22 February 2024
Trends & Advice
Choosing a masturbation toy: which one to pick? Explore new realms of pleasure
Masturbation is an intimate dialogue with your body and your desires. Over time, however, the routine can become mechanical.
Did you know that men can also experience incredible pleasure with a sex toy?
Using a masturbation device significantly heightens arousal and the intensity of your sensations. Discover our selection of the finest male sex toys to awaken your pleasure…
The benefits of masturbation
Getting to know your body and your pleasure
Masturbation is the foundation of sexual self-discovery. Because every body works differently, understanding what brings you pleasure is key to guiding your partner. Beyond helping men and women explore their G-spot, P-spot, or clitoris, masturbation also helps men train their stamina and delay ejaculation. While this exploration often begins in adolescence, its benefits continue throughout life.
The sexologist's perspective
Pierrick Fournier
Sexologist – Couples Therapist
Accessories are not an end in themselves. However, they offer a wonderful opportunity to explore intimacy from a fresh perspective. In my consultations, I often meet men who repeat the exact same motions, rhythm, and stimulations. Over time, this routine can limit the discovery of new sensations, and even create a conditioning that impacts their partnered sex life. Using an accessory with curiosity, rather than a performance mindset, can help you tune into your sensations, diversify stimulation, and better understand what fuels your pleasure. This self-knowledge is a valuable asset for a richer sex life, both solo and with a partner. The key is to ensure the accessory serves your intimacy, not the other way around.
A natural stress reliever
During masturbation, your body releases endorphins. Often called "feel-good hormones," they naturally soothe stress, creating a deep sense of pleasure and relaxation. This helps you drift off to sleep and enhances overall sleep quality. If you struggle to fall asleep, masturbation serves as a natural sedative and anxiety reliever!
A natural pain reliever
Endorphins do not just promote relaxation; they also act as a natural pain reliever. Masturbation can help alleviate headaches, bloating, and menstrual cramps (including breast tenderness and back pain).
A positive impact on health
Masturbation is a physical activity in its own right that can boost cardiovascular health by toning the heart. Furthermore, frequent ejaculation prevents the buildup of seminal fluid in the prostatic ducts, helping to lower the risk of prostate cancer, which remains the most common cancer among men.
When should you use a masturbation toy?
Solo masturbation
The best reason to invest in a masturbation device is to elevate your solo intimacy! As mentioned earlier, touching yourself is an essential way to discover what feels good and nurture self-connection. Masturbation is particularly helpful for reclaiming your desires at your own pace after a breakup or a difficult period.
With a partner
According to a study[1], only 18% of women experience an orgasm during penetrative sex. This makes couples' masturbation a wonderful way to reinvent your intimacy. Using a pleasure device on your partner deepens connection within the relationship and enhances pleasure for both women and men alike.
Cybersex
Cybersex refers to all online sexual interactions: watching adult videos, engaging in online hookups, webcam sessions, and more.
According to a study, only 18% of women experience an orgasm during penetrative sex.
Have you heard of teledildonics? It involves engaging in remote intimacy using app-connected sex toys, such as love eggs, vibrators, and more.
Everyday household items vs sex toys
After years of sexual experience, it is natural to encounter a plateau. Fortunately, you can easily rekindle desire and excitement by exploring new practices. Experiencing pleasure with a dedicated device is a wonderful way to do so. But which masturbation toy should you choose? Is it truly necessary to invest in a sex toy? Can an ordinary household item do the trick?
Some people swear by everyday household objects:
- a cushion or the shower head jet to stimulate the clitoris;
- hairbrush handles or phallic vegetables for penetration;
- a string of beads around the shaft to intensify sensations, etc.
Sex toys remain the safest, most effective way to elevate masturbation. They are specifically designed to stimulate erogenous zones (G-spot, P-spot, penis, testicles, clitoris, etc.) through targeted actions (vibration, suction, pressure, warming, etc.). Contrary to popular belief, they are not just for women. An increasing range of male sex toys is now available for men.
How to choose the right sex toy
Forget the aubergine and the hairbrush! For both women and men, the best masturbation aid is undeniably a purpose-built sex toy. With the wide variety of adult toys available in shops and online, finding the right fit can feel overwhelming.
Before choosing a sex toy, consider:
- the erogenous zone you want to stimulate: pleasure focused on the penis, testicles, anus, perineum, prostate, etc.
- desired sensations: pressure, suction, vibration, penetration, etc.
There are sex toys suited for solo masturbation as well as for couples' play, including waterproof toys designed for indulging in the shower.
Keep in mind that not all masturbation devices are created equal. Ensure that the products you choose comply with European Union manufacturing and safety standards. Check their dimensions and features, and choose body-safe, premium materials (such as silicone), taking into account any allergies you or your partner might have.
Finding the right masturbation toy for men
The sex doll
A sex doll, typically made from silicone, is a life-sized model designed with anatomical openings: mouth, vagina, and anus. It is often chosen by single men seeking companionship and physical touch, allowing them to fondle, kiss, and engage in intimacy in various positions. However, its inanimate nature can be off-putting for many, and its large size makes it impractical to take on trips.
The masturbation sleeve
The masturbation sleeve, also known as a pocket stroker or masturbator, is designed to recreate the sensation of penetration while providing snug suction around the penis. Premium models feature vibration, warming, suction, and oscillation functions, while others are styled realistically with anatomical details.
The penis ring
The penis ring (or cock ring), often used during intercourse, also makes an excellent masturbation tool. It is a ring worn around the shaft and/or testicles. It enhances erections and delays ejaculation, offering clear practical benefits. In addition, masturbating with a vibrating cock ring significantly amplifies pleasure. It is essential to select a cock ring that fits comfortably and not to wear it for more than 30 minutes at a time.
