When you think of homemade goods and gadgets, you typically think of warm cookies or knitted blankets – not sex toys. But DIY sex toys can be an easy and inexpensive way to add new sensations into sexy time, as long as you choose wisely.
“Homemade sex toys featuring everyday objects are accessible,” says Sara Nasserzadeh. Getting down with a DIY dildo, like a cucumber, or a makeshift vibrator, such as an electric toothbrush, are a low-cost, convenient way to experiment with what you like in terms of size, shape, texture and more.
Plus, they can be a fun way to shake things up if you’ve already tried everything in your bedside drawer. Homemade sex toys “can bring lightness and laughter” to solo or partner play, Nasserzadeh says. It’s safe to say you’ll never look at a kitchen utensil the same way again.
Beyond pure pleasure, masturbation, like sex, also boasts tons of health benefits, from sounder sleep to orgasm-induced stress relief. So, finding new tools to make your toes curl can only improve your sexual health and overall well-being.
All that said, it can be difficult to know where to begin when you want to branch out from traditional sex toys. Because these household items aren’t necessarily designed for, ahem, intimate use, it’s important to not just grab any old household object. Luckily, your search for the perfect pleasure product (that you probably already own!) ends here. These 26 homemade sex toys are all expert-approved, so you know they’re both fun and safe to use.
How to Use Homemade Sex Toys Safely
Before you start getting it on with a seemingly ordinary household item, you probably want a little reassurance that doing so isn’t going to land you in the ER.
“Generally speaking, it is safe to use household items that are made from body-grade or medical-grade silicone, ABS plastic, stainless steel, or glass,” says Gigi Engle. (FYI: These are the materials that the best, highest-quality sex toys are made from, anyway.) Assuming there aren’t any nooks and crannies, items made from these nonporous materials can be completely and easily sanitised ahead of (sexual) use, decreasing the chance of introducing bacteria into your special bits.
Still, if you are using something internally, it’s best to put a condom on it, Engle says. This helps reduce the risk that the vaginal microbiome gets disrupted, which can lead to internal inflammation or yeast infections, and make you more susceptible to sexually transmitted infections.
On the other hand, when it comes to anal play, you cannot just go and put a random household item up the bum. “If you’re putting anything in the anus, it’s really important that you’re only using anal-approved toys with flared bases,” says Engle. The vagina has an anatomical stopping point, called the cervix, that keeps toys from getting stuck – the anal canal does not. If you use a toy without a flared base, the second ring of your anus can open and the product can travel up the digestive tract, she says, which will result in you needing to go to the hospital ASAP.
To avoid that uncomfortable and awkward sitch, let the sex experts’ recs guide your DIY desires…
26 Household Items That Double as Sex Toys
1. Cucumber
For obvious reasons (see: the shape), the cucumber has long been a punch line in jokes about dildos. But far more than quip fodder, the cucumber actually can be used as a dildo, says Engle.
“Just be sure to slide a condom on it ahead of time,” she adds. “Without the condom, there is the risk that you disrupt the vaginal pH and wind up with a yeast infection.” Also, because the cucumber does not have a flared base or any other mechanism that will keep it firmly rooted outside of the body, you should definitely avoid using it anally.
2. Another Vegetable
Fresh out of cucumbers? Put your refrigerator’s crisper drawer to work! Try a carrot, eggplant, or other phallic-shaped vegetable instead, says Tyomi Morgan. Ultimately, your size and girth preferences are going to be what determines the best vegetable for you.
Once again, a condom is your best friend here, as forgoing one could result in disruption of the vaginal microbiome. Pass.
3. Removable Shower Head
Want to get down and dirty while getting clean? Easy – just use your removable showerhead as a vibrator by pressing it up against, or spraying water toward, your clitoris, says Rachel Needle. “Many [showerheads] can be used at varying pressures and spray settings, so you can experiment with what feels best.”
And if you want a showerhead specifically designed to double as a vibrator, try the Womanizer Wave. It features a water massage clitoral stimulator with three pleasure settings.
Worth mentioning: Regular, non-removable showerheads can be used to enhance shower sex, too, according to Jessica O’Reilly. They can be used to massage your partner’s back while you soap (or otherwise tease) them elsewhere. Plus, they make for easy cleanup for golden showers and other water sports, she says.
4. Electric Toothbrush
Expand your definition of “vibrator” to include a household item. Whether it’s an electric toothbrush or the bladeless end of an electric razor, put a condom over it and you or a partner can press it against your clitoris, testicles, or butthole, says Eric M. Garrison. (If you go the toothbrush route, just make sure to wash it thoroughly before it goes near anyone’s mouth.)
5. Wooden Spoon
A wooden spoon is a perfect DIY toy for impact play because you can go soft or hard, depending on your partner’s preference, says Debra Laino. The back of the spoon will deliver a spanking sensation slightly more intense than a palm, adds Engle.
