7 of our most popular sex toys – & how to choose the right one
India Garrett & Emma-Jade Stoddart
Wellness
Reading time: 6 minutes
Meet the products creating a buzz online
It’s no secret that sex sells. But recently, sex toys have been selling really well too. With sex tech now having an established place in the sexual health and wellbeing space, more of us than ever are searching for, or investing in, the latest tools. And because we’re investing in pleasure for ourselves (and our partners), it’s no surprise that the size of the global sex toy market is predicted to more than double by 2030.*
The benefits of self-pleasure are wide-ranging, from improving mood to boosting self-confidence. But sexual self-fulfilment can mean different things to different people (there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, as mentioned in our guide to masturbation) and some may find that sex tech can be a good way to give their self-love session and sex life an extra buzz. The trick is to find the tool that makes you tick.
To help, sex and relationship expert Annabelle Knight shares her top tips, from how sex toys work to what to look for. Plus, we round up the bestselling** sex toys on boots.com that have received countless rave reviews.
What are sex toys?
A sex toy is an object or device that’s designed to promote sexual pleasure. “They can add a whole new dimension of excitement and pleasure to both solo and couple’s play, no matter your gender or sexual orientation,” says Annabelle, who outlines some of the potential benefits below.
They can allow you to:
• Experiment with different types of play
• Discover your erogenous zones and explore and expand on sexual preferences
• Achieve more intense and blended orgasms
• Optimise sexual satisfaction
“There are several different types of sex toys available, and people use them for lots of different reasons,” adds Annabelle. Popular types of tools include vibrators, dildos, love eggs and anal beads.
How to choose the right sex toy
“Everyone is different, so you need to find a toy that works for your body,” says Annabelle. “Some women enjoy insertable toys, such as a classic vibrator, while for others, clitoral stimulation is key.”
If the latter speaks to you, you might want to try a wand vibrator, bullet or sonic wave massager. Once you’ve picked your tool, Annabelle recommends experimenting with the settings, as well as positions to find your hotspot. Here are some other factors to bear in mind:
• Dimensions: Consider the size of toy you’re after and check the dimensions first
• Water resistance: If you’d like a toy that can be used in the shower or bath, make sure it’s waterproof
• Noise level: In a flat share? Look for vibrators that claim to be ‘whisper-quiet’
• Settings, speeds and power: Go for a toy with a vast range of settings and speeds for a personalised experience. Also, check whether the toy is rechargeable or battery powered
• Budget: Consider your budget before you start your search – toys can vary in price. On boots.com and in store, they tend to range from £10 to £200
How to clean sex toys
“Make sure your sex toys are cleaned before and after you use them to ensure optimum hygiene,” says Annabelle. STIs can also be transmitted via sex toys if shared between people, making it even more necessary to clean them properly. To do this, all you need is hot water, a mild antibacterial soap (or sex toy cleaner) and a clean towel.
“Give your toys a quick rinse, then spray them with a good-quality sex toy cleaner. Leave for 30 seconds before rinsing with warm water and drying with a towel.”
Here are seven of the most popular and bestselling sex toys available at Boots
Whether you’re looking for the most popular sex toys for couples or to enjoy solo, top sex toys for women or sex toys for men, discover what’s creating the biggest buzz with our round-up of some of the most popular picks from boots.com.
Discover more adult toys with glowing reviews in our full range.
Best for first timers
Try: Lovehoney Thrill Bullet Vibrator
“My first and best bullet. All the settings are equally good and give a real range of intensity for whatever your mood.” Simon†
• Length: 3 inches
• Circumference: 2.5 inches
• 3 speeds and 7 patterns
• Lightweight and compact
• Waterproof
• Needs 1 x AAA battery
If you’re just starting to get curious about the world of sex tech, then this handy bullet vibrator is a good place to start. It’s great value for money and simple to use, with 10 settings to give you those good vibrations. If you’re ready to level up, why not have some fun with it in the bath or shower? Waterproof is always an added bonus!
