It’s pretty easy to know whether or not you’re an adventurous person who will jump onto a rollercoaster without signing a will and saying your last goodbyes. It’s also fairly easy to know if you’re an adventurous eater. You know, a person who braves the eats like Andrew Zimmerman.  The adventure line blurs right around where sex surfaces. This makes sense because sex can be very complicating. In other words, it can be difficult to determine whether you’re daring or demure, in the sack.

According to sex therapist, Ian Kerner, there are two types of people when it comes to sex: comfort creatures and thrill seekers. Comfort creatures like to keep sex in the confines of their homes, with one partner, and tend to stick to a few trusted positions. Thrill seekers, clearly, are the opposite. They get off on trying new positions, in new locations, and spicing things up with sex toys and different partners. In a perfect world, a couple of comfort creatures or thrill seekers would be together – all of the time – because they would be on the same sexual wave length. But, as we all know, we don’t live in a perfect world. So, how does it work when a thrill seeker and comfort creature want to hook-up?

Understandably, this is a common issue as most people don’t discover they’re mismatched until further into the relationship. Kerner attributes this to “infatuation hormones,” which mask any incompatibility there may be between the sheets. In other words, you’re so busy getting it on you don’t notice you’re into S&M and he’s into spooning until the infatuation begins to fade.  Which is where the trouble starts, and when you might look at your partner and think: Cuddling, again, really?

By no means do these different sexual types have to be a deal-breaker, though. After all, the brain is the utmost sexual organ. So express yourself with it and all will be good…with a little compromise.

While it’s much more fun to talk about the “do’s” of sex, there are some questions Fascinations associates are frequently asked that require a more nuanced explanation of why you should “just say no.” Vaginal tightening creams are one of the items we are asked for in our stores, and many people are confused when they find out that we don’t carry any tightening gels, creams or sprays. If you are interested in why Fascinations doesn’t carry these products anymore, or are thinking about trying a tightening cream, read the following information before making that choice.

The basic premise of a vaginal tightening cream is that it is applied inside the vaginal canal before intercourse, and as it takes effect, it causes the vagina to tighten. Over time, the effect wears off, so more cream must be applied. Extended use of a tightening cream does not permanently strengthen the PC muscles, or result in a “tighter” vagina. While the concept of tightening cream is appealing to many people, it’s important to question why our society feels the need to produce products that promote an unrealistic image of vaginas that doesn’t live up to reality. Additionally, the question of how these creams work brings up some safety and sexual health issues to be aware of.

Every person’s vagina is different in lots of ways including shape, color, hair (or lack-of), and tightness. Promoting an ideal that vaginas are only good if they are “tight” fails to acknowledge the diversity of different vaginas and creates a false ideal which creates insecurity in people who have vaginas, and unrealistic expectations in people who like vaginas. So, let’s get this out of the way here: No matter what you (or someone else’s) vagina looks or feels like, it’s awesome and shouldn’t be any other way. There has never been a universal vagina mold that all vaginas aspire to imitate, and however tight, hairy, or colorful your vagina is, it’s cool just the way it is. This is not to say that vaginas don’t change over time, and become less tight than they used to be; this is a fact of life, and is generally caused by weakened PC muscles due to childbirth or age. However, the use of a tightening gel isn’t going to solve these common health problems, and there is a much better long term way to strengthen the PC muscles, without the possible negative health effects.

Besides the more theoretical implications of the demand for tightening creams, it’s also important to understand how these creams work, and why they might not be the best choice if you want to strengthen your PC muscles. Almost all tightening gels and creams contain alum, which is the same ingredient in most deodorants. This means that every time you apply a tightening cream, it is “tightening” the vagina by absorbing all the natural moisture. This can mean pain with any sort of penetration (since there’s little to no natural lubricant), which doesn’t sound too fun. Additionally, alum has been known to irritate people who have sensitive skin, and can be painful if your body is not compatible with it. On a more serious health note, alum may contribute to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s, and while there is no conclusive link, it’s often best to avoid items that contain ingredients that might be bad for you, especially if you’re using that item internally, and if there are other alternatives available.

