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We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Whether you're new to masturbation or just looking for some new tips, we've got you covered.
Most of the time, this means you'd have to do a lot of research to find places to ethically consume porn, and that's a lot considering you might only spend 5 minutes watching it. HAVE NO FEAR — here are a few places to watch porn and feel good about the service: Bellesa Plus offers a subscription-based service with a wide range of videos, including in-house content. This is my personal fave, like...these performers are just having a good time, there's hella communication AND everyone comes in the end. Just...*chef's kiss*.
Verified creators on PornHub also create ethical content, just make sure to look for that blue checkmark. OnlyFans, NiteFlirt, and SextPanther allow you to chat and interact with your favorite sex workers, but also pay them within your budget. Not to mention, there's a high probability your fave sex worker or performer has a CashApp, so you can definitely spread the wealth there. Check out this BuzzFeed article on how to consume ethical porn for more info.
Anyways, here's what a few BuzzFeed readers had to say about watching porn when they masturbate:
"I sit in a kneeling position in front of my laptop and just stroke my dick and I often will fantasize that I'm in the porn. Sometimes I'll thrust to mimic the movements of having sex." —21/Male/Straight-ish
"I typically watch porn of some sort from one of those well-known tube sites. I usually draw it out for quite awhile. And when I cum, I will often time it along with the money shot in whatever scene I am watching." —32/Male/Straight
These BuzzFeed readers are helping to spread the lube gospel when it comes to masturbation:
"I've always liked a good lube better than lotion or Vaseline. I mean, it exists for a reason. My favorite is Boy Butter. Little squirt of that and I go to town." —30/Male/Gay
"It's not just for partnered sex. It makes all the sensation better!" —Anonymous, 27/F/Straight
If you're not sure which lube to start with, here are a few great options:
#Lube Life ($5.99+ on Amazon) is a popular water-based lubricant with over 100K reviews and is a simple and straightforward lube to help things go smoothly.
Überlube ($19.99+ on Amazon) is a silicone lubricant, making it great for anal and water play, but make sure not to use it with silicone toys because it will degrade the material.
Astroglide ($9.48+ on Amazon) also has a silicone lubricant that's available in travel-friendly sizes for on-the-go trysts.
Sliquid's hybrid lubricant ($29.50 on Amazon) is created with a blend of water and silicone, making it versatile enough for vaginal and anal sex and compatible with your silicone sex toys.
Wicked has a water-based lubricant specifically for anal play ($9.83+ on Amazon) in case you plan on indulging in butt play.
The "Bathtub Technique" is a tried and true masturbation method for vulva owners, since it's hands-free and only requires having a tub or shower-bathtub.
Check out this post for more tips on masturbating in the shower or bath.
Some reviewers love that the Water Slyde offers less mess and easier cleaning compared to your typical vibrator or wand. And it's hands-free! All you have to do (after cleaning your tub and faucet of course) is lay back and relax.
If you really want to treat yourself, there's also the Bringing Sexy Bath Kit ($72) and the Get Wet Pack ($63), which both come with extra goodies — like a door hanger, a hair towel wrap, and either lube or massage candles — to make your bath time even better.
Promising review: "Like many young girls, I first discovered the pleasure that water could bring at a young age in the bath. This simple yet genius product makes that experience possible for anyone, without having to contort your body in a weird angle. It's very easy to attach and position. My self-care Sunday bath routine has forever been transformed." —Kelsey S.
Get it from Lovability for $35 (available in three colors).
The basic handheld showerhead ($15.98+ on Amazon) on the left has six modes, so it's simple and to the point. TBH, any removable showerhead with a massage mode will do, especially since some people prefer gentle stimulation and some prefer rough. The dual showerhead ($24.99+ on Amazon) on the right has both a stationary head and a handheld one with 24 function combinations.
