10 Wallet-Friendly Alternatives to the Liberator Throe

April 30th, 2019

It’s no secret that many of us enjoy our Liberator Throws. Using them provides us with peace of mind that allows us to truly let go when having sex. While I’m one of many people who has been quick to recommend these products, it’s also no secret that a Throe is hard on the wallet. They’re a hassle to clean, a little crinkly, and the company has had dubious practices with affiliates in the past. Plus, Liberator Throes don’t really absorb the mess. It just sits on top of the blanket.

So if you’re looking for a product that’s more affordable or easier to wash or simply cannot support the company, you’ve got options! You might not need these options if your messes are small and easily taken care of with a few towels, but for those who towels aren’t good enough, keep reading.

Waterproof Blankets

THROWS OF PASSION Waterproof Pleasure Blanket
Several companies make similar blankets including this one by Throws of Passion

Several other companies make waterproof blankets, some specifically for sex and others for general purposes. Because they’re larger and designed to be prettier and more comfortable than some of the other products on this list, waterproof blankets tend to cost more than other options (this isn’t always the case!). However, you’ve got more choices when it comes to size, material (fleece, velvet, etc.) and colors. These options definitely feel the most like the Liberator Throe.

I’ll take a moment to mention the Avana Waterproof Throw, which comes in the same colors as the Throw. In fact, the description uses some of the same photos and size labels, so it could be an off-label Liberator. However, users say it’s less crinkly than a Throw. It’s a toss-up but markedly cheaper than a Throe if you like the style.

Many of these options simply popped up when I searched Amazon for a waterproof blanket. I stuck to those that had positive reviews and material, size, or color options. There are plenty more alternatives, however, if you search for a waterproof or picnic/stadium/pet blanket. Bonus: outdoor blankets often come with a carrying case of some sort.

Mattress Protectors

Mattress protectors are basically plastic that slips over your mattress, so you need to be sure to buy one that’s the same size as your mattress and deep enough, too. Some are quilted for extra softness. Mattress protectors are not my personal favorite because they don’t protect your sheets, so you’ll still have to wash those. This seems less useful for frequent sex. But you might enjoy them if you’re also looking to keep your mattress pristine from sweat, period blood, etc.

AmazonBasics offers its own version, but you can purchase them in many big-box and home goods stores.

pee pad
Puppy pee pads aren’t pretty, but they get the job done

Waterproof Pads

Waterproof pads protect a targeted area on your sheets and mattress. The smaller size is easier to wash, dry and store, and they often come in 2-packs. They’re sold as puppy pee pads, incontinence pads, and bedwetting pads for kids. You can easily buy them for less than $20 if you’re willing to sacrifice the larger size and aesthetic options.

Although the above are washable, you can purchase single-use pee pads that might be convenient if you don’t have access to a washing machine or room to transport a whole pad/blanket. You can buy a whole bunch of them for very little money.

The cheapest options might not seem as luxurious as a Throw but they may be more inconspicuous and can even come in handy if you do have children or pets.

Bonus: a latex sheet like the type you’ll find in kinky stores lies over the top of your bed. It can be kinky, although it won’t absorb any liquids. Be careful around the edges!

This post contains some affiliate links.

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Categories: Articles

Decor Stashe Pillow in Velvish Aubergine

December 9th, 2013

Decor Stashe Pillow in Velvish Aubergine

Decor Stashe Pillow in Velvish Aubergine

The Decor Stashe with ribbon is no longer available, but you can purchase the new, zipper version in black from Pinkcherry

I’ve had my eye on this pillow for quite a while. I really like Liberator’s Decor line, and I enjoy hiding toys around my house in pillows. The design of this is a far step up from the other hide-a-vibe pillow I have, too. I was hoping this would match my bedding, and unfortunately it doesn’t. However, purple is one of those colors that just doesn’t photograph easily, and this is a little more too blue-hued. My bedding looks reddish in comparison. This doesn’t mean I love the pillow any less or affect its use, of course. I just like things that are perfect.