On a more economic note, it ends up costing a lot of money to keep buying a tightening gel for every sexual encounter, since it has no permanent effect, so you have to keep using it no matter what to keep the same results. Anyone can strengthen their PC muscles (which will help with vaginal tightness, orgasm control, and incontinence prevention) permanently by investing in a good set of Kegel Balls (like the Ami, or Smartballs) and some water-based lube. You can also use a graduated bar like the NJoy Fun Wand or Icicles No 8 to aid in the strengthening of the PC muscles as well. These toys have the added effect of permanently strengthening the vaginal muscles, meaning the results will be evident over time, and not something that lasts for a few minutes at a time. If you want more detailed information on PC muscle exercise, you can refer to our blog post here.

In the end, the short-term advantages of tightening gels don’t seem outweigh the other issues that may arise when using them, so it’s recommended to exercise your PC muscles the traditional way (with a Kegel bar or Kegel balls) that will lead to long-term health benefits and a happier sex life. Generally, if something seems like a quick fix to a sexual health concern, it’s probably too good to be true. Improving your sex life and/or sexual health almost always requires some time and energy.

Instead of making the same old New Year’s Resolution again about how you’re finally going to drop those last five pounds or quit smoking, how about making one that will really benefit you – and the one you love. That’s right, resolve to last longer in bed. Below are five sure fire ways to help you avoid the utterly embarrassing, status-post wrinkled penis explosion.

Masturbate

When you masturbate, think about a woman orgasming. (Sure, you can envision Great Grandma Ester; whatever makes you last.) Get yourself almost to the point of blowing it – approximately 12 minutes or so. Just practice. It’s called endurance, guys.

Kegel Exercise

The Pubococcygeus (PC) muscle controls the flow of urine and semen. The stronger this baby is, the longer you’ll last. So, stop focusing on squats and start focusing on Kegels. When you’re hovering over the urinal, cut off the flow of urine and then start and stop; hold for a count of 10 and release. Do 30 reps and call it a day.  Once you’ve mastered it, you can practice at your desk, in the grocery store, but probably not while you’re doing squats.

Chivalry

Sex can induce a lot of pressure on a guy. But, you know what alleviates some of that unnecessary pressure? Making her come first. When your partner orgasms first, the anxiety you feel to please her dissipates, which is an underlying factor in premature ejaculation.

Saddle Up

Positioning is everything, especially when you’re prone to premature ejaculation. With your partner on top, your penis is less stimulated and therefore, you will be able to go the distance.

Don’t Think

Be in the moment. The more attention you give something, the more likely it is to happen. Your mind is powerful. So, enjoy the amazing sensations in your body and simply enjoy them.

We don’t expect you to go at this alone. Below are a couple amazing options that will make your job so much easier.

• Desensitizing Gel, such as System Jo Prolonger, which improves ejaculation control and stamina.

• A Cock Ring, which is worn around the base of a man’s phallus, constricts the vessels leading in and out of the penis. The result is a rock hard boner as well as delayed and heightened orgasms. Check out the Rock Hard Power Kit or the Quick Release Cock Cage.

After years of hoping for better quality vibrating panties and wireless remote bullets, Lelo and We-Vibe have delivered with the first chargeable toys that come with wireless remotes, and they’re as fun and durable as can be. Lelo’s Lyla and Oden, and the We-Vibe 3, may be three of the greatest toys ever made (OK, I’m just really excited about them), especially if you’re looking for high quality remote-operated toys. The biggest complaint about these toy’s battery-operated counterparts is that they take tiny batteries that run out quickly, are expensive, and are impossible to find. Once you use up the batteries that come with most wireless remote bullets or vibrating panties, you have to go on a scavenger hunt to find more. The Lyla, Oden, and We-Vibe 3 solve this battery problem for good and make teasing and pleasing your partner easier with sleek, well-designed toys.

The Lyla is a 100% silicone bullet-style toy with a wireless remote (most similar to other wireless remote bullets). The bullet part of the Lyla charges (after no more than two hours), and the remote takes 2 AAA batteries, which means that in a crunch, you can just pop the batteries out of your TV remote control if needed. It also has a handy retrieval cord, which means you can insert it, give your partner the remote, and start the fun. It can also be used externally for clitoral stimulation. Of course, if you’re going to be wearing the Lyla internally for an extended period of time, you want to use a water-based lube with it, so it doesn’t become uncomfortable. The bullet is probably a little too large to be discreet if inserted in a pair of panties, so if that’s your goal, you probably want to look at the Oden instead.

