It’s that time of year again when I do a day-by-day unboxing of the Lovehoney Advent Calendar for couples! Lovehoney UK is offering three advent calendars this year: a 12-day version and a 24-day version in partnership with Womanizer, as well as the Amorana Deluxe 24-day calendar which contains over £1100 worth of products. In the US, the 24-day version is the only one currently available.
I received the Lovehoney x Womanizer 24-day advent calendar. Straight away, I will say that I like the presentation of this Lovehoney advent calendar much more than previous iterations. The products are packaged in little individually labelled cardboard boxes in festive red and gold, rather than the tear-off doors that start to look a little scruffy when you’re a few days in. There’s also no plastic inner tray, cutting down on single-use plastic to make the whole thing more eco-friendly.
For the next 24 days, I’ll open one door each day and tell you a little about the item inside in a mini review with product info, pros and cons.
Without further ado, let’s dive into Day 1, shall we?
Day #1: Rechargeable Bullet Vibrator
Like previous iterations of the Lovehoney Advent Calendar, this one begins with a rechargeable bullet vibrator. This time, it’s a pretty rose gold colour with black button and Lovehoney insignia.
Product Info
- Material: ABS plastic with silicone button
- Colour: Rose gold
- Body safe? Yes, ABS plastic is non-toxic and non-porous
- Waterproof: Yes, IPX-7 waterproof (submersible)
- Size: 3″ length
- Speeds/patterns: 3 speeds and 7 patterns
- Lube-compatible: Any kind of lube is suitable
- Cleaning: Sterile wipe or warm water and antibacterial soap
- RRP if bought as a single item: £24.99
Pros
- Light and compact – ideal for sliding between bodies during partnered sex or throwing into your bag for a sexy date
- Surprisingly decent level of power for its size and price-point, and the hard plastic transmits the vibrations well
- Versatile – designed for clits but great for penises, balls, nipples, and all kinds of other erogenous zones too (don’t use it anally, though, as it doesn’t have a suitable base)
Cons
- Unlike many Lovehoney toys, it does not arrive with any charge so you’ll need to plug it in before you use it. This can ruin the mood if you’re aiming for an “unbox and use straight away” vibe.
- A little more buzzy than I would prefer
- Single button interface is kind of annoying when there are so many settings
Verdict
Once again, a solid basic bullet vibrator to kick things off. I would prefer it to be a bit more rumbly, but for the size and price-point it’s decent.
Day #2: Lube and Toy Wipes
Door #2 contains two items: a 60ml tube of Womanizer water-based lubricant and a packet of 10 Lovehoney toy cleaning wipes.
Pros
- The biodegradable wipes are eco-friendly
- The handy travel sizes are ideal for taking with you on a date or weekend away
- Both products are compatible with all toy materials including silicone
- The lube has a nice, fairly thin and runny consistency that flows and spreads well
- The lube is virtually scent-free and flavourless
Cons
- The lube contains glycerin as the second ingredient. Experts believe that glycerin can damage the vagina’s mucus membranes and raise the osmolality of a lube, increasing the risk of irritation or even infection. Claims that glycerin contributes to yeast infections are somewhat controversial and hotly debated. However, experts at Stanford OB/GYN and the Cleveland Clinic believe there is a risk. Personally, I avoid glycerin-containing lubes for the sake of my vaginal health. They also tend to have an unpleasant sticky or tacky feeling after a while.
- The toy wipes will clean your toy and should not be taken as a substitute for properly sterilizing it, especially if you are sharing it with a partner or partners.
Verdict
I like this combination of two miniature products together, but I would like to see the lube swapped out with one that doesn’t contain glycerin.
Day #3: Silicone Textured Dildo
Today’s box revealed a bright red silicone dildo with a curved shaft, gentle rippling texture on the underside, and slightly pronounced head. It also has a suction cup base and a hollow space where you can insert the bullet vibrator from Day 1.