Here's what one vulva-owner had to say about how and why the shower is the perfect place for enjoying self-love: "My favorite place to masturbate is in the shower with the shower head. I turn down the lights and start my shower hot so the bathroom is nice and steamy. I change my shower head setting so the flow is steadier and cooler. I keep that shower head on my clit. The pressure from it feels amazing and I can orgasm in less than five minutes. The best orgasms are the ones where I temporarily go blind and the shower head does just that." —27/F/Straight
"I lie on my stomach (usually on my bed, but when I discovered this technique as a kid I used a sheepskin rug). My arms are straight at my sides and my head is turned to one side. My legs are bent at the knees, so my feet are up in the air. I develop a fantasy in my head and as I start to get turned on I rock/rotate/grind my hips/clit into the bed and do it with increasing intensity until I come. The orgasm is equal parts fantasy and friction." —Anonymous, 39/F/Lesbian
"I have only ever gotten off with one tried and true method when I masturbate: I grind against something (usually a pillow) while rubbing my finger back and forth across my clit." —Anonymous, 33/F/Queer
One vulva-owner recommends making a diamond formation with your legs: "I lie on my back with my legs apart in kind of a diamond shape; knees furthest apart and feet together. Then I put a finger on either side of my clit and rub back and forth until I come. Works every time." —Anonymous, 26/Female/Heterosexual
"I always take a super soft blanket and lay it down on my bed, usually folded a few times to make it thicker. Then I set up some porn on my laptop and just lay on my stomach with my dick against the blanket. Then I just move my hips back and forth or up and down so my dick would rub against the blanket until I orgasm." —20/Male/Gay
Dame's Pillo ($95 on Dame; pictured left) is a popular option for a sex pillow and offers a lot of versatility without being too obvious in your space.
The Liberator Heart Wedge pillow ($109.99 on Lovehoney (only in red) and $79.99+ on Amazon; available in nine colors and pictured right) is also a very chic option for grinding.
Sex pillows are great for comfort during masturbation, but also for elevating partnered sex in general (literally!) by allowing you to try out new positions.
Promising review: "Perfect size, firmness, etc. Didn't feel like it was necessarily needed, until now having it. Worth purchasing for sure!" —Samantha W.
This unique grinder comes with two straps, so you can attach it to a pillow, bathtub ledge or even your lover's thigh or forearm. It can also be used as a sleeve when held in the hand.
Promising reviews: "I didn't know what to expect but I'm here to tell you guys... With plenty of lube it provides a TON-OF-FUN..! A nice addition to my toy box." —Warren Pouyer Jr.
"This is something totally different that I didn't know I needed in my life until I saw it. I've only tested it out for a small amount of time but I already tell it was a good buy. I am an extremely indecisive person so I said 'glow in the dark' and 'surprise me' and I received a beautiful purple pour. It matches well with other randomized colors I've received from this shop and purple happens to be one of my favorite colors. I would recommend this for people who want to try something new and / or dislike penetration. It has a good feel to it and it comes with straps for unlimited possibilities." —Quinten Forrest
Get it from Fantasticocks on Etsy for $55.
One penis-owner recommends using a body pillow: "I have a body pillow with a super soft cover, and I recently discovered that folding it over and screwing it is quite the amazing substitute. The biggest and best Os I've ever had and my hand is enjoying its vacation." —19/Male/Bisexual
This vulva-owner rolls up a towel: "I'll get my chair, put a pillow, put a rolled underwear or towel (shaped like a penis) and then cover the entire pillow with cloth. I get naked, woman-on-top position and just start to grind until I come." —Anonymous, 25/F/Straight
Get a body pillow from Amazon for $24.99 or a set of four hand towels from Amazon for $15.99 (available in 12 colors).
Here are two popular and un-intimidating grinding vibes:
The Starsi ($79 at Cute Little Fuckers; pictured left) is a great option for newbies who don't want anything too phallic or intimidating and has a removable bullet with five powerful vibration settings.
