It's Testicular Cancer Awareness Month!

Yes, There is a Whole Month Devoted To Testicles

Cancer is a rather sensitive subject for most people as most of us know someone who has or has had cancer. It can be brutal and watching a love one suffers is of the worst things a human can experience. This is why awareness is key, and yes, this is why we have a whole month dedicated to balls. Happy Testicular Cancer Month.

            Testicles love to give false alarms. There are all kinds of cysts, growths, and enlarged blood vessels that look and feel fatal but are actually completely survivable and virtually harmless. If you find any abnormality in your testicles, of course, you should consult with your doctor or urologist, however, understand that burning balls don’t mean cancer.

            We honor Testicular Cancer Month to start important conversations about testicular cancer because it is one of the most survivable strains of cancer especially with early detection. Not to mention, it is most prominent in men ages 18-40 years old. However, if you catch testicular cancer in stage 1, you have a 99% survival rate. So, now your question is how do I know I have testicle cancer?

            The simple answer is self-examination. From puberty women are taught to massage on their breasts monthly looking for lumps and abnormalities so as to catch breast cancer early. You use this same method to check your testicles for abnormalities.

 It is suggested that you soap up your testicles in the shower to make them smooth enough to massage with your fingers. You will then use one or both hands to massage your testicles. Not only should you be doing this to learn what your testicles normally feel like so you can catch an abnormality quickly, but also because you could, in fact catch an abnormality. It is recommended you self-examine your testicles once a month. This way, if you develop an abnormality, you will be able to catch it within 30 days, get the treatment you need and continue being an active participant in life.

            If during examination you find a lump or bump, you will go to the doctor who will physically and sometimes ultrasonically examine the testicles for malignancy. Then they will remove the tumor and testicle, replace it with an artificial testicle (upon request) and you’ll continue being an active participant in life.

            And of course, the question you’ve been waiting on: what about sex? According to cancerresearchuk.com, “Most men with testicular cancer have surgery to remove the affected testicle. Having one testicle removed shouldn't affect your long term: ability to father children (fertility), sexual performance, [and] sex drive (libido). No worries there!

The important thing to remember here is that testicular cancer is only 99% survivavable if it is caught early. It can’t be taught early if testicle owner’s aren’t taught to self-examine. Let this month be a reminder and a symbol of you taking care of your reproductive health. There are plenty of people who want you around for a long time so just massage your balls and save your life.

By Autumn Morris 
Certified Sex Educator 
CEO and Founder of Speaking of Sex

If you like what you’ve read here, check out other blogs and podcasts from Autumn! 

https://www.speaking-of-sex.com/

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How to Spot Fake Online Dating Profiles

There are some fake dating profiles out there, but some can be difficult to spot. We provide you with information that can help you figure it out.

Learn How to Spot Fake Dating Profiles Online

As mentioned in this article, with more and more people spending so much time on social media, there are increasing worries about how sites might be affecting our relationships. When you join online dating platforms, you’re searching for someone you can spend the rest of your life with and form a genuine connection to. This is why it can be disheartening to come across fake online dating profiles. Our dating experts have shared important information about fake profiles and how to spot them quickly so you don't get sucked into a conversation with someone who doesn't exist.

Lack of Photos

This is normally a good indication that it is a fake profile as they have used someone else’s photos from wherever they can get them to make the profile. Some people are a bit more camera shy but if you’re not seeing plenty of photos, then it is a good indication that the profile may be a fake.

Lack of Information

Someone who is just setting up a fake profile to have some fun isn’t normally going to pour a lot of information on their profile. So, if the information looks generic or there simply is not a lot to go on, then this could indicate that the profile is not genuine.

Check Social Media Profiles

If someone is genuine, then you’re likely to be able to find their presence on other social media platforms. You don’t want to snoop on someone’s privacy but simply looking them up isn’t harmful. However, you shouldn’t be delving into someone’s profile especially if you want to create a real connection with someone.

You Never Seem to Meet-Up

Perhaps you have been chatting for a while and you have always been meaning to meet-up, but something keeps coming up. If they seem to never be able to meet-up – even when you’ve changed times and days – then this may be an indication that they are not genuine about finding love and have created a profile simply for fun.