Product Info
- Material: Silicone
- Colour: Scarlet red
- Body safe? Yes, silicone is body-safe and non-porous
- Waterproof: Yes, there is no motor and the material is non-porous so you can safely use this toy in water
- Size: 6″ length, 1.2″ diameter at widest point
- Speeds/patterns: N/A
- Lube-compatible: Water-based lube is best
- Cleaning: Sterile wipe, warm water and antibacterial soap, or boiling
- RRP if bought as a single item: A similar product retails for £24.99
Pros
- Soft and flexible
- Petite size makes it unthreatening for a beginner
- Lovely curve, ideal for targeted G-spot or prostate stimulation
- Large base makes the toy anal safe
- Works with or without the bullet vibe from Day 1 (or any suitably sized bullet in your collection)
- Texturing adds additional internal stimulation
Cons
- Bullet vibe has a tendency to get stuck and be hard to remove (pro tip: lube it first!)
- Base is too small for the toy to be harness-compatible
Verdict
A great basic textured dildo! These kits are really aimed at people who are newer to toys/sexual exploration, and this item’s thoughtful design and small-ish size make it ideal for a first dildo. I would like to see a slightly larger base to make it harness-compatible, though.
Day #4: TPE Penis Stroker
Day 4’s box contains a TPE penis stroker, complete with a slot along the side to add the bullet vibrator from Day 1 (or any other bullet in your collection) if you want to.
Product Info
- Material: Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a kind of soft plastic
- Colour: Translucent white
- Body safe? Ish. TPE is generally non-toxic but it is porous, which means it will harbour bacteria and cannot be fully sterilised. Don’t share it and don’t expect it to last forever. I recommend upgrading to a silicone stroker when you can.
- Waterproof: Yes, you can use this toy in water safely, though it may damage the material more quickly.
- Size: 4″ length but stretchy
- Speeds/patterns: N/A
- Lube-compatible: Water-based lube is best
- Cleaning: Warm water and antibacterial soap. Dusting the toy with a little cornstarch after cleaning and drying may help to extend its life.
- RRP if bought as a single item: This exact product is not available, but a similar item retails for £34.99
Pros
- A decent introduction to strokers if you’ve never used one before
- Ability to use with the bullet vibrator from Day 1, transforming it into a vibrating stroker
- Very stretchy to accommodate most penis sizes
- Nice internal texturing that hugs and stimulates the entire shaft of your penis
Cons
- Weird powdery texture that feels horrible on my hands
- Material cannot be fully sterilised
- Unlikely to last long
Verdict
It’s fine for what it is, but I would much prefer it were made of a non-porous material like silicone. Again: if you like the sensation, upgrade to a silicone stroker for a toy that will last you a lifetime and be far more hygienic.
Day #5: Kink Blindfold
Sensory deprivation can be a lot of fun to play with. By taking away one or more of the senses (such as sight) you heighten the others (such as touch). It can also be a great way to enhance anticipation, play with power and control, or otherwise explore whatever aspects of kink and BDSM appeal to you.
Today’s advent calendar box contains a kink blindfold. Made of polyester and with a pretty black and rose gold pattern, this blindfold measures 7″ across and 2.5″ top to bottom. A similar item retails for £7.99 if bought separately.
Pros
- Stretchy elastic means the blindfold will fit most users
- Plushy padded backing is comfortable to wear
- Pretty black and rose gold design
- Doubles as a sleep mask (I have several of these now and as a seasoned kinkster I rarely use them for BDSM as I have better blindfolds, but I always take one with me when I travel to help me sleep)
Cons
- Not quite big enough – it blocks most of the light effectively but I can still see around the edges a bit if I keep my eyes open
- Cheap fabric is starting to pull at the edges and look less attractive after just a few wears
- I’m not sure how well it would survive washing
Verdict
A perfectly serviceable basic blindfold if you just want to play but aren’t looking for complete sight deprivation. It would be better if it was slightly wider. If you enjoy playing with this, then it’s easy to upgrade to a better kink blindfold that will last you longer and block more of your vision.
Day #6: Crystal Butt Plug
Box #6 contains an aluminium metal butt plug with a sparkly red crystal-look base.
Product Info
- Material: Aluminium
- Colour: Rose gold body with a red gem base
- Body safe? Generally yes; aluminium is a non-toxic and non-porous metal that is safe for use in sex toys. However, some aluminium can contain traces of nickel so I’d be very cautious if you are allergic.
