Something I’ve noticed about alien dildos, tentacle dildos, and other fantasy sex toys is that they are often both enormously expensive and almost comically huge. Which is fine, of course, if size is your thing and you’re happy to drop a significant sum of money on a fantasy toy that meets that need. But what if you’re on a budget or just looking for something in a slightly more manageable size? This week, Uncover Creations sent me their Arbora Alien Dildo to review.
Introducing the Arbora Alien Dildos Range from Uncover Creations
Uncover Creations’ Arbora range of alien dildos comes in four different sizes, from extra small (5.1″ total length, 4.3″ insertable, 1.6″ diameter) up to large (10.2″ total length, 8.1″ insertable, 2.5″ diameter). They also range in price accordingly: £40 for x-small, £50 for small, £65 for medium, and £100 for large. Even at the largest size, this is a really competitive price compared to many other fantasy toy makers out there.
You can select your firmness rating, from medium-firm up to squishy soft, pick a colour/colour scheme or allow the company to surprise you, and add a vac-u-lock hole, suction cup, suction cup mount, or cum tube if you like. The resulting toy will be hand-poured to your selected preferences.
By the way: if you’re looking for some colourway inspiration, scroll down to the customer reviews section on the product page and you’ll see numerous happy customers showing off their creations.
The Arbora is a heavily textured fantasy dildo with a curved shape, a series of rippling ridges, a subtle “knot” towards the bottom of the shaft, and a tapered tip. All Arbora alien dildos are made from premium, body-safe and non-porous silicone.
Uncover Creations Arbora Alien Dildo Review: What I Liked
As soon as the UC team suggested it to me for my next review product, I had a feeling I was going to like the Arbora. Now it’s true that alien dildos and other fantasy creations aren’t really my kink, but I do enjoy trying out interesting shapes and textures. Here’s what I liked about the Arbora:
I requested the Uncover Creations Arbora to review in a single surprise colourway, and the result did not disappoint. I received a lovely pearlescent pink that catches the light with a lilac-ish shimmer. Every toy I’ve had from this company has been truly beautiful, and I appreciate the extra effort they put into their presentation.
The texturing is just the right level. I’ve tried textured toys that were so intense they were painful, and textured toys where the texturing was so subtle I really couldn’t feel anything. The Arbora dildo is a happy medium – textured enough to be satisfying but not so over the top as to be uncomfortable.
The curved shape is perfect for getting that “come hither” motion.
When the toy is fully inserted, the two little “spikes” (I don’t really know what else to call them) protruding from the base provide a little additional external stimulation. They don’t really reach my clit, but they kind of tickle my vulva and labia.
The hooked tip provides precision G-spot stimulation.
The base is large and flat, meaning that the toy stands up by itself. If you want to position it on a surface and use it hands-free, this allows you to do that.
FYI if it’s your thing, you can also safely use the Arbora dildo anally.
Anything I Didn’t Like?
There really isn’t anything significantly negative to say in this Uncover Creations Arbora review! One thing to be aware of, though, is that it’s firmer than I expected. I requested the “soft” firmness option but it’s still quite firm and doesn’t have much squish. If I was to order again, I’d probably go for “super soft” instead. If you’re not sure and you really need a softer toy, I recommend going down one firmness level.
It’s also worth noting that toys with heavy texturing can be a bit of a pain to clean. Due to all the little ridges and creases, I recommend using the boiling method to clean your Arbora alien dildos.
Verdict
Arbora is an excellent range of alien dildos with numerous customisation options available. I’d happy recommend them to anyone who enjoys textured or fantasy toys, and particularly to anyone who is looking for a fantasy toy in a smaller size and at an affordable price.
Those who read my work regularly will know that I have a mixed relationship with rabbit vibrators. I’ve trieda fewI liked and a lot I didn’t, but I very rarely reach for them as a preference. With that in mind, let’s find out how I got on with the Thrusting Rabbit Vibrator from The One.
The One Thrusting Rabbit Vibrator: Details
The One Thrusting Rabbit Vibrator is a toy in the classic “rabbit vibe” style. Its total length is 9.5″, its insertable length is around 5.5″, and its diameter is 1.5″ at the widest point. Its clitoral stimulator consists of two flexible ears.
The One Thrusting Rabbit Vibrator is USB rechargeable and waterproof. It is made of body-safe and non-porous silicone.
The One Thrusting Rabbit Vibrator Review: What I Liked
Before I get into all the things that annoyed me about this toy (and, as you’ll see from the section below, there are a lot!) I tried to find some things to like about it.
The thrusting function is decent. I can feel it consistently, it offers 10 different speed and pattern options, and its relatively short thrusting length is a great option for anyone who enjoys this sensation but does not enjoy getting poked in the cervix.
The flexibility of the clitoral stimulator makes it easy to position it correctly for your body.
The gentle curve and slight flex to the upper portion of the insertable arm makes the toy more comfortable to use and enables more precise G-spot targeting.
You can have the vibrations turned on without the thrusting function, and vice-versa, or you can use them together.
The One Thrusting Rabbit Vibrator Review: What I Didn’t Like
My ultimate complaint with this toy, as is so often the case, is just that it’s never going to give me an orgasm. Though I like the thrusting function, the motor is buzzy as hell and the vibrations aren’t particularly strong.
When are sex toy manufacturers going to understand that for a large majority of people with vulvas, clitoral stimulation isn’t an afterthought? It’s the main event that many, many, many of us require to orgasm.
Other things I didn’t like about The One Thrusting Rabbit Vibrator include:
One day, a company will come up with a way to make a thrusting toy that doesn’t make a horrible high-pitched whining noise. Sadly, today is not that day. Like almost every other thrusting toy I’ve reviewed, the One Thrusting Rabbit makes exactly that noise. Even though I like how thrusting toys feel, I rarely actually use them because this noise is just such an unpleasant sensory experience.
Though you can control the vibrations and the thrusting separately, you cannot control the vibrations in the ears and the shaft separately. This is a pretty major problem for anyone who, like me, finds internal vibrations more uncomfortable than pleasurable.