Just don’t let your excitement get the best of you and start smacking without chit-chatting about boundaries ahead of time. And even if your partner has previously expressed that they like a lot of impact, start slow. “Work your way up to more intense strokes. Always ask your partner if something feels good or is too rough,” Engle says. “It can take some time to get your bearings.” Basically, you want to give your partner plenty of time to adjust to the new sensation.
Oh, and avoid using this vaginally or anally, she adds. “You wouldn’t want to wind up with a splinter internally.” Facts!
6. Silicone Spatula
If you don’t have a wooden spoon, or the receiver prefers a sharper spank, use a silicone spatula for a different sensation, says Morgan.
7. Paper Clips
Enjoy the sensation of having your nipples bitten or pinched? You’ll likely like nipple clamps, so why not start with something that’s already in your desk drawer? Behold, the secretly sexy power of paper clips!
These will provide a much more subtle sensation compared to other kinds of nipple clamps, says Garrison. Simply clip them onto your nipples (or a partner’s) and see if the sensation is something you’re into.
READ MORE: Nipple Play Just Got So Much Better, With These 10 Sex Positions
8. Clips
Another DIY clamp option? A chip clip can double as a nipple or skin clamp, says O’Reilly. (Ditto for hair clips.)
But be warned: This sensation can be intense, so make sure the person controlling the clamp releases the two sides gently, and that the person being clamped can use their mouth or hands to communicate if it is too tight.
If you don’t have clip enclosures, another option is to tie chopsticks together with rubber bands. Just make sure to stay away from traditional bamboo chopsticks to avoid uncomfortable and painful splinters.
9. Clothespin
Behold, another nipple clamp substitute! Clothespins can also work in a pinch, says Rachel Wright. They can be used almost anywhere on the body, so get creative, she adds.
10. Pantyhose
Unless they’re crotchless, you have to take off your nylons to have sex, so why not involve them in the fun instead of tossing them on the floor?
If you have consent from your partner, use these to tie their wrists and/or ankles for some light bondage, says Needle. Then, you can give them a lap dance, graze parts of your body on their lips, or tease them however you like, she adds.
11. Cotton T-shirt
“All other senses are heightened when sight is deprived,” says Needle. So, taking away someone’s vision can help make every touch, kiss and lick feel a little more intense.
Good news: You don’t need a sexy silk blindfold. “Just grab a cotton t-shirt from your drawer, slip it over your partner’s head (or yours) like you’re going to put it on for real, and then pull the shirt up so that it’s covering your eyes,” says Engle.
This t-shirt trick is especially good for blindfolding beginners because it’s really easy to remove. “If anyone is feeling nervous or uncomfortable, you can slip off that bad boy with little effort,” Engle says.
12. Silk Shirt
Maybe your go-to tee is still in the wash when sexy time rolls around. If cotton isn’t an option, a silk shirt will also work, says Terri Vanderlinde. You can use it as a blindfold, wrap it around your partner’s neck to pull them closer to you, or even tie them up with it, she adds.
13. Silk Necktie
Another at-home option for beginner-friendly bondage play: A silk tie. Not only do you or your partner likely already own one, but it’s also a safer option than rope, according to Engle.
“Rope is never a great plan for first-time bondage,” she says. “Tying someone up is dangerous and, when done incorrectly, can lead to cutting off the circulation in wrists or ankles.” Of course, you can also make a silk tie too tight, so it’s best to have fabric cutters nearby, just in case.
14. Scarf
If ties don’t make an appearance in either your or your partner’s daily wardrobe, no big! You can also use a scarf as a blindfold or bondage tool, says Needle. Bonus points if the scarf is silky to the touch, she says, as that material tends to feel sexier than wool.
15. Earplugs
Bored of blindfolds? Try earplugs instead, says Wright. Or, use the two together for extra sensory deprivation. This way, the brain only has a few ways to process what’s happening. “That can be a very exhilarating experience,” she says.
READ MORE: Exactly How To Engage All Of Your 5 Senses For Hotter Sex
16. Pearl Necklace
If you want to take your hand job game to a new level, this tool – er, jewel – is for you. “Slowly wrap it around your partner’s penis and jerk them off,” says Laino. “The texture of the pearls gives the penis a very different and unique sensation.” Added pleasure bonus: Kiss and suck on the tip while you’re at it.
Don’t already own a pearl necklace? There’s no need to splash out on the real deal, especially if you’re only planning to use it during sex. A faux necklace will do the trick for a fraction of the price.
17. Ice Cubes
The beauty of sex toys is that they can help you experience new sensations, like sexy shivers down your spine. Grab an ice cube or two to try temperature play, which is a type of play where you use temperature to heighten sensitivity to touch and sensation, says Engle. Feeling something cold (or hot – more on this below) on or in certain areas sends a shock through the system, she explains. “That shock and surprise increases blood flow and heart rate…only furthering our sexual intensity and desire.”
Your move: Take an ice cube and run it along your partner’s skin. “You can put it on any part of the body, any of your erogenous zones,” says Morgan. She suggests using an ice cube to make trails down your partner’s body, and then using your breath to emphasise that cool feeling.
