Wands: The What? The Why? The Where and How?

Massage wand vibrators are packed with some of the most powerful motors on the market for out-of-this-world, all-over-body pleasure.

For many people, they are a staple in the old sex toy box, but for others they are still a mystical mystery.

These days wands come in all shapes, sizes, colours and with an array of features which can be a bit overwhelming if it's your first wand purchase.

So we want to help you by going back to basics in this guide on one of our most popular sex toy, covering all the information we can and answering the most asked magic wand questions.

Ever gazed at your favourite vibrator and wondered what generous genius dreamt up its shape and amazing orgasm-giving powers? Where would we be without our favourite setting, the speed we know will skyrocket us to orgasm, and this hallowed toy we keep on standby by our bedside?

The modern model of wands we know today were born in the late ‘60s, designed by a Japanese electrical company called Hitachi with the goal of relieving stress and muscle tension. The lengthy, grippable handle, smooth cylindrical head, flexible neck and strong vibrations, the extra pleasures of the wand were abundantly clear despite the brand’s denial of its alternative uses.

Samantha’s Neck Massager

In 1999, Hitachi issued a statement asserting that the Wand’s only use was for health care – which we would argue includes wanking but whatever, Hitachi – however the sexy seed had already been sown.

In 2002, Wands soared in popularity after Sex and the City’s Samantha sashayed into an electrical store with a broken massager, closely resembling the magic wand. Despite the shop assistant’s insistence that they don’t sell vibrators, Samantha ends up schooling the rest of the shoppers about the various “massagers” on sale:

"That one will burn your clit off. Even with ski pants."

Where did we go from there? Onwards and upwards (in power and pride). There’s now HEAPS of wands to choose from and no, you don’t have to slyly sneak them into your order at the electrical store checkout anymore. Browse here in the comfort of your own home or phone.

Wands are wonderfully versatile and can be used for all sorts of play, from romantic massage right through to kinky fetish fun (and everything in between).

They're a great non-intimidating introduction to bedroom accessories, particularly for couples who'd rather steer clear of anatomical toys and offer loads of play options without looking like a body part.

Plus, with just a couple of attachments in your midst, a wand can bring the pleasure of several toys, in one neat package.

This allows you to explore a whole world of pleasure, without dedicating your whole wardrobe to sexy products. Not that there's anything wrong with that!

There are a million and one ways to use a wand... Give or take.

Here are a few of our favourite ways you can use a wand to spice things up with your partner or on your own.

Have a think about what the most important features are for you when purchasing a vibe. Is it cost? Power? Aesthetics? Whatever it is, we’ll have an option for you at Lovehoney.

1. Are they loud?

Due to the powerful motors needed to provide those intense, rumbly buzzing vibrations, wands will never be silent. You might be able to find quieter toys on the market but we’re almost certain your moans won’t be as loud.

If you’re worried about the noise, you could always try to muffle the sound under your bed blankets or with a cloth. You could also opt for a silicone wand as the softer material will help to conceal the vibrations.

2. Do you use them internally or externally?

Thanks to ingenious attachments like the Lovehoney Deluxe G-spot attachment, you can experience the deep, rumbly vibrations internally too.

3. What’s best? A battery or mains-powered or USB rechargeable wand?

Nowadays there’s a satisfyingly sizeable selection of ways to power your wand. There’s the classic mains-powered method you’ll find with wands like the Deluxe; rechargeable via USB with wands like the Mantric; and battery-powered wands, which tend to be smaller, like the Lovehoney 3-Speed Micro Magic Wand Vibrator. Each type of power has its plus sides. The mains-powered wands, for example, tend to be more powerful and obviously won’t run out of charge. The USB powered wands are great for use in any room in the house, anywhere in the world, as are the battery operated wands – these however, may not pack the same punch in terms of power.

5. Is a plug-in vibrator safe?

Mains-powered wands are absolutely safe to use so long as they are kept away from water and follow the same safety regulations as any other electrical item.

6. Will its size scare off my partner?

Wands, by nature, are generally bigger vibrators, which can be overwhelming for partners unaccustomed to sex toys. The great thing about wands is that they can be used for all-over-body, deep tissue massage, so if your partner is slightly concerned about the size, offer them a sensual massage and they’ll soon come around to the benefits of wands. Then who knows where play will lead?

7. Will it be too big for my genitals?

Wands generally have large, rounded heads that are capable of transmitting the super powerful vibrations through their entire surface area. Many will have flexible necks enabling you to angle the heads exactly where you want them, and provide all-engulfing pleasure for your sweet spots. If you’re looking for power but more localised stimulation, the Lovehoney X Love Not War Koi Sustainable Rechargeable Wand Vibrator or the Happy Rabbit Wand are great options as their heads have a smaller circumference.

8. Is the material important?

For some, material can make or break a person’s enjoyment of a sex toy. Our selection of wands are made from a variety of different materials so you have plenty of choice depending on your preference. Wand heads made of silicone will offer a silky soft, luxurious finish, while those made from plastic with be seriously smooth and glide against the skin effortlessly. The material used for the wand’s body will also make a difference to your experience. Some, like the desire wand, have a smooth silicone body, whereas others are made from plastics or aluminium titanium alloy, like the Doxy Die Cast, which are much heavier.

As with all sex toys, the material that your wand is made from will determine which lubricants you can use with it. Check out our Lubricant Buyer’s Guide for more information about lube and material compatibility.

11. Will they make my hand go numb?

At most it may tingle for a while but any fears of it going numb and falling off are unsubstantiated.

Most magic wands have their motor in the head (rather than the handle) which helps keep the power right where you need it (and away from the areas you don’t!)

12. Can I use one while having sex?

Yah-ha! You can use it in loads of different ways – check out our upcoming wand guide for making the most out of your magical new chum.

13. Can something so powerful be used for foreplay?

nods

The wand is one of the most versatile toys around. See above guide for loads of handy tips for using your wand.

14. Are the cables long enough to use them comfortably?

The idea of a plug-in cable can put a lot of people off if they don’t have a plug socket near the bed. Luckily the lovehoney wands come with a cable length of 1.8m and 2.4m so you’ll have freedom to roam if you wish.

15. So it's great for a clitoris, but what about a penis?

Everyone is different. Many people with a penis love the sensations of vibrations held against the frenulum or shaft, whilst others prefer to aim the head of their wand at their perineum for deep P-spot pleasure. For those who like penile stimulation, take a look at our penis-specific attachments, like this Hummer which is a textured stroker for even more explosive sensations.

16. Will I become desensitised?

Any repeated or prolonged stimulation could result in some loss of sensation regardless of the type of stimulation, however this is not permanent and your body will soon return to normal.