Vibrators have a fascinating and often overlooked history that spans centuries and encompasses a wide range of uses and innovations. These handy devices, originally created for medical purposes, have come a long way and now serve various functions, from sexual pleasure to therapeutic applications. In this collection of fun facts about vibrators, we will explore the intriguing evolution of these devices, their surprising historical origins, and their role in both entertainment and wellness. Whether you're interested in the science behind their operation or the cultural impact they've had, these facts will surely pique your curiosity and shed light on the intriguing world of vibrators.
1) The Original Modern Vibrator Was a Back Massager
Massagers-turned-vibrators is a historical theme. In 1968, the Hitachi Magic Wand hit store shelves and started a sex-positive vibrator revolution. However, Hitachi marketed the device as a "personal massager," not a vibrator. Still, feminist sex toy stores started selling it as a sex toy as early as 1974.5 New York-based artist and sex educator Betty Dodson also upped its popularity after using the device in workshops where she taught people with vaginas how to masturbate.
Vibratex invented the famous "Rabbit" vibrator in 1984, but the Japan-based company didn't opt for the rabbit shape just because it could simultaneously stimulate the clitoris. Japan's anti-obscenity law made it illegal to create penis-shaped objects. So, making the sex toy look like an innocent animal helped them get around the rule. It was first sold stateside in 1993 at Babeland in Seattle.
3) Vibrators Aren't Just Penis Shapes That Vibrate
Today's vibrators come in all shapes and sizes that can vibrate, pulse, and suck. External vibrators range from small bullets to large personal massager wands, which can simulate areas like the clitoris, vulva, perineum, penis, or testicles. Some external vibrators designed for the clitoris also have a suction or licking action that helps mimic oral sex. Penis vibrators may also resemble vibrating rings or a sleeve.
4) What Your Vibrator Is Made of Matters
Opt for silicone over other materials when choosing a vibrator. "It's easy to clean and not a permeable material," advised Queen. Permeable or porous materials (like jelly vibrators) can collect dirt and bacteria, which can then be transferred to the vagina and create an imbalance or even an infection.
No matter the material of your vibrator, make sure you clean it after each use. Cleaning your vibrator can help prevent potential infections or passing STIs if you share toys with a partner.