They Avoid Video Chat

Modern technology allows us to connect no matter where we are, so it is quite strange when someone completely avoids video chats with you. This indicates that they don’t want to show you their face and may have set-up a profile using someone else’s information and photos.

They Request Money from You

A lot of people set-up fake dating profiles as a way to make money from people. They may not ask directly from you but may always hint that they are in a bad financial situation or that something has happened. It is always wise to be careful and if you haven’t met them or know them well enough, then sending them money is a bad idea and a huge indication that the profile may be fake.

They Send You Random, Mysterious Links

If a profile is fake, then they may be sending you a variety of weird links all the time. This may be to connect you to another scam or to somehow wrangle personal information out of you. It is always best to be wise when online, so be cautious when you receive something from someone on a dating site.

Are There Discrepancies in Their Story?

If you care for someone or want to get to know them, then you’re likely to retain a lot of what they tell you. If someone has a fake profile, then you may begin to spot lies or holes in their story. This is because it is hard to keep up with lies and they may forget what they have told you.

Those are the main ways to spot a fake online dating profile. Keep safe while looking online and don’t get too disheartened if you end up chatting with someone who isn’t as genuine as other people online.

By: Amily Bronte

Blogger, freelance writer, and a personal branding enthusiast.

High, Nice to See You Again

We have a very special day approaching us. 4/20 is almost here. 4/20 is the national celebration of marijuana and all of the great vibes and interesting stories it has provided us. But, as most of us know, Marijuana has its medicinal uses as well. According to Youth Europa, it can, “relieve chronic pain, improve lung compacity, help lose weight, help regulate or prevent diabetes, fight cancer, beat depression, shows promise in autism treatment, regulate seizures, mend bones, help with ADHD/ADD, treatment for glaucoma, alleviate anxiety, slow development of Alzheimer’s disease, help with PTSD symptoms, provide relief to […] multiple sclerosis, [help with hepatitis C], treat inflammatory bowel disease, and help with Tremors in Parkinson’s patients.”

I KNOW, it’s basically the cure to everything (which is probably why it has its own day of the year). But beyond that, marijuana and CBD (Cannabidiol) do a lot in the sex department as well. Marijuana is not only am aphrodisiac (or arousal stimulant), but it heightens your senses so every sensation you could feel during sex, you feel it way deeper than you ever could without a little Marijuana.

Additionally, because marijuana helps with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, it lowers risk or erectile disfunction or ED. ED is typically caused by some sort of inner battle or combat within the mind, which can be eased or inhibited by marijuana. They say that our brain is our biggest sex organ. If we are able to relax of the day’s stresses, the work chaos, the family feuds, the car issues, or financial problems, etc., we are able to lock into the moment. This makes for a blissful sexual experience and a much needed get away.

Lastly, CBD products (although they don’t contain THC) are used in a lot of lubricants these days. They are especially helpful for those who have trouble reaching orgasm or just want extra sensation. The CBD is able to stimulate whatever body part they want to put it on, and its aphrodisiac properties get to work making you more than ready for sexual attention. So now that you’re an expert on all things marijuana/CBD, what will you be using marijuana for this 4/20??

By Autumn Morris 
Certified Sex Educator 
CEO and Founder of Speaking of Sex

If you like what you’ve read here, check out other blogs and podcasts from Autumn! 

https://www.speaking-of-sex.com/

IG: SpeakingOfSex | TW: SpeakingOfSex_

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Exploring BDSM with NS Novelties Sinful Bondage Gear

Tapping into your naughty side just got more fun with the NS Novelties Sinful Bondage Gear. Today I’m going to talk about three products that you can use to spice things up in the bedroom and stimulate your physical and mentally.

Features

• Made of Vinyl, ABS Plastic, Nickel-Free Hardware, and Leather
• Easy to Clean
• Great for Bedroom Fun and Roleplay
• Available in colors Pink and Black

Tiffy’s Take

All of the NS Novelties have a geometrical design with some shiny accents which adds contrast and depth to their designs. Because these are designed for beginners, they are lightweight and easy to hold in the hand because the geometrical design gives the gear some added texture to it. No let’s talk about the gear.