The ears are far too flexible and flimsy to give any significant clitoral stimulation. If you like any pressure at all, forget it.
The silicone around the base of the shaft is incredibly thin. This means that you can see and feel the mechanisms underneath. More egregiously, though, I’ve used this toy once and I have just discovered a tear in the silicone! That’s a pretty unforgiveable design flaw. It presents a risk of bacteria transfer and seriously calls into question the safety and quality of the entire product.
The rigidity of the lower portion of the insertable arm significantly limits positioning options.
It’s so pink. I’m not totally against pink in principle, but it’s massively overused in sex toys. Especially this glaringly bright, eye-hurting, practically-neon shade.
The charging time is 150 minutes (two and a half hours) and you only get around 50 minutes of use on a full charge.
Verdict
My basic conclusion to this review was that the One Thrusting Rabbit is an okay but unremarkable rabbit vibrator. The thrusting function is decent (the noise aside), but the motor is extremely buzzy and the lack of dual controls for the vibrations really pushes this one into more “miss” than “hit” for me. And, of course, the silicone tearing after one use is really, really bad.
My clit grinder sex toy obsession is well-documented at this point. I think grinder toys are woefully underrated in general and deserve to be far more widely appreciated. So in that spirit, today’s buying guide is all about some of the best grinders currently on the market (in my opinion.)
What is a Clit Grinder and Who Is It For?
In a nutshell, a grinder or clit grinder is a toy designed to stimulate the clitoris and vulva when the user moves against it in a grinding motion. Grinder toys provide external stimulation that is highly customisable, because you can change the intensity, pressure, or focus of the stimulation just by shifting your position or weight distribution.
Grinder toys are amazing for anyone with a vulva and clit who enjoys external touch, though some folks with penises do also enjoy them. They are usually made of silicone, and come in a wide array of different shapes, sizes, textures, and designs. Most will be flat and smooth on one side, to allow you to place them face-up on a surface, with a raised and textured area on the other side.
Some grinder toys come with additional features, such as vibrating functionality, a hole for a penis or dildo to fit through, or straps so that you can attach the grinder to a surface.
About This List
Like all my buying guides, this post does not pretend to be a comprehensive list of all the amazing clit grinders that are available. There are hundreds if not thousands of these products on the market, and I have of course not tried them all. Therefore, please take this for what it is: a set of suggested products that I recommend and that may suit you, depending on your needs.
Everything listed here is from a manufacturer/retailer I trust, and links are affiliate links. This means that if you click on the links and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I do not work for or claim to represent any of these companies, and any purchase you make is a contract with them and not with me.
Everything I recommend here is made of a body-safe material and is, to the best of my knowledge, safe for normal use. Where possible, I have tried to provide options at a range of price points. Products in lists are ordered from the cheapest to the most expensive.
Let’s dive in.
Best Single Texture Clit Grinder Toys
Single-texture grinders are great to start with if you’re new to grinding toys. These toys offer a single, uniform texture ranging from very gentle to very intense.
For this purpose, I think the Godemiche Grind Pad is very hard to beat. With optional removeable straps and a choice of three available textures, there are numerous customisations you can make to get the perfect toy for you. Not sure where to start? Waves is the absolute best texture in my opinion. Or, of course, you can get a set of three to try all the textures!
None of these textures grabbing you? The Grind Ring range has even more options to choose from. Bubbles is great if you prefer a gentler sensation, and Tall Pyramids is a great choice if you want much more intensity.
Best Dual Texture Clit Grinder Toys
Looking for something different or something a little more intense? If so, dual texture grinders can be a great choice. These toys combine two textures to create a different and more varied sensation than a single texture.
This is another Godemiche recommendation. I recently got to try their new Dual Texture Clit Grinder toys and they are just amazing. Again, there are numerous customisation options, from texture to height of the mound and even the level of softness or firmness you want.
Check out my review to help you choose the best options for you. Personally, I can’t get enough of the Bubbles and Bumps combo.
Best Fantasy Grinders
Fantasy grinders tap into the same market as tentacle dildos, alien toys, and so on. They’re for anyone who has ever fantasised about having sex with a mystical creature (a much more common fetish than you might think!) I don’t personally have that kink, but I have found that fantasy grinders have some of the best textures out there due to their level of detailing.
For me, Uncover Creations is unbeatable in this regard. Their Tentacle Grinder II is one of the most-used toys in my collection, and is the closest a toy has ever come to making me feel like I was receiving cunnilingus from a partner. For those who prefer a gentler grinder, check out the Snystyl. And if you’re looking for all-over texture that’s so intense it’s almost overwhelming, the original Tentacle Grinder is a great choice.
Another fantastic purveyor of fantasy grinders is Nothosaur. Their Meo’s Scalesdragon grinder (pictured), in particular, is incredible and fast becoming a favourite.
Best Vibrating Grinders
Vibrating clit grinders take the tried-and-true pleasure of vibrations and add them to grinding toys. Occasionally these are built-in, but more often they come in the form of a removeable bullet vibrator and a space to add it to the toy.
Many of Uncover Creations’ grinders can have a bullet vibrator added, and Godemiche’s Vibe Pad range is specifically designed with this in mind. There’s also the V-Plate add on, an optional extra which allows you to turn any Godemiche Grind Ring into a vibrating toy!
I find that vibrations work best on clit grinders that have a texture with more flexibility, as they allow it to “flutter”. I’ve particularly found that textures such as Uncover Creations’ Synstyl and Godemiche’s Spikes and Tall Pyramids work well with a vibrator.
Best Cock Ring Grinders
Cock ring grinder toys come with a hole through which to put a penis (or a strap-on or dildo). The main idea is that they provide more pleasure for the receptive partner during penetrative penis-in-vagina sex.
Godemiche’s Grind Rings are, of course, the original and best cock ring clit grinder toys. However, another one I’ve tried recently is Uncover Creations’ Tentacle II cock ring, a smaller version of their amazing grinder I mentioned above (kindly sent to me by Shevibe!) There are also cock ring versions of the Synstyl and original Tentacle Grinders, though I haven’t tried these personally.