The design of this pillow is nearly perfect, however. It’s a “hollowed” square pillow. It measures 16 inches by 16 inches, but the details make it seem a little bigger. One side is a soft velour material, while the other is shiny satin that complements it. Two of the side have triangular “wings” that fold over to either side. If you want to see both fabrics, you can. It shipped with the wings folded over to the velvet side, but I don’t find it to be as attractive. The wings secure with white ribbon, so you may want to spend some time tying it into a pretty bow.

Photobomb!

Photobomb!

When the wings are folded toward the satin side, however, you don’t have access to the zipper, which runs along one of the edges where there’s a wing. So if you’re looking for convenience, you’ll want to fold them backward. However, you can certainly untie the ribbon. The look is attractive overall.

I really like the idea of the “wings.” If you sew, you could replicate it, but this pillow was made very well. The stitching and zipper are quite secure.

When you unzip the pillow, there’s an opening for hiding your toys. The inside is lined with a nylon-like material that you can easily wipe down to clean. I prefer this over my other pillow. It just feels cleaner.

It’s definitely smaller on the inside — not like the TARDIS at all. However, you’re going to get a few items in here. PinkCherry’s product page shows a rabbit similar to one that I have.

I was able to stuff quite a few toys in here and still zip it:

That’s definitely a lot of toys; although, the pillow was pretty packed.

Of course, as a pillow, it won’t be very comfortable when it’s full of toys. However, when it’s empty of contains something softer, you can actually use it as a pillow comfortably enough. It’s not flat.

And as a place to hide your vibes, a pillow doesn’t make the most sense if people actually use it. However, it’ll work as long as your guests view the pillow as a decoration and not an actual pillow, you’re in the clear. Plus, this one matches other items in the Liberator decor line. There’s also a Flip Ramp available in the same color. However, the aubergine does not match the purple Liberator Throe. But those are really first world problems. Of course, the black is definitely easier to match, so you’ve got other color options if you like the pillow.

If you’re inspired by it, make your own.

2 Comments

Categories: Non-Sex Toys, Reviews, Storage

Bijoux Indiscrets cosmetics for better sex

The Second Time Around

March 10th, 2011

I bet you wish this post is aptly titled because my love life is going swimmingly. I do too–sorta (don’t worry, it’s not going badly), but this is a recap of past reviews.

It hasn’t been that long since I switched away from the Exotic Fruit Shower Gel by Shunga and I’m back on it. Although I didn’t touch on it in my original review, I have come to realize that my skin’s complexion is a little poorer when using this product, than when using your standard shower gels. Secondly, I find that I do not stay as clean and fresh smelling, especially around the intimate parts, when I cleanse with this shower gel. Although I do enjoy the scent, I feel like my money would be better spent on something from the drug store.

I loved the shape of my first Tuyo and raved about it even though it sounded like an inefficient chainsaw during use–that is, until it broke. I did wind up replacing the vibrator when I had the funds but, sadly, I just don’t seem to be enjoying Tuyo 2.0 as much. Luckily, though, it’s far less loud than the previous one (although not as quiet as I would like), so I needn’t worry about having the cops called on me during my masturbation sessions.

Liberator Throe remains as useful as useful
Liberator Throe remains as useful as useful

On the positive side, my Liberator Throw has become a staple in my sexual routine, and I rarely play—solo or with others—without it. Even having to contact the company when my original was defective (and their customer service was awesome!), I could not recommend this more to people who have had issues with lubes and liquids on their linens and furniture. For me, it’s even become an aid when setting the ambiance.

My love for my Lelo Siri continues and is only dwarfed by my respect for its battery time. I can only recall charging it once and the batteries are just now starting to die, after 6 months of on-and-off use. Granted, my sessions are usually around 10 minutes or so but I actually forgot that this one requires charging until it started to glow red! Not only has this remained my go-to toy but it’s probably the most valued toy in my entire collection.

My last update is on the Inttimo Kitty Shave Kreme by Wet. Although it smells nice, was slick and I like the pump bottle, it took me some time to realize that I wasn’t as happy with this shaving cream as I originally thought. It wasn’t until I read another’s review that I realized this shaving cream really doesn’t give me as close a shave as other shaving creams. Secondly, the constant itching after I would use this to shave my legs never faded. It just became something I grew used to. I don’t necessarily dislike this product, but it’s not a premium product, nor should it retail at such high prices. Coochy Cream and System Jo’s new shaving cream are both superior options.