Sinful Ball Gag: The ball gag is quite comfortable even after being worn for extended periods of time. It has a nice amount of holes for breathing but try not to bite down too hard on it. The sexiest part about using this gag is when my partner puts it on for me.

Sinful Paddle: I’m always up for a good spanking and this paddle does the job. This item is the heaviest out of the bunch while still remaining decently light. It does deliver a nice sting and you can also use the textured side to imprint those geometrical shapes on to your partner’s body.

Sinful Whip: The Sinful Whip is probably my favorite item because I like tracing all over my partners body with it before giving him a nice whipping. With his consent of course. Because it’s so light, it doesn’t give a harsh sting even when applying allot of force to it.

There are so many ways to use these sinful accessories to spice things up in the bedroom. Roleplaying in particular is one of my favorite ways to use them as it allows me and partner to turn fantasy into reality. Dimming the lights, playing some sexy instrumental music, and adding some sexy lingerie as the cherry on top. I personally suggest having an open and honest conversation about what your sex goals are when it comes to roleplaying or exploring the idea of taking on new sexual experiences with your partner beforehand. Although spontaneity never hurt anyone either, am I right?

Final Thoughts

These NS Novelties Sinful Bondage Gear allow you explore and unleash your wild side. Exploring fantasies and experiences with your partners via roleplaying presents an opportunity to connect with your partner in ways that are typically not a part of your sex routine. Just remember to always practice consent.

CLICK HERE TO BUY BDSM toys by NS Novelties

If you like what you’ve read here, check out more of Tiffy Kinks writing at her sex blog Aquakink.com.

Twitter @Theaquakink

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We Never Thought We’d Want to Go to Work So Badly!

As the Coronavirus has spread rapidly worldwide, I think it’s safe to say that one of the largest impacts of this pandemic is the hysteria, the fear of the end of the world, and the complete boredom of being quarantined in our houses to inhibit spreading of this potentially fatal virus.

            We have ALL wished we could work at home in our jammies for a living, but we are quickly realizing that our routine drives balance, gives us purpose, feels comfortable, and contributes deeply to our identity. As adults, we often fall into repetitive patterns and lose the youthfulness of exploration, discovery, rediscovery, adaptation, and optimism.

            Unfortunately, I can’t cure the coronavirus or stop the terrible affects it has had on part of our population. But I can give you some ideas of what to do to find peace amongst the hysteria, focus on the present instead of “impending doom” and stay mentally and physically occupied until we can return to life as normal.

            The mass chaos occurring on the news, in the grocery stores, and, the most obvious, on Facebook, is not healthy to constantly be feeding into our headspaces. It is important to be informed, but we all know if we pick our phone and check social media right now 80% of it is coronavirus related (and of course the other 20% is cute baby pictures and cat videos). It is not healthy to be sitting in your home consuming constant updates on something you have no control over. This is actually a great time to step away from social media and focus on you and your self-care. You’ve been provided this unique opportunity to reinvent what “day-to-day” life looks like, so grab a shovel and dig in. Reinvent the wheel!

            Combatting hysteria could be giving yourself a time limit on the amount of time a day you spend on social media and/or the news. It could include creating a new daily routine and include activities that bring you joy. Activities that are good for your soul and body. Get your groove back by YouTubing some yoga tutorials, reading a really good book, finding a great show to binge on Netflix, look up DIY facial recipes and have a spa day, or better yet, create a pleasure box. Get an old shoe box, decorate it in a way that makes you feel warm and safe. Then, fill it with all things that bring you pleasure such as sex toys, arousal oils, lotions, barrier methods, strap-ons, whatever you like! Then put it in a special place so you know where to go when you need some toe-curling pleasure.

            Speaking of pleasure, this is also a wonderful time to check back into your body. As we grow and our bodies change, our desires change. Take out your pleasure box and try some new things. Rediscover what your pleasure looks like these days. You may discover you’re infatuated with a sensation you’ve never tried before (that will lift your mood for sure!)

            Lastly, one of the hardest parts of this epidemic is social distancing. Early diagnosis has not yet been figured out so we could be spreading the disease before we even know we have it. This is why most of us are working and schooling from home. But social interaction is an important part of our mood, our energy, our productivity, and more. Being stuck in your home may be extremely upsetting because we don’t get the burst of oxytocin from when a friend hugs us or the flood of relief when a friend understands how we feel.

