Vibrator Basics
Understanding some basic facts about vibrators is an important first step toward
making informed decisions regarding what you buy and where you buy it. The more
information you have the more satisfied you will be with your selection.
How do vibrators work?
Vibrators contain an electric or battery powered motor that produces vibrations. When the power is turned on the vibrating motor is activated, creating vibrations.
What is the difference between battery and electric powered vibrators?
Beyond the obvious difference of power sources, battery powered vibrators tend to be less powerful than electric powered vibrators. This is not always the case, but it's a fair generalization. Vibrator designers don't have to worry about electricity "running out" like batteries do, so they're free to develop their products with stronger motors that use more power. For more on this topic, see our Q&A article describing the differences between electric and battery powered vibrators.
Why are there different styles of vibrators?
Vibrators come in different styles because people like to use them in different ways. For example, a clitoral vibrator is designed to stimulate the clitoris while a G-Spot vibrator is designed to stimulate the G-Spot. There are many different styles to choose from and some vibrators even combine two or more different styles. The choice comes down to which style best compliments the way your body responds to stimulation.
When were vibrators invented?
Vibrators have been around since around 1880. Curiously, they were developed as a way to treat "hysteria" in women. Researchers understood the soothing effects of an orgasm and they saw the potential of an "orgasm machine" to foster well-being in women.
What percentage of women have tried a vibrator?
The answer to this question is debatable. The best answer is that somewhere between 60% and 80% of women report that they've used a vibrator at least once in their life. The answer to this question, however, depends on which study you read.
Given all of the vibrators available, is there one that is considered the "best"?
That would have to be "no". There are, however, some vibrators that stand out above the rest. The particular products change as tastes change, but currently the Jack Rabbit Vibrator and the Hitachi Magic Wand are two that can be described as more popular than others. The reason that it's impossible to point to one and call it "the best" is because the popularity of a vibrator depends on who is using it and what it's being used for. There are just so many different styles and tastes that it is very difficult to choose just one.
What kind of people use vibrators?
All kinds of people from all walks of life use vibrators. We believe there is no shame in using a sex toy, and vibrators have been steadily gaining main stream acceptance. There have always been those who reject the idea of using a vibrator altogether, but they do so for their own personal reasons.
Do men use vibrators?
Yes, they do. In fact, there are vibrators available that are made just for men. There are also vibrators designed specifically for couples.
I tried a vibrator and it didn't do much for me. Is there something wrong with me?
Probably not. By far the most common reason a woman does not enjoy a vibrator is because she is using it incorrectly. It is important to figure out what kind of stimulation you enjoy before buying or using one. If you enjoy clitoral stimulation during the course of your normal sexual activity then start with a clitoral vibrator. Before making a purchasing decision draw from your own personal experience and go from there.
Can you get a shock from a vibrator?
It's happened before, but it is very unlikely. For a shock to occur there usually has to be exposed wires or another physical problem that would be apparent to the user by simply looking at it. If you ever see exposed wires or physical damage it's wise not to use the vibrator. Even if you were to receive a shock it would be very mild. Most vibrators are powered by batteries, which do not hold a charge large enough to do any damage.
Why do some vibrators cost much more than others?
Just like any other product, vibrators are available in varying degrees of quality and complexity. A simple and perfectly acceptable traditional vibrator will typically cost less than a more complex combination vibrator, but vibrators within the same categories can vary in price as well. Generally, the more expensive it is the higher quality it is.
How long do vibrators last?
Depending on the quality of the vibrator, they can last anywhere from a few months to a few years. We avoid the cheaper products that tend to break down relatively quickly, so you can expect the vibrators in our store to last longer than what is typical for the industry. Quality has improved in recent years as vibrators have moved into the main stream, and it will continue to improve as time goes on.
Are there differences between vibrators, stimulators and massagers?
These terms are descriptive and they don't really draw too much of a distinction between one or the other. Massagers tend to be products that can double as a muscle massager like the Hitachi Magic Wand, but all three terms can and often are used interchangeably.
Are glass vibrators safe?
We carry only Phallix glass vibrators which are made from medical grade Pyrex glass -- a durable glass that undergoes a rigorous tempering and testing process during production. Phallix guarantees that all of its products are safe, and we've never heard of any safety problems with glass vibrators or dildos.
Vibrators and Orgasms
Knowing what to expect from your vibrator will help you achieve more powerful
orgasms.
Are the orgasms you get from a vibrator more powerful than normal ones?
They can be, but they are not always more powerful. The power of an orgasms greatly depends on the person and the vibrator they're using. Probably the biggest factor in having intense orgasms with a vibrator is using one that gives you the type of stimulation you like. If you have clitoral orgasms you will probably not have the biggest orgasm of your life using a G-Spot vibrator. You may, but the odds are that you won't. Again, the better you know yourself the more informed decision you will make when purchasing a vibrator.
What is the difference between a clitoral and a vaginal orgasm?
A clitoral orgasm is an orgasm achieved by stimulating the clitoris. These orgasms are usually quicker and very intense. A vaginal orgasm can take some time to build but is often experienced as a deeply powerful experience. For more information you may want to read our Q&A article titled: "What is the difference between a clitoral and a vaginal orgasm?"
Is it possible to not be able to have an orgasm because of using a vibrator?