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Categories: Reviews

Crystal Whip

October 16th, 2010

Crystal Whip

Crystal Whip

This product is no longer available from Liberator, but Babeland now sells a nearly-identical version from Icicles for less than $50.

Babeland carries a flogger with crystal details and a glass handle that I thought was ridiculously gorgeous. I pooled my resources and soon this whip was in my hands. It’s a piece by Liberator, who you all know for their sex position pillows and furniture but whom I also know for a glass piece I have.

The Crystal Whip comes in a suede pouch that ties with ribbons. It’s much bigger than the actual toy and you could steal it for another toy if you wanted. The whip itself really isn’t a whip–but a flogger (it’s not the only one I’ve tried, either). The handle is a glass cylinder that is etched witch smooth wavy lines down the length. There’s a bulbous shape on the end which is good for grasping but may also be used for penetration–maybe. I thought the handle would be larger than it is. It’s a bit over 6″ long and has a diameter of .79″. As it’s glass and rigid, it can certainly feel larger than it is but it’s quite narrow and requires some maneuvering to reach the right places without a curve.

If you do use it internally, you’ll want to be careful when washing to keep the tails out of the stream of water. You’ll also want to carefully wash and lubes from the shaft so that it won’t be slippery during use as a flogger. It would absolutely suck to have it fly out of your hand and hurt someone unintentionally, or break something (can we say Wiimote?) or simply break itself.

Of course, this isn’t really the type of flogger that you aim and swing with all your might. I think it’s best suited to light play. If you aim at extremely sensitive areas and the tails fall so just the tips hit, there’s a tingly sting but it’s really quite light. If you’re not aiming quite so precisely or flogging an area that’s not exceptionally sensitive, it’s really not painful. The lambskin tails are ridiculously soft and I personally just felt them sliding silkily over my skin. It’s like a massage.

And the tails are super sensual–shiny leather on one side and unfinished on the inside. Both feel delicious when they touch the skin and if you hold it under your nose, you can detect the scent of real leather. Sorry vegans. In all, there are 32 tails that are flat strips of lambskin. They’re wrapped in circles around the end of the handle and, I assume, glued. The upper edge of the leather is then wrapped in a silver material that could be metal or painted plastic in four flowery, filigree type designs. In the center of each of these flowers is a crystal. Sadly to say, it took less than five minutes for one of these crystals to fall off after opening the Crystal Whip. I guess it just wasn’t glued on very well. The crystals catch the light and glisten with colour but I don’t think they really add that much to the appearance of this piece. Just my opinion.

The tails are about 2″ longer than the handle itself and are cut to angled points. When swinging, the tails stay together nicely and you don’t have to re-gather them to perform moves such as a figure eight. Because of the petite size of this, it’s super easy to wield and make quick movements that larger floggers would hinder. The handle is the heavier party of this flogger but, as it’s so small, it won’t tired your arm as quickly as heavier floggers or whips.

The tails of this feel so luxurious. I need more leather and suede in my life. I don’t want some bachelor pad but, my God, this is an awesome piece. If you have any interest at all in glass, lambskin, flogging or simply attractive sex/BDSM gear, then the Crystal Whip should go into your cart the next time you visit Babeland.

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Categories: BDSM, Reviews

lingerie

Liberator Fascinator Throw

March 28th, 2010

Liberator Shag Throe

Liberator Shag Throe
$89.99 from SheVibe

I recently got a gift from someone awesome and by “someone awesome,” I mean myself. That gift was a Liberator Shag Throe because I was sick of wet spots on the bed (from sex) and washing all my towels (from squirting). I was apprehensive about my purchase the shag throe was only available in purple, while the microfiber is available in more colour choices. People seemed to like both just fine, but I had such a difficult time deciding whether colour or texture mattered more, especially because I am not a big fan of microfiber (but I wasn’t sure if the microfiber throe felt run of the mill).

Note that Liberator currently only offers Throws in one material: “microvelvet.” I believe this is less plush than the blanket I own. Nevertheless, my general thoughts apply to the overall product.