- Waterproof: Yes, you can use this toy in water with no issues.
- Size: 3″ in total length, 1.1″ in diameter at widest insertable point
- Speeds/patterns: N/A
- Lube compatible: Yes, any kind of lube is suitable
- Cleaning: Sterile wipe, 10% bleach solution, or warm water and antibacterial soap. I wouldn’t boil this one or put it in the dishwasher as it might damage the glue holding the gem in place.
- RRP if bought as a single item: This similar toy retails for £22.99
Pros
- Surprisingly light – aluminium is a lot lighter than stainless steel, making it a more accessible entry point for metal toys
- The rose gold body and red crystal colour scheme is really pretty
- Great for temperature play – just pop it in the fridge or run it under some warm (not hot) water right before use
- Small size likely to make it suitable for more users
Cons
- In general, I think a metal anal toy in a set aimed at beginners is a bold choice. I might have gone for silicone instead.
- The firm rounded base might dig in after you’ve been wearing it for a while and could be uncomfortable
Verdict
A nice little metal plug; personally I would have gone for silicone if I were designing this kit, but as entry-level metal anal toys go this is a decent one. The pretty colour and sparkly crystal make it super cute, too.
Day #7: Vanilla Massage Oil
Day 7’s box contains a 30ml bottle of Lovehoney’s vanilla massage oil. Massage can be a great precursor to sex, a way to connect intimately and show love and affection to a partner without getting your genitals involved, or a form of aftercare. For those in kinky dynamics, it can also be a fun form of service!
Product Info
This vanilla massage oil contains just four ingredients:
- Ethylhexyl palmite: A common and safe emollient and carrying agent which can soften and smooth the skin.
- Caprylic/capric triglyceride: Derived from coconut oil and glycerine, this antioxidant also smooths the skin and helps to bind other ingredients. It is safe for topical use unless you have a coconut oil allergy.
- Isopropyl myristate: An emollient with low viscosity which softens, smooths, and moisturises the skin and is safe and beneficial for most users. It may cause skin irritation in a small minority of people, usually those with existing skin conditions.
- Parfum (aroma): This is a weird one. “Parfum” isn’t actually an ingredient but a concoction that could contain any of over 3000 ingredients designed to make a product smell good. Some people recommend avoiding products with this mystery mix, others say it’s probably fine as long as you don’t have an allergy or sensitivity. Personally I don’t worry about it too much for products for occasional topical use (such as massage oils), but your risk tolerance may vary.
This oil is also sold separately under Lovehoney’s Fifty Shades of Grey branded products and retails for £11.99 for 30ml.
Pros
- Nice vanilla smell, distinctive but not overpowering or too “chemically”
- Glides on smoothly and has a pleasant skin feel
Cons
- Dries out quickly and doesn’t last particularly well, meaning you might need to reapply it regularly
- May be unsuitable for those with fragrance sensitivities or certain skin allergies
- Leaves a slight oily feeling on my hands after use
Verdict
Not my favourite massage oil, but it’s fine. I wouldn’t likely buy this again as there are other massage products I like a lot more.
Day #8: Wrist Restraints
Today’s box contains a pair of velcro-shut wrist cuffs with plastic hardware. The cuffs are black, and the hardware is rose gold, matching various other items in this set. I’ll say this for Lovehoney and Womanizer, they have their aesthetic cohesion down.
Pros
I will say straight away that these are a huge step up from the 2021 calendar’s “wrist restraints” (glorified ribbons and frankly pretty dangerous) and from 2022’s uncomfortable rough cuffs. These ones are made of a soft material that feels nice against the skin.
Other pros include:
- Velcro fastenings come undone in seconds, enhancing safety and making them beginner-friendly
- Very adjustable so will fit just about anyone
- Attached clips allow you to cuff someone’s hands together or clip them to something else
Cons
- Clips are tiny, so what you can fasten them to is pretty limited
- Not particularly strong – the hardware feels like it would break if you pulled against them too hard
- When you fasten them tighter, there’s nowhere for the spare velcro to be tucked so it just sort of… dangles
Verdict
You might be sending a theme in my overall impression of this kit: these cuffs aren’t amazing, but they’re fine. If you want to play with light bedroom bondage or try out getting restrained for the first time, they’re ideal. If you’re looking for something a bit more heavy-duty, though, you’ll probably want to upgrade to leather cuffs (or vegan equivalent) or go to a dedicated kink gear maker.
