Fantasy sex toys are probably the single category that I get asked about the most, considering I’m not particularly into them for their own sake. YKINMKBYKIOK! But since readers ask me about them so much, I thought it might be time to try some out and see if I can gather some recommendations for you all. First up is the Icicles 24, a glass tentacle dildo by Pipedream Toys.
Icicles No. 24 Glass Tentacle Dildo
The Icicles No. 24 is a glass tentacle dildo measuring 6″ in total length (5″ insertable.) It is made from borosilicate glass—the same stuff as Pyrex cookware. This material is body-safe, non-porous, hypoallergenic, and surprisingly strong. There’s no way a glass toy is going to break inside you, so please put that fear to bed now. (Though if you drop the toy on a hard floor, it’s best to retire it. Even if it looks okay, there may be cracks that you can’t see.)
Glass toys like the Icicles tentacle dildo are easy to clean using warm soapy water, boiling water, a sterile wipe, or a 10% bleach solution. As it’s non-porous and has no motor, it’s safe to use in water. The curved tail “handle” also means you can safety use the Icicles No. 24 anally, if you want to.
The Icicles No. 24 glass tentacle dildo is very pretty, with a lovely pink hue to the glass. I can see that, if you have that particular kink, it could be very sexy.
In Use: What I Didn’t Like
After many years of trying and reviewing virtually every variety of sex toy under the sun, I have had to concede to the point that I just don’t particularly like very textured internal toys. I find them overstimulating to the point of painful more than I find them arousing.
I really gave the Icicles No. 24 glass tentacle dildo a damn good go and I wanted to love it much more than I did. Unfortunately it’s just not one that’s a good fit for my body. Even with plenty of lube, it’s slightly too wide for me to insert comfortably. The bumps on the top of the shaft also caused me pain rather than pleasure.
It’s important to say, though, that this is a matter of personal preference. There’s not much inherently wrong with this toy and, if your preferences are different and more aligned with what the toy is offering, you’ll probably love it.
One design feature that really bugs me about the Icicles glass tentacle dildo is the handle. Firstly, it’s too small. I can just about get two fingers through the loop, but I have teeny tiny hands. Anyone with bigger hands than me is going to really struggle to hold this toy comfortably. I also hate that the bumps extend all the way around the handle. I get it from an aesthetic perspective, but it makes the toy really uncomfortable to hold.
Icicles Glass Tentacle Toy: Anything I Did Like?
The one thing I will say in this toy’s defense, though, is that the gently curved shape is excellent. Perfect for targeted G-spot pressure. Remove those bumps and narrow it a bit, and this would be a toy I’d love. In this guise, though, it’s not for me.
Other good things I can say about it: it’s satisfyingly weighty. Also, glass can be heated up or cooled down for temperature-based fun. Just pop it in the fridge or run it under warm water before you play.
Icicles No. 24 Glass Tentacle Dildo: Verdict
You should buy the Icicles No. 24 glass tentacle dildo if you have a tentacle kink, enjoy very rigid toys, and like the intensity that comes with excessive texturing. If you prefer smoother or softer toys, though, it’s unlikely to work for you.
This one is really going to be a Marmite sex toy, I think. (That’s British for “you’ll either love it or hate it”, for my international readers.) It doesn’t really work for me, but I can tell you exactly what type of person it WILL work for.
The Icicles No. 24 retails for $63.99 from Shevibe.
I received the Icicles No. 24 glass tentacle dildo for free in exhange for an honest review. All views are, as ever, my own. Affiliate links appear within this post.
Happy new year, friends! 2022 was a rough one and I’m not naive enough to say “2023 is going to be my year!” We’re all still facing ongoing challenges due to *gestures vaguely at everything*. Personally, I’ll be satisfied if 2023 reaches the bar of “better than 2022.” With that said, it’s time to dive into my very first review of the new year: the CYRUS Classic Swing&Heat Thrusting Realistic Dildo from Bestvibe Toys.
Bestvibe Toys CYRUS Classic Swing&Heat Thrusting Realistic Dildo Review
Bestvibe approached me right before the holidays to invite me to review of their products. Since readers ask me about recommendations for both realistic toys and thrusting toys all the time, I thought I’d choose this one, which ticks both of those boxes.
