What You Need to Know Before Buying Long Dildos

Shopping for long dildos can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options out there. I’ve noticed that more people want to try different kinds of dildo, from Suction Cup Dildos to Double Sided Dildos and even Luminous Dildos. The market keeps growing every year, showing how many folks are curious and ready to explore.
Metric | Value (2023) | Projected Value (2032) | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Global Dildo Market Size | USD 1.5 billion | USD 2.4 billion | More acceptance and shopping online |
Dildo Sex Toy Market Size | USD 1.2 billion | USD 2.5 billion | Social media and wellness trends push growth |
I always remind myself that comfort and safety matter most. Personal taste plays a big role too. No matter if you’re new to long dildos or just looking for something different, you’re in the right place.
Size

Length and Girth
When I shop for long dildos, I always pay close attention to both length and girth. These two things make a big difference in how a dildo feels and how safe it is to use. Some people think only about length, but girth can change everything. If a dildo is too long or too thick, it might feel uncomfortable or even cause pain. If it is too small, it might not give you the feeling you want.
I like to look at real numbers before I buy. Here’s a table that shows what most people prefer when it comes to length and girth:
Gender | Insertable Length (inches) | Circumference (inches) | Preference Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Women | 6.23 | 4.80 | Most women like a girth between 3.5-5.5 inches and lengths under 7 inches. |
Men | 6.96 | 5.07 | Men usually want dildos about 0.7 inches longer and 0.3 inches thicker than women. |
I also found that the average insertable length for dildos is about 16.7 cm (a little over 6.5 inches), and the average circumference is about 12.7 cm (5 inches). Some dildos go much bigger, but those are not for everyone. You can see how different sizes compare in this chart:

When I choose a dildo, I always measure what I am comfortable with. I use a ruler or a soft tape measure to check what fits my body. I remind myself that long dildos can be held back if they are too long, but you cannot make a short one longer. It is better to start with a size that feels safe and work up from there if I want more.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is the most important thing for me. I ask myself, “What do you want it to feel like?” before I buy anything. Everyone’s body is different, so what feels good for me might not feel good for you. I try to listen to my body and stop if something does not feel right.
Here are some tips I use to find the right fit:
I start with a smaller size if I am new to long dildos.
I check the girth and see if it matches what I am used to.
I talk with my partner about what we both want, if we are using it together.
I remember that the right girth for you is the one that feels good and does not hurt.
Tip: If you are not sure about your limits, go slow and use plenty of lube. It is always okay to try different sizes until you find what works best.
Size preferences can change over time. What I liked last year might not be what I want now. I keep an open mind and talk with my partner if we are exploring together. Communication helps us both feel safe and happy.
Material

