What's The Buzz Around Types Of Vibrators?

Let’s face it; most references to sex toys in pop culture turn them into the butt of a joke. On TV they are routinely seen as something shameful or embarrassing to have in your drawer. While most people don’t fancy shouting proudly about their vibrator, we think it’s time to stop pretending that buzzing noise by our bedside is a neck massager. Who are we fooling? 

Let’s take a look at vibrators, how to use them safely, the eco-friendly options, and why you shouldn’t feel embarrassed to own one. But first… 

A brief history of vibrators

There has long been speculation over the origin of your pleasurable plastic pal. For years it has been believed that Victorian era women who suffered from “hysteria” were treated by doctors by getting a good old fashioned hand job. 

Doctors would do the deed, the hysteria would be cured, and later doctors supposedly invented a time-saving device to take over the medical masturbating. Seems innocent enough, right? But if the idea of women in Victorian England being chill about this kind of sexual encounter at the doc’s office seems ridiculous to you, that’s because it is. 

This myth began after a book was published by author Rachel Maines in 1999 titled “Technology of Orgasm”, in which she cites many sources to back up the story. Maines later said she meant her book to be taken as an “interesting hypothesis”, not fact. Years later, the story is still believed and continues to be told as a fun fact at dinner parties to this day. 

In reality, since obscenity laws stopped the advertising of anything sexual, vibrators likely began as ‘massagers’ - devices that promised to massage away tension in the muscles. Massagers were marketed, and though suggestive (sometimes heavily so), it could always be argued that they were used to help with relaxation and muscle stiffness. Wink, wink. 

The modern vibrator 

The vibrators we know today appeared on the market around the 1950s, and by the 1960s, were commonly and openly advertised as vibrators (the sexy kind). Although they were regularly purchased, nobody wanted to be caught buying them, and even today, vibrators are still seen as secretive, private things. 

When the TV show Sex and the City (pretty out-there for its time) aired an episode in 1998 featuring the women discovering the rabbit sex toy, it was a defining pop culture moment for the vibrator. Finally, a prime time show was talking about how vibrators are totally normal!

Today, you won’t find vibrators on the shelves in your local supermarket, but it’s relatively easy to find one online. Heck, Amazon can get one to your door same-day if you have Prime. Those randy Victorians would have a field day!

What are the most popular types? 

There are quite literally thousands of sex toys; some vibrating, some not. We’ll focus on the most popular vibrating toys here:

• The bullet: Tiny enough to carry in your handbag, this is regarded as the ‘starter vibrator’, as it’s so dainty. If you’re nervous about getting a vibrator, start here. 
• The rabbit: Main characteristic? The dual-end, where the longer end goes inside and a smaller ‘finger’ sits outside, giving both vaginal penetration and clitoral stimulation. 
• The wand: Looks a bit like a microphone, with a bulbous vibrating end that can be held against the clitoris. Simple, does the job, and if you’re worried about getting caught with a vibrator, this one is the most believable as a neck massager. 
• Internal vibrator: A long stick-like vibrator with a buzzing end shaped perfectly to help stimulate the G-spot. 
• Remote control vibrators: Yes, hands-free. Much like the rabbit, but more discreet for taking it out-and-about. If you’re into starting your foreplay in the restaurant, give your partner the remote.
• Suction vibrator: Designed to replicate a sucking motion, this vibrator sits over the clitoris to simulate the feeling of oral sex.
• Anal vibrators: These are inserted into the anus for a little rear end stimulation. 

How do you use them? 

Each vibrator is different and should come with instructions so you get the best out of them. Some are inserted into the vagina or anus, while others sit outside to stimulate the clitoris, but in most cases, you can use them in whatever way feels good to you. You’ll want to use a lubricant to make the process easy and feel good. 

Does everyone secretly have one?! 

We don’t know! Most people prefer to keep their sex life private, and that includes their use of toys. If you feel like you’re the only one who doesn’t have one, don’t worry about it. Not everyone likes the idea of using a device down there. Whatever you prefer, don’t ever feel embarrassed by your lack of sex toys - they’re not everyone’s cup of tea. 

"I just think there is something inherently embarrassing about a vibrator. It's not something most people say they've got; nobody talks about that, it's still a secret kind of thing…” - Maggie Gyllenhaal, Actor

Do they hurt to use? 

No vibrator should hurt when you use it. If it does, it may not be the one for you. Don’t feel you need to persevere through pain. Switch to a different type that fits more comfortably with your body. 

How do you keep them hygienic?

Cleaning your vibrator after every use is important to prevent infections, especially if the anus is involved, or if you’re sharing with a partner. It can be difficult to stop when things are happening, but to avoid infections, it’s highly recommended that you clean it to remove any unwanted bacteria that can lead to STIs. Use a dedicated washcloth, a gentle soap, and protect the battery area. 

Can you use them with other people? 

Yes! Some people prefer a just-the-two-of-us scenario, while others like to mix things up with toys. Bullet vibrators are a great place to start for this, as they’re small, and so less intimidating to suggest to your partner. Begin by stimulating other erogenous zones on the body, like the neck or nipples, and move to more high profile areas if it feels right. 

What are the best eco-friendly vibrators? 

If you want a vibrator that’s earth-approved for a sustainable sex life, here are a few options:

• Gaia is the world’s first biodegradable and recyclable vibrator made from ‘biofeel’, a starch-based bioplastic. 
• If you’re looking to spend a little more, Womanizer’s PREMIUM eco is their “first ever Pleasure Air sex toy made from sustainable, renewable materials. 
• VeganToys vibrators are all shaped like fruits and veggies. The penis bananas are a little creepy, but all their toys are vegan and good for the planet, so we’re on board. 
• Don’t forget your lube! YES have a certified organic, plant-based natural range of intimacy products that are perfect if you want an eco-friendly romp. 

Got a question about vibrators? We’re not shy about answering! Shout out over in our private Facebook group, or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual care subscription can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox. That's one less thing to worry about each month. That frees up some headspace for thinking about the more fun things you can get up to down there...