The CYRUS Classic Swing&Heat Thrusting Realistic Dildo is closely resembles a bio-cock. It is impressively detailed, with a veined shaft, textured balls, a pronounced head, and even skin texturing at the base of the head. If you’re looking for a highly detailed realistic toy without breaking the bank, look no further.
The CYRUS measures 9″ from base to tip, of which 7″ is insertable length, and 1.59″ in diameter at the widest point. This makes it a little larger than the average factory-installed penis, but not scarily huge. Due to the internal mechanisms and dense silicone, it weighs in at a hefty 490g. It features a suction cup base, allowing for hands-free play or harness compatibility for strap-on sex.
The CYRUS is made of body-safe silicone. Since the texture is quite similar to some TPE/TPR toys I’ve handled, I flame tested it to be sure. I’m pleased to say it’s definitely silicone. (The lack of any discernible smell also tipped me off that it’s real silicone.) Manufacturers often sacrifice safety in favour of “real feel” materials when it comes to realistic toys, so it’s great to find safe, non-porous alternatives.
The CYRUS is IPX5 waterproof, meaning it can withstand a sustained, low-pressure spray of water such as that from a home tap. Therefore, you can wash it under the tap, but don’t submerge it in water. It is rechargeable via the included cable and comes with a battery-operated remote control (1 x 27A 12V battery is included.)
There are two ways to control the Bestvibe Toys CYRUS: via the button on the base or via the remote control. Using the button, you’ll be able to scroll through 9 different patterns of vibration and their corresponding inbuilt thrusting patterns (there are 3 different thrusting patterns.)
With the remote, you can enjoy a much finer level of control, pairing any of the 3 thrusting and rotating modes with any of the 9 vibration patterns for a completely customisable experience. You can also use either the vibrations or thrusting separately, if you like.
The button on the base of the toy is a little stiff and requires quite a firm press. The buttons on the remote control, on the other hand, are easy to press. The toy’s responsiveness to the remote is fast and reliable, and the range of the remote is 10 metres.
Bestvibe Toys CYRUS Realistic Dildo Review: In Use
The CYRUS’s realistic design is ideal for users looking for the most lifelike experience possible from a toy. The shaft is rigid most of the way along, though the soft and squishy head (the last inch or so) really makes a positive difference from a comfort and ease of use perspective. The pronounced and ridged head is ideal for G-spotting.
I also really love the dual density feel. This means that the toy has a firm core on the inside, and a softer layer on the outside. Like an erect penis, in other words!
The Bestvibe Toys CYRUS’s thrusting mechanism feels amazing in use. If you have a vulva and enjoy dual stimulation, try using it hands-free (or asking a partner to use it on you) and pairing it with your favourite clitoral vibe. I actually prefer to use the thrusting mode alone, because I’m not the biggest fan of internal vibrations. Though it’s far too large for me to have tried it in this way personally, the CYRUS is also anal-safe if that’s your jam.
One of my favourite features of the CYRUS is its “warming” function. Press the little flame icon on the remote to activate this mode. The toy will warm to 38℃ (just very slightly above human body temperature). This really enhances the experience if you’re looking for a toy that feels as realistic as possible. Instead of cool silicone, you can mimic the natural warmth you’d feel with a partner’s cock.
The Bestvibe Toys CYRUS’s silicone is quite “grabby” due to its matte texture. Therefore, I’d really recommend using plenty of lubricant for a comfortable experience. Any water-based lube will work. It will also pick up dust and lint in storage, so give it a quick wipe before each use.
The vibrations aren’t massively strong and are a little buzzy. However, they are concentrated in the head of the toy. If you like really powerful G-spot vibrations, this one might not be for you. But if you’re happy with gentler vibes (or mainly here for the thrusting function, as I was) this shouldn’t be too much of a problem.
Volume-wise, the vibrations are very quiet. The thrusting mode isn’t exactly loud, but it does have a very distinctive sound that I can best describe as a repetitive, high-pitched whir. The suction cup is strong and stays in place well on every surface I’ve tried it on.
Bestvibe Toys CYRUS Review: Verdict
I like this one! If I’m honest, realistic dildos aren’t often my thing, aesthetically speaking. I tend to prefer more abstract, colourful (and occasionally glittery) designs. But functionally, it does the job and comes with some great extra features. If I was going to recommend one body-safe, realistic toy at a very realistic price, it might be this one.
Thanks to Bestvibe Toys for sending me the CYRUS realistic dildo to review. All views are, as always, my own. This post was sponsored, meaning I was paid to write an honest review.