Day #9: We-Vibe Sync Lite
The We-Vibe Sync Light is a wearable vibrator designed to be inserted into the vagina during penetrative sex, with an external arm that provides clitoral stimulation. Of course, as always, there are lots of different ways to use toys and the suggested way is just one of them!
Product Info
- Material: Silicone
- Colour: Black
- Body safe? Yes
- Waterproof: No – toy is IPX-4 splashproof but should not be submerged
- Size: 3″ insertable length
- Speeds/patterns: 4 speeds and 6 patterns
- Lube-compatible: Water-based lube is best
- Cleaning: A body-safe sterile wipe is best for non-submersible toys
- RRP if bought as a single item: £79.99
Pros
- Middling power vibrations – they’re not knock-your-socks-off, but they’re decent
- Flexible middle between the two arms allows you to position the toy in whatever way is most comfortable for your body
- App controls! I did not expect to find an app-controlled toy in this kit but I am very pleasantly surprised. We-Vibe’s app is free from the Android or iOS stores and allows you to connect at close range or remotely from anywhere in the world.
Cons
- No remote control, which is a downside if you don’t want to use the app
- Single button interface on the body of the toy is kind of annoying
- Not waterproof
- In my experience, these toys don’t generally stay in place well during partnered sex without someone holding them in position
Verdict
This is a really impressive addition to the kit! These types of toys are normally seriously pricey, so this is a great introduction for those who are curious about trying one. The app controls are also a really nice extra, particularly for couples who want to connect sexually over long distance.
Day #10: Silicone Cock Ring
Today’s item is a basic silicone thick cock ring. Cock rings are worn around the base of the penis, restricting blood flow outwards to help the wearer maintain a stronger erection for longer. Some also say they heighten sensation and intensify orgasm.
According to Healthline, cock rings are safe for the vast majority of wearers as long as you listen to your body, wear a ring of a suitable size, and follow some basic precautions, such as using lube and not leaving the ring on for more than 30 minutes at a time.
Product Info
- Material: Silicone
- Colour: Black
- Body safe? Yes – silicone is non-porous and non-toxic.
- Waterproof: Yes, this toy is non-porous and has no motor so can safely be used in water
- Size: 1.5″ diameter but stretchy
- Speeds/patterns: N/A
- Lube-compatible: Water-based lube is best
- Cleaning: Boiling, a 10% bleach solution, a sterile wipe, or warm water and antibacterial soap
- RRP if bought as a single item: £9.99 for a pack of 3
Pros
- Very stretchy to accommodate most penis sizes
- Extra-thick cock ring enhances comfort
Cons
- May be uncomfortably tight on those with very girthy penises
Verdict
Not much more to say on this one – a great basic cock ring that is also body-safe and should be durable and long-lasting.
Day #11: Spanking Paddle
Today’s item is a mini spanking paddle with a pretty black and rose gold design matching other items in the kit. It’s made of silky satin on one side and faux leather on the other, and has a ribbon wrist loop. It measures 9″ in total length.
A similar item retails by itself for £16.99.
Pros
- Very safe as an intro toy for impact play beginners – you’re very unlikely to do anyone real damage with this
- Slightly different sensation from each of the two sides (the leather side is a little more stingy)
- Impressive slappy noise which is hot to some people
Cons
- Unlikely to satisfy anyone who enjoys more than very mild pain
- Loud noise may be problematic if you have to keep your play discreet
- Not particularly robust, will probably fall apart after a bit
Verdict
This is a perfectly okay spanking paddle for total beginners. It’s gentle enough to be safe and non-threatening, and might be a decent way to figure out if impact play is something you enjoy. It’s unlikely to satisfy serious BDSM enthusiasts but honestly, serious BDSM enthusiasts aren’t the target market for this kit anyway.
Try it out and, if you like it, upgrade to a well-made BDSM paddle.