It can take a little practice to use a grinder cock ring effectively. You’ll need to experiment to figure out which positions and angles work best for you. In general, those with lots of close body contact tend to be easiest. You might also find that steadying the toy in place with your hand can help in some positions.
I hope this guide to some of the best grinder toys on the market has been helpful! Drop me a line if you have any questions or if you have a suggestion for what buying guides you’d like me to do next.
Thanks to the manufacturers and retailers who sent me their various clit grinder toys to try, including Godemiche, Uncover Creations, Shevibe, and Nothosaur!
I don’t even know how many bullet vibrators I’ve tried at this point. They’re one of the most ubiquitous and popular sex toy models of all, and there must be thousands of variations on this theme on the market. Really good bullets, though? They’re much rarer. One such bullet vibrator landed in my review queue this week, though: Vibeology Aeronaut Mini Vibe.
What is the Vibeology Aeronaut?
The Vibeology Aeronaut is a bullet vibrator measuring 3.5″ in length and in the classic rounded-end shape. Its main body is made of ABS plastic, which is body-safe and non-porous as well as super easy to clean. The single button, located on the base, is made of silicone.
This toy is IPX7 waterproof, meaning it can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes at a time. It is also USB rechargeable via the included magnetic cable. I got over an hour of use out of a full charge.
Vibeology Aeronaut Mini Bullet Vibrator Review: Pros
Fundamentally, the Vibeology Aeronaut Mini Vibe is simply a damn good basic bullet vibrator. Its vibrations are surprisingly strong for its small size and low price-point, and also much more rumbly than I expected. Since plastic transmits vibrations well with minimal dampening, I can really feel them throughout my entire clit and vulva.
The shape allows for both broader stimulation with the long edge, or more targeting with the rounded end. I also appreciate this toy’s clicky, easy-to-press button and light weight.
Vibeology Aeronaut Mini Bullet Vibrator Review: Cons
My only major complaint about the Vibeology Aeronaut is its single-button interface. I always prefer to be able to scroll both ways through patterns and speeds. The Aeronaut has 3 constant speeds and 7 patterns, so having to cycle through all of them is a bit annoying.
One downside that is pretty consistent with bullet vibes I’ve reviewed is the transmission of vibrations into your hand, and the Aeronaut mini vibrator is no different. This tends to be more noticeable with plastic toys than silicone ones. It doesn’t bother me that much for short stints of use, but if you have pain or nerve issues in your hands it’s something to be aware of.
Aeronaut Mini Vibe: Verdict
If you’re looking for a good quality basic bullet with strong vibrations, particularly if you’re on a budget, the Vibeology Aeronaut is a fantastic pick. Considering its low price-point, I’m genuinely impressed at just how good this toy is.
Thanks to Shevibe for sending me the Vibeology Aeronaut mini bullet vibrator to test and review. All views and writing are mine, as always. Affiliate links appear in this post and using them helps to keep the blog going!
Following yesterday’s review of The One Wand vibrator, I’m back with the next installment in this series of toy reviews featuring new brand The One. In the UK, The One is exclusively available at Sex Toys UK. Elsewhere in the world, you can find these products at various toy retailers including Good Vibes and Babeland. Next up is The One Flicker Vibrator.
What is The One Flicker Vibrator?
The One Flicker Vibe is a curved toy measuring just under 10″ in length and 1.42″ in diameter at the widest point. Made of smooth body-safe silicone, it is also waterproof and USB rechargeable. A two-hour charge gives around 90 minutes of use.
The One Flicker Vibe a single-shaft vibrator with two independent motors. What makes this toy unique is its silicone “tongue” at one end, which flicks rapidly back and forth. The other end is a fairly standard insertable vibrator featuring a series of gentle ridges.
I admit I mostly requested this one for review out of curiosity. My initial reaction when I saw it was “what!? …huh.” But is it actually any good?
The One Flicker Sex Toy Review: Pros
Let’s get the most important thing out of the way: does it feel good? Surprisingly (to me at least), it does. The One Flicker Vibrator provides a rapid tapping sort of sensation against the G-spot, not unlike being fingered by someone with very good manual dexterity. As someone who doesn’t like the sensation of vibrations internally, this was a pleasant change: a motorised G-spot toy I can actually use and enjoy!
So what else did I like about the One Flicker Vibe?
The curved shape makes the toy comfortable to insert and makes it effortless to find (and keep contact with) the G-spot.
The vibrating end has a half-decent motor. It’s not super rumbly, but it at least has some power behind it.
The two-in-one design means that, if you decide you’re in the mood for vibrations rather than flicking or vice-versa, you can just switch motors and turn it around without needing to grab a different toy.
It is comfortable to hold, with well-placed and easy to press buttons.
It works just as well for clitoral stimulation. I haven’t found that the flicking motion against my clit can actually get me off, but it does feel really fucking good.
The One Flicker Vibrator: Cons
This vibrator is really all about the flicker end for me. The regular vibrator end is fine, but not realistically something I’m likely to use with any kind of regularity.
There were also a few other gripes I had with this toy:
I don’t love the two-button interface. It’s good that you can control the flicker function and the vibrations separately, but makes it a pain to scroll through all the settings (three speeds and seven patterns per motor) to go backwards or find one you liked.
This toy is a nightmare to clean. It’s really hard to get around and behind the tongue to ensure it is completely clean. A very small brush that can get into all the crevices is probably your best bet.
It’s a little on the heavy side.
Also, I’m really annoyed that the copy on the box states you can use this toy for the “P-spot”, AKA the prostate. The Flicker Vibrator does not have a flared base and therefore absolutely should not be used anally.
Verdict
This toy offers quite a specific sensation, which is great if you enjoy it but pretty useless if you don’t. (Well, not completely useless. You can still use the vibrating end. But there are cheaper and better basic vibrators on the market if that’s what you’re looking for.)
If you want a toy that somewhat mimics the sensation of fingers making a “come hither” motion inside you (and/or tapping against your clit), you’ll probably enjoy this one. I certainly did.