I very rarely buy sex toys these days; one of the big perks of running a sex toy review blog. But I’ve had my eyes on the Njoy Pure Wand for ages so, when it was on significant discount in Lovehoney’s Black Friday sale, I decided to go ahead and get one so I could finally test and review it.
Njoy Pure Wand: Details
The Njoy Pure Wand is something of a legend in the sex toy world, and I’ve been wanting to review it for years. It is a super-hefty, super-shiny, C-shaped stainless steel dildo. Cast in 316 grade steel and measuring 8″ end-to-end and 10″ along the curve, this is an absolute beast of a toy. This is genuinely in the don’t-take-it-on-a-plane-because-they-might-think-it’s-a-weapon category!
The Pure Wand features two bulbed ends, one larger (5.5″ circumference) and one smaller (3″ circumference.)
The Njoy Pure Wand arrived packaged in a sleek and sturdy Njoy-branded box, lined with black velvety material and pink satin. It’s a nice presentation touch and also a convenient way to store your toy.
A Note on Steel Toys
Stainless steel is non-porous, body-safe, and designed to last a lifetime. It’s also beautiful to look at and feels incredible in use (more on that in a minute.) It is compatible with any type of lube, and is basically indestructible. So yes, the Njoy Pure Wand is pricey but it is a true investment piece.
Stainless steel dildos are also incredibly easy to clean. Just use a sterile wipe or 10% bleach solution, followed by a rinse with gentle soap and warm water.
You can heat up a stainless steel toy by running it under warm water before you play, or cool it down by popping it in the fridge for a few minutes.
A Note on Squirting
Read almost any review of the Njoy Pure Wand, and you’ll see mention of squirting. This product has a reputation for being the toy to make people with vulvas ejaculate, or “squirt.”
I wanted to address this because it’s important to keep expectations realistic. Squirting isn’t something all bodies are capable of. It’s also not something everyone wants. I’ve never done it, and while I’m moderately curious what it would feel like, it’s not a goal I am actively chasing. If it happens it happens, you know?
So did the Njoy Pure Wand make me squirt? No. At least not so far. Regardless of whether it does or not for you, that’s okay.
Njoy Pure Wand Review: In Use
Despite lusting after it for years, I was a little nervous when it came to actually using the Njoy Pure Wand. Stainless steel is rigid, unyielding, and has a reputation for being incredibly intense as a sex toy material.
This is a toy that requires a LOT of lube. Stainless steel looks smooth, but can feel quite “grabby” when you come to insert it. Since it’s so hard and rigid, lube will just make the whole experience so much more comfortable. Water-based or silicone-based lubes are compatible with steel toys.
The Njoy Pure Wand is intense. Like seriously, seriously intense. Its pressure against my G-spot made me feel like I wanted to orgasm and pee all at the same time. (I’m told this is what the precursor to squirting can feel like, but it didn’t happen for me.)
Verdict
I absolutely love this dildo. I also recognise that it won’t be for everyone.
If you like intense G-spot or prostate stimulation and can use hard toys comfortably or enjoy a level of overstimulation, then the Njoy Pure Wand will probably rock your world.
What better way to show your bisexual pride than through your sex toys? Today I’m pleased to be reviewing the P8 dildo from the Avant Pride range.
Avant Pride P8 Dildo: Details
The Avant Pride P8 by Blush sex toys is a hand-poured silicone dildo in the bisexual pride colours: pink, blue, and purple.
Aesthetically, I love this toy straight away. Weirdly, it looks super shiny in the product pic but the real version is definitely more matte (though no less beautiful.)
The Pride P8 offers 6.9″ (17.7cm) in insertable length, and just under 1.5″ (3.8cm) in girth. It is semi-realistic in shape, with a veined shaft leading to a lifelike pronounced head.
The Avant Pride P8 comes with a strong suction cup base, allowing you to affix it to any solid surface. This toy is also harness-compatible. You’ll need a 1.5″ O-ring to pair it with your favourite strap-on harness.
Avant Sex Toys Bisexual Pride P8: In Use
This toy’s silicone is super silky, squishy and velvety. It feels lovely to the touch.