This is a complicated question. To begin, there is no credible evidence that suggests vibrators cause long term desensitization. They can, however, cause short term unresponsiveness due to over-stimulation. Like just about everything in life, vibrators are best used in moderation. Pain is always an indication of overuse. For more information please read our Q&A article titled: "Is it possible to become desensitized from using a vibrator?".
Can I have more than one kind of orgasm using a vibrator?
Many women find that one of the benefits of experimenting with vibrators is that they learn different ways to orgasm. For example, a woman who has always had clitoral orgasms recently wrote to us to thank us. She said that something we mentioned got her thinking about G-Spot orgasms and she decided it was something she wanted to explore. She purchased a G-Spot vibrator and over the course of a few weeks was able to learn how to have a G-Spot orgasm. She described the experience as "completely satisfying" and was very excited in her new discovery. It's not uncommon for women to find that different stimulation yields different results, and that the orgasm they have is largely dependent on the type of vibrator they use.
Can anal vibrators give you an orgasm?
It's possible. Anal vibrators are popular because the anus is a very sensitive spot with a lot of pleasure producing nerves. Stimulating these nerves with a vibrator can heighten one's sexual experience and lead to stronger orgasms. There have been reports that people have had an orgasm from anal stimulation alone, and it is possible that the anal vibrations they experienced created the orgasm by either direct stimulation of the anus or by secondary stimulation of the vagina or penis.
Vibrators and Sexuality
For many, vibrators are an integral part of their and their partner's sex life.
Is it a good idea to practice with a vibrator before having sex for the first time?
While individuals vary, it's difficult to imagine that getting to know your body and your response to stimulation would be a negative thing. Most people report that there is a direct correlation between knowing their body and their ability to enjoy physical intimacy with a partner. Becoming familiar with yourself will likely lead to good communication, general sexual satisfaction, and reduced anxiety about sex. For more information please read our Q&A article titled: "I've never had sex before. Can I use a vibrator, dildo or other sex toys to better prepare myself for sex when I do have it?".
Can vibrators be used during intercourse?
Yes they can. In fact, there are certain vibrators called butterfly vibrators that are, for the most part, designed for this purpose. If you don't have access to a butterfly vibrator any small stimulator will do. Both partners usually enjoy vibrations during intercourse.
My partner seems to prefer their vibrator over me. What can I do?
This is a problem that usually goes beyond the surface and into deeper territory. Perhaps there are issues that are not being resolved in the relationship. Talking about the problem is usually the first step towards resolving it. If you think that you are not capable of dealing with the issue yourself or if you've tried without success then couple's counseling might be a good option.
Is it safe to use a vibrator during pregnancy?
It is generally considered safe to use a vibrator during pregnancy, but there are a few issues that could present a problem. For more information please read our Q&A article titled: "Does using a vibrator during pregnancy have any implications?".
I'm jealous about my partner's vibrator use. Are they thinking about someone else?
Most people use vibrators to enhance their sexual experience. Masturbation is widely considered a healthy activity for healthy people. Vibrators are an extension of masturbation and their use does not necessarily imply that it is being used as a surrogate. There are situations where this is the case, but in the absence of information to suggest that, it is probably not.
Is it safe to share a vibrator with a friend?
That depends. If you're willing to expose yourself to whatever diseases your friend may carry then you can share. But if you are concerned about catching a disease it is not a good idea to share sex toys. If you practice safe sex with a partner then you should extend that practice to your sex toys.
I have a strong desire to use my vibrator with my partner. Is that normal?
Many couples find that using a vibrator together enhances the erotic experience for both. It is common for women to want to share their vibrator experience, and most partners, unless they object from the beginning, find the experience to be very positive.
Vibrator Care, Cleanings and Storage
Proper vibrator care, cleaning and storage will increase the life of your vibrator
and will help it perform like it was intended throughout its life.
Where should I keep my vibrator's batteries?
Batteries should always be removed from your vibrator after use if you're not going to use it for a while. The corrosive material in batteries will ruin the internal workings of a vibrator if it leaks out, which it tends to do if it's used infrequently.
What is the best way to clean a vibrator?
Unless your vibrator is waterproof you need to be concerned about getting moisture inside the vibrator, which can ruin it. Using a cleaning solution designed for vibrator cleaning, like Before and After Adult Toy Cleaner is a good idea, but if you don't have that you can always use a mild soap and water solution. Using a damp washcloth with a little soap, clean your vibrator and then wipe it dry. You can use a damp paper towel to wipe off the soap if you'd like, but don't place your vibrator under running water to rinse it!
Where should vibrators be stored?
The best place to store a vibrator is in a cool, dry place. Moisture is the number one cause of damage and avoiding moisture will go a long way towards keeping a vibrator in good working condition.
What kind of lubrication should I use with my vibrator?
Certain types of lubrication, specifically petroleum based products, can ruin certain vibrators. To be safe you should always use a water based lube like Astroglide.
Is it worth it to buy a sex toy cleaner for my vibrator?
Sex toy cleaners, like Before and After Adult Toy Cleaner, both clean AND disinfect. They are also mild, unlike most soaps, and are designed to protect the toy's surface. Dish soap, for example, will remove a vibrator's sheen over time. Harsh detergents can also degrade jelly if used often and long enough. The best way to protect the look and feel of a vibrator is to use a cleaner designed for it.
|
