You're almost ready to experience all the benefits of masturbation using a pocket pussy. To ensure you always have a good time with your toy, keep these things in mind:

• Even if it the sex toy is new, you should clean it properly before you play. This helps remove any lint or unsexy plastic odors it may arrive with.

• You don't need to be alone to use a pocket pussy (it's fun for partner play too), but make sure you're in a comfortable environment and consider locking the door if necessary.

• Invest in a quality water-based lube because pocket pussies don't have the glands or structures that make real vaginas feel wet. Water-based is the way to go, as it's compatible with most sex toy materials.

• If you're into porn, choose what to watch before you start. This'll help avoid the mindless scroll or accidentally doing the deed before you even find a video you like!

• You might also appreciate keeping a few clean-up tools close at hand, so you can just chill post-climax rather than dashing for tissues. When you're done, be sure to clean your toy so that it's ready to go the next time you are.

If you know how to masturbate as a man, you're already halfway to mastering a pocket pussy – it's that easy.

Grab your masturbator and gently slide your erect penis into the opening. There's no need to rush. Like sex with a vagina, it'll probably feel better if you go slow at first and build up the pace.

Finding a rhythm that feels natural is key but having a few tricks up your sleeve can take an already fun time to the next level. Check out the advice from sexologist Alexa Andre below.

Don't be stingy with the lube

Alexa says to "use 5x the amount of lube you'd normally use, and you'll immediately notice the difference in sensation." If you like the real deal to feel wet, then treat your toy no differently. Lube gives you a smooth entry, reducing friction while making sure you can feel every intriguing ridge and bump inside your toy.

Edge yourself a romantic evening

Alexa suggests edging to make the "activity more exciting" and "practice control" over when you come. Edging is a technique where you get yourself right to the edge of orgasm, then slow down or stop before you actually come.

You can explore the technique with a partner as a way to build anticipation and make orgasms feel stronger. But lots of people also use edging – using stroker toys like a pocket pussy – to build stamina so they last longer during partnered sex. In fact, research has shown that use of male masturbators can be a helpful way of dealing with premature ejaculation.

And if you struggle to maintain an erection, you might find a cock ring helps you stay hard for your pocket pussy. Cock rings slightly restrict blood flowing away from the penis, which some people find keeps them erect. Just be sure not to wear your cock ring for too long (no more than 30 minutes at a time), and pick a cock ring made of rubber (not metal) for ease of removal and to avoid too much constriction.

Practice a few moves to build your confidence

Alexa suggests using your pocket pussy in front of the mirror while talking dirty to yourself. Yes! This might feel silly at first, but if you don't feel comfortable alone, how can you find that swagger with someone else?

She also recommends using the pocket pussy to help you practice movements and positions. Try wedging your toy between a few cushions to practice thrusting with your hips (look, hands-free!). Start with slow, sensual movements before building to steamy thrusts. Who's going to judge you besides the person climaxing in the mirror?

Don't shy away from your turn ons

When you're playing solo, you don't need to think about what feels good for anyone besides yourself. It can be really liberating – even relaxing – to focus on your own pleasure. Alexa suggests leaning into your curiosity to try something new.

Ever wondered about temperature play, for example? Try running your pocket pussy in warm water or placing it in the fridge for 10 minutes to see how temperature changes feel on your skin.

Or maybe you're curious about anal play – it can feel a lot better when combined with masturbation. As you're stroking your penis with one hand, use the other to stimulate your anus with your toy or your fingers, inserting one if you want, but only with a generous coat of lube.

Share it with a partner

Pocket pussies are awesome solo toys, but you can use them with a partner too. Ask your partner to use the toy on you – or touch themselves while watching you use it. Mutual masturbation isn't just hot – it also builds a stronger bond between you. Masturbating in front of your partner can feel vulnerable (in a sexy way), so it can deepen your trust in each other and even show your partner how you like to be touched.

With great pleasure, comes great responsibility... in this case, keeping your pocket pussy clean! Doing so will protect you from infections while also keeping the quality of your toy at its peak. When you care for your toy properly, it'll keep smelling and feeling its best for longer.

Grab a sex toy cleaner, a storage bag, and renewal powder, which is used to help maintain the texture and feel of silicone or TPE toys. You've got to clean your toy thoroughly after each use, using a sex toy cleaner or mild soap and water, then let it air dry.

The renewal powder should be dusted on it after. But exactly how to clean sex toys depends on the type and material, so pay attention to any specific cleaning instructions recommended by the manufacturer.

You might choose a classic pocket pussy – a handheld stroker with a closed end, that looks and feels as close to a real vagina as possible. But there are a few types to consider:

• A closed-ended masturbator gives you more suction, helps prevent lube from leaking out, and is great for quickies.

• An open-ended one lets your penis come out the other side for extra thrust, is easier to clean, and can be more fun to use with a partner – especially if they want to go down on you at the same time.

• Your handheld stroker can come with or without a case. That choice affects how much pressure you feel and how intense your orgasm is. Using the case can create a vacuum-like suction and add more squeeze as you stroke. Without it, the sensation is lighter, but cleanup is a breeze.

• Ahh, the most fun part – pocket pussies can be shaped like a vagina, mouth, or butt. This affects not just how the toy looks, but also the shape of the opening and the texture inside.

• Fantasy pocket pussies bring a whole new dimension to your play – whether you're into mythical creatures, space, or deep-sea diving...

You live in a democracy, so you might be curious about the people's choice for the best sex toys for men (or again, anyone with a penis). Here's the fan favorite selection of pocket pussies, based on hundreds of ratings and reviews from our customers.