Thanks to Sex Toys UK for sending me the One Flicker Vibrator to review. All views and writing are, as always, mine. If you shop through my affiliate links I make a small commission at no additional cost to you.
We’re still in Anal August, just about! But, of course, any time of year is a great time to experiment with anal play if you’re interested or curious. So, following on from my round-ups of the best butt plugs and the best anal beads, I’m bringing you my final Anal August buying guide: today we’re looking at the best vibrating butt plugs currently on the market.
To learn more about butt plugs more generally, as well as how to choose a safe and quality one, refer back to my best butt plugs roundup linked in the paragraph above. In it, I share what makes a butt plug safe or unsafe, how to use them safely and pleasurably, and some things to look out for when shopping.
In a very small nutshell, a butt plug must always:
Have a flared base, large handle, or something similar to stop it slipping all the way inside you
Be made of a body-safe and non-porous material such as silicone, glass, or stainless steel
It’s also essential to use plenty of lube when you’re playing with an anal plug since the butt isn’t self-lubricating.
About This List
None of my buying guides are, or pretend to be, comprehensive lists of all the great options available. There are thousands of these products on the market of varying quality. I am simply here to guide you towards some of the possible vibrating butt plug options that might suit you.
Everything listed here is from a manufacturer/retailer I trust, and links are affiliate links. This means that if you click on the links and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I do not work for or claim to represent any of these companies, and any purchase you make is a contract with them and not with me.
Everything I recommend here is made of a body-safe material and is, to the best of my knowledge, safe for normal use. Where possible, I have tried to provide options at a range of price points. Products in lists are ordered from the cheapest to the most expensive.
Let’s dive in.
Best Vibrating Silicone Anal Plugs
A basic vibrating butt plug made of silicone is a great option if you are exploring these toys for the first time. There are countless options available, but these are a few I’d suggest starting with:
One of the downsides of vibrating butt plugs with controls on the toy is that it can be difficult to change the settings when it’s inside you. You can sidestep that problem with remote control plugs like these:
Enjoy using remote control toys? Step it up a notch with app-controlled toys. These are also a great option if you want to play with a partner long-distance. These are some of the very best vibrating butt plugs with app control options in my opinion.
This section is going to be a bit different as I don’t have options from multiple manufacturers for you here. Rimming plugs were invented and pioneered by B-Vibe, and they are still pretty much the only company making them! In short, rimming plugs utilise rotating beads in the neck to mimic the sensation of being rimmed (that’s when someone uses their tongue on your butt. Many people find it incredibly erotic.)
Check out B-Vibe’s vibrating rimming butt plug range, which come in sizes from petite to extra large and range in price from $159.99 to $174.99.
Best Vibrating Glass and Metal Anal Plugs
There are many glass and metal butt plugs on the market, but far fewer that vibrate. As such, I’ve combined them into one for this post. If you’re in the mood for something rigid, glass and metal are great options. They’re also great for temperature play as they conduct heat well. And, since they don’t dampen the vibrations in the same way that silicone does, they can be seriously intense.
Gläs Rechargeable Remote Glass Butt Plug ($99.99 from Good Vibes and Babeland)
Best Vibrating Butt Plugs Under £25/$30
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get safe and quality toys! In my opinion, these are some of the best vibrating butt plugs available for those on a budget.
I hope this list of some of the best vibrating butt plugs has been helpful! Please let me know if you have any questions or if there’s a particular buying guide you want me to do next.
Sometimes, I step back and realise how actually bonkers my job is. One of those moments was when a comically enormous parcel arrived on my doorstep last week. I don’t think I will ever forget the expression on my nesting partner’s face when I explained “it’s a sex doll!” To be exact, it was the Tantaly Candice 2.0 sex doll for me to review.
I have wanted to review a sex doll for a very long time, so thank you to Tantaly for sending me the Candice 2.0.
I’ll say this for Tantaly: despite the conspicuous nature of the box’s size, the packaging was completely discreet. There was nothing on the box or external packaging to indicate what was inside. All Tantaly dolls now also come with a black PVC and polyester zip-up bag. This makes it easier to carry the doll around (no easy task, as we’ll address below!) and also offers a handy storage solution.
Tantaly Candice 2.0 Review: Upgrades
The Tantaly Candice was a hugely popular sex doll, and the Candice 2.0 is an updated and revised version. (All Tantaly’s sex dolls have names, I’m not sure who chooses them or how!)
The Candice 2.0 is different from the Candice original in two key ways. The first upgrade “improved the appearance of the labia and skin texture, realistically replicating the shape of the human pubic area”, and the second upgrade introduced the hilariously-named “Tantabosom”, a unique gel formula which claims to make the doll’s breasts softer and more lifelike.
Tantaly also fixed some issues customers identified in this iteration of the Candice doll. These included repositioning the anus to reduce tearing during use and transporation, enhancing the feel and appearance of the butt with (you guessed it) “Tantabutt”, and making the vaginal tunnel slightly wider.
Sex Doll Look & Feel
The Candice is a torso sex doll weighing 42lb (or around 19kg.) That doesn’t sound all that huge, right? Trust me, when you’re lugging it up the stairs in its case, it feels huge. Yes, this doll is seriously heavy, and it’s not even close to the largest in Tantaly’s range. Of course, the size and weight is part of the appeal of sex dolls to some users as it makes them more lifelike. Just be ready for the physical task of moving it. Or have a supportive partner/roommate who can help you.
Tantaly’s doll storage/travel bag
Initially, I was sceptical about the claim that this doll is “life size”, so I got the measuring tape out. The Tantaly Candice measures around 22″ in length from the vulva to the base of the neck. This is a pretty realistic size for a short-ish woman (I measured the same area on my 5’5″ frame for comparison and it was around 25″.) So yes, it actually is a petite lifesize!
Please note that, though pictured wearing lingerie, your sex doll does not come with any clothing. You can, of course, dress it up in anything you like yourself. On the product page, Tantaly notes that TPE dolls can stain easily so it is best to avoid dark fabrics or anything with dyes that might run.
