Pleasure Magazine

The Complete Guide to Dildos: Types, Materials, Sizes and Care

The Complete Guide to Dildos: Types, Materials, Sizes and Care
12 Oct

Dildos are one of the oldest and most popular sex toys in the world, and for good reason. They are simple, versatile and suit almost everybody. In this complete dildo guide we explain what a dildo is, the different types you can buy, which materials are body-safe, how to choose the right size and how to look after your toy so it lasts for years. Whether you are buying your first dildo or adding to your collection, you will find all the answers here.

What Is a Dildo?

A dildo is a sex toy designed for penetration. You can use it vaginally or anally, on your own or with a partner during foreplay and sex. Most dildos are shaped like a penis, but plenty of them are not realistic at all and come with curves, ridges, bumps or fantasy shapes instead.

The main difference between a dildo and a vibrator is that a classic dildo has no motor. The pleasure comes from the shape, the feeling of fullness and the way you move it. Today you can also buy a vibrating dildo, which combines both.

People have been using dildos for thousands of years. Archaeologists have found examples made from stone, wood and bone. Modern dildos are made from much safer and more comfortable materials, and the choice is bigger than ever. On SEXstore.ie alone you will find nearly 500 different dildos.

Types of Dildos

Before you choose, think about what you want from your dildo. Will you use it alone or with a partner? Do you want vibration or a simple shaft? Would you like hands-free play? Do you prefer something soft and lifelike or firm and smooth? Here are the main types and what each one is best for.

Realistic Dildos

Realistic dildos are the most popular type. They are shaped like a real penis, with a defined head, veins along the shaft and often testicles at the base. Many are made from dual-density material, with a soft outer layer and a firmer core, so they feel very natural. They come in a wide range of skin tones and sizes. If you want something even more personal, celebrity dildos are moulded from adult film stars, and a penis cloning kit lets your partner make a copy of himself at home.

Vibrating Dildos

A vibrating dildo has a motor built into the shaft or the base. You get the full, satisfying shape of a dildo plus vibration for extra stimulation. They are great for G-spot and prostate play, and you can also use them on the clitoris, nipples or testicles during foreplay. Many are rechargeable and waterproof, and some come with a remote control so your partner can control the speed.

Suction Cup Dildos

Suction cup dildos have a strong suction base that sticks to smooth surfaces like tiles, glass, a mirror, a door or the floor. This makes them perfect for hands-free play and for the shower. They are suitable for vaginal and anal use, and most of them also fit a strap-on harness. They come in every size, from slim beginner toys to very large ones.

Double-Ended Dildos

Double dildos have two ends, so two people can enjoy penetration at the same time. They are long and flexible and bend to suit different positions, such as facing each other or lying back to back. They are popular with lesbian couples, but straight couples and solo users love them too, for example for vaginal and anal play at the same time. Some have one slimmer end, which is usually easier for anal use.

Strap-On Dildos

A strap-on lets one partner wear the dildo using a harness. Couples use them for pegging, for role reversal and for girl-on-girl play. Hollow strap-ons can also be worn by men who want to last longer or who have erection problems, so sex can continue without pressure. Strapless strap-ons have a bulb at one end that the wearer holds inside, so no harness is needed.

Anal Dildos

Anal dildos are usually slimmer and smoother, often with a tapered tip. The most important feature is the base. An anal dildo must always have a flared base or a suction cup, so it cannot slip all the way in.

Large Dildos

A dildo is usually called large when it is longer or thicker than the average penis, which is roughly 13 cm long. Large dildos are for experienced users who enjoy a strong feeling of fullness and want to explore their limits. On our dildo page you can filter by length, from under 12 cm to over 35 cm.

Glass and Metal Dildos

Glass and metal dildos are firm, very smooth and often beautiful to look at. Most glass dildos are made from borosilicate glass, the same strong glass used for oven dishes, so they do not break during normal use. Both glass and metal are non-porous, easy to clean and perfect for temperature play. You can warm them in warm water or cool them in cold water before use. Some have ridges or bumps for extra stimulation.

Fantasy Dildos

Fantasy dildos are inspired by dragons, aliens, tentacles and other creatures. They come in bright colours and unusual shapes, and they are ideal if you want something different from a realistic toy.

Flexible and Jelly Dildos

Soft, bendy and very affordable, these are a popular choice for a first dildo when you want to find out what you like.

Dildo Materials

The material of a dildo affects how it feels, how you clean it and which lube you can use. Always look for a body-safe, phthalate-free toy. Non-porous materials are the easiest to keep clean, especially if you use the toy for anal play or share it with a partner.

  • Silicone: soft, smooth, non-porous, hypoallergenic and very durable. Easy to clean and lasts for years. The best all-round choice.
  • Liquid and dual-density silicone: a soft outer layer over a firmer core. Very realistic and quickly warms to body temperature.
  • TPE and TPR: soft, skin-like and affordable. Phthalate-free and great for realistic toys. Slightly porous, so wash well and dry fully after each use.
  • PVC and jelly: the most budget-friendly and often colourful. Good for experimenting. Use a condom over it when sharing or switching between anal and vaginal play.
  • Glass: firm, smooth and completely non-porous. Ideal for temperature play and easy to sterilise.
  • Metal: heavy, sleek and non-porous. Perfect for temperature play and lasts a lifetime.

Important: do not use silicone lube with silicone toys, because over time it can damage the surface. Use water-based lube with silicone dildos. Silicone lube works well with glass and metal, and in the shower.

Do Dildos Feel Realistic?

