Toy Buyer's Guide

Toy Buyer's Guide

Toy Buyer's Guide

WATERPROOF DESIGNATIONS

Please be advised: SheVibe obtains waterproof designations from our manufacturers. We use this information when providing our customers with product descriptions. There have been occasions where a toy designated as waterproof has failed when submerged and we update our product recommendations accordingly. We strongly advise our customers to consult their product's user manual to determine all safe care and use practices.

GENERAL DESIGNATIONS (toys with electronic components):

Splash Proof: May be washed in your sink and used in your shower but is not meant to be submerged.

Waterproof: May be temporarily submerged to a depth not to exceed 3 feet. Should be safe to use in your tub.

ADVANCED DESIGNATIONS (toys with electronic components):

IPX6 Waterproof: Technically meant to withstand powerful water jetting. May be washed in your sink and used in your shower but is not meant to be submerged.

IPX7 Waterproof: Technically meant to withstand temporary immersion (up to 3 feet) for up to 30 minutes.

IPX8 Waterproof: Technically meant to withstand continuous immersion to a depth specified by the manufacturer.


TOY MEASUREMENTS

Length: We only consider the portion of a dildo or vibrator you'll be able to insert when citing approximate length. With a realistic dildo, the length would be the measurement from the testicles to the tip of the dildo. With a non-representational dildo the length would be the measurement taken from the flare at the base to the tip of the dildo. With vibrators, the length would be the measurement from the control area to the tip of the vibrator.

Width: Width or diameter is a measurement across a dildo or vibrator at its widest point. This is not to be confused with circumference, which would be a measurement of the entire distance around a dildo (for a better understanding, wrap a tailor's tape around a cucumber).

What size do I want? When it comes to size all folks are different. This may be the most personal facet of the decision making process but we'll volunteer a few suggestions. If you have no idea what size would feel pleasurable, we suggest experimenting with some common vegetables (use your imagination and a condom), and when you find the size you like, measure it. For these purposes the diameter or width would be the widest point of a dildo with the length being self-explanatory.


STORING YOUR TOYS

Optimally, storing your toys separately from each other so that they are not physically touching is best as some materials can interact with each other in a negative way. Soft cloth bags (or even socks!) are perfect as is the box your toy came in or plastic shoe boxes etc. We've even seen some ingenious storage with over-the-door shoe organizers! SheVibe features some really great solutions like the Joyboxx with Playtray, it's discreet and lockable!

For additional information: How To Clean and Safely Store Your Sex Toys


VOLUME & INTENSITY

Why are Volume and Intensity ratings important? Let's look at volume first. It's the most obvious of the two; how loud is this pleasure toy? Is it going to wake up my dog? My lover? Are my room mates going to hear it? There are many quality toys that will rock your world without shattering glass. Unfortunately, there are also some quality toys that trumpet their power with boisterous growls of undulation. Our volume ratings will try and give you some advance warning. Intensity is a little tougher to pinpoint. Some folks trip the light fantastic at the slightest buzz while others require a deep thumping that requires 220 volts of power. Consider that there are two dozen points of vibe strength in between these two extremes and intensity is tough to rate. We do our best with a somewhat limited scale, but we think it works!

Volume (Buzz): A measurement of the noise produced by the vibration of a toy using a scale of 1-4, 4 being the loudest.

Intensity (Power): A measurement of the intensity produced by the vibration of a toy using a scale of 1-4, 4 being the most powerful.


ABOUT VIBRATORS

Quality - SheVibe employs a "good, better, best" philosophy when selecting toys for our product line. Although you'll find our pricing competitive, you'll also find our quality uncompromising. That being said, there are a few different categories to consider when choosing a vibrator.

Traditional Vibrators - They're the most popular, the least expensive and some would argue, the most fun! Our line of battery powered or rechargeable vibrators are colorful, stylish and original (just like our customers). Most are perfect for clitoral stimulation and can be used for penetration (except ergonomic and pinpoint models which specifically target the clitoris). Exercise caution when using any vibrator anally and avoid those models that don't have a wide enough base to prevent complete anal insertion (and an embarrassing trip to the ER).

