Masturbation, wanking, rubbing one out, jerking off—whatever you want to call it, it’s a perfectly normal and healthy part of sex. In fact, some studies suggest that regular masturbation can lead to stronger and longer orgasms. Masturbating with sex toys is a great way to explore your own body and erogenous zones. It’s also a fun and intimate way to experience pleasure with a partner or solo. Whether you’re looking for a small and discreet masturbator or something more intense, there’s a men’s sex toy for every taste.

There’s still a taboo—a stigma, if you will—around men owning sex toys but, as long as it is done safely and in private, there is no reason to be ashamed of enjoying yourself. In fact, having a male masturbator can actually help you learn what you like in the bedroom and give you a confidence boost.

While there are plenty of male masturbators on the market, some are more effective than others. You should choose the one that best suits your needs and is comfortable for you to use. For example, if you are not very mobile it’s best to go with an automatic stroker that has inbuilt motors to pump the stimulating sleeve up and down your shaft hands-free. The Lelo F1S V2 is a great option as it has four unique programme variations, app-based customisation and cruise control.

If you are more mobile or have good dexterity, a manual masturbator might be better for you. These are more simple in design but can be incredibly satisfying. Some come with a removable vibrating sleeve that can be slid into place to add a new dimension of stimulation. Other models are shaped to stimulate the entire shaft, perineum (a.k.a tush) and even the clitoris. The Tenuto is a good choice for this and it’s designed to be used with or without a sleeve for maximum flexibility.

Choosing the right masturbator for you will be down to personal preference but there are some things to look out for:

1. Make sure your male masturbator is lubricated.

Using a masturbator with plenty of lube will make it more comfortable to use. It’s also important to change the position you are using it in as this can enhance the sensation. Experimenting with different sex toys and positions can also prolong your masturbation session and even relieve premature ejaculation.

2. Consider the shape of your masturbator.

There are different shapes of male masturbators to choose from but it’s worth considering your own unique anatomy before making a decision. Some are curved to fit around your glans or penis and can feel very close and intimate, others have a more narrow shape for easier entry and exit.

3. Lastly, think about the material your masturbator is made from.

While most sex toys, especially those made from TPE, are intended for single use and should be discarded after each use, there are some that can be reused provided they are cleaned well and stored correctly. For example, the TENGA Flip-Hole can be warmed in hot water or cooled in the fridge to offer a whole range of new sensations.