Lubricant & Product Materials

Let start by discussing lubrication and the various materials used in adult toys. As with all adult products, the lube and toy material you choose will be based upon your own particular likes and needs. I highly recommend visiting a local brick and mortar store and ask the knowledgeable sales staff if you can examine products that intrigue you a bit closer. They may have some products that you can touch for yourself so you can get a better idea of what material appeals to you.

Lubricants

I cannot say enough about lubricants. Whether engaged in solo play or enjoying some intimate  moments with your partner, lubricants increase sensitivity and can ease discomfort from friction. Lubricant is excellent for women whose bodies may not produce adequate natural lubrication for comfort. Those that enjoy anal play will also find how vital a good lubricant is when playing with those areas that do not produce their own lubricant. There are two basic types of lubricants: silicone and water based.

-Silicone Lubricants
Silicone based lubricants tend to be a bit more slippery, an almost silky feel to the touch, and lasts longer than water based lubes. They tend to be a bit more pricey but since a small amount goes a long way (a couple drops to start, you can always add more if needed!!!) a small bottle of silicone based lubricant will last you for a while. Silicone lubricants are perfect for water play since they need soap to be washed away, and anal play due to its long lasting properties. Be aware that because silicone lubricants need soap to be completely cleaned away that it can cause your shower to become slippery so use caution. The downside is that silicone toys are not compatible with many silicone lubricants and some condoms because the combination can begin to break down the toy or condom.

-Water Lubricants
Water based lubricants come in a several varieties including a thin liquid or thicker gel, flavors, and sensations. Water lubes most closely resemble the feel of natural fluids and wash easily from the body, toy, sheets, and upholstery. Thinner liquid lubes are great for general and all-around play while the thicker gel or jelly type consistencies are ideal for longer love sessions. While water based lubricants can be used for anal play (thicker is usually better in this instance) they can dry out or be absorbed by the skin resulting in discomfort and too much friction after a short while. Flavored lubes are perfect for oral sex and can help enhance the givers experience. Sensation lubes are available in tingling and warming. Tingling lubes generally contain some form of menthol that create a pleasant and different sensation during love making. Warming lubes will gently warm when they come into contact with the skin or body fluids.

Materials

This would be a great time to explore some of the available materials that you can find in your adult toy. The first question to consider is whether you want your toy to be porous or non porous. Porous materials can be more life like but special care must be taken to ensure your toy is extra clean after every use as bacteria can hide in the pore-like openings in the material. Also, porous toys are known to absorb lube much more easily and so you may need to reapply during play. Non-porous toys, on the other hand, do not have these tiny openings and are much easier to keep clean. Non-porous toys do not absorb lubrication so just a little bit goes a long way.

-Silicone
Silicone is a very popular, high quality material that can be found online or in any adult toy store. With a life-like feel and the ability to retain body heat, silicone is a non-porous material that will last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. They are very easy to clean and dishwasher safe (top rack).  Silicone is also hypoallergenic so even those with sensitive skin should have no problem using toys of this material but if you have any concerns please discuss them with your physician. They are not repairable so if any imperfection or damage should occur please be prepared to replace your toy. Silicone lubricants are not recommended with these toys.

-Latex
Latex is a common material used in adult toys and can be found almost anywhere. This is a porous surface so latex toys much be cleaned very thoroughly to prevent the buildup of germs and harmful bacteria. It is a bit less life-like than the silicone toys and a bit softer but will still leave you satisfied!!! Those that like the feel of the latex but may have allergies may enjoy jelly or silicone toys.

-Jelly
Jelly toys are affordable and fun with a myriad of shapes, sizes, and colors. Jelly toys tend to be a bit more delicate so carefully examine for flaws before use. It is also a porous material so cleanliness is key. Jelly toys are great for those just getting started or wanting to explore different sizes or shapes without spending a fortune.

-Lifelike
Closest feeling to real human skin, toys using life-like materials are a treasured addiction to any toy collection. They are a porous material but worth the extra effort if you enjoy that real feeling. Lifelike toys should be stored separately from your other toys to prevent decomposition from direct contact.

-Acrylic
A hard, plastic-y material, acrylic toys are perfect for those that like their toys very firm. Acrylic has no "give" making it perfect for applying heavy pressure to those sensitive spots. Non-porous and easy to clean acrylic toys are also inexpensive and great for the beginners and experienced alike.

-Glass
I know what you are thinking :"Glass?? What if something happens??" No worries, the glass used to make adult toys is similar in composition to the Pyrex in your bake ware and created by the artists that blow glass pipes. Built to last, glass toys are hard like acrylic and designed for both vaginal and anal play, glass is a great addition to any collection. Hypo-allergenic, non-porous, and even dishwasher safe (top rack) glass toys are easy to maintain and difficult to damage. The glass also hold temperature allowing you to run it under hot or cold water for a warming or cooling sensation (please do NOT place your glass toy in the microwave or freezer. Having a toy too hot or too cold can damage the sensitive skin of your private areas!!!). Glass toys tend to be a bit pricier but with proper care and maintenance they can last a lifetime.

-Metal
A rare find, metal toys are hypo-allergenic, non-porous, and capable of withstanding extensive use. Metal toys are expensive but you wont have to worry about replacing it so it is truly a one-time expense. Metal toys start off cool to the touch but warm up to body temperature with use. Just be careful with metal toys as any sudden or sharp motions can damage or bruise your pelvic bone and sensitive internal tissue.

-Wood
Natural and eco friendly, wood toys are true works of art. Shaped, sanded smooth, then coated in an FDA approved food-safe varnish or varnish used in children's toys, wood toys are also built to last. They quickly warm to body temperature, are lightweight, and easy to clean. Perfect for the environmentally friendly toy lover.