Dual-Stimulation - With all due respect to "Sex In The City", dual-stimulation vibrators were a big hit with those in the know long before the TV divas of Manhattan spread the word! Dual-stimulators combine clitoral vibration with a penetrating and sometimes rotating shaft. Some models incorporate rotating "pearls" for even greater stimulation. Determining which shape is right for your body may take some trial and error but once you have the shape that's right for you, dual-stimulators hit many of the key orgasm "hot spots", thus making them a crowd pleasing favorite!

Plug-Ins - It's all about the power. Yes, we know...it's a body massager. We've been telling our cleaning person that for years! You can't beat our plug-ins for powerful vibrations. Some folks prefer the added power so we've done our best to oblige.

Tips For A Happy Vibe - Batteries should be removed from your toy when not in use - this will prolong the life of your toy. You should always remove the batteries from water resistant and waterproof toys immediately after use in water and allow the battery compartment to completely dry.

The golden rule is “you get what you pay for”. The more expensive vibes will inevitably last longer as they have higher quality motors and parts. Always use lube that is compatible with the material of your toy. If you're not sure, water based lube is always the safest bet.

For additional information: Choose A Vibrator - Internal Play and Choose A Vibrator - External Play


THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRESSURE WAVE & SUCTION TOYS

Pressure Wave Animation

Air Pulse or Pressure Wave Clitoral Stimulators These types of stimulators utilize a membrane that pulses in and out creating varying levels of pressure when the toy is pressed against your body forming a seal. This pulsing pressure creates effective “puffs” of air which stimulate the clitoris in such a way as to create a gentle tug and release feeling at a rate your can control by manipulating the speed at which the toy operates.


Suction Animation

Suction Clitoral Toys Suction toys utilize varying degrees of suction to constantly “tug” on the clitoris effectively creating a vacuum which can increase blood flow to the region and thereby increase sensitivity. Some suction toys incorporate a tug and release suction while others maintain the suction while the toy is in use. Many Suction Toys add an additional stimulation method, taking advantage of the increased blood flow and sensitivity with vibration or a “flicking” tongue feature.


CHOOSING A DILDO

Considerations There are several factors to consider when choosing a dildo. First, decide on the following criteria:

Do you plan on using your dildo with a harnessing device? If so, be sure to choose a dildo with a flared base or a Vac-U-Lock design.

What's my visual preference? Would you prefer a dildo that resembles a penis or a non-representational style? We feature both types and leave that decision to our customers. Some would argue that certain non-representational designs just plain feel better than those that closely resemble a penis. Others may have personal reasons why they prefer a dildo that doesn't look anything like a penis. Still others prefer a realistic dildo because they enjoy the appearance of realism during use.

What size do I want? Finally, consider size. This may be the most personal facet of the decision making process but we'll volunteer a few suggestions. If you have no idea what size would feel pleasurable, we suggest experimenting with some common vegetables (use your imagination and cover with a condom), and when you find the size you like, measure it. For these purposes the diameter or width would be the widest point of a dildo with the length being self-explanatory.

For additional information: Choose A Dildo


CHOOSING AN ANAL TOY

Considerations When it comes to choosing an anal toy, the considerations are simple yet extremely relevant. The surface of your toy should be smooth so as not to cause any irritation. Most importantly, your toy must have a flared base to prevent it from slipping completely into the rectum (yes, those stories are true). As an alternative to toys categorized as "anal toys" you may also consider some of the flared base or harness-ready pleasure toys in our Dildos category as viable alternatives for use during anal play (please consider size and experience when exploring this avenue). Manufacturers such as Tantus Silicone and Vixen Creations are authorities in the creation of aesthetically pleasing, hygienically superior anal pleasure toys.

For additional information: Choose A Butt Plug


MATERIALS

A Word On Phthalates: The material specifications listed for each product are provided by that product's manufacturer. All of the items listed on SheVibe.com have been deemed phthalate free by their respective manufacturers.

