What Is The Rose Toy? Why This Suction Sex Toy Went Viral On TikTok

"Soul snatcher" and "orgasm stealer" are just some names the famed rose sex toy has been dubbed in its short time on the market.

If you have a TikTok account, you're likely familiar with the rose sex toy. Taking social media by storm in 2021, the flower-shaped toy quickly rose (no pun intended) to popularity thanks to dozens of reviews from pleased vulva owners who claimed it brought them record-speed orgasms, plus helped them to squirt and experience new forms of pleasure. 

Does it deserve the praise? According to our experts, yes—however, there’s more you should know.

The rose toy is a clitoral stimulation toy that uses air pulse and pressure technology to suck on the glans head of the clitoris, explains sexologist and sex educator Goody Howard, MSW, MPH.

It combines sucking and vibrating functions through a suction head that users say delivers unmatched stimulation and back-to-back orgasms. 

Importantly, the rose toy isn't one specific product sold by one specific brand. Numerous companies seem to manufacture the viral rose toy (or similar models), which are then sold under various brand names on sites like Amazon or Shopify in a process known as dropshipping.

Since its rise to fame, more established sex toy companies have also begun selling similar rose-shaped sex toys, such as the Rose Toy Clitoral Suction Stimulator from Lovehoney or the Rose Flower Sex Toy from V for Vibes.

Jessica Cline, LCSW, Ph.D., a board-certified sexologist who happens to love the rose sex toy, says this rose-shaped sex toy is a great option for anyone who wants one that's "cute and less in-your-face phallic." 

According to websites that sell the viral rose toy model like RTO or Adorime, this clitoris-sucking vibrator is rechargeable and has three intensity levels plus seven sucking modes that are supposed to mimic what cunnilingus feels like. With one click of a button, the toy's internal vibration generates rotating airflow that sucks and teases your clitoris, leading to what some call unimaginable pleasure. 

The best way to use the vibrator, advises Howard, is to start by applying a small amount of lube to your clitoris. Instead of centering the rose toy over it, start on its side and move the rose around until you find the spot that feels the best. Based on the intensity of the sucking, either decrease or increase the speed setting to get the right amount of stimulation, or alternate between the levels for a varied experience.

What's great about the rose toy is its versatility. "A lot of people want to just sit it on the head of the clit right away instead of exploring the other ways that pleasure can show up," Howard tells mbg. For example, she adds that ​​all clit-sucking toys also double as nipple-sucking toys.

In addition to your nipples, that could be erogenous zones like your or your partner's navel, thighs, anus, ears, and more.

Because it's waterproof, you can use the rose toy in the bathtub, shower, or even pool, according to Cline. And besides using it during solo play, the rose toy can also complement partnered sex, whether you use it during doggy-style or on your partner's body throughout sexual play. 

While Cline loves the rose toy, she also recommends caution when figuring out where to purchase the toy. "When sex toys become popular, we often see an influx of availability all over the internet with many sellers dropshipping the item," she explains. "The item is often made in China and sent to the buyer without the seller ever seeing the item."

Dropshipping is where a seller purchases inventory from a third party, like a wholesaler or manufacturer, to fulfill orders. Quality is a significant concern with dropshipping business models, "as is the material that the toy is made out of." And with a product like the rose sex toy, which Cline says has additional crevices for bacteria to hang around, it's imperative that the toy is made from nonporous silicone. 

However, that's not something buyers can guarantee when they purchase from unknown suppliers. As you shop for your rose toy, be sure to read product descriptions, plus seller and product reviews, to ensure you're getting exactly what you need from a reliable source.

"I have a rose, and I love it," says Howard. However, the key is to be clear about the kind of experience you want to have with this sex toy. "Are you gonna use it with a partner or by yourself?" she asks. "Are you trying to have a longer pleasure session over a shorter one?" 

Here's why it's important to align your expectations: "The rose is so effective that it shortens your solo pleasure session because it can almost immediately make you reach orgasm."

Additionally, Howard notes that rose toys certainly won't wine and dine you—she says it's more of a "wham bam, thank you, ma'am" kind of session. And that's OK, "as long as that's what you wanted to do." 

You won't be waiting around for an orgasm with this toy—or likely able to tease yourself with edging—so "know what kind of playtime you want before using it." 

"It reduces friction and creates a smooth ride between you and who- or whatever you're playing with," Howard tells mbg. Plus, Cline says the toy's air pressure technology can dry out natural lubrication, so it's a good idea to have a backup on deck.

Just be sure to use the right kind of lube: For a rose toy likely made of silicone, water- or oil-based lubes are great options because of their compatibility with the material. Water-soluble lubes aren't as long-lasting as oil, though they better support the pH balance. Oil-based lubes can also cause latex condoms to tear or break (and stain your sheets), so reconsider this one if you and your partner aren't fluid-bonded. 

Don't use the same sex toy on the anus and the vagina, says Howard. "If you use a toy for your butt, it is now a butt toy." 

Lastly, Cline says to be mindful that some clit-stimulation or -sucking toys have been shown to make some women bleed. Although it's not clear if the toy somehow cuts the delicate tissues or if it can suck out blood like a hickey, Cline explains that "most of the users that've had this happen had extended use at a higher setting." 

Like any other sex toy, the rose vibrator isn't perfect—but as you heard from our experts, the hype isn't exaggerated! So if you decide to purchase one, you're likely in for a good time.