The Oden may seem to be a perplexing shape at first sight, but it’s form only adds to it’s function. The ring at the bottom of the Oden means it can easily be slipped around the base of the penis for some added stimulation during intercourse. If you’re using it this way, it’s probably best that he lie on his back and you get on top to keep the toy in place and control your contact with it. However, the neatest design aspect of the Oden is that it’s flat, and curved, to easily fit in the front of a pair of panties, so it works as a smarter (and quieter) alternative to vibrating panties. The bullet part of the Oden charges and the remote takes 2 AAA batteries, just like the Lyla.

Even with the smart and sleek designs of the Lyla and the Oden, one of the coolest design features is in the remote control. The remote that comes with each of these toys comes with SenseMotion technology, which operates in a few different ways. If you’re using the button controls on the remote, a small motor in the remote vibrates at the same speed as it does in the bullet, so you know what type of vibration your partner is feeling. No other wireless remote toys have this feature, which is helpful in being able to tease your partner exactly how you want without having to remember what setting the toy is on. However, the awesomeness doesn’t stop there. A second setting on the remote allows you to hold it in your hand and move it left and right, similar to a dial, which will increase the intensity of the vibration. It’s almost impossible to describe how intuitive this technology is without holding the bullet in one hand and the remote in the other and checking it out for yourself.

Both the Oden and Lyla are great wireless bullets with different purposes, but if you want an entirely handsfree couple’s toy, the We-Vibe 3 is a perfect option. The We-Vibe 3 is the exact same thing as the We-Vibe 2, which means it is a 100% silicone U-shaped toy with a vibrator for the G-Spot and one for the clitoris, but it is thin enough to be worn during sex, which means it stimulates your partner’s penis a lot more than your standard vibrating cock ring, since it sits inside the vagina. The We-Vibe 3 is different from the We-Vibe 2 in three ways; it has a wireless remote, it is fully submergible, and it has more power. If you want to change the We-Vibe 3‘s speed, you just click the remote until you find the perfect speed or pulsation setting instead of having to reach between you and your partner to hit the button. Of course, using it in the exact same way as the We-Vibe 2 would be boring, and since the We-Vibe 3 includes the wireless remote, you can insert one side and let the other side sit against your clit in a pair of panties and go out on the town. With any of the We-Vibe models, using a water-based lube is recommended to make the experience as slippery and comfortable as possible.

Instead of spending an endless amount of money on small batteries, or fretting about vibrating panties and remote bullets that are too loud to wear in public, you now have three great silicone, chargeable options to choose from. If you’re looking for an insertable wireless bullet, the Lelo Lyla is the way to go. If you want a toy you can use a vibrating cock ring, or panty vibrator, the Lelo Oden is probably right for you. And if you want a toy that stimulates both you and your partner if used during sex, but can also be put in a pair of panties for a night on the town, the We-Vibe 3 is probably best for you.

While it’s sometimes fun to surprise your partner with a naughty gift under the Christmas tree, the holidays are also a time to celebrate family and friends and remind them how much they mean to us. That doesn’t mean you have to go 100% vanilla with a set of slippers or a sweater, though. Sometimes you can find a romantic gift that expresses “nice” more than “naughty,” but doesn’t manage to be boring. The following five suggestions will all show your partner that they got put on Santa’s nice list this year. Don’t worry; if your partner got put on Santa’s naughty list too, next week we’ll have some suggestions for that too.

Massage oils and accessories

Because smell and touch are two of the most important components of sensuality and sexuality, massage oils are popular gifts year round. Of course, getting massage oil, then expecting it to be used on you is not a very thoughtful gift, so make sure your gift comes with the intention to get some alone-time with your partner to give THEM a massage. You can do this by making a little hand-made coupon for a massage, and putting it with their gift, so they can pick the time and place. A totally selfless massage is thoughtful since the holidays can be a particularly stressful time, and might help them relax in between family activities, shopping, or parties. It can also be a way to start out a night of other “romantic activities” in the bedroom. If your partner has a favorite scent that they associate with romance, try to find an oil in that scent, or one that includes hints of that scent. If you’re not sure what your partner likes, you can always pick up the Massage Oil Kit by Kama Sutra, which includes a small bottle of each of their massage oils. That way, your partner can choose the one they find most appealing (and this is all about them, right?). Another option is the massage candles by Jimmy Jane, which are some of my personal favorites. They melt into a massage oil, are soy-based, so they’re less oily than other oils, and their scents are light and playful. Lighting a candle is always something that helps set the mood for romance, and being able to use that candle for a nice massage is an added plus. Jimmy Jane also makes a ceramic massage stone that is made to be used with their candles, or any massage oil. Of course, if traditional massage is a little too nice for you, Kama Sutra’s flavored, warming massage oils can be used first for a some sensual massage, and then licked off to proceed to naughtier activities.