The Shag Throe comes packaged in a plastic box and is neatly folded. I noticed immediately that the shag is softer and plushier than microfiber, so I think I made the right choice. I got what some retailers call “regular” size, and the blanket is really quite large at 72″ x 54″. It just covers the top of a queen-sized bed, which is why Liberator bills it as queen sized. I personally never use it extended to its full size. It is always folded in half or thirds because I simply do not need that much area. I could probably get away with the smaller Travel Throw, which measures 53″ xs 36.”. But if you want a blanket that covers your entire bed, they also make a king-sized option.

The size alone is not the only factor that makes the Throe seem quite large, perhaps even bulky. It is obvious that there are several layers to this blanket; of course, that only makes sense because the Throe has to contain something special to keep moisture from our furniture and linens. According to Liberator, that is an “inner moisture barrier.” In layman’s terms, it seems like a sheet of plastic and sounds like it, too. When moving, folding, or otherwise breathing on the Throe, there is a noticeable sound of fabric-covered plastic. It’s not necessarily detrimental to the experience, especially if you’re louder than the Throe (nor will it give you away to the roommates or neighbours) but it is a little.. unsexy.

So, those outer layers? Shag and satin. The shag is a short fur which is fairly soft to the touch but not like cashmere or anything. It’s definitely more appealing than “shag carpet” which is what had always come to my mind before. I mean, who wants to have sex on that? Besides cheesy 70s porn stars, that is! For whatever reason, the shag side feels better to my hands than my body, which feels a little suffocated by it, but it doesn’t feel bad at all.

And the satin? Well, it’s satiny, but the outer layer is much thinner than that of the shag so it’s easier to feel the moisture barrier inside. Because of this, I don’t really like the satin side as much. If it were just satin or satin over something softer, it would feel better, but it just feels too plastic-y for my tastes. I never use it silk-side-up. However, it’s smoother and cooler feeling, which some folks might prefer in hot temperatures. There are two other downsides to the satin side: it can slip around on surfaces and it runs (like pantyhose). I found out the latter after leaving the satin side up on my bed for a short time, and, when I returned, it was obvious my cat(s) had walked over it. 

The exterior is finished with a secure border/trim around the edges, which holds everything tightly in place. 

In use, the Throe performs as expected. I have read accounts where the Throe was not enough to contain fluids of some people, but I am no super soaker, so I am satisfied. In fact, a product like this can really help someone who is worried about the mess of ejaculating or the difference between urine and FE. I wouldn’t even care if it were only urine, except that I don’t want that on my sheets or bed, so the Throe is a lifesaver. The shag side not only soaks up my fluids but even makes them a bit difficult to see. However, if you’re looking to use the Throe as a towel for cleaning up after the fact, it doesn’t perform so well in that manner, partly because it’s stiff and partly because it doesn’t absorb moisture as much as it holds it. As a result, larger amounts of fluid will pool on the Throe instead of being soaked up by it (but they will not soak through to whatever is beneath it).

Nevertheless, I have found my Shag Throe helps me be a procrastinator (whether or not that’s helpful, you can decide). After playtime is over, I can roll up my toys in the Throe and toss it in the corner overnight or until I am ready to deal with clean up. I find it so handy in that way because I didn’t think of this as a versatile product, really.

The Fascinator Throw is machine washable on delicate/cold. You might even be able to get away with a regular cycle, but I didn’t try. It kept its shape well, and I tossed it in the dryer on low heat. Some folks have let it air dry on the line or shower rod, which is also an option. I found that I had to run it through the dryer multiple times before it was actually dry, which is a bit perplexing. I have no idea how long it would take to air dry, but now that I am back home with paid laundry machines, I guess I will find out. The Throe is in great condition after being washed and dried, and the colour is still vibrant.

But I have to say, I don’t feel the need to wash it every time I use it, thankfully. It doesn’t pick up smells nor does it seem necessarily dirty after a use or two. Like I mentioned, it’s really big so I can just fold over a previously used spot and there’s still plenty of clean surface left.

However, my original blanket seemed to have a defect as the trim started to come undone. I contacted Liberator, which replaced it. I now have two of them, with the original demoted to a cat blanket. The trim hasn’t broken down anymore, even with washing. Because I’ve had it in the window, it has become noticeably sun-faded. My replacement has held up well with no stitching issues, though!

I definitely look forward to spending more time with my Shag Throe!

