Beginners Guide: Penis Stimulators for Masturbation

When it comes to penis stimulators (often merchandised as ‘sex toys for men‘) times have changed. Years ago you’d be lucky if you found anything that was body-safe, had a variety of functions or settings, that wasn’t your standard run of the mill vulva/vagina look alike. Now there are tonnes of options available. Coming in a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and materials. Each designed to offer a specific kind of sensation. Some are still fairly basic with minimal features, however, others like blow job machines provide sucking action. Some vibrate for a heightened sense of arousal. While others simply let you masturbate hands-free.

Regardless of what you’re into, there’s something to suit your needs, it’s just a matter of finding one that works with you and your body.

Tips & Suggestions

Before dropping money on a penis stimulator there are a few small tips and suggestions I think are worth sharing.

  • Opt for something that’s open ended to make cleaning easier. This allows you to rinse it out thoroughly; otherwise there may be residual lube, bodily fluids or semen that get trapped inside. Might not seem like a big deal, but when you pull it out for use and it stinks (or worse, has mold inside) you won’t be so happy.
  • On that note, always make sure to clean it after use and follow the instructions on the package. Some strokers can handle dish detergent, others need something a bit more gentle.
  • Because most strokers are made of porous materials, I highly suggest using a good water based lube. You might be able to get away with a decent hybrid lube, but silicone or oil based lubes will likely ruin the realistic material over time.
  • When shopping it’s a good idea to see if you need anything else like batteries or sex toy cleaner (that can be used on porous or skin-like material). You’ll also want to see if you need a powder like cornstarch or Fanta Flesh Renew to keep it feeling like new.
  • Lastly, keep ergonomics in mind. If you have issues with gripping, not being able to lift anything heavy, or pain in your wrists, choose something that’s lighter or that does the work for you.

Penis Stimulator Options

Because there are so many different penis stimulators on the market, I figured I’d explain what the most common products are and what they’re used for. If you’re curious about other options for penis stimulation I highly suggest checking out my post on cock rings. Or, for those looking to increase their size, this post on penis enhancement might be a good place to start.

beginners guide: penis stimulatorsStrokers

Unless you’ve been living under a rock you’ve probably heard of strokers before. But if not, here’s the gist; a stroker is a handheld, tunnel-shaped sleeve that’s used to enhance masturbation. Some are self-contained and come in hard cases. Others fit in your hand and allow you to adjust the tightness with your grip. Some are textured, offering a variety of sensations along the shaft. Some are made in the likeness of porn stars, others are anatomically correct, while others still are basic and discreet with no defining features. Regardless of what you’re looking for, with so many options available there sure to be something that’ll suit your needs.

When it comes to advantages, they’re affordable, readily available, can feel ‘life-like’, and easy to use. As for disadvantages, they’re basic in design, usually aren’t meant to last very long, and often require special care. More than that, they’re often made of porous materials that allow them to absorb bodily fluids, lube, and/or bacteria.

Hands-Free Masturbators & Blow Job Machines

Hands-free masturbators and blow job machines are basically the next level up when it comes to strokers. Unlike the handheld versions mentioned above, they do all the work for you. Simply insert, turn it on, lay back, and enjoy.

While there are differences between versions, most of them are fairly similar; enclosed within a firm plastic casing, a supple, textured sleeve provides stimulation via innovative rotating nubs or beads. This requires absolutely no effort on the user’s part as these machines are fully automated. For added sensation, some vibrate, while others have features like a flicking tongue.

As for the advantages, the main things to consider are the hands-free action and different types of penis stimulation offered. Regarding the disadvantages, they can be rather expensive, aren’t very discreet, and can break down if not properly cared for. On that note, they’ll require a thorough cleaning that often requires taking them apart and allowing them time to dry before reassembling.  Sure, it’s a bit more work than a simple stroker, but in the end, it’s usually worth it.

Sex Dolls & Realistic & Life-Size Masturbators

Looking for the experience of real intercourse? Opt for a sex doll or a life-size masturbator.

Whether you’re into titjobs or anal sex, prefer a certain position like doggy style, or just want something that feels real, life-size masturbators have it all.  They’re supple and ultra-soft, have a skin-like feel, warm with use, are life-size, and offer users full control. Sure, you’ll likely pay a pretty penny for one, but I’ve heard they’re well worth the money.

Having said that, they’re not all created equal. Always look for silicone or non-porous material and go with a company that has a good reputation. Since there are a lot of companies selling knockoffs or cheap versions marketed as high quality, do some research before buying. Trust me on this.

Another thing you’ll want to keep in mind is they often require special care to maintain that ‘new’ feeling, need a bit more effort when it comes to cleaning, and they aren’t the most discreet (you’ll need somewhere to store them, they’re big). In the case of sex dolls, sometimes they’ll require replacement parts.

Since strokers, hands-free machines, and sex dolls are usually used for solo play, it all comes down to personal preference. Not sure what type of male masturbator you’d prefer? Buy a few on the cheaper end and explore. Once you know what you like, opt for something with a higher price point that’s made to last.

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