18. Ice Cube Tray
Sure, the crescent-shaped cubes that most freezers create will feel good. But just as different dildo shapes can introduce wildly different sensations, so can different ice cube shapes! That’s why Morgan recommends grabbing whatever ice cube trays you have, filling them with water, then using the “cubes” once frozen.
READ MORE: The 38 Best Foreplay Ideas You Need To Try Tonight, According To Sex Experts
19. Utensils
Your stainless steel utensils aren’t just for eating. Pop some (non-sharp) stainless steel silverware in the fridge or freezer. Then, when it’s playtime, bring them out for a little temperature play, says Engle.
Dragging a cold fork along your partner’s back can be an incredible sensation, she adds. Meanwhile, circling their nipples with a frozen spoon and a dab of lubricant can also feel amazing.
20. Warm Washcloth
No doubt, cold toys can be fun to play with – but so can hot and warm ones! Heat can also ignite your senses, says Engle. In particular, the juxtaposition of the warmth against the cool air of the bedroom can be thrilling, she adds.
One option is to run a washcloth under warm water, wring it out, then drag it all along your partner’s body, letting the cloth leave a trail of hot-hot-hot pleasure in its wake. “Just be sure to test it out on your arm before making contact with the rest of your body to ensure it’s not too hot,” says Engle.
21. Massage Candle
If either you or your partner loves some physical touch, odds are you have a massage candle on your side table for the nights the doctor has called for a long muscle, foot, or traps rubdown.
ICYDK: A massage candle is a candle that is designed to be lit so that the wax melts into a massage oil. “They’re great because they are designed to only heat up to a safe degree,” says Engle. When you pour the oil onto your skin, it won’t cause burns the way traditional candle wax can.
If you already have one of these candles on tap, it can be a great addition to sexual play, Engle says. A sensual massage, after all, can lead to all sorts of other types of touch…
READ MORE: What Is Wax Play? The Not-Too-Kinky Act Will Heat Up Any Sex Life
22. Hairbrush
“Combs and brushes can also be used for sensation play,” says O’Reilly. Just drag them in long strokes along your or a partner’s skin, adding pressure and checking in with each other about what feels good, she adds.
23. PVC Pipe
If you or your partner(s) are a CrossFitter or fixer-upper, then you probably have a PVC pipe lying around the house. Well, if you have one that will fit the circumference of you or your partner’s penis, you can use it as a makeshift masturbation sleeve, says Laino.
To give it a try, give the PVC pipe a good cleaning. Then, fill the pipe with lubricant and make sure the penetrating phallus is also lubed up. Finally, let the penetration commence, she says. Gives an all-new meaning to the word hardware, eh?
24. Cardboard Tube
Think twice before throwing that empty paper towel roll in your recycling bin! It’s actually a ready-made stroker, says Morgan.
Just stretch an inside-out textured condom over one end and push the rest inside so that the slippery, soft latex is lining the inside of the tube, she says. Add a rubber band or two to secure the condom in place and some extra lubrication (because there’s no such thing as too much lube) and you’ve got yourself a homemade stroker.
Whether you’re using this one by yourself or with a partner, it’s sure to be a hit. Best part: The clean-up is easy-peasy. “You can literally just roll it up and throw it in the trash when you’re done,” Morgan says.
25. Socks
Tube socks are widely known to be masturbation tools for teens looking for easy ejaculate clean-up. Well, the trick doesn’t have to be just a teenage dream, says Laino.
A sock filled with lotion or lube can create a very pleasurable sensation for people with penises, she says. Laino even suggests having your partner touch themselves in this throwback way, while you watch and stimulate yourself with your own toy of choice. “Both partners using their own sex toys to mutually masturbate can add some diversity and spice to a couple’s sex life,” she says.
26. Dice
What about a homemade sex game? Create your own one-of-a-kind experience by rounding up your 12 favourite physical actions, sex positions, or deep questions in a list. Then, assign each of those things a number one through 12. Finally, roll a set of dice to decide where the night goes next, says Wright.
READ MORE: 21 Naughty But Nice Gifts For Your S.O.
Meet the Experts
- Sara Nasserzadeh, PhD, is a social psychologist who specialises in relationships and author of Love by Design.
- Gigi Engle is a COSRT-certified sex and relationships psychotherapist and author of Kink Curious.
- Tyomi Morgan, ACS, is a certified sexologist.
- Rachel Needle, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist and certified sex therapist and the co-director of Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.
- Jessica O’Reilly, PhD, is a sexologist, author of The New Sex Bible and host of the Sex With Dr. Jess podcast.
- Debra Laino, DHS, is a board-certified clinical sexologist and AASECT-certified sex educator.
- Terri Vanderlinde, MD, is an OB-GYN and AASECT-certified sex counsellor.
- Eric M. Garrison is an AASECT-certified clinical sex counsellor and author of Mastering Multiple Position Sex.
- Rachel Wright, LMFT, is a licensed psychotherapist specialising in sex and relationships.
This article by Gabrielle Kassel was originally published on Women’s Health US.