The Tantaly Candice 2.0 is clearly designed to adhere to a very specific and normative idea of female beauty. It has a narrow waist, flat stomach, large breasts, and a vulva that looks straight out of mainstream porn. However, with that said, I am glad that it does not have the cartoonishly unrealistic proportions of some sex dolls out there. (No-one has a 20″ waist and J-cup breasts naturally. They just don’t.)
I’ve said before that I find sex dolls with faces a little creepy in an “uncanny valley” sort of way, but this torso-only design avoids that problem. Mr C&K mentioned that the entire concept felt a little too “disembodied” for him in a way that he found really offputting. There’s no objective answer here—it’s totally a matter of preference.
The first surprise I encountered in this review is how soft the Tantaly Candice is to the touch. Thankfully, it also doesn’t have that weird smell that some TPE sex toys do. I was left with some slight residue on my hands from the powdered packaging, so I recommend giving it a really good wash before you actually use it for the first time. Interestingly, the material doesn’t really conduct much heat, so it tends to be quite cool to the touch even in a very warm room.
Inside, I was also impressed at how realistic the vagina and butt feel. They feature incredibly detailed layers of texturing internally. The vagina even has a G-spot! And if a boob person, you’ll definitely enjoy the lifelike breasts and semi-realistic nipples.
Is the Tantaly Candice 2.0 Sex Doll Body Safe?
This doll is made from thermoplastic elastomer, or TPE. TPE is a type of plastic that has been refined and treated to turn it into a flexible, rubber-like material. In the world of sex toys, TPE is often used as a cheaper alternative to silicone.
So is TPE body-safe?
Crucially (and giving it an advantage over many other common sex toy materials such as jelly), TPE does not typically contain phthalates. These common plasticisers are endocrine disrupters and possibly carcinogenic. In this way, TPE is unlikely to be harmful.
However, a downside of TPE is that it is a porous material. This means that it has microscopic holes which can harbour bacteria, bodily fluids, and more.
I’m a lot less critical of TPE use in penis toys (such as strokers and, yes, sex dolls) than I am of its use in insertable toys, such as dildos and butt plugs. This is because the way that penis toys are used means that the risk of harm and infection is far lower than with insertables.
Ultimately, my recommendation regarding TPE sex dolls? You’re probably fine as long as you follow some basic hygiene precautions. However, you should not share the doll (or if you must, use a condom) because doing so significantly increases the risk of both infection and STI transmission. You should also care for your doll according to the manufacturer’s instructions and check it regularly for tears, cracks, mold, and material degredation.
Care and Cleaning of Your Sex Doll
Tantaly recommends storing your sex doll inside the protective styrofoam packaging it arrives in. This protects it from dust and the elements as well as helping it to retain its shape for longer. They also recommend oiling it 3-4 times per year depending on usage, and applying corn starch if it is going to be in storage for a long period.
It’s important to thoroughly clean your sex doll promptly after use. There’s a full guide here on how to clean, store, and care for your doll. In short though, after each use:
Thoroughly wash the areas of the doll that you have used (an enema kit is an easy way to clean the inside of your doll) with warm water and a gentle antibacterial soap.
Dry the doll as thoroughly as you can using a soft, clean cloth.
Use a drying stick, tampon, or similar to dry out the internal parts. It’s really important not to leave these wet as this can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
You can significantly extend the lifespan of your doll, and keep things more hygienic, by using a condom. Cleanup is definitely a bit of a faff, which is always going to be a downside to sex dolls.
How long will your doll last? That depends on a number of factors so it’s hard to say. Some users in Tantaly on-site reviews say they have had their doll for several years and it’s still in good condition.
9 Things to Do With a Sex Doll (Besides the Obvious)
The obvious basic use for a sex doll is, well, to have sex with it. And if you’re buying a doll for that purpose, the Tantaly Candice is a great choice. But beyond that, what are some fun things you can do with a sex doll like this one? To start you off, I’ve compiled a list of 9 options. As always, take the ones that resonate with you and leave the ones that don’t!
Play out cuckolding or cuckqueaning kinks. In short, this is where someone is “made” to watch their partner have sex with someone else. It is often, but not always, tied in with D/s dynamics and humiliation kinks.
Experiment with exhibitionism and voyeurism. Into the fantasy of watching or being watched during sex? You can fuck the doll while your partner watches… or put the doll in the corner and have it “watch” you masturbate or have sex.
Practice techniques. Want to improve your cunnilingus, fingering, or strap-on sex skills? Practicing on a doll isn’t perfect because it can’t give you feedback, but it can be a useful way to nail those physical skills.
Try out group sex fantasies without the risk. Group sex strikes a chord with many people as a fantasy, but not everyone can or wants to make it a reality. Using a sex doll allows you to play out some aspects of your group sex fantasies without the emotional risk that doing so for real can entail.
Make some sexy content. Many adult content creators use sex dolls to shoot images or videos. If you’re a creator, a sex doll can be a great addition to your repertoire. If not, you can still enjoy making some sexy content for your partner(s) or even just for yourself.
Tie it up. I’ve been really getting into bondage and shibari as a Top in the last few months or so. My immediate thought when I opened my Tantaly Candice sex doll was that it would be an amazing practice bottom for when I don’t have a human partner available. The weight does make this tricky, though.
Spank it. I’d be hesitant to suggest using impact toys on a TPE sex doll as they could damage the material. A good old fashioned hand spanking, though? Have at it.
Dress it up. If you’re into lingerie, latex, corsetry, or any other type of sexy clothing, your sex doll can be the perfect model for trying out different looks.
Have long-distance sex. If you and your partner are apart, activities like phone sex, cyber sex and sexting are great ways to maintain a sexual connection. App-controlled toys were created for just this purpose! Another option, though, is to use a doll. Slip into a hot fantasy with your lover by voice or text, and use the doll to act out the things you’re talking about doing and bring the fantasy to life.
Tantaly Candice Review: Verdict
I was initially unsure what I was going to do with this product, once I’d written up this Tantaly doll review. Not being in possession of a factory-installed penis, I am not exactly the target market for sex dolls. Honestly, I’m still not sure. It is enormous and taking up a lot of space.