Best for travelling
Try: Lovehoney Ignite Bullet Vibrator
“It does its job very well, quickly and discreetly, it really takes no time at all… Easy to clean and pack when travelling. It’s so powerful for such a tiny thing, I honestly can’t think of anything negative to say about it.” annadizzy123†
• Length: 3.5 inches
• Circumference: 3 inches
• 20 functions
• USB rechargeable
• Waterproof
• Travel lock
• Discreet storage bag included
This bullet vibrator may be small in size, but don’t be fooled – it’s mighty in power. Boasting three speeds and 17 patterns, it’s just the ticket for anyone after clitoral stimulation when playing solo or during foreplay. A great pick for frequent flyers, the discreet design can be carried anywhere and everywhere – plus it features a travel-lock function, keeping your mind at rest when on the move.
Best for clitoral stimulation
Try: LELO 8 Function Sonic Clitoral Massager – SONA
“Bought as a birthday gift to myself. Amazing alone or with a partner. Lots of modes and settings. Produces very good Os.” jennifer k†
• 8 settings & patterns
• Waterproof
• USB rechargeable
• Whisper-quiet, powerful sonic waves
• 1-year warranty & 10-year quality guarantee
When you think about sonic power, this probably isn’t quite what comes to mind… but think again! Prioritising clitoral pleasure using sonic pressure waves, this toy offers an entirely different sensation, making it perfect if you’re looking to add another element to the bedroom. Explore this one on your own, or let a partner help you work your way to a new kind of climax.
Best for full-body thrills
Try: Lovehoney Ignite Mini Wand Vibrator
“The wand was quiet, I was not! I can highly recommend this. The material it’s made from is lovely and soft, it’s easy to clean and the variety of settings are great. I love the discreet size and the cute little storage bag.’ Lemniscate22†
• Length: 4 inches
• Circumference: 3 inches
• 20 functions
• USB rechargeable
• Waterproof
• Travel lock
• Discreet storage bag included
Wands have been making waves in the sex tech market for quite some time. Why? Because they really do work. A simple yet effective design, this miniature version from Lovehoney features a small handle and rounded head that provides tantalising stimulation all over the body. Explore the wand-er-ful 20 different settings alone or use it with a partner to tease and massage for full-body thrills.
Best for double stimulation
Try: Ann Summers Rampant Rabbit G-spot Thrusting Rabbit
“This thing is amazing, my first ever bigger vibe, and it hits all the right spots. I’m so glad I bought it. Go for it, it won’t disappoint.” Percyblue†
• 3 rotational settings
• 7 vibrating patterns
• Internal thrusting motions
• Rechargeable
If you’re looking for something that hits every spot, then this is it. Rabbits are a classic piece of sex tech and for good reason. This one moves in so many ways you won’t know what to do with yourself (or your partner) and it’s designed to help you feel a really deep kind of internal pleasure. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Best for style and substance
Try: Lovehoney Glow Classic Vibrator
“Without getting into the graphic details – an amazing product! Not too intimidating for people who are first-time users and it looks stylish and sleek. Great if you want to use it alone and especially if you want some extra fun with your partner! Would highly recommend it.’ Sculkin†
• Length: 5 inches
• Insertable length: 4 inches
• Circumference: 3.25 inches
• 3 speeds and 7 patterns
• Waterproof
• Requires 1 x AA battery
The clue is in the name with this one, a toy for a head-to-toe glow. This rose gold vibrator is a great option if you find the bullet alternatives don’t give you the right kind of buzz. Its size, shape and varying settings mean you’re bound to find just the right mode to give you an all-over glow.
Best for backdoor fun
Try: Lovehoney Ignite Vibrating Anal Plug
“The vibrations are powerful and intense and the size is perfect for a first timer. If you’re looking for your first vibrating butt plug, you can’t go wrong with this.” Skindeepbeauty†
• Length: 3.5 inches
• Insertable length: 3 inches
• Circumference: 3.25 inches
• 20 functions
• USB rechargeable
• Waterproof
• Travel lock
• Discreet storage bag included
This pocket-sized butt plug is a firm favourite for good reason. With an impressive 20 functions in total (three speeds and 17 patterns), expect a night of great vibrations. Designed to be used alone or with a playmate, it truly is a versatile sex toy that’s also waterproof, easy to charge and has a travel lock. Tick, tick, tick! Reviewers agree that it’s a great pick for beginners.
From vibrators to clitoral massagers and more, shop more great adult toys in our full range.
*https://www.statista.com/statistics/587109/size-of-the-global-sex-toy-market/
**Data taken from sales between 23 August 2022 to 15 November 2022
†Boots.com review. Reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity
