Dildos are probably the most common sex toy in existence. For several thousand years people used shaped pieces of stone or wood as well as vegetables that had appropriate shape. Today’s dildo’s are usually made of synthetic materials and come in a variety of shapes. For vibrators, see here. Butt plugs are discussed here. More about strap-on dildos can be found here
Silicone is a very versatile material. It can be changed in color and density. This allows manufacturers to produce toys with different look and feel. Silicone is very easy to care for. Hand wash with water in soap or simply put them in the dish washer. Never use silicone toys with silicone lubricants as they will deteriorate the surface of the toy. Silicone is safe for people with latex allergies
Pyrex or similar materials are used to produce beautiful (and expensive) toys. Their surface is usually covered with ridges or other heavy textures to create additional stimulation. Since glass toys do not bend using them for rough penetration is often considered a bad idea. Like all glass toys, clean with warm water and soap.
Vinyl is one of the newcomer materials in dildo making. It is smooth and inviting to touch while still offering enough firmness for penetration. Vinyl can be used with any lubrication and is safe for people with latex allergies. Because of its consistency, vinyl is a good choice for over sized toys used in anal or vaginal dilation.
Latex is the most common material for cheap dildos. It is flexible and smooth but some people have allergies against the material. Do not use with oil-based lubricants. Clean with warm water and soap.
Rubber is another fetish material that is sometimes used for dildos. It is flexible and many people recommend it for deep penetration. Like all rubber, clean with warm water and soap, store in dark, cool places.
Dildos shaped like the human penis are the most common variants.
Double ended dildos, also known as double-headers, double-dong and many other names, are usually longer than normal dildos and both ends are shaped round for penetration. This can be used for penetration of two partners at once or the toy can be bent for both vagina and anal penetration at the same time. Special variants like the red one pictured on the right are made especially for double penetration.
Most over sized dildos are shaped like the human penis although others, i.e. horse penis shaped variants exist. Some toys are so large they are not meant for actual penetration.