Day #12: Snap Sex Position Card Game
Today it’s literally the card game “Snap” but as a sex position card game. Is the idea that you play the game and then when you get a “snap”, you have to have sex in that position? Because YKINMKBYKIOK and all, but that doesn’t sound sexy to me.
Also, they should really rename this as “Sex Position Card Game For Very Athletic Straight People.” Because seriously, look at them. They all assume, to a greater or lesser extent, a cisgender man and woman having penetrative vaginal sex. Some of them are fine, if fairly generic. Some are potentially doable, if you’re very fit, like “The Wheelbarrow”:
Others are… well, this:
Stop it, Lovehoney. You’re being silly now.
Pros
- Potentially a fun, goofy and low-pressure way into exploring new positions, I guess?
- Calls to mind this scene from The Bold Type in which our three bestie protagonists test out a new sex position for Scarlet Magazine.
- Some of these, at least, could potentially work for strap-on sex or anal sex (at least if you made some minor adjustments) as well as vaginal sex.
Cons
- A lot of these are just fairly standard positions that most people who have penetrative sex likely already have in their repertoire.
- The others are, as we have identified above, anything from “improbable if you’re not an athlete” to “physically im-fucking-possible.”
- Extremely cishetero and gendered
Verdict
You might get a little inspiration from this, or at the very least you’ll have a laugh trying out some of the more challenging positions. Overall, though, I don’t know why we’re still pretending that contorting yourself into all kinds of weird shapes is superior to or hotter than good old missionary, doggy style, or over-the-edge-of-the-bed fucking.
Day #13: G-Spot/P-Spot Massager
Today’s product is a G-Spot/P-Spot Massager. In other words, a penetrative toy that can be used to stimulate either the G-spot or the prostate. It has an optional slot to insert a bullet vibrator such as the one from Day 1.
Product Info
- Material: Silicone
- Colour: Black
- Body safe? Yes
- Waterproof: Yes (though if you’re using a vibrator with it, make sure that’s waterproof too!)
- Size: 4″ insertable length, 1.4″ diameter at widest point
- Speeds/patterns: N/A
- Lube-compatible: Water-based lube is best
- Cleaning: A body-safe sterile wipe, boiling, or gentle antibacterial soap and water
- RRP if bought as a single item: N/A – not available
Pros
- Suitable and safe for both vaginal and anal use
- Can be used with or without a vibrator
- Very flexible, which can help with insertion and comfortable positioning
- Bulbed head for precision stimulation of the G-spot or prostate
- Narrow neck allows it to sit comfortably once inserted
- Beginner-friendly size
Cons
- None that I can see!
Verdict
This is a lovely item and a great inclusion in the kit. It’s good to see items that are suitable for people regardless of their body or genital type, the shape and curve are excellent, and the size isn’t too intimidating for those who are new to anal play.
Day #14: Menthol Pleasure Balm
Today’s item is a 7g tin of Lovehoney’s menthol pleasure balm. This item isn’t sold separately in this form but it’s pretty similar to the Bliss Orgasm Balm, which I love and use regularly.
Product Info
In a nutshell, pleasure balm or orgasm balm is designed to be applied to the external genitals, especially the clitoris. The ingredients provide a tingling sensation and may encourage blood flow, promoting greater sensitivity.
The Menthol Pleasure Balm contains a pretty long list of ingredients, but most of them give me no cause for concern. It does contain propylparaben, and some people like to avoid parabens entirely for understandable reasons. However, according to a report by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, “the SCCS has concluded that propylparaben is safe when used as a preservative in cosmetic products up to a maximum concentration of 0.14%.” I’m not a scientist, of course, but I would conclude from this data that the tiny amount in this product is unlikely to do you any harm.
Unfortunately this balm contains beeswax, so it is not vegan.
Pros
- 7g doesn’t sound like a very big tin, but you really don’t need a lot to get the effects so you’ll get a good few uses out of this
- Genuinely works! I have had several tins of this stuff over the years and I love it. It really does enhance sensitivity (it’s not a magic orgasm spell, though, so keep your expectations realistic!)
- Some of the plant-based oils and other ingredients may have beneficial properties for skin
Cons
- Not vegan due to beeswax
- Oily consistency can make clean-up a bit annoying
- Strong minty scent may be unpleasant to some people
Verdict
I still really like this stuff, though I think personally I’ll be sticking to the vegan, paraben-free version.
