Male Masturbators: All Your Questions Answered

One of the prevailing thoughts around sex toys is that they’re only for those with vaginas – but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Those with penises have a whole host of options to choose from too! The everyday penis toy may not be as flashy or feature-filled as your average dual-action vibrator, but that doesn’t make it any less fun or thrilling to use. (After all, the everyday penis isn’t exactly as flashy or feature-filled as your average vagina!)

So maybe you’ve been curious about these titillatingly textured toys? Maybe you’ve even considered getting one for yourself? Well, if you’ve got questions, we’ve got answers.

Here’s all you need to know about masturbators!

What are Masturbators?

Masturbators (sometimes referred to as Masturbation Sleeves, Strokers, or Pocket Pussies) are sex toys designed for those with penises. They generally feature textured sleeves that offer a more intense experience than simply using one’s hand to masturbate. They come in a variety of styles and offer varying features, ranging from the basic and simple, to premium and motorized.

What are Masturbators made of?

Most masturbators are made of TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) or TPR (thermoplastic rubber). Both materials are body safe and provide a soft, flexible feel that is able to stretch and still return to its original form.

Many sex toy brands avoid using these technical names, instead coining terms like “Superskin,” “PureSkin,” or similar words, but nearly all masturbators are made from these two materials.

Silicone is used less often in masturbators when compared to other sex toys, but that’s what makes products like Secret Service so unique.

Types of Masturbators

There are nearly as many variations of masturbators as there are vaginal sex toys. The lowest-tier masturbators tend to be basic strokers that are simple, textured sleeves that require manual motion for stimulation. As you move upwards in features (and often cost), you’ll often find masturbators with vibrating motors or warming features. At the highest tiers are masturbators that add suction in lieu of or on top of that vibration – and some even stroke for you.

Close-ended vs. Open-ended

Another thing to consider when shopping for a masturbator is close-ended vs. open-ended design.

If you’re looking to use your masturbator alone, a close-ended sleeve will make clean-up easier, keeping everything contained in the sleeve until you wash it. However, if your partner might be lending a hand, an open-ended sleeve allows for them to lend you their mouth as well, offering the opportunity for double the fun. 

Though not necessarily a heavily-advertised feature, certain open-ended sleeves can also work to “shorten” a well-endowed partner, using the sleeve as a kind of buffer when used on the penis during sex. This allows the partner being penetrated to become more comfortable with their partner’s size gradually.

Lubes To Use

While most lubes work perfectly fine with any masturbator, we always recommend a creamy lubricant like our line of Whipped lubricants. The lotion-like texture of these lubes offers up an elevated experience, providing a smooth glide and slick feel. Even better? Whipped comes in some amazing flavors that can elevate oral favors as well.

Are Masturbators Safe to Use in Water?

A general rule of thumb is that the simpler the sleeve, the safer it is to use in water. The sleeve materials themselves are nearly always waterproof, but always check the directions of your particular product. Masturbators with electronic components will have various levels of water resistance – or none at all.

Even so, if your “basic” masturbator includes a removable plastic case, take extra care when washing after use to ensure there’s no trapped water between the sleeve and the case.

Caring For Your Masturbator

Taking care of your masturbator can be the difference between lasting a few weeks, a few months, or several years.

After use, remove the sleeve itself from its case (if applicable) and rinse the sleeve out thoroughly. After that, use a toy cleaner such as Cleansing Mist and spray the sleeve liberally. Then rinse it again and pat it dry. It’s best to avoid harsh cleaners or scented soaps, as they could irritate your most sensitive areas (and nobody wants that!)

If your masturbator comes with a case or cap, ensure all pieces are fully dry before returning the sleeve to its case or placing the cap back on. The crevices within the sleeve can hold onto water, and trapping that in can cause unwanted bacteria to foster, so manually dry it or allow it to air dry before storing it.

When you store your masturbator (or any sex toy, for that matter), it’s best to store it in a cool, dry place, and separately from other toys, as not all sex toy materials play well together.

A Stroke Above

Now that you’re in the know, check out our masturbator breakdown – or, if you’re ready to take the leap, go ahead and dive right into a whole new world of sensation.