A Romp Wave vibrator ($29.99 on Amazon and $29 at ShopEnby; pictured right) is designed like a leaf, offering pin pointed stimulation through the tip and broader stimulation when held in the palm of your hand.
BuzzFeed asked several penis-owners for jerk-off tips and techniques, and here's what they had to offer about switching up your stroke game:
"Instead of stroking the shaft, I usually press my penis down flat and just rub the head rapidly — and lightly at first — with one hand and the other hand pressed on top for added pressure." —31/Male/Bi
"The two-finger method just under the tip and rubbing the under portion of the shaft is the quickest way I get off." —24/Male/Straight
"Instead of gripping it and jerking like most guys, I lay my penis flat on my belly and rub it until I cum. Almost like rolling dough into a breadstick shape." —24/Male/Gay
"I usually use just my thumb, index, and middle finger to jerk off, but will alternate full fist as well. They're pretty different sensations and switching it up helps." —27/Male/Gay
"I sit on my left had while I watch porn. It quickly falls asleep. As I am right handed, once you've successfully made the left hand fall asleep, you get to business. The numbness makes it feel like someone else is doing the wanking! Good times." —32/Male/Straight
"Seriously, it's worth it. Girls can have vibrators and dildos and stuff — it should be just as acceptable for guys to have toys that feel like having sex. Fleshlight reigns supreme, but Tenga Eggs are cheap and available on Amazon Prime." —24/Male/Straight
Get the Tenga Eggs on Amazon for $6.24+ and a Pink Lady Mini Lotus Fleshlight on Amazon for $69.95.
The Tenga 3D Sculpted masturbator (pictured left) is available in five styles. And the Tenga Spinner (pictured right) comes in six styles and boasts a transparent design along with its textured interior. Make sure you carefully and generously lube up your sleeve before play!
Promising review: "It can produce some pretty amazing suction by squeezing out all the air inside and using a milking action. Depending on your usage style, it varies from silent to quiet, realistic noises, so can be very discreet if needed. I use it in the shower sometimes, which is completely private and very easy to clean up. It does need lube, so I suspect it won't work very well underwater unless you apply almost no pressure. To clean, simply turn it back inside-out and wash with warm soapy water. Simplicity." —Su Chan (on the Tenga 3D Sculpted masturbator sleeve)
Get the Tenga 3-D Sculpted masturbator from Amazon for $30.62+ (available in five styles) and the Tenga Spinner from Amazon for $22.16+ (available in six styles).
Here are two versatile strokers that add a little more to your grip:
The Manta by Fun Factory ($139.98+ on Amazon and $139.99 on Fun Factory; pitcured left) is inspired by the appearance and power of an actual manta ray. It's designed with waterproof silicone, six speeds and six vibrating patterns turn oral sex, masturbation and couples' play into a mind-blowing time for anyone with a penis.
An open vibrating sleeve ($99 on Amazon; pictured right) that's created with premium silicone for a soft and supple sensation and flexible wings that wrap around your shaft, so you can feel each speed and vibration setting at your preferred grip.
Yes, it's waterproof, so go ahead and play with it in the shower.
Promising reviews: "Love the product, my first purchase of a masturbator, very snug and stimulating. I don't consider myself very big girth-wise, but this is very snug yet 'adaptable.' It is extremely stimulating after orgasm as the toy stays tight around your very sensitive head, shaft, etc. Appears very durable, use water-based lube. 'Sucking' sound is rather stimulating depending on how you hold/use the toy. Easy to clean, pliable." —Terry
"First toy for husband, he was really surprised at how nice it felt. We did parallel play to get him comfortable. Unbelievably soft but firm enough for resistance. Easy to clean — we have some light fabric towels to pull from one end to the other to get fully dry." —Ashwdwrd
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in three colors).
These three external vibes all fit perfectly in your palm:
The Pom by Dame ($95 on Dame and Amazon; pictured left) is designed to deliver broad or targeted stimulation with its flexible design.