While I recommend the Fascinator Throw to anyone who wants to make cleanup easier and experience that security during playtime, I understand that not everyone can justify the cost. This is especially true because the price has nearly doubled since I got my first Throw (and I believe it is more valuable than the current microfiber option). To that end, I’ve created a list of alternatives to the Liberator Throw that can save you money.

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Categories: Reviews

Twist

November 28th, 2009

Twist

Twist

This is an archived post. Liberator no longer sells the Twist dildo, but Gläs makes this similar dildo.

The Twist is double ended glass dildo made by Liberator, a company well known for its sex furniture and pillows but not so well known for its other products. After using the Twist, there is only one word I can use in regard to this fact: Why?

Sheathed in a velvety, plush bag that is quite large – 14.5″ by 6.5″ or so – my first impression of the Twist was positive. Liberator has storage covered and so, would it seem, design. Out of the bag, is a wide, “S” shaped dildo with one side smooth and sleek with a bulbous end while the other is swirled and ribbed, the end straight. The glass is perfectly clear and, toward the middle, on the smooth end, Liberator is written in a pretty script. The white text is tangible to the fingers but does not easily scratch or chip (I know, I tried). With the curves, the piece measures 12.5″ at the widest point but is actually over 14″ long with a 1.5″ diameter on the swirled side. The smooth side is about .25″ thinner.

In use, the slight difference in size does not make as much difference as the texture does. I much prefer the ridges created by the swirls because of the friction, compared to the opposite end. In addition, the bulbous head didn’t stimulate my G-spot the way I like. However, I recognize this is only personal preference. If you’re not a fan of texture, then you may not be fond of this end. (It might be a better idea to look for smaller (and cheaper!) glass dildos that better fit your needs.) As is, my use heavily focuses on one side but I love that I have the ability to switch. It also adds an interesting element into play. Not only can you alternate between textures but you could warm one end and cool the other. The Twist responds well to temperature, like all glass. Even just switching from one end to the other (for the first time, during the session) can offer a noticeable difference in temperature.

If you’re familiar with glass, then you know several things about it. One is that the super smooth material is virtually frictionless, so while you can use lube (any kind you desire), it’s much less necessary. Of course, this property is slightly negated on the swirled end so I would still proceed with caution. Caution is something I would advise whenever playing with such a rigid toy. One can easily bruise a cervix or pubic bone with overeager thrusts, especially with curved dildos such as the Twist. I find that gentle rocking is more appropriate and quite successful at stimulating my G-spot to squirt. Because of its rigidity, I also wouldn’t be eager to try this toy with a partner. It may work but it would be quite easy to do some damage to a body unintentionally.

Another important aspect of glass is its weight; while generally hefty enough to feel significant but not nearly as heavy as metal sex toys. I guess I am used to playing with metal because the Twist seems so light in my hands. I think this is due to how incredibly balanced it is. It’s nothing like rabbit vibes which are always heavier on one end (and I find this impedes use). In fact, I expected that wielding such a long piece would be difficult but it was anything but. My hands naturally found themselves toward the center rather than the end, grasping right under whichever curve was not inserted, a perfect handhold without slipping. I sometimes pulled up the end toward my clit, but the curve wasn’t quite enough to reach. Oh well, my G-spot was still happy!

Of course, glass is easy to clean with soap and water – or can be soaked in a bleach solution, boiled or wiped with alcohol – and the Twist can be fully submerged (if it fits in your sink). It’s size isn’t especially discreet for moving between rooms or to store, even in its bag (which does collect lint) so it may not be ideal for all situations but, lucky for me, I needn’t worry about that. Its porous nature makes it more hygienic than many materials, and the Twist will probably outlive me.

I wasn’t sure how much I’d like Twist by Liberator. I expected it to be difficult to use: it wasn’t. I expected I wouldn’t like it aesthetically as much because it’s clear and I am usually attracted to colours: I did. I thought my hands would slip during use: they didn’t. Liberator has crafted a G-spot dildo which is incredible to use, to look at, to maintain and to store. If this is an example of their products overall, consider me a convert!

A huge thanks to Liberator for letting me review this piece!

6 Comments

Categories: Dildos, Reviews

lingerie

Image © MisterUnlucky; used with permission.