the right amount of pressure.
Double-Ended: Great for partner play (hello, fun with a friend!) or deeper solo exploration.
Realistic: Complete with veins and heads – ideal if you want a lifelike look and feel.
Fantasy/Artistic: Dragons, tentacles, or glittery unicorn horns – yes, they exist, and yes, people love them!
Fun Fact: Some dildo fans collect artistic pieces like sculptures. Who says pleasure can’t be pretty?
Dildo Materials: What to Know (and Avoid)
The material of your dildo affects everything from how it feels to how safe it is. Here’s what you need to know:
| Material | Pros | Watch Out For |
|---|---|---|
| Silicone | Body-safe, soft, flexible, easy to clean | Use water-based lube only |
| Glass | Sleek, firm, good for temperature play | Can feel intense for beginners |
| Metal | Luxurious, heavy, long-lasting | Cold and very firm – advanced only |
| Jelly/Rubber | Cheap, soft | Usually porous and may contain unsafe chemicals |
| TPR/PVC | Inexpensive | May have odor, porous (not ideal long-term) |
Pro Tip: Always look for 100% body-safe silicone if you’re unsure. And never share porous toys without protection.
Size Isn’t Everything: Finding What Fits You
Repeat after us: bigger isn’t always better – especially when you’re just starting out.
Here’s how to think about size:
Length: Most people don’t need more than 5-6 inches.
Girth: Start with a slim toy if you’re new to penetration.
Tip Shape: Tapered tips are easier to insert.
Want to test the waters? Try using your fingers or measuring an object that feels comfortable. Your body knows what feels right.
What Makes a Dildo “Beginner-Friendly”?
Look for these features when shopping for your first:
Smooth surface
Tapered or rounded tip
Moderate length and girth
Suction cup base (great for hands-free exploration)
Flared base (a must for safe anal play)
Check out our Dildos Collection for curated options.
Dildo vs. Vibrator: What’s the Difference?
Ah, the age-old question!
Dildos don’t vibrate – they’re for penetration or external play with manual control.
Vibrators stimulate using motors – ideal for clitoral, G-spot, or prostate stimulation.
There’s also a hybrid category: vibrating dildos. Best of both worlds? Yes, please.
Tips for First-Time Dildo Users
- Clean it before & after. Always. No exceptions.
- Use lube. Especially if it’s your first time – water-based is the safest bet.
- Go slow. It’s not a race. Listen to your body.
- Solo or partner play. Start alone or with a trusted partner – both can be great experiences.
- Experiment with location. Shower, bed, wherever you feel safe and relaxed.
And if something feels off? Stop and reassess. Pleasure should never come with pressure.
FAQ: Friendly Answers for Curious Minds
Q1: Can I use a dildo with my partner?
Yes! Dildos are great for partnered play – use them during foreplay or penetration. Communication is key.
Q2: What’s the best way to clean a dildo?
Use warm water and mild soap, or a toy cleaner. For non-porous toys, boiling is an option (check the label).
Q3: Are all dildos safe for anal?
Only use toys with a flared base for anal play. This prevents accidents – safety first!
Q4: How do I store my dildo?
Keep it in a clean, dry place – ideally a fabric pouch. Avoid direct contact with other toys to prevent material damage.
Q5: Why are fantasy dildos so popular?
They offer unique sensations and let users explore different kinds of pleasure. Plus, they look amazing!
Q6: Can I travel with a dildo?
Yes, but check airline policies. Some folks pack them in checked luggage for privacy.
Final Thoughts
Exploring with a dildo isn’t just about sex – it’s about curiosity, empowerment, and getting to know yourself better. Whether you’re exploring solo or with a partner, there’s no wrong way to begin – only the way that feels right for you.
Still have questions? Contact us – we love helping beginners feel comfortable and confident.