What are the benefits of playing with a clitoral suction stimulator?

“Suction and ‘air pulse’ toys tap into a whole new form of buzz… by avoiding tapping and buzzing entirely,” explains Fox. “Traditional vibrators reverberate directly against the body, which feels fabulous for a lot of folks, but can leave others feeling sore, bruised, overwhelmed by intensity or numb, especially after prolonged use.

“In contrast, suction toys indirectly stimulate the clitoris by surrounding it with a rhythmic, pulsing vacuum or ‘waves of air’ to create a throbbing, sucking effect. The clitoral glans (the outside ‘button’ part) are enveloped and enclosed in a tiny blissful environment — kinda like one of those posh dining domes!”

She continues: “Some say the feeling mimics oral sex. Others reckon suction gadgets haven’t quite got that unique mouth-to-muff feeling licked, but offer a delicious experience all of their own. Certainly, when this type of tech was first introduced to the adult product market in 2014, it represented one of the most genuinely innovative, fresh technology breakthroughs the industry had seen in ages.

“As well as being able to summon up OMG orgasms during use, suction toys encourage blood flow to the clitoris, heightening arousal and making it hyper-sensitive to touch even when you take the toy away; see how even the most delicate brushing and circling with a fingertip can spark fireworks post-suction session.”

But her message for those partners who may feel threatened by these automated accessories?

“They’re your teammates, not your rivals. Toys can increase your skills as a lover by extending the repertoire of ways you can bring your partner pleasure, and increase their chances of orgasm: 19% of women surveyed in 2023 research by Durex said that using a toy was their most likely route to climax. Toys don’t replace the intimacy and thrill of another human being, but they can vastly enhance your shared experience – they’re complementary co-pilots, not competitors.”

What is the best clit sucker?

Having been a sexual wellness writer for the last three years, I can confirm that’s the question I get asked the most. With the ongoing success of The Rose, the LELO SONA 2 and the Womanizer Premium 2, it seems we’ve gone monogamous — for devices that stimulate our downstairs with a combination of contactless vibrations and massage. If you’re lucky, the two will work together to rather closely simulate your partner’s best oral work.

However, while I could tell you which devices expertly offer that service — the LELO SILA and the Satisfyer Pro 2 are part of my regular rotation — that doesn’t necessarily put them in the running for the title of ‘the best.’ That’s because ‘the best’ is different for everyone.

While some will favour intense power and endless vibration options, others might prefer to keep it simple. While your best friend may prioritise a sex toy with a battery life that’ll last a week, you might be quite happy with plugging your plaything in every night — especially when they come with a charger that doubles as a mood light, such as the Namii.

Ultimately, you’ve got to decide what’s important to you, whether that’s power, battery life, the option to customise your play, unique colourways or price point.

Top tips for clit sucker success:

Don’t overlook the need for lube

“Grab a tube of lube, and slick a little over and around your clitoris, and onto the rim of the toys’ suction cup,” suggests Fox. “This helps it form a better vacuum seal and also enhances comfort.

“Silicone lubes can potentially damage silicone toys, so stick to water-based formulas; I’m (ahem) a sucker for SITRE Soft Wave, a Danish gel with 20% soothing aloe vera.”

Start low and slow

“Build up gradually. Experiment with positioning and angling the toy differently; some people find that one side of their clit is more responsive than the other. Switch up your body positions, as well: see how it feels to stand up, crouch on all fours, or lay face down.

Get it wet

“Lots of suction stimulators are waterproof and can be submerged in the bath. Take your toy to the tub and treat your clit to its own personal jack-off jacuzzi!”

Pair your device with (ethical) porn

If feminist, ethically produced porn tickles your pickle, Erika Lust has a collection of eight stunning and fun toy-focused films called Toy With Me, which feature women and couples savouring suction as part of the action. Press play and, uh, play along…

If you’re more into listening rather than watching, the audio erotica app Bloom allows you to search specifically for steamy stories featuring toys. They also have practical audio guides on how to use certain models, alongside raunchy recordings of imaginary lovers instructing you use your gadget for them. Eargasm, anyone?

Remember to wash up

“Suction toys have nooks and crannies that require you to pay extra attention to washing and drying them after use,” urges Fox. “If you don’t take care to thoroughly spruce and de-juice them, bacteria or mould can develop, and cause problems like bacterial vaginosis or thrush. Some versions have removable suction cups that can make sanitising easier.”

This story originally appeared on GLAMOUR US.