How to pick the right Dildo for you or your partner

How to pick the right Dildo for you or your partner

Club X Blog

Dildos are broadly defined as sex toys designed for penetration, however other toys such as plugs or vibrators can be inserted as well. A typical dildo has a tapered tip and smooth shaft for easy insertion. The head or shaft will repeatedly rub against a sensitive area to create a pleasurable feeling.

They come in a variety of shapes, colours, sizes and materials. Some curve at the tip to directly massage the prostate or g-spot. Others have veined shafts to provide extra stimulation as you pull the dildo in and out. With so many choices, it can be hard to decide which dildo is right for you. This guide will help you learn the differences and find a dildo suitable to you.

What are the different types of dildos?

1. Realistic Dildos

Realistic dildos have a lifelike appearance, texture and firmness. They feature balls at the base, a veined shaft and a penis head tip. Often they are made of rubber which gives them a firm yet flexible shaft. 

How to use it

Realistic dildos are ideal for someone craving the look and feel of a penis. This can include couples who want to engage in role reversal, strap-on sex, and pegging. 

Keep in mind...

The realistic appearance may cause your partner to feel jealous, or uncomfortable if they dislike the look of penises. Have an open conversation with your partner and perhaps suggest non-realistic dildos as an alternative. We list some further down the list.  

Browse the Club X Realistic Dildos collection to bring lifelike feeling into your bedroom.

2. Vibrating Dildos

Vibrating dildos have a shaft that rumbles for increase stimulation. The controls can be found on a remote, a twist dial at the base, or wherever else the manufacturer positions it.

How to use it

Anyone who wants a vibrator but in the shape of a penis should consider vibrating dildos. They offer increase stimulation that can be timed to your liking and provide the added thrill of a realistic appearance.

Keep in mind…

Often vibrating dildos require batteries or an electrical outlet. When the vibrations are active, they can be loud, so find a private space for your late night bliss-outs.

Tip: If you run out of batteries, borrow some for the TV remote.

Browse the Club X Vibrating Dildos collection for seismic orgasms that will bring you to your knees.

3. Anal Dildos

Anal dildos are specifically designed for safe anal play. A flared base or set of balls prevent the dildo from getting stuck inside you.

How to use it

For those who enjoy the sensation of being filled up, or general anal stimulation. Along the rectum, there are sensitive nerve endings that can be stimulated with physical contact. If you have a prostate, it can also feel pleasurable to massage it with a dildo.

Keep in mind...

Not everyone likes anal play, and it is not always beginner friendly. We recommend further research and listening to your body as you experiment.

Tip: Use plenty of lube and then more if you are new to anal play.

4. Strap-on Dildos and Harness Dildos

Strap-on dildos are worn as an adjustable harness that wraps around your hips and thighs. The dildo slips through the front and is often held in place by an ‘O ring’. You can swap out the dildo for other harness compatible dildos that feature a flared base for the O ring to hold on to.

How to use it

Strap-on dildos and harness dildos are fantastic for role reversal, strap-on sex and pegging. If your partner doesn’t have a penis, they can take on a penetrative role with a strap-on dildo. It also allows for double penetration without a third person.

Keep in mind…

The person wearing the strap-on dildo may not receive direction stimulation from the dildo. Learning to thrust the dildo with your hips can take some time to learn. It's this fresh start that adds excitement back into your sex life. 

Browse the Club X Strap-on Dildos and Harness Dildos collections to open a world of new sexual possibilities. 

5. Double Ended Dildos

Imagine a penis shaft but with a penis head on each end. Without any balls, it looks kind of like a snake. Both ends can be inserted.

How to use it

Double ended dildo can be used by two people at the same time. Sit across from each other and insert the dildo from your end. You can either ride from your side of the dildo or grab the shaft and tug it in and out of each other.

For solo play, the double ended dildo can be bent into a ‘U’ shape for double penetration, a two in one deal.

Keep in mind...

There is no flared base to stop the dildo from getting stuck inside you so use with caution. The large size can be intimidating and hard to hide. Then again, the adrenaline of facing something challenging can be sexually invigorating.

