When first deciding you would like to purchase an adult toy, how do you know which one is for you? There are so many adult sex toys designed to do so many things. Twisting, vibrating, whirling, pulsating, you get dizzy just thinking about it. After you have decided what it is you want your toy to do, you must then consider colour, size and price. This short adult toy guide is here to help you find your way through the jungle of toys and come out smiling.

Vibrators are vibrating devices intended to stimulate the erogenous zones of the body. Vibrators intended for sexual use are often penis-shaped, although they also come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, allowing internal as well as external use.

Penetrative vibrators usually measure twelve to eighteen centimeters (five to seven inches) in length and two to five centimeters (one to two inches) wide to mimic the size of an actual penis. Anal Toys are typically shorter than general penetrative vibrators, and have a flared base to prevent the device from becoming lost in the rectum. The G-spot vibrator is curved at the end to facilitate stimulation of the female G-spot. Bullet vibrators are small, bullet-shaped vibrators that can be used for direct stimulation or inserted into other sex toys to increase stimulation.

"Pocket pussies" or "masturbators" are modeled to accept a penis for simulated intercourse. They can be shaped like vaginas, anuses, or anything with a hole for penetration.

Cock rings in their most basic form enhance and prolong a man's erection by keeping blood inside the penis. A man may wear a cock ring because he has erectile difficulties, or because he likes the particular sensation of tightness and engorgement that wearing one provides. Some models include a protruding clitoral stimulator, designed to stimulate the clitoris during sex. Others vibrate to provide stimulation to the testicles and clitoris. Some cock rings have vibrators attached which can be worn to stimulate a partner during sexual intercourse, especially in the scrotum or perineum. A cock harness is a more elaborate harness designed to be worn around the penis and scrotum. Its intention is similar to that of a cock ring.

A penis sleeve is a cylindrical device that is placed on the shaft of the penis, with the aim of increasing stimulation for the person being penetrated. They often have soft bumps intended to provide further stimulation. A penis extension is a partially hollow device like a very short dildo, with the hollow end placed on the end of the penis, intended to increase the effective length of the penis, again for the benefit of the person being penetrated. These are generally worn with condoms to prevent them from falling off during use.

Nipple clamps are used to stimulate the nipples by applying varying degrees of pressure. Suction devices are generally either rubber or glass, fit around the nipple, and cause nipples to become more sensitive due to engorgement. Glass suction devices may use either heat or a pump to create suction.

Butt Plugs are shorter dildos intended for anal insertion. They tend to have a flared base to prevent the device from becoming lost in the rectum. Anal Beads are balls or bumps on a string or a semi-rigid wand. They are inserted into the rectum and then removed with varying speeds.

A dildo is a non-vibrating device which is used for sexual stimulation of the vagina and/or anus. Dildos are generally made of silicone rubber, or occasionally more creative materials such as metals or glass. They are often made to resemble a penis. A double-ended dildo is a long, usually flexible dildo with both ends designed for penetration. It allows for mutual penetration between two persons (or for double penetration of a single female, both anally and vaginally).

Ben Wa balls are hollow metal balls inserted vaginally which can be worn inside the vagina for extended periods of time. The internal rolling is said to enhance orgasms, and may enable women with vaginal difficulties to reach orgasm.

Source: Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org)

A basic understanding of the adult sex toys above is required in order to find the stimulation you are looking for.

There are a few things you need to consider: What type of stimulation do you want? Are you looking to stimulate your penile, clitoral, vaginal or anal zones? Do you need an insertion type sex toy or a one that you can use over the entire body?

When purchasing your adult toy, there is no need to jump into the deep-end straight away. Jelly toys are always a good place to start. They are gentle in touch as well as flexible and easy to clean. Once you have got something you like then you can indulge in the high-tech knowing you are spending your money safely. Don't feel shy to ask someone or read up about the toy you're considering on purchasing. There is a multitude of books and videos available to offer advice on how to approach adult toys. Product reviews are another great way to find out what others who have used the toy thought of its performance.

Remember to have fun, purchasing your adult toy should be a fun experience. Experiment with the different ways your toy can bring you pleasure by varying positions and speeds.

Safety is extremely important when using your sex toys. Before you begin playtime there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Because adult toys are used in or on genital areas it is important to always practice safe sex when using them. Adult toys can spread infections or STD's between people. After every use your toy must be thoroughly cleaned and dried. Most toys will only require soap and warm water for a sufficient clean. To help prevent transmission of STD's ensure that you never share an adult toy with someone else unless you use a condom with it or clean it in between each person using it. Always use plenty of lubricant when inserting toys into your vagina or anus. The lubrication will help with increased stimulation and creating a comfortable and safer insertion. Oil based lubricants can damage condoms and the toys themselves so think twice before reaching for lubricants like baby oil or Vaseline.

NEVER use anything in your own or your partner's vagina after it has been used for any form of anal play. Always clean your toy thoroughly beforehand.

To have a lasting relationship with you toys try to follow these tips not only for your own safety but your toys as well.

• Always remove the batteries after use.
• Avoid getting the battery case or controls wet.
• Wash only with warm water and mild soap. DO NOT submerge in water.
• Always use with a water-based lubricant.