The "Ins and Outs" of DIY Sex Toys

We've all read the statistics out there that say people --and mostly men-- think about sex approximately three million times a day. The truth is, everybody gets to feeling a little randy now and then... and they don't always have access to a partner (heck, that's part of the reason why you visit free internet dating sites in the first place, right?). If you've never made or used one yourself, you might be surprised at the number of people who use DIY or homemade sex toys. In fact, there are whole websites devoted to them, with step by step instructions, and sometimes even blueprints.

All sorts of things can be created as homemade sex toys, such as leather harnesses and "dildo bicycles" (the pumping action of your cycling actually, um, pumps). But not all homemade sex toys are safe. Want to experiment a little in the privacy and comfort of your own home-- or with your partner? Read on for some DIY sex toy ideas... and how to use some of these ideas safely.

A warm melon (for the guys).

This one is amazingly simple, but I imagine it's pretty effective (though I don't have a penis and wouldn't be able to tell you from personal experience!) Pick up a melon from the grocery store, and cut a hole in it with a slightly smaller circumference than your penis. Scoop out a bit of the pulp. Then microwave until it's warm (but not hot-- stick your finger in there before you insert anything more sensitive in order to make sure), lube up, and go at it.

Warm, wet sponges (for the guys).

This is another one that's really easy to do. Pick up a couple of sponges at the store (check them for texture-- you'll want to make sure they aren't scratchy). Moisten them with hot water, then wring them partway out. Put lube between them almost as if you were making a sponge sandwich, then insert them into a plastic cup (no glass!). The rest you can figure out for yourself!

Sexy soap (for the guys).

This is the DIY sex toy you can take with you anywhere-- on vacation or wherever you like. Then you can use it in the privacy of the shower. Pick up a firm bar of soap (grab a moisturizing one if you can!) and drill or carve a hole in the middle with a circumference slightly smaller than your penis. Then all you have to do is get the soap wet for natural lubrication.

Banana Condom (for the ladies).

You don't even want to stick a sugary banana (or other fruit) into your sensitive areas unprotected. Buy a large, not-too-ripe banana. Peel it, stick it in a condom, and tie a knot at the end. You know how to do the rest.

A water gun (for both sexes).

This is a really fun sex toy to use with a partner! Especially when you're all hot and sweaty in the summer time, this feels great in more ways than one. Fill up a water gun with very cold (or warm, if you like) water, and squirt it onto sensitive areas at point blank. Get kinky and make this a fun "punishment."

Pop rocks (for both sexes).

This is another sex aid that's a ton of fun for couples. Buy some of those classic fizzing candies (the name will change depending on where you are-- in the U.S. they're called Pop Rocks) and use them the help along any stimulation. The tingling, popping, and fizzing can be a lot of fun.

Safety Warnings for Women

In a survey done by a U.S. newspaper, it was recently reported that 10% of people have had sex with (or often have sex with) a vegetable. But just because you can put it in your mouth doesn't mean you should put it in other, more sensitive areas without protection. The fruits and veggies that you buy in the store are generally covered in pesticides-- and you don't want those nasty chemicals ending up inside of you. Plus, sugary items like fruits and popsicles can cause yeast imbalances inside you. Keep your body safe while you're having fun-- place a condom over anything you use in your body.

Safety Warnings for Men

For lonely or curious men, fruit can be a very friendly sexual partner. But be sure to avoid any fruits that are particularly acidic, as they can irritate the skin. And while a bit of friction is nice, also be sure not to use items that are rough and can scrape at the skin-- with lube you might not notice, but you'll feel it later on. We've also all heard horror stories about men and vacuums, so be careful about anything electronic or with suction... it's all at your own risk.

Otherwise, have fun! And get your partner to join in, too, if you dare.