The Pride P8 dildo’s shaft is straight, but very flexible. It has tonnes of give which allows for comfortable insertion and thrusting, and it flexes with your body so you can angle it in the way that works for you. Honestly, if anything, I might have liked a little LESS flex. I occasionally found it hard to get the amount of G-spot pressure I prefer. I also would have preferred a little more of a curve to the shaft.
People who like girthier sex toys might find the Bisexual Pride P8 too narrow for their tastes. Personally, I love a good slimline dick sometimes (too much girth can hurt) and the P8 is an ideal size.
With that said, the P8 still feels great in use. The ridges provide gentle internal stimulation and the head is just the right size and shape. I’m likely to reach for this dildo when my body is craving something gentler than my rigid toys.
This toy is also anal-safe, thanks to its flared base. The Bisexual Pride P8’s slim design might make it particularly good for those who are just exploring anal play and find thicker sex toys intimidating.
Verdict
The Avant Pride P8 is a simple yet stylish, effective, and versatile dildo. It’s comfortable to use and visually gorgeous.
If you’re a bisexual babe (or ally) of any gender looking to show off your pride through your sex toys, you’ve come to the right place. The Avant Pride P8 retails from £40/$60 and is available from Good Vibes, Babeland, Shevibe, and Sex Toys UK.
I received this item for free in exchange for an honest review. All views are mine. Affiliate links appear in this post.
Have you ever wanted a lifesize, silicone replica of your or your partner’s penis? Well, you’re in luck! Clone a Willy kits are a popular and supposedly easy way to cast a silicone dildo from an actual cock at home. (There’s also now Clone a Pussy, by the way!) Lovehoney sent me and Mr C&K a Clone a Willy kit to test out and review.
Image credit: Lovehoney
What’s in the Clone a Willy Kit?
The Clone a Willy kit comes packaged in a plastic tube, which also serves as the molding tube. Inside, you’ll find:
Instruction leaflet
Packet of molding power
2 tubs of silicone
Mini thermometer
Single speed plastic vibrator
Stirring stick
It’s worth noting that the kit doesn’t include every single thing you need. Fortunately, everything else you need is something you probably already have. You’ll need to have to hand:
A mixing pot to mix the molding powder (we used a plastic jug to make pouring easier)
A large wooden spoon
A disposable container to mix the silicone in (we used a well-cleaned plastic takeaway tub)
Means of measuring water in precise quantities
A way of keeping time (we used the timer function on my phone)
A square of scrap cardboard
Clone a Willy Review: How Does it Work?
The process of casting your penis isn’t all that difficult, but it takes a bit of precision and care.
First, you’ll need to cut the Clone a Willy tube to size. It should be half an inch longer than your erect penis. Next, you’ll need to measure out 1 3/4 cups (that’s 414ml) of lukewarm water and let it cool to exactly 90F (32C.) That’s what the thermometer is for. Be aware that this can take longer than you think!
Once the water is at the right temperature, you mix the molding powder in and stir it for exactly 45 seconds. Pour the mix into the tube, insert your erect penis, and hold it still until the mix starts to set. The instructions say 1-2 minutes, but this wasn’t quite enough. All in, this took around 4 minutes during our Clone a Willy test.
Voila, you have a mold! Then all you have to do is mix up the silicone, pour it into the mold, add the vibrator, and leave it to set for 24 hours.
Clone a Willy Review: How Hard is It?
The tricky part of this whole process is the precision. You need to get the right amount of water, making sure it’s exactly the right temperature, and stir the mixture for the right amount of time. Once the molding power goes in the water you have to act quickly, so make sure the penis being cast is erect and ready to go before you start mixing! (Staying hard is also a challenge when your dick is in lukewarm molding mix, I’m told. Have some porn or a sexy naked partner to hand!)
Pro tip: if you have body hair, apply some vaseline before you start casting.
Something else we learned during our Clone a Willy test for this review? It’s messy. You have to hold the tube full of liquid against your groin for several minutes in a slightly upward-tilted angle, and some will inevitably spill out. Put a towel or an old sheet down before you start, and don’t do this in a carpeted area.
Clean-up isn’t too difficult, at least. The molding mix washes off skin easily. And once any leftover mix is dry, it’ll peel off your bowl or spoon.
The molding is by far the hardest bit. Once that’s sorted, mixing up and pouring the silicone is a breeze. The one thing to be aware of is that you have to mix the silicone for several minutes (we did about 8 minutes) and then pour it as slowly as possible.
So How Did It Turn Out?