Romantic Games

The only thing I remember about History class in high school is that my teacher had a belly button the size of a silver dollar. I only know this because he wore super thin polos, minus an undershirt, revealing an enormous groove where he was once attached to his mama. I totally missed the lecture on The Cold War because I was busy wondering what Mr. N used to dig all the lint out of his belly button. Some things are better left unsolved. My point in telling this story is that history doesn’t have to be boring, or disgusting, for that matter. Take sex, for instance. Below are some of intriguing tidbits about America’s favorite pastime.

Pubic wigs – Wigs were not just worn on heads in ancient times. As early as the 1400’s, women would go all Brazilian and slap on a merkin in order to battle pubic lice. While in Victorian times, prostitutes would shave their pubic hair and hide any sign of syphilis with a merkin. Nowadays, the merkin’s use is much less scandalous: actors use them to conceal their privates in nude scenes.

Condoms – Before the 15th century many Asians used glans condoms, which only covered the tip of the penis. In China they were made out of oiled silk paper or lamb intestines, while Japan used tortoise shell or animal horn. Um, sounds a little dangerous. It wasn’t until the following century when condoms went a little more upscale and were made of linen sheaths soaked in chemical solution. After drying, the condoms were attached to the penis with a ribbon. Maybe this is where the idea of gift wrapping comes from…. Check out the variety of condoms Fascinations carries.

Homosexuality – Homosexuality was listed as a mental illness by the American Psychiatric Association until 1973. Click here for a slew of gay and lesbian products.

Blow job – Seems fitting that blow jobs should be next. In the Victorian times, prostitutes answered to the name “Blowsy” and “blow” was code for ejaculation – not cocaine. So, by 1930 the term blow job was born.

Vibrators – During the 19^th century, “hysteria” was a fairly common condition amongst women and vibrators were the preferred treatment. Women diagnosed with this disorder were said to be suffering from insomnia, nervousness, fluid retention, heaviness in the abdomen, irritability, decreased libido, and a “tendency to cause trouble.” It was treated with a prescription for a vibrator. Nice these toys are now available over-the-counter at Fascinations.

Bird hookers – All penguins aren’t PG-rated like Happy Feet. Female penguins that are in a committed relationship are known to step out on their partner in order to score the pebbles they need to build their nest. These chicks are smart – they go after single males so they don’t get attacked by the male’s partner.

Shortest sex sessions: Phoenix, Denver and Chicago have the shortest sex sessions, while Miami ranks number one. It’s up to you to make a difference.

Condoms are one of a few effective ways to prevent pregnancy, and pretty much the only way to prevent the spread of STDs and STIs if you’re not in a monogamous relationship with the person you’re sleeping with, or if you don’t know their status. People often complain that using a condom “reduces the sensation” or “doesn’t feel real,” but the reality is that there are so many varieties of condoms on the market, there should be one that works for everyone. Using the excuse that a condom doesn’t feel real to avoid practicing safe sex is not only irresponsible, it’s silly. Sex with a condom isn’t going to feel the same as sex without a condom, but a different feeling isn’t necessarily a bad thing when it means protecting you and your partner’s health, and/or preventing an unwanted pregnancy. Not only are condoms essential to use for vaginal or anal intercourse, using a barrier is important for oral sex as well as any other penetrative activities. However, health risks might not be the only reason to use condoms; they also come in handy if you want to make a sex toy 100% waterproof, if you want to extend the life of a porous toy by making sure you cover it before use, or if you have multiple partners who will be sharing the same toy and don’t want to have to sterilize it between uses. If you don’t like the sensation of the condoms your using, there might be a simple fix; lube. Putting a few drops of lube on the tip of the penis, or in the tip of the condom before putting it on will help it move around more naturally (and reduce the risk of breakage). Also, because latex can have a tendency to dry people out, using lube with condoms can make the experience more enjoyable and slippery for everyone.

