Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission
Sex is more than just a feel-good act: The health benefits that come with a roll in the hay are equally mind-blowing. And with the rise of femtech, there are now more ways than ever to spice up your pleasure routine—with or without a partner. I’m looking to you, body-safe vibrators.
Zoë Ligon is a sex educator and the founder of the Spectrum Boutique.
“Vibrators have gone much more mainstream,” says Claire Cavanah, co-founder of the Seattle-based (sex) toy store Babeland. “They’re more widely accepted and there’s less stigma about buying and using them.”
And ladies aren’t just stocking up on the new toys; they’re making them, too. “More women have been able to break into the pleasure products market in the last decade,” says Myisha Battle, a certified sex coach based in San Francisco. “More women designing products means that they bring their perspective. They can reach more deeply into female markets because their products solve some of the problems that women have faced for decades with male-designed toys.” (Preach!)
Even so, shopping for a vibrator—even if it’s not your first—can be an intimidating experience. With so many options, where do you start?
Buying a body-safe vibrator
Experts say to read the materials list first. “Sex toys aren’t FDA-regulated products, and materials like phthalates and Bisphenol A (BPA) that are banned in children’s toys are still allowed in sex toys,” Cavanah says. (Reminder: Both are major hormone disruptors, and have been linked to cancer and reduced sperm count—talk about a turn off!) Look instead for vibrators made from medical-grade, nonporous materials such as silicone, elastomer, stainless steel, or Pyrex.
And just like you wouldn’t buy new sneakers or switch up your beauty routine without researching your options first, do your due diligence before purchasing a new vibrator. “I always recommend reading multiple reviews of a toy before buying, ideally from sex toy reviewers who are experts on the matter,” says Zoë Ligon, sex educator and founder of Detroit-based shop Spectrum Boutique. “That way, you can easily learn the pros and cons of choosing that toy over similar models.”
And if you’re really looking for something simplified, adult toy retailer Good Vibrations gives each product a sustainability rating that takes into consideration things like the use of natural ingredients, whether it’s free of animal products, or if it’s made in the United States.
Ready to dive in (between the sheets)? Scroll for our favorite options below.
Consider Dame the Thinx of pleasure products: A start-up helmed by two young women (one got her mechanical engineering degree from MIT, the other studied clinical psychology at Columbia University, NBD) with a focus on a super-effective, lady-centric products…with stylish design sensibility to boot. T
he, ahem, buzz around its Eva vibrator has been warranted—the water-resistant, hands-free vibrator has a winged design meant to help it stay in place tucked under the labia. This allows for clitoral stimulation during penetrative sex—so your (or your partner’s) hands can wander at will. Plus, it’s rechargeable via USB (and phthalate-free, of course).
For fans of the slurpy, soft clitoral suction feel, go with The Poet from Smile Makers. It’s sold with three interchangeable “mouths”, allowing you to mix and match as you please. Like the others on this list, it’s made with only the good stuff that’s safe for you and your partner.
This flexible, ergonomically designed vibrator uses sensors and an integrated smartphone app to pick up on your body’s unique patterns during sexual activity. That way, you can learn more about what gets you hot and bothered, and adapt your tactics as needed. (Like, maybe cranking Drake really does set the mood.) Plus, it has a low-battery indicator and is 100 percent body-safe.
Less is more when it comes to the Maude Vibe. This ergonomic vibrator is a straight-shooter, designed with a flutter tip for toe-curling external stimulation. Plus, it’s made from 100 percent phthalate-free, body-safe platinum-grade silicone and—just in case the unexpected happens in the throes of passion—it comes with a one-year warranty.
Want body-safe on a budget? Get your hands on the Cyra from Jimmyjane, a silky soft dildo meant to hit all the right places. The phthalate-free, latex-free silicone design includes an ergonomic finger holder for easier pleasure. And it’s waterproof, making bath time that much more fun.
We know, we know—stainless steel is a little intimidating. This isn’t a kitchen appliance, after all.
But stainless steel is a very body-safe material renowned for its weight, density, and hygiene. This one from Le Wand features a curved edge great G-spots stimulation. Since it’s stainless, it can be warmed up or cooled down to your liking. Plus, it’s safe with all types of lube, making it that much more versatile.
This self-pleasure item was created by a team of women who believe that, ahem, alone time is a vital part of self-care. It’s made with soft-touch, body-safe silicone material and anti-dust coating that’s water resistant and easy to wash. The Sakura also comes with a case that makes it easy to charge and store. (And it’s pretty enough that you wouldn’t mind leaving it out on your dresser.)
Couples can now use their smartphones to control their partner’s vibrator—whether they’re in the same room or different cities—thanks to the OhMiBod Remote App. The high-tech vibrator is made from body-safe materials, while the app let’s you create your own patterns and convert sounds into vibrations (whoa).
The Sundaze is about to take your next lazy sunday to a new level. This thrusting toy is designed to give you deeper, fuller, more satisfying orgasms, thrust after thrust. It’s made from a silky body-safe silicone that feels good inside and out. It’s waterproof too, so if your sunday plans involve a bubble bath, you can take it with you.
Want to get your SO (or random hook-up, no judgement) involved? The We-Vibe Sync’s designed to be enjoyed with a partner, since it can be adjusted to fit your shape (stimulating both the clitoris and G-spot) and stays in place while you change positions. The device, made from latex and phthalate-free silicone, comes with a remote control that can be used from up to nine feet away. Because who says you need to be close together in order to get intimate?
Want to be the first to hear about the latest (and greatest) SHOP product drops, custom collections, discounts, and more? Sign up to have the intel delivered straight to your inbox.
Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter
Get all the latest in wellness, trends, food, fitness, beauty, and more delivered right to your inbox.