We got a very promising mold from our dick casting! And the silicone is the most gorgeously bright and vibrant colour:
As per the advice, we decided to leave the mold to set overnight and then pour the silicone the next morning.
Clone a Willy Review: Outcome
Ta-da! Here it is:
After this adventure, I have a newfound appreciation for folks who make beautiful dildos. This came out pretty well for a first go. It’s structurally sound, useable, and actually a pretty good likeness to its, erm… source material.
But it’s still a far cry from what the professionals can do. Support your favourite dildo-makers, people!
Verdict
This whole experience was messy, awkward, and absolutely hilarious. You’ll need a good sense of humour if you want to make a Clone a Willy, but we had tonnes of fun making ours and writing this review!
Because why not, that’s why. Today we’re looking at Lovehoney’s new glow in the dark dildo (described in the product copy as a “dazzling disco stick,” which I find hilariously charming.)
Lovehoney Glow in the Dark Dildo: Details
This clear silicone dildo has a strip of blue glow in the dark material inside (it also comes in pink, if that’s more your colour.) It is semi-realistic in design, with a veined shaft, prominent head, and balls at the base. The total length is 7.5″, the insertable length is 5.5″, and the straight shaft is 1.5″ in diameter.
This translucent silicone is something I don’t see very often. At first glance, it looks a bit like some of the jelly toys I’ve seen over the years, but it’s definitely made of body-safe silicone.
The glow-in-the-dark dildo features a suction cup, allowing you to affix it to any firm, flat surface for hands-free use. The suction cup is impressively strong and stays put well. This dildo will fit nicely in many strap-on harnesses (you’ll need a 1.5″ O-ring.) Thanks to the balls and suction cup base, it’s also safe for anal play.
Does the Glow in the Dark Dildo Actually Glow?
Yep!
It does, and it’s impressively bright. The instructions say to keep the dildo in the light for a short while before taking it into a dark space. I sat it next to my daylight lamp for 15 minutes, before taking it into my darkened bedroom to see the glow.
Here’s the result:
It is very difficult to get a good picture of something in the dark!
In Use
The glowing is a fun touch and makes this toy a bit different from all the millions of other great silicone dildos out there. But how does it fare in use?
Fortunately, the Lovehoney glow in the dark dildo isn’t all gimmick and no substance. It is also perfectly functional basic dildo that’s fun and pleasurable to use. The shaft is very flexible, making it easy to angle. It’s soft, squishy, and not too girthy.
Some reviewers have reported finding the veins pleasurable, but the inside of my vagina isn’t really sensitive enough to notice them. What does feel great is the pronounced, realistic head, which is ideal for targeting the G-spot. The shape is a little straighter than I would prefer, but it’s flexible enough to not be too much of a problem.
Bonus: the balls make a convenient handle for thrusting purposes!
One thing to be aware of is that the silicone is very matte in texture and therefore feels quite “grabby”. You’ll want to use plenty of lube for comfort.
Verdict
This is a decent quality silicone dildo at a great price! It retails for £26.99 from Lovehoney UK or $34.99 from Lovehoney US. If you’re after a functional all-rounder, the glow in the dark dildo is a fun, whimsical, and affordable option.
Thanks to Lovehoney for sending me this product to review! Views are, as always, my own. Affiliate links appear in this post.
It’s time for another glass dildo review! I love glass toys and they’re amongst the most affordable types of body-safe sex toys. Let’s take a look at Lovehoney’s beaded and gently curved glass dildo.
Lovehoney Beaded and Curved Glass Dildo: Details
The Lovehoney Beaded Glass Dildo is a gently curved, handblown glass dildo. It’s made up of 6 pronounced bulbs which get progressively larger from top to bottom. It measures 9″ in total length and 7″ in insertable length. The widest point of the insertable shaft is 1.35″.
These dimensions might not sound huge, but remember that glass is completely rigid. Unlike materials such as silicone, it has no give at all. Therefore you’ll want to make sure you’re properly warmed up before using a glass dildo.
Just to clear up something you’re probably wondering if you’re new to my glass dildo reviews: yes, glass toys are body-safe! It is non-toxic and non-porous. Borosilicate glass, the kind most commonly used for glass sex toys, is the same stuff that glass cookware is made of, and it’s pretty tough. Your glass dildo is not going to break inside you. However, if you drop it on a hard floor, you should retire it as there might be hairline cracks you can’t see.
