Toy Tuesday: Clitoral Vibrators

Hi guys! A few months ago, I wrote a Toy Tuesday review about G-spot vibrators and their general care and maintenance. However, some ladies, myself included, prefer external to internal stimulation. So, here you go.

Today's Toy: Clitoral Vibrators

Clitoral vibrators are vibrating toys meant for external use. They are meant to massage the clit and surrounding areas, not for penetration. Because of their size and use, these toys will sometimes have a more discreet design than the internal vibrator. Some designs include lipstick, rubber duckies, cell phones, nail polish, and shotgun bullets.

Made with women in mind, some clit stimulators lend themselves to both sexes, since they are small and easy to use. When looking for the right vibrator, there are two main types, manual and hands-free. Within those types, here are some of the most popular styles:

• Bullet: Possibly the most popular type of clit vibrator, the bullet is a small, hand-held toy. Its simple design, versatility and easy use makes it a top seller. You can choose to use the bullet by itself or use with attachments such as panties, hollowed out strap ons, or cock rings. The basic bullet has three control options: wireless remote controlled, remote controlled, and button controlled (seen below). Speed and pulse options vary from toy to toy, some ranging from 3 speeds to 6 or more, plus varying pulses. Pipedream's Le Reve line has great bullets, as well as the famed Silver Bullet.

• Pocket Rocket: This is the name of am extremely popular vibe sold at stores. Pocket rocket is just a brand name, but it'll get the job done; if you ask for a Mini-Mite, it's the same thing. This is the easiest toy to change batteries; it takes one AA battery and switches on and off with a twist. The downside is it only has one speed, but the upside is that it normally comes with exchangeable heads for different sensations.

• Butterfly Harness: The butterfly harness is a hands-free model that a woman wears around her waist and hips. The vibrating part consists of a bullet tucked into a jelly or silicone sleeve in the shape of a butterfly, flower, or other small animal, and the straps are adjustable. This model allows you to move around during sex without having to worry about adjusting the toy. I always say it's the female version of the cock ring.

• Vibrating Panties: Essentially a bullet hidden in underwear, vibrating panties are the perfect idea for couples who want to be discreetly naughty in public. Older models with contain bullets that have a control box attached, while newer, more popular models have wireless remotes. The panties themselves have a small pocket in the center to hold the vibrator. A fun model I would suggest trying out is Ohmibod's Club Vibe vibrating panties. They have three settings: Ambiance (when in a club, it will pick up the sounds of the speakers and vibrate to the beat of the music), Ipod (as long as it's instrumental, it will also go to the beat of the music), and Regular vibrator (works just like a normal bullet). Sorry this is coming right after EDC, I'm pretty sure I heard 10,000 raver chicks cream themselves. Don't worry, there will be plenty of other raves for you to slut it up at.

• Magic Wands: This manual vibrator is much larger than the other options on this list and one of the only ones that plugs into the wall. Very similar to a regular back massager, they are often marketed in mainstream retail stores as such. Because they are electrically wall powered, they produce a much more powerful vibration than its battery powered counterparts. Massagers will also sell attachments separately made of silicone or rubber to allow penetration. Two popular models are the Hitachi and Wanachi.

• Finger Vibes: If you prefer a more hands on approach for diddling your skittle, maybe you'll appreciate this toy. Finger vibes are bullet shaped vibes encased in rubber, plastic or silicone sleeves, regularly covered in ridges or bumps, that encircle the finger with an elastic or fitted band. Kind of like a cock ring for your digits. Easy to use and varying in speeds and pulses.

• Vibrating Cock Rings: A type of cock ring that has one or two bullets on either side of an elastic band. Worn over a penis shaft.

When using a clitoral stimulator, it's all about warming up. Start with other erogenous zones normally overlooked, like your nipples, inner thighs or happy trail. Work your way towards the clitoris; if you head directly towards it, the vibrations may be uncomfortable or too intense, and will make it more difficult to get off. Alternate between speeds and vibrations until you hit a pattern you like. If you are trying to use it on your man, I suggest trying it on their scrotum or taint. They might be uncomfortable with it at first, but once they get over the initial taboo of it, they'll love it.

Do not try to insert the toy inside your vagina. These toys are meant for external use only. External walls are ok, but once you start to go inside, the toy could get stuck. You can of course finger it out, but that'll definitely kill the mood.

For specific care instructions, refer to the care post mentioned above. For the most part, external vibrators are easy to take care of. Make sure to wash after every use with warm water and non-scented, anti-bacterial soap, take batteries out to prevent leakage, and store in a dark, cool place. Done.

Difficulty to use:

It's all about knowing your body. Clitoral vibrators are very simple to use, and their is enough variety in models to choose the one that you prefer using the most.

Versatility:

As seen above, there are plenty of styles and models to choose from. Hands free or manual, small or large, some even offer internal attachments; there is a vibe out there for everyone. The fun part is figuring out which one you like best.

My Rating:

Let's just say, I've never had a bad experience with my clit vibrators.

Boyfriend's Rating:

He loved the vibrating cock ring, saying it felt "Aaaamazing"