Day #15: Plastic Massager
Today’s item is a handheld plastic massager. It’s red and sparkly, and has a central handle and then four arms each with a spherical bulb on the end to get deep into all those muscles and knots. On its own, this item retails for £5.99.
Pros
- Light weight and ergonomic design make it comfortable to hold and use
- Great way to give a deeper massage, especially if your hands or wrists get tired or sore
- Flexible options – use one, two, or all four ends at once for different sensations
- Really good for getting properly into sore muscles!
- Basically zero maintenance – just wash off excess massage oil after use and you’re good to go
Cons
- Because it’s hard plastic, you need to be a little bit careful – you could possibly hurt someone if you press too hard. We’re not talking “serious injury” here, but maybe “nasty bruise.”
Verdict
I really like this one. And it’s sparkly, which never hurts my opinion of a product!
Day #16: Micro Wand Vibrator
Today’s product is a micro wand vibrator. Look how tiny it is!
Product Info
- Material: Plastic body. I thought the head material was probably silicone but wasn’t 100% sure, so I flame-tested it and based on what I know about deciphering flame test results I think I’m correct
- Colour: Black
- Body safe? Yes, assuming it is indeed silicone
- Waterproof: No
- Size: 4.5″ in total length
- Speeds/patterns: 3 speeds, 7 patterns
- Lube-compatible: Water-based lube is best
- Cleaning: Wipe the head with a body-safe sterile wipe (do not submerge this toy in water)
- RRP if bought as a single item: £19.99 for something similar
Pros
- Small and discreet
- Flexible neck for easy positioning
- Easy user interface and satisfyingly clicky buttons
Cons
- Requires batteries, which are not included (2 x AAA)
- Not waterproof
- Vibrations not particularly powerful
- Buzzy as fuck
Verdict
I think people see “wand vibrator” and assume that it’s going to be powerful. But this isn’t a wand in any meaningful sense. This is a wand. This tiny little thing, though, is just a crappy vibrator with a weak and buzzy motor designed to look like a micro version of a wand.
I already have something very similar from a previous calendar, and it’s often within reach because it does wonders for my sore neck when I’ve been sitting at the computer for too long. Partners have also really enjoyed having it used on them.
Day #17: Dice Sex Game
Today’s box contains a simple dice sex game. One dice includes pictures of items from the calendar (stroker, bullet vibe, paddle, mini wand, dildo, and massager). The other contains timeframes ranging from 1 minute to 15 minutes, plus a “free” option.
Pros
- Can be a fun, low-pressure way into exploring with a partner if you are new and nervous about using toys or experimenting sexually
- You can use the dice in different ways. I’m immediately thinking of a game where you roll the “implement” die three times and then have to come up with a quick scene that incorporates all three elements.
Cons
- Things can end up feeling unbalanced if you follow the game too rigidly. If one person gets 15 minutes of something then the other rolls one minute, it’s probably not going to feel very mutual. Of course, you can get around this by creating “house rules” or just ensuring everyone gets roughly equal time (or whatever they want/need) even if you’re switching between different activities.
Verdict
Not really my thing, but perfectly fine for its intended audience.
Day #18: Ankle Restraints
Remember those velcro-fastening wrist cuffs from Day 8? Well, today’s box containd the matching set of ankle restraints. These, too, are black with rose gold hardware and come with a clip to fasten them together.
Pros
- Like the wrist cuffs, they’re a huge step up from the rough nylon cuffs and those unsafe ribbon things from previous years
- Soft and comfy to wear
- Safe and beginner-friendly as you can unfasten them in a second
- Very adjustable sizing
Cons
- The clips are tiny and not very strong
- Annoying dangling velcro strap when they’re on
- Mostly, I’m just annoyed that these were a separate item. All four cuffs should have been in the same box as they’re clearly a set.
Verdict
Exactly like the other half of this matching set (sensing a pattern here?) these are far from amazing, but they’re fine. They do the job if all you want to do is experiment with light bondage. If you find you enjoy it, you can always splash out on some properly made kink ankle cuffs later on.