Lovehoney Beaded Glass Dildo Review: In Use
I’ve found that I need to work up to this toy, starting out with either fingers or a smaller and softer dildo. I have also learned that, for me at least, glass dildos aren’t ideal for thrusting. Instead, I prefer to use them to create a feeling of pressure against my G-spot, either holding the dildo still or gently wiggling it once it’s inserted.
I love the beaded and curved design of this dildo. The curve is perfect for reaching my G-spot, and the graded bead sizes allow for comfortable insertion and a gradual build-up. The beads also stimulate the sensitive nerves around the vaginal opening.
Other Fun Ways to Use Your Glass Toy
If you enjoy internal vibrations, either vaginally or anally, press a powerful vibrator against the base of your glass dildo when it’s inside you. The glass will transmit the vibrations directly to your G-spot or prostate.
Glass dildos are made for temperature play! Pop your dildo in the fridge for 20 minutes before play, or run it under warm (not hot!) water for a minute or two.
The Lovehoney beaded glass dildo is also suitable for anal use (just leave the last one or two beads outside for easy retrieval.) Remember: lube is even more important than usual with rigid toys, whether you’re using them vaginally or anally.
Beaded Glass Dildo Review: Verdict
I love this dildo. Great design, body-safe, and retailing at a ridiculously affordable £34.99/$39.99, I thoroughly recommend it.
Thanks to Lovehoney for sending me this glass dildo to test and review. All views, as always, are mine. Affiliate links appear in this post.
The Lovehoney team recently sent out very sweet lockdown care packages to their affiliates filled with toys and self-care treats to pass the time during this incredibly challenging and stressful period. One of the included items was the super-cute Lovehoney Beaded Heart Glass Dildo. Since I can’t leave my house and have nothing else to do, I thought I’d tell you all about it.
Lovehoney Beaded Glass Heart Dildo
The Lovehoney Beaded Glass Heart Dildo measures 8″ in total length and 6″ in insertable length. At its widest point the diameter is 1.4″. Glass toys tend to be heavy, and this one weighs in at a fairly hefty 310g.
This toy is super pretty. I love the aesthetic of glass toys, and the pink heart handle with the Lovehoney heart insignia stamped on it adds a cute femme touch to this one. I’m sure they’d sell even more if it came in different colour options! It also comes with a drawstring storage bag, which is useful for preventing glass toys from getting dinged in storage.
Properly made glass sex toys are made from annealed borosilicate glass. This type of glass is non-toxic and non-porous. It’s the same stuff glass cookware is made from! This type of glass is hard-wearing and sturdy, and there’s virtually no risk of it breaking inside your body. Promise!
A couple of caveats to be aware of:
Be careful how you store your Lovehoney Beaded Glass Heart Dildo, because it could break if you drop it or put something heavy on top of it. If you accidentally drop a glass toy on a hard surface, I advise retiring it even if it looks fine. There could be fractures in the glass which you can’t see but which compromise its integrity. And please, please do not use any glass items as sex toys that were not designed for that purpose.
You can use any type of body-safe lube with a glass toy, and clean it with soap and warm water or a body-safe sterile wipe.
Lovehoney Beaded Glass Heart Dildo: In Use
The heart at the top of the Beaded Glass Heart Dildo doesn’t just look pretty. It also makes a convenient handle for ease of use.
If you struggle with heavy toys, it’s worth bearing the weight of this one in mind. It was fine for me, but some people might find the heft of a large glass toy difficult.
I love the unyielding rigidity of glass, and the ridges along the Beaded Glass Heart Dildo’s shaft feel amazing. The bulbous head at the end is great for pressure against the G-spot, though I would have preferred it to have a little more of a curve for easier G-spot targeting.
This isn’t a dildo I can thrust with. Between the intensity of glass and the beads, it becomes uncomfortable very quickly. Instead, I like to get it into the right position and then just gently wiggle it or apply pressure.
Glass dildos are also ideal for temperature-based play! Pop your Glass Heart Dildo in the fridge for 20 minutes before using it, or run it under some warm (not hot!) water. The change in temperature wakes your nerves up and makes the sensations extra intense.
Verdict
I love the Lovehoney Beaded Glass Heart Dildo! Glass toys are consistently popular for a reason, and the Beaded Glass Heart Dildo delivers in both design and usability.