The dildo
Just like an anal plug, a dildo is designed to provide anal pleasure. However, it is larger and wider than a plug. Its phallic, sometimes curved shape resembles the male anatomy. One of the most popular models is the suction cup dildo, which attaches to a flat surface (floor, wall, chair, mirror, shower door). This leaves the user hands-free to adopt any position they like during penetration!
Anal beads
Anal beads are a sex toy made of silicone, glass, or metal, consisting of small spheres joined along a flexible shaft or cord. These beads are inserted one by one. If you are new to this type of sex toy, we recommend starting with a flexible set and not inserting every bead right away. Many anal bead designs include a retrieval loop at the base for effortless removal.
The prostate massager
A prostate massager is essentially a male vibrator designed to stimulate the P-spot through targeted vibrations. To achieve a prostate orgasm, you gently insert the curved device into the rectum and select your desired speed. Some vibrators feature a cock ring to intensify sensations and maintain a firmer erection for longer.
The anal plug
The anal plug is a toy designed for anal masturbation. It features a tapered shape and a wide, flared base to prevent any suction hazard. It glides in smoothly, ideally with plenty of lubricant. Once inserted, this sex toy can be gently moved back and forth or in circular motions to stimulate the anal canal.
ONY male sex toys
The Pure masturbation sleeve
Looking for a masturbation device to enjoy in the shower? The ONY Pure sleeve is a waterproof sex toy boasting a clean, elegant design. Intuitive to use and equipped with a dust-proof cap, you will love its dynamic, natural suction designed to deliver intensely powerful orgasms.
In total, we offer 3 different masturbation sleeves:
- the ribbed sleeve, recreating the sensations of vaginal penetration;
- the beaded sleeve, replicating the sensations of anal penetration;
- the combination sleeve (ribbed and beaded), replicating the sensations of oral pleasure.
The Nomad masturbation sleeve
Discreet and compact, Nomad fits seamlessly into a modern lifestyle. This male masturbation sleeve delivers realistic sensations of penetration and adds a unique sensory dimension to solo pleasure. Satisfaction is always within reach with Nomad.
The Explo prostate massager
At ONY, we cater to every man's desires with sex toys tailored to all forms of pleasure. If you wish to explore deeper sensations and anal play is something you enjoy or are curious to try, our Explo prostate massager is made for you. Crafted from silky silicone, it delivers targeted vibrations to 2 highly erogenous zones: the prostate and the perineum. In total, this male sex toy features 9 vibration modes and 9 oscillation modes. It is fully waterproof and can be operated from a distance using a remote control.
The Exa One automatic masturbator
Exa One pushes the boundaries of pleasure with 9 thrusting modes, 9 suction modes, and 9 rotation modes. Each feature adds a new layer to the experience, creating an immersive, captivating journey. Reach new heights of ecstasy with Exa One, a masterpiece of modern design and technology.
The Pulse One vibrating cock ring
Our silicone cock ring enhances the longevity of your erection while intensifying climax with 10 vibration modes. Fully adjustable, it fits all penis sizes comfortably. Pulse One is remotely controlled and offers up to 70 minutes of battery life.
Precautions to take when using a masturbation toy
Ban everyday household objects
Everyday household objects found around the home are not suitable for masturbation. They carry a risk of breaking, causing injury, or becoming lodged in the rectum due to the natural suction effect of the anal sphincter. If you are not looking to invest in a sex toy right away, the best approach is to explore pleasure with your fingers!
Clean your sex toy regularly
A sex toy should be washed with warm water and soap after every use. Cleaning is even more essential when using penetrative items. A silicone-based sex toy offers many advantages: it does not degrade and is very easy to clean.
To look after your device, we recommend using a specialised care product, such as the ONY Cleaning Foam. This foam does not just guarantee impeccable hygiene; it also extends the lifespan of your toy.
Do not leave a sex toy lying out in the open
Storing your sex toy in a dry place away from direct light (such as a drawer, cupboard, or storage box) protects it from dust and keeps it in pristine condition. If the device contains plastic materials, avoid direct sunlight and keep it away from heat sources. High temperatures can cause plastic to release substances harmful to your body and health.
Use lubricant
Whether electric or manual, warming, vibrating, creating pressure, suction, or penetration, any pleasure toy is always far more enjoyable when paired with lubricant. Feel free to be generous—you can never use too much! Water-based lubricant is easy to clean and compatible with most sex toys. It is perfectly suited for silicone toys.
Beware of excessive reliance on sex toys
Using a masturbation device should remain a balanced pleasure. An obsessive reliance on a sex toy can be a sign of sexual addiction. Additionally, a cock ring should never be worn for more than 30 consecutive minutes to maintain healthy blood circulation and prevent tissue injury.
Do not share your sex toy
As a general rule, a masturbation toy should not be shared. However, if you decide to share a penetrative sex toy (such as a dildo or anal plug) during intimacy, always cover it with a condom first. Otherwise, bacteria from the rectum could disrupt your partner's vaginal flora and increase the risk of STIs.
Masturbation toys: key takeaways
Rest assured, adult videos will never match the sensations of a premium vibrator! Using a sex toy for masturbation is a game-changer for both men and women. Leave household objects behind and opt for a high-quality sex toy. Don’t hesitate to explore hidden erogenous zones… Anal plugs, dildos, and vibrators are powerful toys specifically designed to stimulate the prostate and trigger intensely powerful orgasms!
Lucile Tizon
Web copywriter
[1] Survey conducted in 2019 by Lelo
