CARNAL NATION

Earth Day celebration and Good Vibrations go together like organic peas and carrots, hybrid cars in commuter traffic, and the emergence of biodegradable trash bags at swanky dog parks. The “green sex” concept, initiated by Good Vibrations to celebrate Earth Month 2009, offers our resident toy testers from the ToolBox the chance to thoroughly explore Ecorotic™ products. Good Vibrations knows that beauty shines from the inside out, and how we treat the earth affects how we treat our bodies as well as the others around us. Good Vibrations states that, “most often, what’s healthy for the environment is going to be what's healthy for our bodies. When selecting new products, we look for locally produced and organic goods, as well as longer lasting items that have less environmental impact.”

I have been buying and using sex toys enthusiastically for the past fifteen years, and one of the major lessons that I have taken away from those experiences is to buy quality over quantity. I am sure I am not the only disappointed consumer who has had to throw a few dead vibes in the trash after pouring even more money into batteries for them, which in turn just contributes to landfill problems. Personally, I find it hard to feel good about pleasuring myself when I am hurting someone or something else, which is why I was especially pleased to see the Bo Vibrating Ring from Lelo’s men’s line. This toy is highlighted as a green toy because it has a strong vibe that is rechargeable, not to mention that it can consistently be your best friend for up to four hours straight on a full charge. I don’t recommend that exact approach because of the potential for chafing, but I do suggest storing that little buddy in you pocket, purse, or backpack for all your on-the-go adventures.

Bo is not just another sex toy to add to the pile of other similar designs. On the contrary, the adult toy industry has been focused on designing toys for women’s pleasure for the past twenty to thirty years. Traditionally, male adult toys are generally far outnumbered by women-focused products. The Bo sets itself apart with its uniqueness since it is designed for the male body, but it provides pleasure to both the wearer and his partner during penetrative sex, which makes it ideal for all sexes and relationships. The Bo isn’t the only adult toy the ToolBox was asked to test that caters to women, men, or any other gender you can think of. The Delight Vibrator by Fun Factory’s German engineers also fits that description. It is crafted from silicone and premium plastic, with a dramatic “Royal Curl” signature shape that can be used to stimulate both the G-Spot and the prostate. The concept of two toys in one product sure sounds both efficient and green to me. It’s also rechargeable. 

As for non-vibrating toys, the Goldfrau Ceramic Dildo may cost a bit more money, but it is a one-of-a-kind design. Good Vibrations is the exclusive U.S. distributor for Goldfrau, an Australian ceramic dildo handcrafted from nonporous stoneware. With wall thickness of 3-4 mm and a glaze coat that contains no lead or cadmium, it is both safe and stylish. An independent engineering company tested the Goldfrau material strength, and results indicated that this dildo would never break under normal usage. These “dildos from Down Under” can be moderately heated or cooled for alternative temperature play, and are simple to clean with warm soapy water followed by a thorough rinse. As part of Goldfrau’s commitment to environmentalism, they have included a complimentary pouch made from either certified leather, vegetable tanned leather, or fashion-industry leather scraps.
      
No green celebration can truly be complete without mentioning an organic product, and this month the ToolBox is fortunate enough to test out the Sliquid Organics Silk Lubricant, which is an all-natural, amazing hybrid formula (half water-based and half silicone) that is botanically infused with organic hibiscus, flax, green tea, and sunflower seed extract. A non-staining lube, it’s easy to clean off the body and compatible with all sex-toy materials. Viscous and vegan, it’s not tested on animals. Glycerin-, paraben-, and petroleum-free, it’s perfect for people with chemical sensitivities. I can’t promise that it will please everyone as lube is such a personal choice, but I can attest to the fact that it has now become my new standard. I used to buy both water-based and silicone-based lubes since the former is more compatible with my body’s chemistry, but the later is the most appealing for anal play. I have discovered that I can get the best of both worlds from one product. Again, fewer products on the market means less waste in our landfills, so this one gets two squirts up from me.