When it comes to body-safe pleasure products at affordable prices, Blush toys are hard to beat. Let’s look at the most recent one I received to try: the Ruse Jammy, a realistic dildo with a large girth size.
Blush Toys Ruse Jammy: Large Girth Realistic Dildo
Image: Blush Toys
The Ruse Jammy is a dildo for those who like their toys girthy. This toy measures 7.5″ in length and 2″ in diameter.
The Ruse Jammy has a realistic veiny shaft, a subtle natural curve, a pronounced coronal ridge and head, and lifelike skin texturing. The level of detail is impressive for a toy at this price-point. It is made of 100% silicone, available in purple or black. The base is a suction cup, making it suitable for anal play, strap-on sex, or hands-free pleasure.
Blush Ruse Jammy In Use
There’s a lot to like about this Blush toy. The silicone is soft, velvety and not too matte, with a nice glide especially when you add a little lube. The curve is just about perfect, and the shaft is fairly dense while still retaining some flexibility. Its pronounced head stimulates the opening of the vagina or anus on insertion, which some people find pleasurable.
I have to be honest: I’m not a “size queen” (someone who prefers very large penises or toys.) A challenge can be fun occasionally, but most of the time small to medium is more than enough for me when it comes to penetrative pleasure. I also find anything touching my cervix intensely painful.
The Ruse Jammy by Blush isn’t exactly an ultra-giant toy, but it’s on the edge of being too much for me. I find that I get the most out of it when I use just the first two or three inches of the shaft, rather than trying to insert the whole thing.
Blush Toys Ruse Jammy: Verdict
If you’re looking for an affordable yet body-safe girthy dildo, the Ruse Jammy is a great choice. Considering that some toys this size run to £100 or more, the under-$50/£38 (at the time of writing) price-tag makes this one a budget-friendly alternative.
Sex toy kits are a fantastic idea in theory, but usually significantly less amazing in practice. Too often, they’re little more than a collection of cheap and poor-quality products shoved together in a pretty box and sold for a premium price. I’ll nearly always tell my readers to forego a kit and spend a bit more on just one or two quality items. However, I try to keep an open mind, which is why I agreed to review the Take Control Bondage Kit for beginners from Lovehoney.
Take Control: A Beginners’ Bondage Kit by Lovehoney
It’s been a very long time since I was new to BDSM. I’ve been doing kinky shit for well over a decade and have accrued a sizeable collection of toys, from basic staples to custom collars, premium impact toys, and more. So a beginner kit is not something I would ever buy for myself.
Therefore, I am trying to step back in time ten years or so in my mind, and view this BDSM starter kit through the eyes of someone who is just starting out, collecting their first beginner BDSM toys, or maybe wondering if they’re even kinky.
Lovehoney Take Control Bondage Kit: First Impressions
The Take Control Bondage Kit comes in one simple box, with all the products clearly displayed on the front so you know exactly what to expect. The packaging is brightly coloured and fun, reducing the intimidation factor for nervous new kinksters.
There’s a LOT of information on the box, too. I appreciate that Lovehoney has provided a brief description on how to use each item as well as some basic information on safety and consent. The box reminds players to use safewords, never leave a bound person alone, and have a non-verbal safe signal if someone is gagged. It’s pretty 101-level stuff, but that’s also what a complete newcomer to kink is likely to need. Top marks for that.
I wasn’t delighted with the way the box was packed. Everything was just sort of piled in, each item wrapped in a cellophane wrapper. It’s a lot of unnecessary single-use plastic.
There is no real leather in this kit, making it vegan-friendly.
What’s in the Lovehoney Take Control Bondage Kit?
With that said, I think this is overall a decent beginners’ bondage kit. Many BDSM starter kits and sex toy kits generally are filled with things that aren’t even safe, let alone of good quality.
Let’s take a look at what’s inside, shall we? Just for fun, I’ve included a fun tip or an idea to try with each item in the Take Control kit. As always, pick the ones that resonate for you, leave the rest, and add your own ideas as you explore.
1: Blindfold
This blindfold is super comfy. It’s also thick and padded, meaning I couldn’t see a thing when it was on. The band is stretchy, too, so it should fit most people comfortably.
Beginners’ bondage kit play idea: Blindfold your partner and stroke different items across their body – a silk scarf, a piece of velvet, the tails of your flogger – and have them guess what each item is.