Body-Safe Options
When I shop for a long dildo, I always check what it’s made of. The material matters a lot for both comfort and safety. I learned that not all sex toys are created equal. Some cheaper toys use plastics or rubber that can release harmful chemicals. These chemicals, like phthalates, can cause health problems. They are even banned in children’s toys, but some adult toys still have them. That’s why I look for body-safe materials every time.
Here’s what I look for in a quality dildo:
Medical-grade silicone – This is my top choice. It feels soft, bends with my body, and doesn’t cause allergies. Medical-grade silicone is non-porous, so it blocks bacteria and fungus. I also like that it lasts a long time if I take care of it.
ABS plastic – This is a hard, smooth plastic that is also non-porous. It’s light and easy to clean. I use it when I want something firm.
Borosilicate glass or stainless steel – These are great for temperature play and are super easy to clean. They don’t hold germs and are very durable.
Tip: I always check if the packaging says “medical-grade” or “platinum silicone.” Sometimes brands use these words for marketing, so I try to buy from trusted sellers who test their products.
I avoid toys made from jelly rubber or blends that feel sticky or have a strong smell. These can trap bacteria and are hard to clean. I want my dildo to be high quality and safe for my body.
Cleaning and Care
Keeping my dildo clean is just as important as picking the right material. I always wash my toy before and after each use. I use warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. For extra cleaning, I sometimes use a special toy cleaner if the brand suggests it.
Here’s my cleaning routine for quality and safety:
For silicone, glass, or stainless steel toys, I boil them for a few minutes or put them in the dishwasher (if they don’t have motors).
I let my toy air dry completely before putting it away. This stops bacteria and mold from growing.
I store my dildo in a clean, dry pouch or box to keep dust and germs away.
I check my toy for cracks or changes in color. If I see any damage, I throw it out. Damaged toys can hide germs and cause infections.
If I ever use a toy made from a porous material, I cover it with a condom for extra safety. I also never share my toys unless I use a new condom each time.
Note: I never soak battery-powered toys in water. I take out the batteries and wipe them down with a damp cloth instead.
Taking care of my toys helps them last longer and keeps me healthy. I want every experience to be safe and fun, so I never skip these steps.
Lubrication
Why Lube Matters
I never skip lube when I use a long dildo. Lubrication makes everything smoother and safer. Without enough lube, things can get uncomfortable fast. I learned that dry friction can cause tiny tears in the skin, which hurts and can lead to infections. This is even more important for anal play because the anus does not make its own natural lubrication. I always want to avoid pain or injury, so I reach for lube every time.
Research shows that using lube increases comfort and pleasure. It helps the dildo glide easily, which means less friction and less chance of hurting myself. I noticed that when I use enough lube, I feel more relaxed and enjoy the experience much more. If I ever feel discomfort, I add more lube or try a smaller size. My goal is always to keep things safe and fun.
Tip: If you feel any burning or pulling, stop and add more lube. Your body will thank you!
Choosing the Right Lubricant
Picking the right lube matters just as much as using it. I look for water-based lubricants because they work with almost every toy and feel close to natural moisture. They are easy to clean up and safe for most people. For longer sessions, I sometimes use silicone-based lube because it lasts longer and stays slick. I never use silicone lube with silicone toys, though, because it can damage the surface.
Here’s how I decide what to use:
Water-based lube: Good for all toys, easy to wash off, gentle on skin.
Silicone-based lube: Great for long play, super slippery, but not for silicone dildos.
Oil-based lube: I avoid these with toys because they can break down materials and are hard to clean.
I use a generous amount of lube, especially with long dildos. I start with a quarter-sized amount and add more if things start to feel dry. I always check the label to make sure the lube matches my toy and my skin needs.
Note: Always test a small amount of lube on your skin first if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
Intended Use
Solo or Partner Play
When I pick out a long dildo, I always think about how I plan to use it. If I want to use it by myself, I look for something that feels good in my hand and is easy to control. Research shows that most people use dildos for solo play. I like toys that are simple to use and shaped to reach the right spots. Sometimes, I want a toy that can bend or curve, so I can find what feels best for me.
If I want to use a dildo with a partner, I talk with them first. We discuss what size and shape we both like. Some people want a toy that is bigger or firmer, while others want something softer. I notice that toys for partner play often have special features, like a flared base for harnesses or a certain angle for comfort. Communication helps us avoid surprises and makes sure we both have fun.
Tip: Always check in with your partner before trying something new. Go slow and listen to each other’s needs.
Harness and Anal Use
When I use a harness, I look for a dildo with a wide, flared base. This keeps the toy secure and safe during play. I also check if the base fits my harness. Some toys have a Vac-U-Lock design, which snaps into place and feels sturdy. For anal play, I always choose a toy with a smooth surface and a flared base. This stops the toy from slipping in too far and keeps things safe.
Here are some things I keep in mind for harness and anal use:
Long, slim toys work well for solo anal play because they reach easily.
I use plenty of lube and sometimes a supportive pillow to get comfortable.
I avoid oversized toys until I feel ready, since bigger sizes can cause pain if I do not prepare.
I pick non-vibrating or double-ended toys for anal play, since they are easier to clean and use.
I always check the material and use a condom if the toy is not made from medical-grade silicone.
Note: Patience and preparation make anal play much more enjoyable. I start small and move up in size only when I feel ready.
Buying Your First Dildo
Research and Reviews
When I started buying my first dildo, I felt a bit lost. I wanted to make sure I picked something safe and fun. I learned that reading reviews from real people helped me a lot. Most reviews on big sites like Amazon are reliable because they come from actual users. These reviews talk about things like size, shape, material, and how easy the toy is to clean. I noticed that star ratings are very consistent, so I trust them when shopping for dildos.
Here’s what I look for when I do my research:
I read both positive and negative reviews to get a full picture.
I check if people mention comfort, cleaning, and how the dildo feels.
I look for comments about packaging and shipping, especially if I want a discreetly packaged dildo.
I pay attention to reviews that talk about the toy’s material and if it matches what the seller claims.
Tip: Some reviews are super detailed, while others are short. I try to read a few to spot any patterns.
I also noticed that many people, especially in North America, buy toys online. About 67% of buyers use e-commerce, and 58% engage with brands on social media. This makes it easy to find honest opinions and even ask questions before buying your first dildo.
Where to Buy
I always choose a reputable seller when buying dildos. I look for stores with clear return policies and good customer service. Many shops offer discreet shipping, so no one knows what’s inside the box. I always check if the product is made from safe materials, like medical-grade silicone.
Here’s a quick checklist I use:
Make sure the store has lots of positive reviews.
Look for clear info about returns and refunds.
Check if the dildo is described as body-safe.
Ask about discreet shipping if it’s not listed.
Shopping for dildos online feels safe and private. I like knowing my package will arrive quickly and quietly. If I ever have questions, I reach out to customer service before buying my first dildo. This helps me feel confident and happy with my choice.
I always remind myself that picking the right long dildo means thinking about size, safe materials, good lube, and how I want to use it. Guides and expert reviews all agree—comfort and safety come first. I take my time, read reviews, and never rush my choice. If you’re new, don’t worry. You can explore at your own pace.
Your comfort matters most. Trust yourself and enjoy finding what feels best for you!