Browse the Club X Double Ended Dildos collection for double penetration with someone else or all to yourself. 

6. Large Dildos

Dildos that are lengthier and girthier than you might have thought possible. Large dildos can range from a believable 7 inches (17 cm) to a hole clenching 13 inches (33 cm). The diameters can be the size of your wrist and even fist.

How to use it

Experienced users who are looking for a challenge should consider larger dildos. Those who enjoy the feeling of being stretched out and filled up may also benefit from a monster sized dildo.

Keep in mind…

Despite our best efforts, sometimes dildos can be too big to insert. Before buying a large dildo as a gift, discuss the limits of the person you're buying it for. You might be surprised at their answer.


Browse the Club X Large Dildos collection for a new hole stretcher or emergency door stopper. 

7. Clone-a-Willy 

These are DIY kits that let you create a dildo shaped after your penis. First, you create a mould of your penis inside a tube and then pour the dildo material into the empty space your penis pushed out. Instructions may vary between different kits.

How to use it

Personalised dildos are the perfect valentine’s day, birthday or holiday gift for a loved one. Those in long-term relationships can surprise their partner with a romantic token of their sexual desire.

Keep in mind…

Making a dildo from a Clone-a-Willy kit can be timing consuming. It’s important to follow the instruction manual for the best results and safe use. This is truly a labour of love. 

Browse the Club X Willy Moulding Kits collection to make a dildo personal to your relationship. 

8. Glass Dildos

Glass dildos are made of solid borosilicate glass, which makes them durable against cracking or chipping. The smooth surface is easy to insert and has an aesthetic appeal as the glass can be shaped into various designs.

How to use it

Glass dildos are recommended for those who enjoy temperature play. To adjust the temperature, you can place the dildo in a bowl of cold or hot water. The firmer nature of glass allows for more intense pressure against your sensitive areas.

Keep in mind...

When experimenting with temperature play, test the dildo against your hand before inserting it. Testing it on yourself lets you keep your partner in anticipation for an even more satisfying start. 

Browse the Club X Glass Dildos collection for spine-tingling temperature play.

9. Rubber Dildos

Rubber dildos are made of TPE or TPR (Thermoplastic elastomer/rubber). These materials lend a realistic firmness yet flexibility to the dildo’s shaft. A cheaper alternative to firm yet soft silicone dildos.

How to use it

Rubber dildos are ideal for those seeking a realistic penis texture, firmness and look.

Keep in mind...

Rubber can have a slight ‘nail polish’ smell. The surface of rubber dildos also has pores that bacteria can settle into, so it’s crucial to clean and use a condom when sharing. Peace of mind lets you fully surrender to the moment. 

Browse the Club X Rubber Dildo collection to start rubbin' your way into realistic dildos. 

10. Inflatable Dildos

Inflatable dildos can be pumped with air to increase the length and girth. A hose connects the squeezable hand pump to the bottom of the dildo.

How to use it

Similar to large dildos, inflatable dildos can provide the feeling of being stretched out and filled but with more control. You can start by inserting the smaller original size, and then pump it bigger inside you.

Keep in mind…

Once the toy is inserted inside you, you can’t see how big you're inflating the dildo. Do a trial run by pumping the dildo before you insert it to see how big it can get. During sex, remember to communicate with your partner, or if you’re solo, check in with your body.

11. Silicone Dildos

Dildos made from 100% medical grade silicone are a skin sensitive option. Regarding pleasure, silicone can make dildos firm but with a smooth plush surface for sensual body contact.

How to use it

If latex or other materials irritate your skin, silicone toys can be a safer alternative. They have the bonus of offering firm yet cushioned penetration.

Keep in mind...

Do not mix silicone lube and silicone toys. The silicone lube can break down the silicone surface of your dildo. Each of these products will be clearly labelled as being made of silicone so you can easily read the package to avoid confusion.  

12. Metal Dildos

Like the piercing you might be wearing, dildos can be made of stainless steel. The smooth polished surface is pleasing to look at and allows for easy insertion. Metal dildos are another type of dildo that can be heated or cooled.