Day #19: Kegel Balls
Day 19’s box contains a set of kegel balls, AKA ben-wa balls. Kegel balls are interesting, because there are a lot of lofty claims out there about them. They’ll solve incontinence! They’ll make your orgasms better! They might even make it easier to orgasm if you struggle!
Is any of this true?
Eh. Maybe. Check out my past posts on kegel balls and kegel exercisers, especially this one, to learn more about what the current research does and does not say.
In this post I will be approaching kegel balls solely as a sex toy designed for pleasure, not as any sort of health or wellness device.
Product Info
- Material: Silicone
- Colour: Red balls with black casing
- Body safe? Yes
- Waterproof: Yes
- Size: 3″ insertable length, 3.5″ tail, 1.1″ diameter across each ball
- Speeds/patterns: N/A
- Lube-compatible: Water-based lube is best
- Cleaning: Boiling is best as this will kill all bacteria even in hard-to-reach places
- RRP if bought as a single item: This similar set retails for £12.99
Pros
- Small enough for beginners
- Long and strong silicone cord for easy removal
- Removeable sling makes cleaning easy
Cons
- None that I can find – these are great.
Verdict
An ideal introduction to kegel balls for anyone who has never tried them before.
Day #20: Rabbit Cock Ring
Day 20’s box contains a silicone cock ring with rabbit ears. This can be used with the bullet vibrator from Day 1, or on its own. When combined with the bullet vibrator, the ears can provide clitoral stimulation to the receptive partner during penetrative sex as well as stimulating the wearer. On its own, it still gives you all the benefits of using a cock ring.
Product Info
- Material: Silicone
- Colour: Black
- Body safe? Yes
- Waterproof: Yes
- Size: 1.5″ ring diameter, 1″ ears
- Speeds/patterns: N/A
- Lube-compatible: Water-based lube
- Cleaning: Boiling, soap and water, or a 10% bleach solution
- RRP if bought as a single item: Not available but this similar item retails for £24.99
Pros
- Versatile toy suitable for use during masturbation or partnered sex, and with or without a vibrator
- Adds clitoral stimulation, which a large majority of vulva-owners need to orgasm and which is not always forthcoming during p-in-v sex
- Wide band for comfortable fit
- Stretchy to accommodate different sizes
Cons
- May not fit people with very girthy penises comfortably
Verdict
Realistically, this toy is not something I’m likely to use. My experience has been that vibrating cock rings during penetrative sex don’t tend to do much for me as the stimulation they provide isn’t consistent enough. But everyone’s different and it’s a perfectly fine item, just not really for me.
Day #21: Beginner Nipple Clamps
Day 21’s box contains a pair of nipple clamps. They’re made of rose gold plastic, with a little decorative lightning bolt charm and red silicone tips. The slider design allows you to loosen or tighten them as desired.
They’re a variation on Lovehoney’s Tease Me clamps, which retail for £12.99.
Pros
- They’re cute; I like the colour and the lightning charm is a fun touch
- Easy to put on and take off quickly
- Adjustable to fit different nipple sizes and tightness preferences
- Very gentle, which makes them suitable beginner nipple clamps
Cons
- That beginner-friendly gentleness means they’re unlikely to be enough for wearers who prefer any significant pressure or intensity
- Won’t fit people with larger nipples
- The slider starts to rub off the coloured plating after a few uses
- They don’t stay on particularly well and fall off at the slightest tug
Verdict
These are fine if you’re just after a pair of purely decorative nipple clamps or want to try something very gentle for your first time. However, they’re neither particularly functional nor particularly durable for anything more than that. If you like them or want to experiment more with nipple clamps, get a more robust pair of adjustable clamps or try clover clamps.
Day #22: Finger Vibe Sleeve
Box 22 contains a finger vibe sleeve. There’s a space to insert a bullet vibrator (such as the bullet vibe from Day 1, or any other bullet in your collection that fits) and a loop for your finger.
Product Info
- Material: Silicone
- Colour: Red
- Body safe? Yes
- Waterproof: Yes (but the bullet vibrator you use with it may or may not be, so check first!)