The Tantaly Candice is a well-designed and well-made torso doll with impressive attention to detail, particularly in this latest iteration. If you’re in the market for a realistic (but faceless) sex doll, and the weight, maintenance, and storage requirements don’t bother you, the Tantaly Candice is a great choice.
Thanks to Tantaly for kindly sending me this product and sponsoring this review. All views and writing, as always, are mine. Product images courtesy of Tantaly.
August is a great time to buy anal toys. I have no idea where this “Anal August” thing initially came from (the mind of some enterprising marketing person, probably!) but what it means is that virtually every sex toy retailer you can think of will be running some kind of promotion on butt toys this month. Last week I told you all about the best anal beads on the market. Today we’re continuing that theme with another anal toys buying guide, this time focusing on the best butt plugs for a variety of needs.
What is a Butt Plug?
A butt plug is simply a toy that is designed to be inserted into the anus. However, unlike many other types of toys, the main purpose of a butt plug is to remain in place for a period of time. In other words, rather than thrusting or taking it in and out, you put it in and then leave it.
Butt plugs come in numerous shapes, sizes, and materials. They are usually narrower towards the tip and then get wider before narrowing again. A bulb, teardrop, or cone shape is the most typical, though there are plenty of variations. All butt plugs must have a large base or handle – we’ll go into this more in the next section.
Butt plugs stimulate the sensitive nerve endings in and around the anus. If you have a prostate (that’s most people assigned male at birth), some plugs can also stimulate this highly sensitive organ.
Some people like to wear a butt plug during sex or masturbation to enhance pleasure. Some use them to prepare for anal sex as they can help the butt to relax and get ready to take a penis or dildo. Others like to discreetly wear a butt plug under their clothes as they go about their day. For some people, this can be part of a BDSM or power exchange relationship (e.g. a Dominant instructing their submissive to wear a plug when they go out.)
What to Look For When Choosing the Best Butt Plugs for You
As with all sex toys, safety comes first when you’re choosing the best butt plugs for you. Anal toys must always, always have a large, flared base or handle. This prevents them from getting sucked up inside your butt and getting stuck, which can be extremely dangerous and cause serious damage to your body.
Butt plugs must also be made from a body-safe material. Silicone, glass, aluminium, and stainless steel are all good options. Avoid toxic materials such as jelly, rubber, PVC, and “soft plastics.” Avoid porous materials such as TPE and TPR, too, as these will harbour bacteria and can cause infection.
Once you’ve taken safety into account, it’s all about preferences. Do you want a softer and squishier plug (in which case you probably want a silicone toy) or a more rigid one (in which case glass or metal will be your friend?) What sort of size works for you? Do you want your butt plug to vibrate?
How to Use Butt Plugs Pleasurably and Safely
There is a common misconception that anal play is painful. It does not have to be and, in fact, shouldn’t be. It can be intense, and may be challenging, but pain is a sign that something isn’t right and you should pause, adjust, or stop. Never force something into a butt that isn’t ready.
When you start playing with butt plugs, begin with a small plug and go slowly. Listen to your body and try not to have a specific goal in mind. If you get the plug all the way in, great! If you don’t but you still had fun, amazing! Kept it in for a minute or ten minutes or an hour? Go you!
Adequate lubrication is also absolutely critical. Unlike the vagina, the butt is not self-lubricating. A good quality water-based lube will work with all types of butt plugs. Personally I find that thicker, gel-type water-based lubes are ideal for anal play. Sliquid Sassy and Vibeology Pure are two gentle and body-friendly options I recommend.
Finally, keep things hygienic. Coming into contact with small amounts of fecal matter is pretty much inevitable when you’re doing anal play, even after washing, and butt germs can make you sick if you’re not careful. Wash your hands before and after inserting your toy or doing any kind of anal stimulation. Learn how to properly sterilise your sex toys (the boiling method is best for silicone toys.) At a minimum, wipe your toys with a body-safe sterile wipe and wash them with soap and water before and after use. Never use an unsterilised toy vaginally or orally after it has been inside a butt. Check your toys before you use them and retire any that have cracks, splits, tears, or other damage to the material.
About This List
There are thousands upon thousands of variations of these toys available on the market, and this list is in no way intended to be comprehensive. The best butt plugs for you will always be a somewhat personal and subjective decision. What I have aimed to do here is to guide you towards safe and quality products that might suit you, depending upon your requirements.
Everything listed here is from a manufacturer/retailer I trust, and many of the links are affiliate links. This just means that if you make a purchase, I make a small commission at no additional cost to you. I do not work for or claim to represent any of these companies, and any purchase you make is a contract with them and not with me.
Everything I recommend here is made of a body-safe material and is, to the best of my knowledge, safe for normal use. Where possible, I have tried to provide options at a range of price points. Products in lists are ordered from the cheapest to the most expensive.
Let’s go, shall we?
Best Basic Silicone Butt Plugs
Basic silicone plugs are probably the best option for beginners. They’re also the most versatile and amongst the easiest to use. Silicone is soft, and comes in a range of firmness and flexibility levels. This is probably also the most ubiquitous category of butt plug, with virtually every sex toy manufacturer and retailer having their own variation on this theme. Here are a few I trust.
Glass is a fantastic material for sex toys (and no, it won’t break inside you!) Glass butt plugs are rigid yet smooth, and allow you to play with temperatures by warming or cooling them if you want to. Look for borosilicate glass – that’s similar to the stuff that Pyrex cookwear is made from – for the safest and most durable options.
Many people find the look and feel of stainless steel extremely sexy. Its weight can also add a little extra stimulation, ensuring you feel your toy every single time you move. Like glass, stainless steel is ideal for playing with different temperatures, too. Other metals such as aluminium are body-safe alternatives (as long as you don’t have an allergy) that may be cheaper, but stainless steel is always the best choice for metal sex toys if you can afford it.