How to use it

Those seeking firmer pressure against their most sensitive areas will appreciate the heavy, rigid feeling of metal dildos. They’re also an alternative to glass dildos for those who seek temperature play.

Keep in mind…

Metal dildos are heavy and rigid which may cause discomfort for some people. Open discussion and patience can help your partner overcome these feelings if they are willing to give it a shot. 

How to pick the right dildo for you?

When choosing the right for you, it helps to consider use, material and size.

How do you want to use the dildo? 

To determine what use you want out of a dildo, ask yourself what kind of sensation or experience you're seeking.

I want it to feel like the real thing — Consider a realistic dildo

I like the feeling of being stretched out — Consider a large or inflatable dildo

I want to try penetrating — Consider a strap-on harness and interchangeable harness dildos 

Chat with people, read reviews, join online forums to better understand the dildo you think might be right for you. With some dildos such as an inflatable one, it can be hard to predict what it feels like. Sometimes the only way to know is to experiment. Try a cheaper alternative before investing in a premium version.

What material is the dildo made out of? 

Once you know what type of dildo you want, it’s time to consider material. The material can affect multiple aspects of a dildo such as sensation, cleaning and lifespan.

Metal, glass and medical grade silicone are easy to clean, sterile and non-porous. This makes them easy to keep sanitary and can be shared more safely with partners. Those seeking hypoallergenic options or who are allergic to latex will appreciate medical grade silicone.

TPE/TPR can be free of latex and phthalates but are still porous, which means bacteria can remain inside the toy. Use a condom when sharing and clean with anti-bacterial toy cleaner.

What size is the dildo? 

Bigger isn’t necessarily better. A dildo that is too big can be uncomfortable. The right size and shape for you depend on use and experience level. If you want the feeling of being stretched out, start with a 1.5” (3.8 cm) diameter. If you enjoy targeted stimulation of the g-spot or prostate, start with a 1” (2.5 cm) or 1.25” (3 cm) diameter.

When considering measurement, you should know the difference between circumference and diameter. Circumference is the length of the circle all around (imagine wrapping measuring tape around the shaft). Diameter is the length of the circle from one side cutting straight across to the other side.

TIP: Before buying a dildo, measure vegetables for a rough idea of how big your ideal dildo is.

How to use a dildo

Like any product you buy, it helps to know how to use it. Make your dildo something you’ll want to indulge in with these simple steps:

  1. Set the mood by playing some music and dimming the lights. Whether it’s your first time or hundredth, getting yourself relaxed and eager is always a good practice. 
  2. Clean your toy with anti-bacterial toy cleaner and warm water. Consider slipping a condom over the dildo if you are sharing, concerned about the material, or want cleaning afterwards to be easier. 
  3. Warm yourself up. Stimulating other erogenous zones such as your nipples, or wearing a small butt plug can prepare your body for larger toys. This is especially important if you are attempting anal.
  4. Lubricate yourself and the dildo. Lubricant reduces friction for a more comfortable and pleasurable experience. Choose a lubricant that is compatible with your dildo’s material. Waterbased lube is recommended as it's universal. Read our lubricant guide to learn about the different types. 
  5. Start slowly inserting the dildo, beginning with the head and then inching in the shaft. Remember to breathe. It’s ok if it takes multiple attempts to insert the dildo

Cleaning and Storage

Cleaning and storing your dildos preserves the quality of the material and keeps it sanitary for future use. Depending on the material, some dildos can be bleached, and others can be put in the dishwasher. We strongly recommend you read the instruction manual that provides specific methods of cleaning and storage for your dildo.

Here’s a simple 3 step guide to cleaning your typical dildo:

  1. Spray it with anti-bacterial toy cleaner. 
  2. Rinse under running warm water.
  3. Wipe it down and leave it to air dry completely on a towel.

It’s best to store your dildo in a dry, cool space away from sunlight. When dildos are piled on top of each other, they can distort or stain the dildos they are touching. Store them separately to prevent this, or leave enough room between them.

Now that you know more about dildos, browse the Club X dildo collection for a pleasure pole that’s right for you. 

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