            But, again, I feel this is a fantastic opportunity for rediscovery. We have gotten so comfortable in our ways of connecting with one another that we have fallen into a routine. Now we have a chance to challenge that routine and find new and fun ways to virtually connect with the ones which we love. Facetime dates, Netflix’s new “Party” function where you can watch Netflix with a friend via the TV or computer, etc. You can send scandalous pictures to your partner to keep the sexual energy alive and/or play virtual games on your phone that allow you to invite your friends to play along. There hundreds of ways to connect digitally and now is the time to explore them all.

            Let’s face it, coronavirus sucks. But right now, we can’t fix it. What we CAN fix is how we choose to feel about our current circumstances, what we choose to do with our extra time, and how we plan to beat the system and still connect with the fam despite social distancing. What will you be achieving during this time?

By Autumn Morris 
Certified Sex Educator 
CEO and Founder of Speaking of Sex

If you like what you’ve read here, check out other blogs and podcasts from Autumn! 

https://www.speaking-of-sex.com/

IG: SpeakingOfSex | TW: SpeakingOfSex_

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I Want My Body Back

*TRIGGER WARNING* Account of Sexual Assault

April is the month that we set aside to observe sexual assault, what it is, and the impact that it makes on individuals all over the world. While we should be educating on sexual assault all year, we take this month to specifically honor survivors and educate the public of the growing issue of stolen autonomy. According to National Day Calendar, “The term ‘sexual assault’ is a large umbrella and includes all of the following: rape, molestation, unwanted sexual contact of any other form, sexual harassment, incest, child abuse, sexual violence (even with an intimate partner), sexual exploitation, human trafficking, and voyeurism.”

            If we wear a jacket and get it dirty, we wash it. If we make a spill on the counter, we grab a paper towel and wipe it up. But there is no amount of cleaning supplies that can wipe the rape off of a victim. Your body receives the trauma and likely won’t let go of it. Some victims suffer trauma symptoms years after they were last assaulted. Imagine not feeling safe in the only armor you have: your skin.

            It is for this reason that we commemorate this month to victims who have lost their lives and their autonomy, to those who are survivors seeking to heal and find connection with their body once again, and to educate those who may not have experienced sexual assault but can help in making a difference.

            So, as we move through this month, I encourage you to not only find ways in your community to uplift and celebrate survivors, but also take the time to learn about sexual assault itself and how it affects others. The more you learn, the more you have the ability to pass valuable information to those around you, save lives, and help others save lives too. No one wants to feel trapped in a cage of skin rather than feeling strong and in complete control in their body.

            If you are a survivor, you are enough. You are complete. You are in control. You are the owner of your body. You belong here. Anything you have experienced is not your fault. You are a warrior and you have a testimony to use to educate those around you.

            If you are an ally, please listen. Pass the mic to those who may never get it so they can tell their story and make a difference. Understand that sexual assault is not a common cold, the healing process can take a life time. Be patient, be understanding, and use your knowledge to make the world a safer place.

How will you be honoring Sexual Assault month?

By Autumn Morris 
Certified Sex Educator 
CEO and Founder of Speaking of Sex

If you like what you’ve read here, check out other blogs and podcasts from Autumn! 

https://www.speaking-of-sex.com/

IG: SpeakingOfSex | TW: SpeakingOfSex_

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Intimate Earth Ease Relaxing Silicone Anal Glide Review

One of the biggest problems that many people who are sensitive to certain ingredients in lube have is that there aren’t a ton of natural options for them out in the market. Especially when it comes to anal lubricant. So today, I’m going to talk about a natural alternative to silicone anal lube: Intimate Earth Ease Relaxing Silicone Anal Glide.