This is the most authoritative information we have access to at the time an item is added to SheVibe's product catalog. If we find through a reliable, scientific source that an item is proven to contain phthalates or that material specifications need to be updated, we will change the classification and description of that item or delete it from our offering altogether if necessary.

Your health and well-being are very important to us here at SheVibe.com and we want you to know that we will continue to make every effort to provide you with the most accurate material information available to us.


MATERIALS LIST

We recommend the following materials as being non-porous and phthalate free. These materials are considered the most reliable and with proper care, these toys can possibly last you a lifetime. These are also the absolute best options if you have any known sensitivities or allergies:

  • ABS HARD PLASTIC
  • ALUMINUM
  • SEALED CERAMIC
  • GLASS
  • POLISHED STONE
  • SEALED HARD WOOD
  • SILICONE
  • STAINLESS STEEL

Other Materials

SheVibe has committed to offering insertable items which are made only from materials on the safe list. While we recommend choosing from the safer material options whenever possible, there are times when other materials may be right for you. Many masturbators, fetish items and larger sized items are more affordable when made with the following materials. These materials are all deemed phthalate free by their respective manufacturers, however, they are porous and require additional care.


ELASTOMER

Benefits:

  • Phthalate and latex free
  • Durable
  • Soft feel
  • Compatible with water based lube

Precautions:

  • Slightly porous
  • Cannot be sterilized

Care and Use:

  • Inspect before and after use for tears or discoloration. If either are present, discard the toy and buy a new one
  • Wash thoroughly before and after use with mild soap and water or toy cleaner
  • Recommended use of non-latex condom over the toy
  • Do not share with multiple partners – please use a condom if sharing

LATEX, PVC, RUBBER

Benefits:

  • Durable & flexible
  • Rigidity can vary from very soft to very hard
  • The particular items we carry are deemed phthalate free by their manufacturers
  • Affordable
  • Compatible with water based and silicone lube

Precautions:

  • Porous
  • Cannot be sterilized

Care and Use:

  • Inspect before and after use for tears or discoloration. If either are present, discard the toy and buy a new one
  • Wash thoroughly before and after use with mild soap and water or toy cleaner
  • Recommended use of non-lubricated condom over the toy
  • Do not share with multiple partners – please use a condom if sharing

SIL-A-GEL

Sil-a-gel is not a material per se, it is a proprietary additive that Doc Johnson adds to some of its formulas. The claim is that it makes the material anti-bacterial and thus limits bacteria transfer.


SUPERSKIN, UR3

Benefits:

  • Affordable
  • Phthalate & latex free
  • Very soft with realistic feel and texture
  • Compatible with water based lube

Precautions:

  • Porous
  • Cannot be sterilized
  • Due to their soft texture, they are prone to small tears
  • Best for short term ownership – may need to be replaced often

Care and Use:

  • Inspect before and after use for tears or discoloration. If either are present, discard the toy and buy a new one
  • Wash thoroughly before and after use with mild soap and water or toy cleaner
  • After the toy is thoroughly dry, dust with 100% cornstarch (never talc) to help keep its lifelike feel
  • Recommended use of non-latex condom over the toy
  • Do not share with multiple partners – please use a condom if sharing
  • Must be stored independent of other toys – material interaction may cause them to deteriorate
  • Store in dark, cool place

TPR/TPE

Benefits:

  • Affordable
  • Phthalate and latex free
  • Realistic feel
  • Compatible with water based lube

Precautions:

  • Porous
  • Cannot be sterilized
  • Best for short term ownership – may need to be replaced often

Care and Use:

  • Inspect before and after use for tears or discoloration. If either is present, discard the toy and buy a new one
  • Wash thoroughly before and after use with mild soap and water or toy cleaner
  • Recommended use of non-latex condom over the toy
  • Do not share with multiple partners – please use a condom if sharing
  • Must be stored independent of other toys – material interaction may cause them to deteriorate
  • Store in dark, cool place