Often times finding a condom that works for you is all about material. A lot of people are sensitive to latex, or don’t like the feeling and smell of it. While most condoms are made out of latex, there are a few alternatives. Polyisoprene is the most latex-like material, but is better than latex because it won’t irritate people with latex sensitivities, conducts heat better than latex does (meaning you’ll be able to feel more), and prevents against pregnancy and STDs and STIs just like latex. Both Durex and Lifestyles make polyisoprene condoms; the former being the Avanti Bare and the latter being the Skyn. Polyurethane is the other latex-like alternative. Polyurethane condoms conduct heat better than latex, but are definitely not as elastic and tend to be a little baggier when on. The Trojan Supras are a polyurethane condom, and female condoms are also made out of polyurethane. If you and your partner are monogamous and know each other’s status, you might also want to try Lambskin condoms. These condoms are made out of sheep intestine, which means they have pores large enough for STDs and STIs to travel through, but not sperm, so if you want a condom that is going to prevent the transmission of disease, and prevent pregnancy, Lambskin is not the way to go. However, many people say that lambskin condoms conduct heat much better than any other condom material available. Lambskin condoms tend to be more expensive because they are an animal product. If you are a fan of latex condoms, but want the thinnest ones out there for a more “realistic feel”, the Kimono brand is a good choice. If you are unsure about what type of condom material you prefer, it’s always a good idea to try out the different 3-condom sampler packs, which will allow you to find out what you like without breaking the bank.

Another way to find a condom you and your partner like is to look at the different textures, lubricants, or shapes that condoms now come in. For guys who feel like condoms take away sensation, the Pleasure Plus brand is one of the best reviewed male condoms on the market. The condom shape includes a pouch on the underside that stimulates the frenulum, meaning the guy is going to get more sensation from thrusting. The Trojan Twisted condoms have also been recommended for this purpose. There are all other sorts of textured condoms, some to stimulate him and some to stimulate her. There are even condoms with special warming and cooling lubes on them, like the Trojan Fire and Ice, if you want some added sensation. If too much sensation is the problem, the the Trojan Extended Pleasure are condoms that have a numbing agent on the inside to help him last longer. Again, it’s often best to get one of the 3-condom packs, or a combo pack like the Lifestyles Pleasure Collection if you’re trying to find out what kinds of condoms work best for you. Plus, having to try out a bunch of different condoms gives you plenty of excuses to have lots of sex!

Besides using condoms for intercourse, one of the most creative things to dow with condoms is to use them for safe oral sex. Some companies make flavored condoms, which come in a few different flavors, but it’s often easier to get non-lubricated condoms and combine them with your favorite flavored lube. That way you won’t end up with a bunch of condoms in flavors you might not like. You can also use an non-lubricated condom to make a dental dam. Taking the condom and cutting it vertically, and then unrolling it means you can lay it across your partners vagina or anus and use it for oral sex. Even if you have access to dental dams, this method works better if you or your partner has a specific type of flavored lube you like better. Instead of only getting to choose between a few flavors of dental dams, you have infinite possibilities when you combine flavored lube and non-lubricated condoms.

Because condoms are effective at preventing pregnancy and the transmission of STDs and STIs, they come in pretty much every shape, texture and material imaginable. This means that after a little trial-and-error it’s possible for everyone to find a condom that works best for them. While sex with a condom feels different than sex without a condom, being responsible with you and your partner’s sexual health makes finding your favorite condom worth the effort.

We learn about ‘em in junior high, and then just like 8^th grade algebra we forget. I’m talking about Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). Maybe it’s fear, maybe it’s ignorance, or maybe it’s apathy. It doesn’t really matter because whatever it is, it’s very real. An estimated one in five people in the U.S. have an STD.

So how do we make it stop? Well, I’ll start by correcting this widely held misconception: It’s impossible to get STDs from oral sex. Way too many people actually believe this. They think, “Oral sex isn’t real sex, so I’m safe.” Wrong. In all actuality a lot of STDs are contracted this way because more than 70% of the population prefers oral sex to any other type of sexual activity. This made be due to the large percentage of women who can only reach orgasm through cunninglus. So, although oral sex is a safe pastime in terms of keeping buns outta the oven, it can be quite risky when it comes to STDs.