Features

• Premium silicone based anal glide
• Helps to relax muscles for more comfortable penetration
• No desensitizing ingredients to hinder sensations
• Free of fragrance and flavor
• Paraben-free

Ingredients: Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Dimethiconol, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, *Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Extract, *Lycium Barbarum (Goji) Fruit Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vit. E), Bisabolol

Tiffy’s Take

The Intimate Earth Ease Relaxing Silicone Anal Glide is fragrance, taste, and glycerin free. So it’s not sticky mess when it dries. One of the things I like about this lube is that it does not contain any benzocaine while still providing a soothing sensation during use. For those who don’t know, benzocaine is a commonly used ingredient in lubricants that act as a numbing agent to reduce sensation during anal play. Not only does this hinder delivery of stimulation, this can also temporarily discontinue the sensation of pain. This is not recommended as pain is the body’s way of telling you when something is wrong or you may have potentially reached your limit.

Instead, Intimate Earth Ease Relaxing Silicone Anal Glide uses Bisabol which is an extract from chamomile that is well known for its anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, skin healing, and muscle relaxing properties. I specifically enjoy pairing this with my metal anal plugs as it spreads nicely and is very thin viscosity and smooth in texture. It’s also one of the slipperiest silicone-based lubricants I ever tried.

This lube paired great with my aluminum and silicone butt plugs but can also work very well with glass and wood. Not only does a little go a long way, but the likelihood that you will have to reapply is unlikely as it does not dry up. While it’s meant to be used solely as an anal lubricant, I couldn’t help but notice how good it feels on the skin and how soft it made my skin feel. So I decided to test if out as a massage oil and found that it works very well and adds a nice matte shine to the skin.

Final Thoughts

The Intimate Earth Ease Relaxing Silicone Anal Glide is a great all-natural silicone-based lubricant. If you’re someone looking into more natural-homeopathic products related to sexual wellness, I recommend you give this a try.

CLICK HERE TO BUY Intimate Earth Ease Relaxing Silicone Anal Glide

If you like what you’ve read here, check out more of Tiffy Kinks writing at her sex blog Aquakink.com.

Twitter @Theaquakink

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Fantasy For Her - Her Rechargeable Bullet

Whenever I hear about a new bullet that has hit the market, I just gotta get my hands on it and this one if no different. Let’s talk about the Pipedream Fantasy for Her Rechargeable Bullet.

Features

• Made of TPE and Silicone
• Waterproof
• Easy one-button operation
• Has 15 modes of vibration

How to Use

Press and hold the power button to initiate power. Press repeatedly to cycle through 15 levels of vibration. Press and hold to the Her Rechargeable Bullet turn off.

Tiffy’s Take

The reason why I can’t get enough of bullet style vibrators is because of how versatile they are. Small enough to be used anywhere and they are one of the most discrete kind of sex toys out there. Some additional features that I really like is the standing magnetic charger. Not only is it cool, I haven’t seen many bullet vibrators that have a standing charger. It’s convenient when you want you want to set your vibe to charge without having to plug it into something. The Fantasy for Her - Her Rechargeable Bullet is not only small and compact with its cylinder shape and rounded tip which can be used for both broad and pin-point stimulation, but it’s also powerful with its rumbly vibrations that reach deep. Additionally, this bullet is small enough to fit into the base of a dildo that has a cavity intended for bullet vibes.

Tiffy's Tip: Avoid using silicone sex toys with silicone lubricant as it can ruin the toy and void the warrant. Always do a spot test on the toy when using a new lube.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for something to add to the collection or your looking for your first ever sex toy, you can’t go wrong with this one.

CLICK HERE TO BUY the Fantasy for Her Rechargeable Bullet

If you like what you’ve read here, check out more of Tiffy Kinks writing at her sex blog Aquakink.com.

Twitter @Theaquakink

Instagram @Aquakink

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Learn About Vibrators 101

When it comes to the world of vibrators, there are a lot of options available. Below are a few things to think about and understand before you make your first (or second or third) purchase. Like people, sex toys come in all shapes and sizes. When considering your toy, ask yourself how or, more importantly, where you would like to use it. These are some main shapes/styles of vibrators available today:

Types

Bullets

Bullet vibes range in size from 1-3 inches in length and typically look like their name implies; a bullet. While the overall design hasn’t much changed, they certainly do get the job done. Those looking strictly for clitoral stimulation would do well with this toy. Due to their size, they are discreet (some even come in sneaky packaging to look like a lipstick). They can be used solo or with a partner and can be easily tossed in an overnight bag, dresser drawer, or even a purse for on-the-go orgasms.

