Before you drop major dollars on a sex toy, make sure it’s built to last and will live up to your expectations. While you’re shopping, our experts recommend paying attention to these key criteria:MaterialThe head of your wand vibrator should be made with a nonporous (i.e., easy-to-clean) material, like medical-grade silicone that’s “safer for use against the skin as well as inside the body,” Jennifer Litner, PhD, AASECT-certified sex therapist and founder of Embrace Sexual Wellness, tells SELF. Some brands may note that their toys are made from “body-safe” materials. So, what’s the difference? All medical-grade silicone is also body-safe—but the reverse isn’t always true.It’s most important for the head to be made of silicone because “that’s where bodily fluids will come in contact with the toy, and you want to be able to clean it properly,” Nekrasova says. Some handles are ABS plastic, which is a hard and nonporous material that’s also safe to use against the skin and has the added benefit of weighing less than other materials, Dr. Litner says.If you want to take your wand into the tub or shower, make sure to buy one that’s waterproof (compared to water-resistant, which can only handle some light splashing). Lastly, always make sure to use a silicone vibe with water-based lube, since silicone lubes can ruin the toy’s material.SizeWands are bigger than many other types of vibrators, which makes them amazing at radiating strong sensations across larger areas. That can feel great, but some people prefer more targeted stimulation, which is where other, smaller massagers come into play, Dr. Litner says. Compact toys can also be easier to hold and control (although using a toy mount or sex pillow can help) and they might be easier to incorporate into partnered activity. If you know you want to use your vibe with a partner or you want to travel with it, you might want to choose a mini size.Power sourceA corded wand offers consistent intensity, and you never have to think about charging it—the downside is you’ll need to be near an outlet. This might not be a big deal when you’re using it by yourself at home, but it can be a pain when you’re switching positions with a partner or traveling somewhere new. Luckily, there are tons of rechargeable options that are just as powerful and can stay juiced up for hours at a time.Noise levelIf loud buzzing takes you out of the moment, Dr. Litner recommends visiting a store that carries the wand you’re interested in and seeing how it sounds in person before you commit to it. You can also sift through online reviews to get a sense of a vibrator’s noise level. Keep in mind that the volume might vary once you get it home—you’d be surprised how much your sheets, shower, or a bubble bath can muffle!