Adults are reconnecting with their inner child by reconnection to toys that soothe and nostalgic memories. This trend is driving sales of toys which were once intended for children.
A phallic toy used to penetrate is the dildo. Dildos come in a variety sizes, textures and colours. They can stimulate the g-spot, anal region or prostate to give internal pleasure.
Sex Toys
Most sex toys are designed to enhance sexual or oral activities. However, they can also increase pleasure during masturbation, or even during non-sexual intimacy, such as massage. Some sex-related toys are gender-specific but the majority are neutral (although some have specific uses for a certain orientation). Many toys are made to be used by two or more persons. The most popular sex toys for couples are vibrators, anal dildos and anal plugs.
Other toys include vibrators, dildos, and wand vibrators stimulate the clitoris as well as the vagina. These toys are usually made of medical-grade silicone, TPE, or any other material. They are available in a variety of intensities and functions. A sex toys can be made out of glass, wood or even metal. Some are water-proof, while others have a sleeve to make the insertion process easier.
A sex toy that may be used for arousal and penetration is referred to as a 'thruster. This Fun Factory toy is a great example of a thruster, with a simple design of phallics and seven speeds for more perceptual sensations. Certain sex toys include additional features such as an elongated hollow shaft for stroking, or an asymmetrical design to boost stimulation for both partners.
Despite the stigmas that surround these toys, research suggests that sex toys are able to increase satisfaction in relationships and sexual desire for both partners. It is important to maintain an open dialogue about the use of these toys, and also respect your partner's sexual preferences and boundaries. If your partner isn't a fan of the toy, urging this could cause distrust and feelings of insecurity within the relationship.
Toys Licensed by the Manufacturer
Many people don't associate toys with adults, however it's not uncommon for mature humans and even non-human creatures to play with toys. It's not uncommon for adults to purchase their own animal to play with their child's doll, or enjoy a board game with their friends. Toys licensed by the government are designed to connect with imagination and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Licensed toys can also appeal to adults who love expressing their passion by purchasing products that are a part of their favorite shows films, sports teams or movies. For example, fans of the Marvel and Star Wars franchises often purchase action figures, Lego sets or other items that are based on their favorite films. The increasing number of "kidults" is a major segment of the toy industry.
Toy manufacturers recognize this group of consumers and come up with products that are often built around nostalgic entertainment characters. Companies like Mattel are launching an assortment of Barbie and Hot Wheels products aimed at collectors of all ages, while Hasbro's Black Series is geared toward those who are looking for premium Star Wars and Marvel collectibles. The same is true for Funko, which has always been a favorite of collectors and is a brand that is growing and becoming more sophisticated with its releases. The popularity of licensed toys is also seen at conventions, where people of all ages meet to share their passion for the brand with fellow fans.
Silicone Toys
When purchasing sex toys, it is essential to examine their materials. TOPS Adult Toys toys are usually made of porous or non-porous material. Porous materials are a bacterial and dirt magnet and they can spread germs to the person who is they are not accompanied by a condom. This can lead to yeast infections as well as other issues. Non-porous toys are easily disinfected and sterilized. Porous sex toys should never be used by anyone suffering from sexually transmitted infections or diseases.
The most popular sex-oriented toy material is silicone. It is recommended to purchase toys made from medical grade silicone or food grade silicone. They will not leak chemicals into the body if you accidentally consume. Silicone toys can be cleaned easily. They can either be put in the dish washer, boiled for 10 minutes or just washed with water and soap.
Many companies make sex toys from silicone blends which are a poor substitute for food-grade or medical grade materials. Although these toys may be marketed as being "skin safe," they are not safe for the body and should be avoided at all at all. You can tell fake silicone toys using the flame test. Use a lighter to hold it up to the toy, and test if the item melts or burns.
Another thing to be looking for when buying sex toys is whether they are made of platinum cure or food quality silicone. This is a sign the product is of higher quality.
Clean Toys
As with any toy it's crucial to keep it clean. Inappropriate toys for children can cause infections like yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis and even STIs, depending on the material. They also stink. After and before every use of your favourite vibrator or dildo is an ideal time to wash it thoroughly.
The best method to clean a toy depends on the material used, but general guidelines say that liquid soap or a toy cleaner is fine. The best choice is to find one that is safe for your body and free of fragrances, parabens, and silicone. A gentle soap for your hands that you use for your hands is ideal however a specific toy cleaner is also a good option.
For non-motorized toys, like those made from silicon or stainless steel running them under hot water can be enough to kill bacteria but for the most clean results, sex experts recommend buying a dedicated toy cleaner. A few of them including the erotic educator Taylor Sparks, founder of the Black-owned online intimacy shop Organic Loven and relationship expert Emily Morse, host of the Sex With Emily podcast, also recommend investing in a discrete device known as the UVee Homeplay that cleans, stores, and charges multiple toys at a time.
You should also seek out toys that are nonporous. Porous materials can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Many adult toy brands produce non-porous toys that look and feel exactly like real flesh. They also make toys that are translucent enough to let you see the material they are made from.