- Size: 2.5″ long sleeve for bullet, 0.5″ diameter finger loop
- Speeds/patterns: N/A
- Lube-compatible: Water-based lube
- Cleaning: Boiling, soap and water, or a 10% bleach solution
- RRP if bought as a single item: £29.99 with a bullet vibe included
Pros
- Pairs with the bullet vibrator from Day 1, allowing yet another way to use it
- Offers a fun new way to explore fingering and hand sex, which I believe are wildly underrated sex acts and should be explored far more
- Gentle texturing on the underside offers additional clitoral stimulation
- Can reduce the physical effort of the giving partner during hand sex, which is useful if you suffer from pain or fatigue in your hands
Cons
- The finger loop is tiny! It was snug on me, and I have small hands. Someone with larger hands doesn’t stand a chance using this
- If your bullet vibrator isn’t super powerful, the silicone dampens the vibrations
- Texturing could do with being a bit more pronounced
Verdict
This is a really nice addition to the kit at least in theory. However, it feels to me like the design was a bit rushed and basic things – is the finger loop large/stretchy enough to be comfortable, is the texturing pronounced enough to be felt by most users? – were missed.
Day #23: Under-Mattress Restraints
Today’s item is a set of under-mattress restraints with clips to attach cuffs at each corner. These four-way restraints are designed to fit under your mattress, which then anchors them in place. Use in conjunction with the wrist cuffs from Day 8 and the ankle cuffs from Day 18 for a full set of restraints.
This set is similar to the Bondage Boutique Bound to Please Under-Mattress Restraints, which retail for £49.99 for a set including cuffs.
Pros
- Adjustable to use with all bed sizes, including my fabulous super-king
- Great way to try bedroom bondage if you want to tie someone to the bed but don’t have a metal bed frame or other suitable hard points.
- Easy to tuck them out of sight quickly if you need to without dismantling the whole set-up
- Strong and sturdy material
- Safe and easy introduction to bondage
- Pairs with the cuffs in this set or, if you prefer, you can upgrade to better cuffs and continue using the restraint kit
Cons
- I feel like the under-mattress restraints and pairs of cuffs should have been ONE item in the advent calendar, not three. Otherwise, no complaints.
Verdict
Overall, this is a great addition for the second-last day of the advent kit. I’m also pleasantly surprised to learn they will work with my giant bad, having assumed they wouldn’t. For people who are brand new to playing with bondage and restraint, they’re a safe and accessible place to start.
Day #24: Womanizer Liberty 2
Day 24’s box contains the second of this kit’s two premium products (the first being the We-Vibe Sync Lite from Day 9!) Namely, the Womanizer Liberty 2, a petite clitoral suction stimulator in a neat little travel case.
Product Info
- Material: Plastic body and case, silicone nozzle
- Colour: Black
- Body safe? Yes
- Waterproof: Yes, IPX 7 waterproof
- Size: 4.5″ total length
- Speeds/patterns: 8 intensity levels
- Lube-compatible: Water-based lube
- Cleaning: Soap and water or a 10% bleach solution, or remove the nozzle and boil-sterilise the nozzle only
- RRP if bought as a single item: £89.99, available in various colourways
Pros
- Discreet and travel-friendly case
- Waterproof for use in the bath or shower
- Petite size makes it light and comfortable to hold
- Removeable nozzle is easy to clean
- Quieter than comparable models at the highest speeds
- Two-way controls
- 5 year warranty should anything go wrong
Cons
- Buttons are not always as responsive as they could be – sometimes I have to press twice to get the speed to change
Verdict
Yes yes yes yes. This is an excellent product and a great note to finish on! Honestly, as long as you like at least a few of the other things at least somewhat, this toy kinda makes the value of the entire kit.
Phew. And we’re done! Will I do this again next year? Probably! Until then, I’ll return you to the regular C&K content you know and love.
The Lovehoney Advent Calendar 2024 (24 Day) retails for £149 at Lovehoney UK and $199 at Lovehoney US, and contains £457/$530 worth of products! Move fast if you want one – these usually sell out by mid November. Thanks to Lovehoney for sending me the this set to review. All views are mine (with occasional input from Mr C&K!) Affiliate links appear in this post.