Pep by Unbound ($42 on Unbound; pictured right) has five vibration intensities and three patterns to explore with both targeted and broad stimulation.
TuLips vibrator by Sweet Vibes ($39.99 on Amazon) boasting a unique, waterproof design with its two lips for caressing your clit and making sure you feel its 10 vibrations and five intensities entirely.
Here are three finger vibrators that have different shapes and textures for you to choose from:
Bellesa's unique Finger Pro vibrator ($59 on Bellesa Boutique and pictured left) is designed with 105 tiny prongs for extra stimulation, a flickering tongue to simulate oral, and 10 vibration intensities for you to enjoy.
The Fin vibrator by Dame ($85 on Dame and $74.81+ on Amazon; pictured right) is available in two colors and boasts a smooth surface with a removable tether, so you can customize your control. It has three intensity levels, as well as a pointed side for targeted stimulation and a squishy side for broader organization.
A compact silicone finger vibrator ($44 on Spectrum Boutique and $45.99 on Amazon and available in three colors) with 10 vibration modes controlled by a single button. This vibe has a flat design that fits between your index and middle fingers with a nubby tip for pinpointed stimulation.
If you're not sure where to find a bullet vibe that fits your fancy, here are three popular options:
The Plus One Bullet ($9 on Amazon and pictured left) has a simple rechargeable design with 10 vibration settings, offering a lot of bang for your buck.
Emojibator's novelty vegetable-shaped vibrators ($34 on Emojibator, $23.41+ on Amazon, and pictured right) are battery-operated — but still waterproof — and have 10 vibration settings.
The Rose 2 ($90 on Vush) is a splurge-worthy bullet vibrator boasting 25 combined levels and intensities and a unique rose-shaped bulb with a flexible neck for external exploration.
Yup. Vibrators have no gender and as one penis-owner raves, you should definitely get one: "I use my girlfriend's vibrator on and around my balls. The vibrator really amplifies things. Wish I would have known about that when I was in high school." —30/Male/Straight
The Shibari Mini Halo Plus wand (pictured above) is a very popular option for anyone not ready to commit to a full-size wand vibrator or looking for a travel-friendly option. It's fully waterproof and boasts 20 vibrating patterns with eight speeds for a rumbling good time.
Get it from Amazon for $19.95+ (available in seven colors).
A wand vibrator is a big investment, so make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck with these popular options:
The Magic Wand vibrator ($64.95 on Amazon; pictured left) is what one BuzzFeed reader (asexual/F) described as: ""I haven't met a woman alive who hasn't been successful with the Hitachi. Like, if you have trouble orgasming, just do it. It gets the job done quickly." So, basically it's a powerful and reliable classic whether you get the OG plug-in, the rechargeable version or the improved Plus version of the OG.
The Majesty 2 ($120 on Vush; pictured right) by Vush and has five intensity levels with 10 patterns for you to explore. Also, it's 100% waterproof!
The Ollie wand ($76 on Unbound) has eight vibrating functions with a simple switch to go back and forth between the settings. It's long handle is convenient for satisfying those hard-to-reach places without accidentally pulling a muscle.
Here are three of the wildly popular air pulse toys:
Unbound's The Puff compact suction vibrator ($48 on Unbound, Urban Outfitters or Anthropologie and available in two colors, pictured left) has five intensities and simple design allow you to slowly edge your way to orgasm or go from 0-60 in three minutes. Check out my personal review of why the Puff by Unbound is my favorite sex toy for more details!
A Satisfyer Pro 2 ($44.95 on Amazon, pictured right), which might literally be the most beloved sex toy on Amazon, has 11 intensities that range from "wow" to "oh %6*9#" according to reviewers. Plus, it's waterproof, so it can join you in the shower.
Bellesa Diskreet Air ($59 on Bellesa Boutique) is a splurge-worthy option for beginners and boasts five suction intensities and a waterproof design, as well. Not to mention, it has a discreet case for you to easily recharge your toy.
