A Beginner’s Guide to Rubber Dildos and Their Applications

When I first heard about rubber dildos, I saw they are popular with beginners. Rubber sex toys come in many shapes, like Wolf Dildos or an ebony riding dildo. They give people a cheap way to try new things. In 2023, the global dildo market was about $1.5 billion. This shows more people pick rubber dildos because they bend and cost less. I always make sure a rubber sex toy is body-safe before I use it. Good cleaning is important because sex toys touch private parts. Here is why safety is important:
Risk or Trend | Data Point |
---|---|
Sex toy use is common | Nearly 50% of men and over 50% of women in the US use them |
Chemical safety concern | Some rubber sex toys contain up to 60% phthalates |
Injury risk | Almost 7,000 US adults needed emergency care (1995–2006) |
I also see more people buy a rubber dildo for public dildo play. No matter what kind I use, I always pick body-safe toys and clean my sex toys every time.
What Are Rubber Dildos?
Definition
When I first learned about sex toys, I wanted to know about rubber dildos. Rubber dildos are made from soft, bendy rubber. People use them for penetration or for stimulation. The rubber makes these dildos flexible and comfy for beginners. I saw that rubber sex toys come in many shapes and sizes. Some look real, but others have bright colors or cool designs.
Rubber dildos feel different than other materials. They are softer than glass or metal dildos. How firm they are depends on the brand. Some rubber dildos feel squishy, but some feel more solid. I like that I can pick a rubber sex toy that feels right for me.
When I look at rubber dildos and other sex toys, I see silicone dildos are more popular. Many people choose silicone because it is body-safe, easy to clean, and does not cause allergies. Rubber dildos are still common because they cost less. Some people worry about chemicals like phthalates in rubber sex toys. Now, more companies make rubber dildos without phthalates to help with this.
Main Uses
I use rubber dildos for different kinds of pleasure. Most people use them for vaginal or anal penetration. Some people use them for oral play or for outside stimulation. The flexibility of a rubber sex toy helps me try new positions. This makes it easier to find what feels good.
Here are some main uses for rubber dildos:
Vaginal penetration
Anal penetration (use extra care and lots of lube)
External stimulation (like rubbing the clitoris or perineum)
Roleplay or fantasy play
A rubber sex toy is not the same as a vibrator. A dildo does not have a motor or vibration. If I want vibration, I use a vibrator. Many people have both types of sex toys. Vibrators are the most common sex toy in the US. About 80% of women own one. Dildos, including rubber dildos, are the second most popular. Dildos make up over 24% of the world’s sex toy market. North America sells the most, and most buyers are women.
When I buy a rubber dildo, I pick one that fits my needs. I think about the size, shape, and how firm it is. I also check if it is body-safe and easy to clean. Rubber dildos are cheap and flexible. These things make them a good choice for people who want to try sex toys without spending a lot.
Tip: Always use lots of water-based lube with a rubber sex toy. This helps stop discomfort and keeps play safe.
I think knowing the difference between dildos and vibrators helps me pick the right sex toy. When I buy a rubber dildo, I always check for safety and comfort. This helps me enjoy my sex toys and feel good about using them.
Types of Rubber Dildos

Shapes and Sizes
When I first looked at dildos, I saw many shapes and sizes. Some dildos look real, but others have bright colors or cool designs. Designers use 3D printing to make new shapes fast. They make test dildos and let people try them out. This helps them see if a dildo feels good or needs changes. People give feedback about what feels best for them. Surveys and interviews help designers make better dildos for everyone.
Designers use 3D printing to check comfort and use.
User testing helps pick the best shapes and sizes.
Feedback from many people makes designs better.
Making molds helps the final dildo match the best test one.
Surveys show how shapes change comfort and pleasure.
I always pick dildos that fit my body and what I want. Some people like slim dildos, but others want thick or curved ones. I think it is nice to have so many choices.
Material Differences
I learned not all dildos use the same stuff. Many cheap dildos use jelly rubber. Jelly rubber is soft and bends, but it is porous. This means it can keep bacteria, so I always use a condom with these dildos. Jelly rubber can also have chemicals like phthalates, which are not safe.
