Which Sex Toys are Best for Your 2023 Needs, and How and Why They Make Relationships Better

The global sex toy market is rapidly expanding. Estimated to have been an over $30 billion dollar market in 2020, the adult novelty industry’s growth is encouraging for human health and happiness in many ways. Pleasure devices are finally being destigmatized (hooray!), and more humans are finding their joy! It helps that toys are finally being viewed for what they are - health and wellness devices. 

The medical community agrees that humans need more pleasure in their lives, because pleasure offers our bodies a wealth of health benefits. Studies have shown that orgasms are a wonderful way to naturally lower stress, improve sleep, decrease pain, keep the blood flowing and heart healthier, and can improve genital health in both penises and vaginas. 

While some couples are apprehensive about using sex toys, research shows that there are many reasons to incorporate devices into your sexual routine. From the first conversation about using toys the couple benefits from increased communication, which is key to relationship satisfaction. 

The willingness to try new things is a bonding experience that helps couples feel closer and more trusting of each other. And the increased pleasure couples can experience by adding devices increases an overall sense of satisfaction benefitting every area of the relationship. “Anything that brings more pleasure to your sex life can help your relationship,” psychologist and sex therapist Kristin Zeising, PsyD told Everyday Health Magazine.

It’s normal to feel a little nervous talking with a partner about introducing new things into one’s sexual routine. Zeising recommends suggesting it as a way to add to the fun you’re already having. Studies, like this one at Chapman University, indicate that the couples who reported feeling satisfied with both their sex life and relationship were more likely to also report having used sex toys together.

Are you currently single? Using toys can not only increase your pleasure, it can help you learn about your body, and what types of stimulation you prefer. Knowing what you need to climax is key to being able to enjoy yourself when partnered. Being able to share our preferences is a win for everyone. So enjoy your solo play by exploring as much as possible. :)

Where should one begin? There are a lot of types of devices out there designed to increase human pleasure. The trick is that we humans don’t all enjoy the same thing. Finding the right fit for you may take some research. But, man, that can be fun research to do! 

Most humans enjoy the feel of vibrations, so that is the place I recommend that most people begin. 

Small vibrators are often a win, and there are many shapes, sizes, colors and varieties to choose from. Vibes can be used all over the body, just make certain that it has a flared-base or handle if it is going to be used for insertion.

The Tracy's Dog Original Sucking Vibrator is an innovative device that can simultaneously stimulate your clitoris and G-spot, producing intense orgasms that will leave you gasping with pleasure. Crafted from high-quality silicone, it is completely safe for use on your body, and its smooth texture, waterproofing, and odorlessness make it a pleasure to use. Its flexible and bendable design allows you to customize your experience to your liking, whether you prefer to use it alone or with a partner. Enjoy exploring the many ways in which this vibrator can enhance your sexual experiences!

I recommend checking out the Lovelife Discover by OhMiBod. Is this not the cutest little toy ever? It’s their petite size, which is great for travel and highly recommended as a starter toy for singles or couples not sure where to begin. There’s zero risk of anyone feeling intimidated by this adorable toy. But don’t underestimate the power you can get from this little guy. It has seven preset vibrations so you can easily find a setting to please. It’s made from phthalate-free, body-safe silicone, and is splash proof for wetter play and easy clean-up. Recharge this easily with a usb charger. 

Similarly, CalExotics has a great line of vibes called Uncorked. I particularly like the Merlot, which is super beginner (or advanced user) friendly. At only three inches, this toy packs a surprising amount of power, and is great for travel. It has ten settings and a wonderful rounded end that feels wonderful all over the body. You’ll get up to three hours of use from this toy, which can be easily usb recharged. It is made from phthalate-free, body-safe plastic. 

Looking for something not so… pink? I am a big fan of PlusOne products, and this Mini Massager works wonderfully on all sorts of nooks of the body. With ten stimulation settings, you have options to enjoy. Like all of their toys, it is made from body-safe plastic, is easily recharged with a usb charger and is waterproof for boundless play and easy clean-up.

I am often asked about rabbit vibes, to which I say, Yes! For those with a vulva/vagina looking for dual clitoral and vaginal stimulation, there are many types of rabbit toys from which to choose. Just be aware that there are still a lot of rabbit toys made from softer, jelly-like materials that are not safe from delicate vaginal tissues. Make certain that the toy is made from body-safe plastic that is free of phthalates and scents. 

My first quality rabbit toy was made by Lovehoney, and maybe that makes me sentimental about their products. I quite like their Desire Luxury Rechargeable Rabbit. It has 8 vibration modes and 12 speeds, and is made of body-safe plastic that’s waterproof for wet play and easy cleaning. As the name indicates, you can easily recharge the fun with a usb charger.

I’ve also really enjoyed the California Dreaming Beverly Hills Bunny by CalExotics. I find the traditional bunny ear clitoral stimulators to be a treat. I recommend using just the ears along delicate vulva areas first, but if you just get straight to dual stimulation that’s fun too. ;) This vibe has three independent shaft rotations and ten vibration functions, so play around and find the combo that feels good to you. This is made from body-safe plastic and is usb rechargeable. The 3 second hold lock makes this toy travel friendly. 

I would be remiss if I didn’t point to the toy I have most often gift-given to vulva/vagina havers in my life, which is the Satisfyer Pro 2 with air-pulse clitoral stimulation. It’s a win for most clits. While vibration can feel great, it can also be too much for some clitorises. Air pulsing and sucking toys that don’t actually make physical contact can feel a lot better, and are known to reliably bring orgams forth for most clit-havers that try them.