I never recommend starting out with large toys when you’re new to anal play. However, once you’ve got a bit of experience under your belt, you might be curious about larger toys. These extra large butt plugs – each at least 5″ in usable length and at least 2″ in diameter – are great choices for advanced players seeking a challenge.
Slimmer butt plugs are great for beginners, for all-day wear… and just for anyone who prefers a smaller toy. These are some of the best butt plugs with a diameter of less than 1″ at the widest point.
Some people love butt plugs not just for how they feel, but for how they look. There are numerous decorative options available in all kinds of styles, but jewelled plugs – which have a jewel or crystal set into the base – are amongst the most popular. Here are a few I love.
Note: I don’t recommend boil-sterilising crystal/jewel plugs as this can damage the glue and cause the gem to fall out. Use a sterile wipe and warm water with antibacterial soap instead.
Best Butt Plug Sets
Butt plug sets are great for those who are new to anal play and don’t know what sizes work for them yet. They’re also great for anyone doing anal training… or just for people who are in the mood for different things on different days. Here are some of the best butt plugs sets that offer a range of sizes to choose from.
B-Vibe Anal Training & Education Set with 3 Plugs and Instructional Guide (£107/$139.99 from Shevibe)
Best Butt Plugs Under £15/$20
Great sex toys need not be expensive. Though you’ll pay a premium for some brands, there are also lots of great budget options on the market. Here are a few of them.
And there you have it! A massive round-up of some of the best butt plugs on the market for all preferences and budgets this Anal August and beyond. Happy shopping and, if you have any questions, just drop me a line and I’ll do my best to help.
I have no idea where the idea of “Anal August” originated, and I have to assume it was initially a marketing ploy to promote either sex toys or content. Regardless, it seems to be here to stay and virtually every sex toy retailer I work with is running some kind of related promotion. This means it’s a pretty good time to buy anal toys! Choosing the best anal beads, vibrating anal toys, butt plug, prostate massager, or other anal toys for your needs can be a minefield, though, with thousands of products of varying quality flooding the market.
That’s why I’m going to be running a series of anal-themed buying guides throughout August to help you. Today we’re looking at anal beads.
What Are Anal Beads?
In a nutshell, anal beads are sex toys made up of a string of beads (anything from 3 to 10+) that go up your butt. They usually end in a base, ring, or similar handle. This is both for safety (more on this below!) and to make it easier to hold and manipulate the beads. Most anal beads are tapered, with the smallest beads towards the tip and the largest towards the base. There are exceptions, though.
Unlike butt plugs—which are designed to be inserted and then left alone for a period of time—anal beads are designed to be inserted and removed repeatedly, much like you would with a dildo. Most people prefer to do this fairly slowly and gradually rather than hard and fast thrusting, but you can experiment to see what feels best to you. In this way, the beads stimulate the sensitive nerve endings around the entrance to your butt as well as those inside. If you are someone who has a prostate – that’s most people who were assigned male at birth—then anal beads can also be a great way to stimulate this incredibly sensitive and pleasurable area.
Some people say that using a set of anal beads during sex or masturbation and then pulling them out at the point of climax intensifies their orgasm.
What to Look For When Choosing the Best Anal Beads for You
First and foremost, it is important to make sure the anal beads you are choosing are safe. There are three main things you should look for to help you choose a safe product:
A body-safe material such as silicone, glass, or stainless steel. Avoid toxic materials such as jelly, PVC, rubber, and soft plastics. It is particularly important to avoid porous materials (including TPE and TPR) for anal toys as it is impossible to get them completely clean. In addition, avoid toys where the beads are threaded together with string or similar. This, too, is impossible to sterilise and can be a vector for introducing bacteria and potential infection to your body.
A flared or otherwise large base. This is extremely important for any anal toy. Without it, the toy can get lost or stuck inside your body, which can be a serious medical emergency.
Beads that are well-made. The material should be free from any rough or uneven areas and there should be no cracks, tears, or other damage.
After that, it’s largely a matter of preference. Do you prefer girthier or slimmer toys? Longer or shorter ones? Softer or firmer textures? Silicone beads are softer and more flexible than glass or metal, but harder materials can provide more intense sensations. They also offer other fun possibilities such as temperature play. Do you want your anal beads to have a vibrating option?
How to Use Anal Beads Pleasurably and Safely
Using anal beads is pretty easy, but once you’ve selected your toy there are a few things you need to be aware of to ensure you have a safe and fun time.
First, adequate lubrication is essential. A water-based lube is best for use with anal toys, especially if the toys are made of silicone. You might want to choose a thicker, gel-type lubricant for anal play.
It’s also important to start slowly. Anal play can be intense, but it should not be painful. If something feels wrong, stop or adjust. And never, ever force something inside before your butt is ready. This can tear the delicate tissue and lead to pain, bleeding, and ongoing complications.
Finally, hygiene is even more important when it comes to anal sex toys. I recommend sterilising your toys between uses (the boiling method is best for silicone toys.) At a minimum, wipe them with a body-safe sterile wipe and then give them a good wash with soap and water. Never use a toy vaginally or orally after it has been used in a butt until it has been fully sterilised. Check your toys before you use them and, if there are any rips, tears, cracks, or other damage to the material, retire them.
About This List
This is by no means meant to be a comprehensive list of all the quality anal beads toys out there. There are thousands – tens of thousands, probably – of variations of these products available, and the best anal beads for you will always be a somewhat subjective decision. Instead, this is designed to help guide you towards some of the versions that might suit you depending on your requirements.
Everything listed here is from a manufacturer/retailer I trust, and links are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission on your purchases at no additional cost to you. I do not work for or claim to represent any of these companies, and any purchase you make is a contract with them and not with me.
Everything I recommend here is made of a body-safe material and is, to the best of my knowledge, safe for normal use. Where possible, I have tried to provide options at a range of price points. Products in lists are ordered from the cheapest to the most expensive.
With that said, let’s get going.
Best Basic Silicone Anal Beads
Basic silicone anal beads are ideal if you’re on a budget or just exploring anal beads for the first time. There are countless options on the market in this category, but here are a few I trust:
Glass is a fantastic material for sex toys. It is smooth, rigid and unyielding and also allows you to play with temperature by warming it up or cooling it down if you want to.