Here’s the breakdown:

HIV – The risk is very low, but it’s there. Chances for contracting the virus increase if the performer has cuts or sores in their mouth, if ejaculation occurs in the mouth, and/or if the receiver has any other STDs. The major risk is for the performer, but unless he/she just had their wisdom teeth pulled and are oozing blood, oral sex is relatively safe. And if that scenario has actually ever happened, let me know because that is just pure dedication. Safety Tip: Condoms and dental dams.

Herpes – Genital herpes and oral herpes are usually caused by different strains of the virus (HSV-2 and HSV-1), but it’s possible for either virus to infect the other site. Example: Oral herpes can be transmitted to the genitals and vice versa. Herpes are contagious even when there are no symptoms, and this virus can be spread through skin-to-skin contact. Safety Tip: Condoms, clean the play area well, and prescription medications (for those already diagnosed).

HPV – Throat cancer is thought to be a result of contracting HPV while performing oral sex. This one is similar to herpes in that it can be spread via skin-to-skin contact. Safety Tip: Condoms and dental dams may lower risk, but don’t eliminate it.

Gonorrhea – It can be transmitted to both partners during the act of fellatio. It’s still up in the air as to whether or not the same applies to cunninglus, as the site of infection is the cervix – a tad hard to reach during this act. Mix ‘The Clap’ and oral sex and you just might get a throat infection. A very difficult to treat throat infection. Safety Tip: Condoms and dental dams.

Chlamydia – Performing and receiving fellatio – unprotected – put people at high risk for transmitting this bugger. Research regarding cunninglus and chlamydia is still unclear. Safety Tip: Condoms and dental dams should be effective.

Syphilis – Super easy to transmit through oral sex. One good thing: It can only be transmitted when symptoms are present, during the first and second stages of the disease. One bad thing: The painless sores it causes are hard to spot.  Safety Tip: Condoms, dental dams.

Of course, it’s always a good idea to talk to your partner about STDs and practice monogamy. Or abstinence, but I that doesn’t seem practical. Also, limit the number of partners you have (your risk increases as your partners do), and have regular check-ups and ask specifically to be tested.

Apparently sex injuries are very common. It’s not a spectator sport, you know. This year, one in three people will hurt themselves while banging. Below are the top ten most common sex owies:

1. Pulled muscles
2. Injured back
3. Carpet burns
4. Cricked neck
5. Bashed elbows/knees
6. Bruised shoulder
7. Twisted knee
8. Sprained/strained wrist
9. Sprained/strained ankle
10. Bent fingers

If you’re not insured, you might want to guard yourself with more than just a condom. I’m not suggesting helmets or anything, although that might not be a bad idea. But you’ll probably want to think  twice about where you drop your drawers. Where you choose to get down and dirty can increase your chance of injury. You’d think the bed would be a safe place, but nope. Below are the top 10 most risky locations to get frisky:

1. The couch
2. A staircase
3. In the car
4. Shower
5. The bed
6. On a chair
7. The kitchen table
8. In the garden
9. On the toilet
10. A work closet

Beds are the number one object that sex destroys. Below are nine other frail items that have trouble withstanding sex:

1. Wine glasses
2. Picture frames
3. Chairs
4. Tea cups
5. Walls
6. Dressers
7. Doors
8. Windows
9. Vases

I guess the old saying, “Be safe” is a bit of a double entendre.  But, being safe doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun or get a little wild. Fascinations offers a slew of bondage and fetish toys that are safe and guarantee an adventure!

In the not-too-distant past, obtaining a sex toy meant venturing into a dingy shop in a shady area of town, where you could pick from a few toys with a porn star on the package on the only rack in the store that wasn’t full of adult movies. If vaguely creepy porn shops weren’t your thing, you had to choose from everyday household items that you could find at the mall or big box store and hope they would suffice at being discreet as well as getting the job done.

