Beginner’s Guide to Dildos – Types, Sizes & Choosing the Right One

Beginner’s Guide to Dildos – Types, Sizes & Choosing the Right One

Choosing a dildo can seem surprisingly complicated when you first start looking. There are different sizes, shapes, materials and designs available, from smaller beginner-friendly options to larger dildos, realistic styles and suction-cup designs.

The best choice isn't necessarily the biggest or most elaborate. It depends on your experience, preferences, intended use and what feels comfortable for you.

This beginner's guide explains some of the main types of dildos, what different measurements mean and what to consider when choosing one.

What Is a Dildo?

A dildo is a non-vibrating sex toy generally designed for penetration or external stimulation, depending on the particular product and how it is intended to be used.

Dildos are available in many different shapes, sizes and materials.

Some have a realistic appearance, while others use smoother or more stylised designs. Certain products incorporate suction-cup bases, handles or other features that can provide different ways to use them.

Always check the individual product description and intended use before choosing a toy.

Choosing Your First Dildo

If you're buying your first dildo, size and comfort are good places to start.

A smaller or moderate-sized design can provide a more manageable introduction than immediately choosing a particularly large or wide toy.

Think about the experience you actually want rather than choosing solely on appearance.

Look at the product's dimensions, material, shape and features and consider whether those characteristics suit the way you intend to use it.

Understanding Dildo Size

Dildo measurements can include overall length, insertable length and diameter or circumference.

These measurements aren't interchangeable.

Overall length describes the entire product, while insertable length tells you how much of the toy is designed to be insertable.

Diameter measures across the widest part of a circular section, while circumference measures around it.

Checking the actual measurements is much more useful than relying on descriptions such as small, medium or large.

Does Dildo Length Matter?

Length is only one part of choosing a dildo.

A longer toy doesn't have to be inserted fully, but its overall dimensions can affect handling and how the product feels during use.

Beginners don't need to choose a long dildo simply because larger products appear prominent online.

Start with dimensions that feel realistic and comfortable for your experience level and intended use.

Understanding Dildo Girth

Width or girth can make a substantial difference to how a dildo feels.

Even when two products have similar lengths, a difference in diameter or circumference can create a very different experience.

If you're new to penetration toys, consider both length and width rather than concentrating on length alone.

Never force a toy if it feels uncomfortable. Stop if you experience significant or unexpected pain.

Realistic Dildos

Realistic dildos are designed with anatomical styling and may include features such as a shaped head, textured shaft or other realistic detailing.

They're available across a wide range of sizes.

Some people prefer realistic styling, while others prefer smooth or non-realistic designs. This is largely a matter of personal preference.

When comparing realistic dildos, look beyond appearance and check the dimensions and material as well.

Suction Cup Dildos

A suction cup base can allow a compatible dildo to be secured to a suitable smooth surface for hands-free use.

The effectiveness of a suction cup depends on both the product and the surface being used.

Before use, make sure the suction cup is securely attached and test it with gentle pressure.

Avoid attaching it to an unstable, fragile or unsafe surface.

Some suction-cup designs may also be compatible with certain harnesses, but compatibility should always be checked for the individual product.

Large & Oversized Dildos

Large dildos are designed for people specifically interested in greater length, girth or both.

They aren't automatically suitable for beginners.

If you're interested in progressing to a larger toy, increasing size gradually can give you a better understanding of what is comfortable for your body.

Never treat a particular size as a target that needs to be achieved.

Stop if you experience significant pain or another concerning symptom.

Dildo Materials

Dildos can be manufactured from different materials, and the material can affect flexibility, firmness, texture and care requirements.

Always check the material listed for the individual product.

Follow the manufacturer's cleaning and care instructions because appropriate cleaning methods can vary between materials.

The type of lubricant that is suitable can also depend on the toy's material, so check the manufacturer's recommendations before combining products.

Using Lubricant with a Dildo

Lubricant can help reduce unwanted friction and make penetration more comfortable.

Choose a lubricant that is compatible with the material of your particular toy and with the intended use.

Apply more when required rather than continuing if an activity becomes uncomfortable through friction.

If you're uncertain about compatibility, follow the toy and lubricant manufacturers' guidance.

Dildos for Anal Use

Not every dildo is suitable for anal use.

A toy intended for anal insertion should have a sufficiently wide flared base or another design feature specifically intended to prevent it from being drawn completely inside the body.

Never use an ordinary straight-sided dildo anally simply because its size appears suitable.

Check that the manufacturer identifies the particular product as suitable for anal use.

Cleaning Your Dildo

Cleaning sex toys appropriately helps keep them in good condition and supports hygienic use.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the particular material.

Clean the toy as recommended before and after use and allow it to dry appropriately before storage.

Don't assume that every dildo can be boiled, submerged or cleaned with the same products.

Inspect the toy regularly and stop using it if the material becomes significantly damaged or deteriorated.

Storing Dildos

Store clean, dry sex toys in an appropriate location away from excessive heat and direct sunlight where recommended.

Depending on their materials, storing toys separately can also be sensible.

Follow any storage guidance provided with the product.

Good cleaning and storage can help maintain the condition of your toys between uses.

Sharing Sex Toys

If a dildo is shared between people or used between different body areas, hygiene and cross-contamination need to be considered.

Appropriate cleaning and the use of a new compatible barrier, such as a condom where suitable, can help reduce cross-contamination.

Never transfer a toy directly from anal to vaginal use without appropriate cleaning and hygiene measures.

How Do I Choose the Right Dildo?

There isn't one dildo that's right for everybody.

Consider your experience level, intended use, preferred size, shape, material and any features you're interested in.

For a first dildo, choosing something with manageable dimensions can make more sense than buying the largest product that catches your attention.

Read the measurements carefully and choose based on what you expect to enjoy rather than what you think you should be able to use.

Explore Dildos at KinkRooms

KinkRooms offers a selection of dildos, realistic dildos, suction cup dildos and larger dildos in different shapes, sizes and designs.

Whether you're choosing your first dildo or looking for something different to add to your collection, checking the dimensions, material and individual product features can help you make a more informed choice.

Our KinkRooms Guides are designed to help you understand different products before deciding which options are right for you.

Choose at your own pace, follow the manufacturer's instructions and make comfort, hygiene and safe use a priority.

For consenting adults aged 18 and over.