I like silicone sex toys because they are nonporous, soft, and safe. Silicone dildos do not keep bacteria, so they are easy to clean. Medical grade silicone is even safer for my body. I also tried glass and metal dildos. These are nonporous, do not cause allergies, and are easy to clean. I learned TPE feels real but is still porous, so it needs extra care.
Tip: Always check what your dildo is made from. Some labels say “silicone” but really use jelly rubber or PVC.
I trust silicone sex toys the most. Medical grade silicone makes me feel safe. I know my dildo is safe and easy to clean. Glass and metal are good too, but I check for nickel in metal toys. I stay away from jelly rubber when I can, but if I use it, I always use a condom.
How to Use a Rubber Dildo
Preparation
Before I use any sex toy, I always make sure everything is clean and safe. I wash my hands with soap and warm water. I also wash the rubber dildo with mild soap and rinse it well. If I use a jelly rubber dildo, I put a condom over it. This helps keep bacteria away and makes cleaning easier. I check the toy for any cracks, tears, or sticky spots. If I see damage, I do not use it. I want to avoid any risk of infection or injury.
I also get my body ready. Sometimes I take a warm bath or shower to relax my muscles. If I plan to use the dildo for anal play, I start with a smaller toy. This helps my body adjust slowly. I might use an anal training kit with different sizes. I take deep breaths and stretch gently. This makes me feel calm and ready.
Lubrication
Lubrication is very important when I use a rubber dildo. I always use a lot of water-based lube. Water-based lubricants work best with rubber toys. They do not break down the material or cause irritation. I avoid oil-based lubes because they can damage rubber and cause infections.
Here is a table that shows how different lubricants affect safety and comfort:
Lubricant Product | Osmolality Category | Mucosal Irritation | Effect on Sperm Motility and Integrity |
---|---|---|---|
Pre-Seed | Iso-osmotic (314 mOsm/kg) | No irritation | No negative effect on sperm motility or chromatin integrity |
FemGlide | Hypo-osmotic (13-32 mOsm/kg) | Negative mucus production | Decreases sperm motility and chromatin integrity |
Replens | Hyper-osmotic (1491-5848 mOsm/kg) | Mild to severe irritation | Decreases sperm motility |
KY Jelly | Hyper-osmotic (2052 mOsm/kg) | Mild to severe irritation | Decreases sperm motility and chromatin integrity |
I pick a lube like Pre-Seed because it does not cause irritation. Water-based lubes are the most popular choice. In 2023, more than half of people who bought lube picked water-based types. These lubes help prevent dryness and pain. They also keep the rubber dildo safe to use.
Tip: I always apply lube to both the dildo and my body. This makes everything smoother and more comfortable.
Step-by-Step Guide
When I learned how to use a rubber dildo, I followed these steps to make sure I felt safe and comfortable:
I start by washing my hands and the dildo with warm, soapy water.
I check the dildo for any damage or sticky spots.
If I use a porous dildo, I put a condom over it.
I relax my body with deep breaths or a warm bath.
I apply a generous amount of water-based lube to the dildo and my body.
I begin with a smaller toy if I am new to penetration, especially for anal play.
I insert the dildo slowly and gently, listening to my body.
I stop if I feel pain or discomfort.
I communicate with my partner about what feels good and what does not.
I take my time and enjoy the experience at my own pace.
Experts say starting with smaller toys helps my body adjust. Using plenty of lube reduces friction and makes everything feel better. Relaxing my muscles and taking deep breaths helps me avoid discomfort. I always listen to my body and stop if something does not feel right.
Aftercare
After I finish, I take care of myself and my toy. I remove the condom from the dildo if I used one. I wash the dildo again with warm, soapy water. I rinse it well and let it air dry. I store the dildo in a clean, dry place, away from sunlight and other toys. If I notice any damage or sticky spots after cleaning, I throw the toy away.
I also check in with myself. Sometimes I feel tired or emotional after play. I drink water and rest if I need to. If I played with a partner, we talk about what we liked and how we feel. This helps me feel safe and happy.
Note: Good hygiene and aftercare keep me healthy and make my toys last longer.
Choosing a Body-Safe Dildo Material
Safety Considerations
When I first used dildos, I learned safety is important. Cheap toys often use PVC or jelly rubber. These can have phthalates. Phthalates are chemicals that can harm my health. They may cause cancer or make it hard to have kids. They can also hurt sperm. Sex toys do not have the same rules as children’s toys. Some dildos still have these bad chemicals. I always look for silicone sex toys made from medical grade silicone. These toys go through strict safety checks. They do not have phthalates or other toxic chemicals. Medical grade silicone, glass, and stainless steel are my top choices. They are safe and easy to clean. I stay away from toys with a strong smell or sticky feel. These signs mean the toy is not safe.
Allergies and Sensitivities
Some people have allergies or sensitive skin. I always check the material before I buy a toy. Medical grade silicone is gentle and does not cause allergies. Silicone sex toys do not give me rashes or irritation. I avoid latex and soft jelly toys because they can cause allergies. Safe materials like medical grade silicone, glass, or stainless steel are best for sensitive bodies. I use condoms on porous toys to lower the risk of irritation. If I ever feel burning or itching, I stop using the toy right away.
Personal Preferences
Everyone likes different things in a dildo. I like silicone sex toys because they feel soft and smooth. Medical grade silicone comes in many colors, shapes, and sizes. I pick the best dildo material for my comfort and safety. Some people want firmer toys, but others like flexible ones. I always choose body safe sex toys that fit my body and feel good. I read labels and look for safety marks like RoHS or REACH. These show the toy is safe and non-toxic. Picking the right body-safe dildo material helps me enjoy my toys and stay healthy.
Tip: Always pick medical grade silicone dildos or other body-safe sex toys. They last longer, feel better, and keep you safe.
Cleaning and Storage

Cleaning Methods
When I use a rubber dildo, I always remember that rubber is a porous material. This means I cannot fully sanitize it. Bacteria can hide in tiny holes, even if I clean my dildo well. Because of this, I always use a condom with my rubber dildo to help protect my body. I want to keep things as safe as possible.
I follow these steps every time I clean my dildo:
I check what material my toy is made from. Rubber needs gentle care.
I rinse the dildo with warm water right after use.
I use mild soap or a special toy cleaner to clean the surface. I avoid harsh chemicals because they can damage the rubber.
I make sure to clean off all lube and any residue.
I rinse the dildo again with clean water.
I let it air dry completely before I put it away.
I never skip cleaning before and after each use. If I use a condom, I throw it away after play and then clean my dildo. I always follow the cleaning instructions from the maker. Regular cleaning keeps my toy safe and helps it last longer. If I see cracks, sticky spots, or a strong smell, I know it is time to replace my dildo.
Storage Tips
After I clean my dildo, I store it in a safe place. I keep it in a soft cloth bag or a box to protect it from dust and dirt. I never leave it in the bathroom because humidity can break down the rubber. I store my toys in a cool, dry spot, away from sunlight and heat. Sunlight and heat can make rubber degrade faster.
I do not store different toys together. Some materials can react and cause damage. I always keep my dildo separate from other toys. If I travel, I use a protective case to keep my toy safe. I never store my dildo dirty. I always clean my dildo before putting it away.
If my dildo gets rough, sticky, or changes color, I replace it. I want to stay safe and healthy, so I check my toys often. Good cleaning and storage habits help me enjoy my toys for a long time.
I found out that choosing a sex toy means thinking about safety. I pick toys that are safe for my body, like medical grade silicone. Silicone sex toys feel soft and can last a long time. Medical grade silicone is safe and simple to clean. I trust silicone sex toys because they help keep me healthy. I do not buy cheap toys. I always choose silicone or medical grade silicone for every toy I use. I know that safe, non-toxic, and medical grade silicone sex toys let me try new things without worry.
Tip: Always wash your sex toys and look for medical grade silicone labels before using them.