Stick Vibrators

These vibes are longer than your standard bullet and range in size from about 4-7 inches. These are primarily used for internal stimulation, though they can also be used externally if you have any mobility/dexterity issues. These typically tend to be on the slimmer side and are usually smooth.

G-Spot

Like a stick vibe, g-spot massagers are intended for internal use. Most will have a slim, straight shaft with an egg shaped bulb on the end. This bulb, once inserted, will massage the g-spot that is located about 2-3 inches inside the opening of the vagina. Being that the g-spot is part of the clitoral network, stimulation in this area can result in an intense orgasm.

Wands

You know those “back massagers” you would see ads for on late night TV? That was the original iteration of one of the most powerful toys available. Wand-style toys look similar to a microphone with a bulbous vibrating head and a shaft to maneuver. If you want a lot of power, the original design that plugs into the wall is going to be your best bet. With technological advancements, however, these do also come in rechargeable options. The frequency at which these vibrate offers a deeper, rumbling sensation that is intended for external stimulation (though you can get attachments for internal stimulation if you are looking to really rock your world).

Rabbits

For those of us old enough to remember Sex and the City, this iconic toy has been a go-to for people for decades. This toy has the best parts of a stick vibe and a bullet combined into one! Rabbit vibes tend to be what most people think of when they’re first considering getting themselves a toy. They come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and functions so try to keep that in mind while shopping.

Dildos

These are sort of the “other” category of the sex toy world. Dildos can vibrate, but don’t always have to. For the sake of this article though, dildos typically range in size from 4-12 inches and often look like a penis. Those that do not look like a penis will be thicker than a stick vibe and tend to have more nuance in terms of shape. They will often have a suction cup base that can be used for riding or in a harness for partner play and the vibration speeds and patterns will vary from toy to toy.

Details

Functions and Features

So here is where things can get interesting. With advancements in technology, vibrators don’t just have the three low, medium, high settings. Now they offer pulsating, staccato, and a wide range of dots and dashes to bring you right over the edge. Not only are there different vibration patterns to think about, there are also a number of features certain toys offer that include, but are not limited to: sucking, warming, thrusting; beads that move up, down and around; thumping, wiggling, and spinning.

Size

As I mentioned before, sex toys are like people… they come in all sizes. Some will be petite and some will be, well… quite large. Something to consider when making your toy purchase is not just length, but girth as well. If you’ve only ever had a finger (or nothing) inserted, you may not be as comfortable using as girthy or lenghty toy as someone who has been sexually active or used toys before. It is important to consider your own comfort level when considering your toy purchase.

Material

Toy material is also something to take into account. While there is no federal mandates when it comes to toys, the industry does a fairly good job at self-regulation. That being said, not all toys are 100% body-safe or allergen-free.

To learn more about the different materials used to make vibrators and dildos, check out our blog "Dildos 101".

Color

Gone are the days of pink and purple being the only available color option! Toys now come in every color imaginable ranging from flesh tones to neon green and orange. While you’ll still find many pink and purple hues, you’ll have much more choice.

Other Things to Think About:

Storage

Where will you be putting your new best friend? Do your kids snoop through your stuff? If you plan to use it primarily in bed, do you have a place to store it that is easily accessible? If you want a plug-in wand, where is the nearest outlet?

Make sure to keep hygiene in mind when stowing and cleaning. To learn more about keeping your toys clean, check out our blog"How To Clean and Store Your Sex Toys Properly".

Noise Level

Do you live alone where noise isn’t a concern or do you have paper-thin walls and nosy roommates? Are you trying to get in one last orgasm before bed and don’t want to wake your sleeping partner?

Practicality

As much fun as 60-pound sex machine with full range of motion and thrusting action may be, will it take up an entire room in your house? If so, is that a problem? Do you want a toy that can do multiple things or do you want specific toys for each use? If you travel often, is your toy small enough to bring with you?

While there is certainly is a lot to consider and think about when it comes to purchasing a toy, this guide is designed help you think about what it is you want in a toy and give you an idea of what is available. If ever you need assistance, don’t hesitate to swing by your local Lion’s Den or chat with our online representatives for assistance in selecting the right toy for you!