Quintessence Glass Beaded Anal Slider ($26.99 from Babeland and Good Vibes)
Metal, like glass, is rigid and perfect for temperature play. Some people also find its aesthetic incredibly sexy! Stainless steel is the best material for metal sex toys, though other metals (aluminium is a popular choice) can work for most people as long as you don’t have an allergy, and may be cheaper.
Vibrators aren’t just for clits. Adding vibrations to your anal beads can take your butt pleasure to an entirely new level. Here are some of the best vibrating anal beads currently on the market in my opinion, including both close-range and remote control options.
On the other hand, perhaps slimmer anal beads are more comfortable and pleasurable for you. If so, these are some of the best options with a diameter of 1″ or less.
Curved anal beads are a particularly great choice for directly targeting the prostate, which is located a couple of inches inside the rectum (below the bladder) towards the front wall.
Perhaps you’re new to anal toys and not sure what you like yet, or maybe you’re just in the mood for different things on different days. The best anal beads sets offer toys in a range of sizes.
Depending on the features and materials you’re looking for, anal beads—like all sex toys—can be expensive. However, they needn’t be if you’re just after something fairly basic. Sadly, a lot of cheap sex toys on the market are poorly made or use unsafe materials. Here are five of the best anal beads retailing for under £20 or $25.
Hopefully this guide has helped to demystify the buying process and help you to choose the best anal beads for you! What buying guides do you want to see from me in the future?
Sometimes I feel like I’ve tried every variation of sex toy under the sun. Then something comes along that makes me go “ooh, I’ve never seen one of those before!” The Satisfyer Sweet Treat/Spinnator ice cream vibrator was one such toy. Naturally, I had to request it to try out.
It’s also been a long time—around three years!—since I last tested and reviewed a Satisfyer toy. Let’s find out how this one fared, shall we?
What is the Satisfyer Sweet Treat Spinnator Ice Cream Vibrator?
The Satisfyer Sweet Treat, AKA the Spinnator, is a cute little clitoral sex toy shaped like an ice cream cone. It is made of silicone with ABS plastic accents. Instead of vibrating, the head of the toy rotates. This means that the soft silicone swirls lap against the clitoris and vulva. (You could also, of course, use it on different body parts such as the nipples, penis, or balls.)
The Sweet Treat is IPX7 waterproof—submersible in up to 1 metre of water for up to 30 minutes—so you can safely use it in the bath or shower. It is also USB rechargeable.
This toy comes in three colourways: white, black, or brown-and-pink (this last one looks the most like an actual ice-cream cone!)
Things I Like About the Satisfyer Sweet Treat Spinnator
Once I got over the frankly horrible noise it made when I turned it on (see below for more on that!), I actually found a lot of things to like in the Satisfyer Sweet Treat.
The body-safe silicone is super soft and flexible. This means it is gentle on the sensitive clitoris and—unlike some licking/flickering/rotating toys I could mention—will not feel like being repeatedly and painfully poked in the clit.
The Satisfyer Sweet Treat feels good. Which, you know, is sort of the point of a sex toy. It’s unlikely to make me orgasm any time soon—see the next section!—but it does feel pleasurable. I like this one when I want to tease myself or a partner with very gentle, feather-light stimulation.
Thanks to its small size it is portable, travel-friendly, and fits comfortably in my hand during use. One review I read said that you’d never guess it was a sex toy at first glance, which I think is a stretch to be honest. But if you’re concerned about discretion, it is at least less obvious than a realistic dildo or giant wand vibrator.
The buttons are raised, making them easy to feel for and press without looking. They are also easy to press.
There are an impressive 15 speed and pattern settings and the controls are dual-directional, meaning you can scroll up or down through settings as you choose.
It comes with an industry-leading 15 year warranty. Satisfyer builds their toys to last and wants you to know it. Basically, if you look after this product properly it can last you for many, many years.
Its aesthetic is silly and playful.
A quick FYI before we move onto the cons list: you really need plenty of lubrication with this one. Even though it’s very soft, this toy is not comfortable to use if you’re not sufficiently wet. (But clean your hands after you apply the lube, or the little toy will just slip out of them!)
Things I Don’t Like About the Satisfyer Sweet Treat Spinnator
There were also a few things I did not like so much about the Satisfyer Sweet Treat.
The noise. Why is it that most rotating or thrusting toys make exactly the same horrible, high-pitched whine? It makes the toy far less pleasant to use because I’m in auditory hell by the time I’ve been using it for a few minutes.
This is a very, very gentle toy. Now that isn’t necessarily a problem, of course. Some people enjoy very light stimulation, and this toy might be a great option for those who find traditional vibrators too intense. I even enjoy light stimulation sometimes. However, the Sweet Treat is so gentle that even if I’m very aroused, it’s unlikely to ever get me off. You really cannot apply any significant pressure at all in use, or it will simply stop spinning.
It’s an absolute nightmare to clean. Lint, dust, and bodily fluids get trapped between all the little folds, meaning that you need to clean it really thoroughly not only between uses, but also when it’s been sitting in storage as well. The white silicone also shows up every speck of dust, which can look quite unsightly.
It took over 3 hours to charge and I only got around an hour of use time out of that. This is a pretty poor charge-time-to-running-time ratio.
Verdict
If you like very gentle, soft and flickery clitoral toys, the Satisfyer Sweet Treat could be a great choice for you. If you have tried vibrating toys and suction toys and your clit is looking for something a bit diffferent, this is certainly a change of pace! But if you need any kind of pressure or significant intensity to enjoy yourself, skip this one.
I’ll likely use it once in a while for a gentle warm-up or tease, but it won’t be something I reach for when I want to just have an orgasm and get on with my day.
The Satisfyer Sweet Treat retails for a pretty reasonable £41.95 at full price. It is available from Babeland and Good Vibes.
I received this product for free, in exchange for an honest review, from a retailer that is no longer in business. Affiliate links appear in this post! All views and writing, as always, are mine.