Luckily, as it has become more acceptable to talk about sexual desire, sex toys have become a topic of conversation among couples and groups of friends alike, and education oriented toy stores like Fascinations have popped up across the country. Getting a good sex toy has even infiltrated pop culture, showing up everywhere from Sex and the City to Oprah. On a very practical level, this means that everyone has more options when it comes to they toys they want, and means technology and design have now become desirable attributes when looking at toys. This has resulted in an explosion of well-designed and body-safe toys that no longer run on batteries, but charge like a laptop or cell phone. While this may seem needless at first, the advantages to chargeable toys are numerous. As with any other electronic device, finding a toy that meets all of your needs is going to be an investment that is meant to benefit your everyday life. Some chargeable toys even look like they were pulled right out of an Apple Store display, so you can match it to your iPad or MacBook.

The advantages of owning a chargeable toy are infinite and depend on what you’re looking for. One of the best things about chargeable toys is they can pack a lot of power into a small package, if you want something small AND powerful (and, really, who doesn’t?). If you’re looking for a toy with a lot of power you usually have to pick up a bullet that has a large remote with a cord and batteries, or a traditional back massager that has to stay plugged into the wall. Chargeable toys often incorporate the same powerful motors as these other toys, but don’t require the cords, remotes, or an excessive amount of batteries. This feature also eliminates the common problem of cords shorting out because of too much use. This also means they are prettier, which seems like a weird reason to get a sex toy, but is a good thing if you want a non-intimidating toy, or are getting a nice gift for someone. Toys that look appealing are more fun to play with, and with all the color and shape options, it’s likely there is a toy design that suits everyone’s personality.

Because chargeable toys don’t have batteries rattling around inside of them, they tend to be a lot more silent than your standard toys. This is handy if you’re looking for something quiet because of kids or neighbors, or if you just aren’t a fan of a sex toy that sounds like a lawn mower when you’re using it (most people don’t find lawn mower sounds that sexy). Another advantage to quieter toys is that using them with your partner means you’re not going to be distracted by the sound of the toy so much that you forget to focus on what’s going on elsewhere. You’ll be able to hear your partner’s sweet nothings, sexy noises and movements without having to ask them to repeat themselves.

Because chargeable toys don’t have parts you have to take apart to put batteries in, they tend to be a lot more durable than battery operated vibrators, which crack or loosen over time. Even if your chargeable toy does break, most brands (Lelo, Je Joue, Fun Factory, and We-Vibe) come with a 1-year warranty. Jimmy Jane’s chargeable toys, on the other hand, come with a 3-year warranty. This also means most chargeable toys are made out of body-safe materials; generally medical grade silicone. If a toy is going to last several years, it makes no sense for it to be made out of a cheap material that discolors and absorbs bacteria and body fluids, since you’ll feel the urge to throw it out before the warranty is even up.

The fact most chargeable toys don’t have parts to unscrew also means that a lot of them are 100% waterproof. Most battery-operated vibrators are “waterproof” by virtue of a small rubber band located between the vibrating part and the battery pack, which means it’s safe to wash, but not a good idea to use in a hot tub, pool, or bath. Chargeable toys by Jimmy Jane, Je Joue, Fun Factory, and Lelo’s Insignia line are all made to submergible, which means you can take them in the bath when you need some alone time, but also means you don’t have to be concerned when cleaning them.

Finally, and this might sound a little hippyish, chargeable toys are better for the environment. In a perfect world, we would all recycle our alkaline batteries, but the fact is that, most of the time, we throw them away. This means they’re going into landfills and the chemicals are seeping into the ground, contaminating the earth and groundwater. Because you don’t have to dispose of batteries with chargeable toys, it helps the environment while also saving you money, since you don’t have to go out and buy batteries every time your toy dies, you can just plug it in again.

These are just a few of the advantages to investing in a toy that charges. Design, material, durability, and functionality are a few reasons why chargeable toys tend to be a better choice than traditional jelly or hard plastic vibrators. Because society has become more open about the fact it’s OK to use sex toys, many companies now design toys that are made to suit people’s needs and bodies, rather than being marketed to sell because they have a porn star on the box. Thankfully, Lelo, Fun Factory, Jimmy Jane, We-Vibe and Je Joue, all make high quality, chargeable toys that are fun to use along with being fun to look at! And, if you’re looking for a naughty, but classy gift to give during the upcoming holiday season, these sleek-looking and nicely-packaged toys make a great present.