Here are two sets of dilators to consider, one specifically for anal and one that can be used for anal or vaginal dilation:
A set of anal dilators ($129.99 on B-Vibe and pictured left) that range from 2.7 inches long to 4 inches long and 0.8 inches wide to 1.5 inches wide. Not to mention the bulbous head and flared base make it perfect for anal and even temperature play.
A set of four silicone dilators ($29.99 on Amazon and pictured right) are perfect for working your way up vaginally or anally, and come with four dilators ranging from 4.33 inches long and 0.51 inches wide to 7.68 inches long and 1.26 inches wide. This is also available as a set of five dilators. Just remember to use lube when training with dilators!
The Blush Avant Collection of dildos all have suction cups and tbh, I have the Purple Rain (D2) dildo and it is absolute perfection — read my full Purple Rain Dildo Review for more. The suction cup has literally picked up my table, that's how strong it is 😳 .
For beginners or anyone new to penetration I would recommend these toys from the Avant collection: D9 Ergo Mini Dildo, D14 Heart of Gold Dildo, P1 Freedom Dildo, P2 True Blue Dildo, P3 Beauty Dildo, P6 Beyond Plug, and P7 Ace Plug.
Grab one of the Avant dildos on Amazon for $39.63+ or grab one of the Pride collection dildos for $24.98+.
Promising reviews: "So this arrived in the mail today and of course I cleaned it and tried it out right away. I was BLOWN AWAY, maybe because this is my first toy or maybe because it's just that amazing. I'm 24 and I squirted for the first time. I literally couldn't believe it so I went for a second round and I squirted again. It's been an hour and I'm still shocked hahaha. Please do yourself a favor and get this. I like that it fits nicely in my hand and all the different vibration patterns it is. It's pretty quiet, too!" —evs2468
"After a lot of searching and debating I originally decided on the Svakom Coco but by sheer chance I ran across the Cici for less than half the price with almost all of the same features. I bought it almost as soon as I saw it and it got delivered before the estimated date. It works wonderfully and is very quiet, came charged right out of the box, and for a first-timer who can be a bit intimidated by girth and size, this was the perfect starter toy for me (would definitely suggest a water-based lube for internal use, it makes things a lot easier and more pleasant). I've seen reviews saying that the vibrations can be a bit buzzy rather than rumbly which I do think is true, but it's a moot point for me. Overall very satisfied with the purchase!" —Megan
Get it from Amazon for $34.66.
"Most commonly, I just jack off and I lube up a finger or two and stick them up in my butt. Let me tell you: It feels awesome to have both your prostate and your penis stimulated at the same time." —19/Male/Bisexual
Here are three slim, beginner-friendly plugs to help you get started:
The Nudge plug ($25 on Unbound; pictured left) made from supple silicone with a tapered tip for effortless insertion that'll hit all the right spots without being overwhelming.
The Cone plug by Maude ($30 on Maude; pictured right) boasts a slim, tapered design and flared base to make sure it stays put.
A Novice Plug by B-Vibe ($134.99 on B-Vibe) designed for beginners with a slim, tapered design and 15 vibration patterns with six intensities for you to explore.
These three sex toys stray away from phallic shapes and realistic designs, so are perfect for anyone who wants a genderless sex toy:
The Maude Vibe ($49 on Maude; pictured left) boasts three speeds and a tapered tip for targeted stimulation. This vibe includes a convenient canvas carrying bag for when you eventually decide to take it on the go.
The Jix ($84 on Cute Little Fuckers; pictured right) is pretty damn adorable and unintimidating, without sacrificing function. It's compatible with a five-speed vibrating bullet (included) and has a waterproof design (pictured right).
The Bender flexible vibrator ($71 on Unbound and in two colors) isn't too phallic and keeps things simple with pastel hues and 10 vibrating functions.
The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.