Many dildos look and feel very close to a real penis. Dual-density silicone and TPE dildos are soft on the outside and firm inside, some have a movable foreskin, and some have soft testicles that add weight. Newer models even have a sliding outer skin that moves over the core, just like the real thing.

Glass and metal dildos feel nothing like a penis. They are hard and smooth, and many people love them exactly for that reason. Warmed in water, they feel completely different again.

Features to Consider

Waterproof

Many dildos are fully waterproof, which means you can use them in the bath or shower and they are easy to wash. A waterproof suction cup dildo is ideal for hands-free play in the shower. If your dildo has a motor, always check whether it is waterproof or only splashproof.

Temperature Play

Glass, metal and silicone dildos can be warmed or cooled in water for a different sensation. Use warm water, never hot, and always test the temperature on your wrist before use.

Rechargeable

Rechargeable vibrating dildos charge with a USB cable, so you never have to look for batteries. They are usually splashproof or waterproof too.

Remote Control

Some vibrating dildos come with a remote control, so your partner can change the speed and pattern. A fun option for couples.

The Base

The base decides how you can use the dildo. A suction cup allows hands-free play and usually fits a harness. A flared base is a must for anal play. Testicles give you something to hold and also act as a stopper.

Can You Use a Dildo for Anal Play?

Yes, as long as it has a flared base or a suction cup. Anal dildos are usually slimmer than vaginal ones. The anus does not produce its own lubrication, so use plenty of thick anal lube and go slowly. Clean anal toys carefully after every use, and never move from anal to vaginal play without washing the toy or changing the condom first.

How to Choose the Right Dildo

If this is your first dildo, start with something realistic and moderate in size. Pay more attention to width than length, because width is what you feel most. For most beginners, a dildo around 12 to 16 cm long and 2.5 to 3.5 cm wide is comfortable. Choose a body-safe silicone toy and use water-based lube.

Here is what to check before you buy:

  • Material: body-safe and easy to clean.
  • Size: exciting but comfortable. Check both length and width.
  • Texture: smooth, veined, ribbed or bumpy, whichever you enjoy.
  • Shape: straight for simple penetration, curved for the G-spot or prostate.
  • Realistic or not: lifelike or fantasy and abstract shapes.
  • Base: suction cup for hands-free play, flared base for anal play.
  • Firmness: soft and flexible, or firm like glass and metal.
  • Purpose: G-spot, anal play, couples play, strap-on or general pleasure.
  • Budget: there are great dildos at every price. A simple affordable dildo is a perfect way to start, and a premium one is a lovely treat.

Many people end up with more than one dildo, for example a realistic one for everyday use, a vibrating one and a glass one for something different. Every type offers a different experience.

How to Clean and Store Your Dildo

Wash your dildo before and after every use with warm water and mild unscented soap, or use a sex toy cleaner. Rinse it well and let it air-dry. Silicone, glass and metal dildos without a motor can also be boiled for a few minutes for a deeper clean. For dildos with a motor, check whether they are waterproof before washing.

Store your dildo in a clean pouch or box, away from direct sunlight and away from other toys, because some materials react with each other when they touch. If your dildo becomes sticky, cracked or discoloured, it is time to replace it. You can read more in our guide on when to replace your sex toy.

Popular Dildos at SEXstore.ie

Frequently Asked Questions About Dildos

[ + ] What is a dildo?

A dildo is a sex toy designed for penetration, usually shaped like a penis. It can be used vaginally or anally, alone or with a partner. Most dildos have no motor, but vibrating dildos are also available.

[ + ] Does using a dildo hurt?

No, it should not. Use plenty of lube, start slowly and choose a size that suits your body. If you feel pain, stop. If your partner is using the dildo on you, make sure they are gentle and listen to you.

[ + ] Are dildos safe?

Yes, as long as you choose a body-safe material and clean the toy before and after every use. Store it in a clean place and use a suitable lube.

[ + ] What is the best dildo for beginners?

A realistic body-safe silicone dildo around 12 to 16 cm long and 2.5 to 3.5 cm wide, with a suction cup or flared base.

[ + ] Can I use a dildo with my partner?

Yes. Dildos are great for foreplay and sex. Clean the toy before sharing, or use a condom over it.

[ + ] Can I use a dildo for both anal and vaginal play?

Yes, but always wash the dildo or change the condom before switching from anal to vaginal play. For anal use, the dildo must have a flared base or suction cup.

[ + ] Which lube is best for a dildo?

Water-based lube is safe with every material and is the best choice for silicone dildos. Silicone lube lasts longer and works well with glass and metal toys.

[ + ] Can I use a dildo when I am pregnant?

In most cases yes, if you use it gently, avoid very large sizes and use plenty of lube. If you have any doubts or a complicated pregnancy, ask your GP or midwife first.

[ + ] Can I use a dildo with a strap-on harness?

Yes, if it has a flat, flared base, testicles or a suction cup that sits securely behind the harness ring. Check your harness before buying.

[ + ] Can I buy a dildo discreetly in Ireland?

Yes. Every SEXstore.ie order is sent in a plain brown box with no logo or name on the outside, and your bank statement only shows “E-shop”.

Find Your Perfect Dildo at SEXstore.ie

Dildos are one of the best-selling sex toys in Ireland because they are simple, versatile and suit every body. Once you know the different types, materials and sizes, choosing the right one is easy. Browse our full dildo collection and use the filters to find your perfect length, material and style.

Free shipping on orders over €69, discreet plain packaging, “E-shop” on your bank statement, 14-day returns and a 1-year warranty on sex toys.

👉 Shop dildos at SEXstore.ie

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