2. Nipple suckers
I really liked these little suckers! They’re a great gentle introduction to nipple play, and perfect if you want some sensation but without the pain of nipple clamps or clothes pegs. They work for all chest sizes, from flat chests to large breasts, and most nipple sizes. If you flick or hit them too hard, they will fly off, but they can withstand some gentle manipulation.
Beginners’ bondage kit play idea: Tell your partner to fetch you something from another room with these on. They’ll have to move carefully, though – they’ll be spanked if one falls off!
3. Ball gag
Full disclosure: I hate ball gags. I fucking hate them. They make my jaw hurt, they make me drool, and I can’t kiss my partner when I’m wearing one. They’re basically a soft limit at this point. With that said, this is a fine ball-gag if you do like them. The holes make it breathable, and silicone is a non-porous and hygienic material. I also like how adjustable this gag is. With 9 buckle holes, it will fit most people comfortably.
Beginners’ bondage kit play idea: Make your submissive try to repeat words back to you while gagged.
4. Flogger
This is a stingy little fucker! Don’t let the small size fool you, this flogger can pack a wallop. The falls are made of thin rubber, which delivers a vicious sting when you put some force behind it. If pain isn’t your thing, you can drag it sensually across the skin for a gentle tickle. I would have liked the handle to have a bit more width and weight to it.
Beginners’ bondage kit play idea: Try gently flogging the vulva or penis if your partner is up for it. Remember to clean your flogger thoroughly afterwards to remove any bodily fluids.
5. Wrist and ankle cuffs
These were the weakest part of the Take Control kit by far, for me. They’re quite thin and made of nylon, with no padding, which means they chafe if you put any pressure on them. They’re fine for exploring the feeling of being restrained, but if you want to pull against them at all I recommend getting some quality BDSM cuffs.
Beginners’ bondage kit play idea: Restrain your partner then make them watch you masturbate in front of them.
6. Under-bed restraints
These are great, except for the tiny detail that they don’t fit my bed! We have a Super King bed and these restraints fit up to King Size. So they’ll be fine for the vast majority of people, but if you have a ridiculously giant bed like us, they may not fit.
These restraints are strong, durable, and easy to both set up and tuck out of sight when you’re done, if you want to. The little clips mean you can easily add any set of cuffs to them.
Beginners’ bondage kit play idea: when your partner is restrained, run a cube of ice along their body or drip low-temperature candle wax onto their skin.
7. Silicone suction cup dildo
Wow, a body-safe dildo in a BDSM kit! This shouldn’t be a pleasant surprise, and yet it is. This dildo measures 6″ in length and has a diameter of 1.5″. The slight curve is ideal for targeting the G-spot or prostate, and the silicone is super soft and silky. The suction cup and hollow space for a bullet vibrator are great additions.
Beginners’ bondage kit play idea: Tease your lover’s entrance with the dildo until they beg to have it inside them.
8. Strap-on harness
This is the same harness that Lovehoney sells as part of their basic strap-on sex/pegging kit a few years ago. It’s comfortable and the rings are interchangeable so you can use it with any dildo with a flared base. However, it’s a pretty basic harness and you’ll want to upgrade to a higher-quality harness if you find you enjoy strap-on play.
Beginners’ bondage kit play idea: If you have a vulva, insert a wearable vibrator before you put on your harness. This will stimulate you while you penetrate your partner.
9. Wired bullet vibrator
I was fully expecting this bullet vibrator to be awful. While it’s far from the strongest bullet vibrator in the world and it is a little buzzy, it’s not a bad basic bullet for the size and price. It has several patterns as well as steady vibration speeds.
I don’t love that it’s wired rather than cordless, but the wire is long enough for one partner to control the remote while the other holds the vibrator against their genitals. The bullet takes 2x AAA batteries, which are not included.
Beginners’ bondage kit play idea: Switch it off just when your lover is on the edge of orgasm and make them beg for release.
Lovehoney Take Control Beginners’ Bondage Kit: Verdict
On the whole, the Take Control Bondage Kit is a very solid basic beginners’ set for the price. If you’re brand new to exploring your kinks, you get a lot of bang for your buck here.
Thanks to Lovehoney for sending me this kit in exchange for an honest review. If you choose to purchase this or anything else from Lovehoney, please buy through my affiliate links – it supports the blog at no extra cost to you!
