Adult Toy

The earliest adult toys were ivory dildos fashioned to provide sexual pleasure to humans who lived more than 35 thousand years ago. The basic dildo format was enhanced with vibrations during the Victorian era with hand-cranked models. Unlike the adult toys of the past, modern adult toys are made from a range of high-tech hypoallergenic materials and are very safe to use.

To minimize health risks, adult toys should be cleaned thoroughly after use particularly if they are shared between partners. This measure helps reduce the risk of spreading sexually transmitted infections and ensures the toys do not decompose. Adult toys should also be used in conjunction with a lubricant, especially if they are to be used for anal play, to maximize pleasure and reduce the risks of tearing.

Adult toys can improve intimacy between partners, strengthen pelvic floor muscles, and even treat incontinence. Some adult toys, such as prostate stimulators, can also improve prostate health.

While the term "adult toy" has been traditionally used to only describe items that touch the genitals, some people may use the term to include kink items, sex machines, bondage restraints, or sensation play items.