Choosing and Caring for a Masturbator

Gone are the days of only the hand to satisfy! “Masturbators” or, more commonly known as “pocket pussies”, are ribbed sleeves that can enhance the experience of masturbation. As they’ve become more mainstream, there are a number of different options to consider. Below are a few things to know and think about before making your purchase.

Types

No-Case

When people think of “pocket pussies”, they’re usually thinking of these. This type of masturbator tends to be about 4-7 inches long with a mouth, vagina, anus, or non-descript opening for insertion. Most masturbators will be made of a soft, skin-like material for a more realistic experience. This type of stroker has ribbing on the inside for additional pleasure and can be moved or squeezed as the user prefers.

Hard-Shell

You may be familiar with the original designer of this style of toy: Fleshlight. They popularized the stroker sleeve inside a hard case. Because the sleeve is inside a hard case, the sensation can feel more realistic as it is the case being moved rather than the stroker itself. These hard cases will also regulate the amount of air inside the device so the user can control the amount of suction and tightness at any given time. Not only does the hard case protect the sleeve from lint/debris, it also conceals it in a discreet case. Like the no-case strokers, these also come in mouth, vagina, anus, and non-descript openings. Often, companies will collaborate with popular adult stars or cam girls and make molds of them for the masturbators.

Powered Masturbators

These kinds of strokers will take the basic design of the hardshell devices and take them up a notch. With this design, you can get a masturbator that vibrates, sucks, spins, or milks. The most popular of these designs are the ones that mimic fellatio. Most of these devices are rechargeable, though you can still purchase ones that take batteries or plug into the wall.

Though these come with many benefits, they can often be a on the loud side so keep that in mind when making your selection. They will also require a little additional care when it comes time to clean it.

Lubrication

Because these strokers don’t self-lubricate, you will need to add lube to enhance the experience. Due to the nature of the toy’s material, make sure you are only using a water based lubricant. The use of silicone or oil based lubes will degrade the toy’s material.

Cleaning

No matter what kind of masturbator you’ve chosen, they all need to be thoroughly cleaned. Small, damp spaces are the perfect environment for bacteria to grow so once you’re finished, follow these basic steps and your toy will not only stay clean, but will last longer:

• 1. Rinse: Most masturbators will have a hole at the opposite end from the insertion point to allow water or other fluid to be rinse out.

Pro Tip: If you’re using a hard shell style, you can pull the sleeve out for proper cleaning. Don’t forget to sanitize the hard case as well in case fluid got in.
Pro Tip: With a moving/vibrating masturbator, follow the cleaning direction provided in the box. Some will allow you to remove the sleeve while others will require a little more attention and care.

• 2. Apply cleaner: While standard toy spray is an acceptable cleaning solution, for masturbators, we suggest selecting a foaming cleaner. Once inside, the cleaner will expand into the crevices. Once it’s inside, move the masturbator around to evenly disperse the cleanser. If you have just the sleeve, rub it between your hands (like if you were trying to start a fire) to spread out the foam.
• 3. Rise again: After you’re sure the cleaner has been evenly distributed throughout, rinse it out. At this point, any bacteria causing fluid will have been removed.
• 4. Dry: It’s important to allow your toy to dry. Store it upright on a towel to allow gravity to pull the remaining water from the chamber. Give it a few shakes to make sure all the water is gone.
• 5. Powder: Since most masturbators are made of a skin-like material, they do require one additional care step. As you use and wash your toy, you’ll notice the material starts to get tacky. To prevent this and keep it soft, apply a dusting of toy powder once your toy is dry. It will adhere to the toy’s surface to keep it touchably soft.
• 6. Storage: If you’ve purchased a hardshell stroker, just insert the sleeve back into the case and pop on the lid. If you have no-case stroker, you will want to place this item in a breathable bag. Then, just stick them in a cool, dry place and it will be ready for your next use! To see more tips and tricks on how to properly store your toys, click here.

Adding a stroker to your masturbation ritual can bring you to new heights in your sexual exploration. With the wide variety of toys available, you’ll never run out of new sensations to experience! Remember, this blog serves as a guide to help you think about some of the different options when considering a stroker. If you need help selecting one, don’t hesitate to stop by your local Lion’s Den or chat with our online sales rep. Happy shopping!