Penis Pumps – The Ultimate Beginners’ Guide

What exactly does a penis pump do? Is it really a sex toy, or more of an aid? And are they just for men who are down in the dumps about the size of their penis?

All this and much more will be revealed in our ultimate guide to penis pumps, which is sure to answer all your most burning questions on the topic.

What is a penis pump?

A penis pump can be used to temporarily increase the size of your penis.

Penis pumps come in many different designs and some have extra features, but their purpose is always the same: to give you a bigger penis and a more powerful erection, for a short time at least (but what a time it will be!).

Penis pumps are composed of a cylinder in a solid material. They are often transparent and feature a scale on the side so you can keep track of progress as you pump.

At one end of the cylinder, you will typically find a soft base which makes the pump comfortable to use when it comes into contact with the skin over your pubic bone. The soft and elastic material also helps to create a tight vacuum.

At the other end of the cylinder, you’ll usually find a valve or a pump system which you can use to pump air out of the cylinder. Some pumps feature a classic hand pump while others have a handle or a pistol grip, and some even create the vacuum automatically.

Why use penis pumps?

For many men, penis size can have an impact on self-esteem. Perhaps that is something you recognise in yourself? But why exactly is it so important to have a big penis?

Or to ask an even better question: how big is the average penis, really?

This may be something worth keeping in mind when comparing our own bodies to the ideals we come across in ads and porn. One study from 2015 looked at 15,000 results from 17 different studies and arrived at the following average:

Flaccid penis:

• Length: 9.16 cm
• Girth: 9.31 cm

Erect penis:

• Length: 13.12 cm
• Girth: 11.66 cm

The vast majority of men who use pumps do so because they want to see their package grow and surprise their partner with an extra potent erection. And this is namely the primary function of a penis pump.

But did you know that you can also use a penis pump during masturbation and foreplay? And that it can even help you to get an erection?

Get hard and more sensitive

You can also use a penis pump if you’re struggling to get the potent erection of your fantasies.

That’s right, you can actually pump yourself hard if you have trouble getting or maintaining an erection ordinarily. Try using a cock ring at the same time for even better results.

Pumping your penis increases the blood flow and makes you feel extra sensitive down under. Whether you go for an effective handjob or your partner gives you a wet blowjob, you will notice that things feel even more sensitive than usual.

Some pumps feature a soft mouth or a kinky sleeve at the end of the cylinder, which makes the whole experience yet even more stimulating and enjoyable.

The most popular penis pump

We have already mentioned that penis pumps are available in several different designs. This can make it slightly more difficult to find the right model for you, but don’t despair!

Below is our run-through of the most popular models which you can use to help identify which type is the best for you.

A good rule of thumb is to always check the measurements on the side of the pump cylinder before you buy. Compare them with the measurements of your own manhood and be sure to choose a model that leaves room for you to grow.

baseks - Classic penis pump

This classic penis pump from baseks features a simple and user-friendly design which makes it great for newcomers to the world of penis pumps. Once you’ve mastered the classic technique, you can then always go on to experiment with more complex (and often more expensive) models.

The clear cylinder features centimetre markings so you can keep track of growth right before your eyes. The pump is easy to assemble so the tube, hand pump and cylinder are all attached and sealed.

Once your penis is inside, you can use the hand pump to attain the desired level of pressure.

The pump features a super practical quick release function which allows you to release the vacuum at the push of a button.

MR.MEMBR - Penis pump with pressure gauge

A penis pump with pressure gauge provides a key benefit by allowing precise control of the vacuum pressure. This not only enhances the pump's effectiveness in achieving temporary size increase but also ensures a safer, more controlled experience.

It's an ideal choice for those who are looking to explore the benefits of penis pumps with a focus on reliability and ease of use.

This penis pump with pressure gauge from MR.MEMBR features a clear cylinder with centimetre markings to track progress, an effective pressure gauge for monitoring, and a stimulating vacuum effect.

Simple to use whether you're on a solo adventure or with a partner.

MR.MEMBR - Automatic penis pump

Why exert yourself when a machine can do all the hard work for you?

When using an automatic penis pump, such as this training unit from MR.MEMBR, you’ll barely need to lift a finger. There’s no hand pump or handle and the pump takes care of everything itself.

It also features a clear cylinder so you can follow your progress along the way. Once you have inserted your penis into the cylinder, all you need to do is switch on the vacuum.

There are four different vibration speeds so you can experiment and find the level that is best for you. As per the classic model, this pump also features a quick release function so you can easily release the vacuum.

One of the main advantages of an automatic penis pump is you can put your hands to work elsewhere – the pump just needs a little support so the vacuum doesn’t break.

Bathmate - Hydro penis pump

Like the idea of using your penis pump in the bath? Then Bathmate might be the right brand for you.

Bathmate pumps use water to create an effective vacuum around your penis and can be enjoyed both under the shower or in the tub. They are available with either clear or coloured cylinders and, of course, include measurements along the side. Models without a hand pump press down against your pubic bone and create negative pressure when the water is pumped out.

Sound complicated? Don’t worry, it’s actually pretty easy. Simply follow the manual which is included with the Bathmate Hydromax9 Penis Pump and other models, or check out our own step-by-step guide below.

Pssst! If you’re considering a hydro penis pump, Bathmate has a smart size guide to help you choose the right pump for your measurements.

How penis pumps work

This all sounds well and good, you may be thinking. But do penis pumps actually work?

The answer is yes, they really do, so long as you use them correctly.

Not sure how?

Simply follow our step-by-step guide below and you won’t go wrong.

Air penis pumps

1. Make sure you are relaxed and set aside time to pump. You won’t get good results if you’re distracted or interrupted.

2. Start by applying a little lube to the cylinder base and opening so you can easily insert your penis. Your testicles should remain outside the cylinder.

3. Pump gently a few times to get the pump sitting tightly, and to let yourself get used to the sensation and pressure.

4. Now pump until your penis is fully erect and the size you want. Hold this negative pressure for a few minutes. If you experience any pain, discolouration or discomfort, then break the vacuum hold immediately.

5. Use the pump for 10 to 20 minutes (at most!) depending on how experienced you are and preferably at intervals.

6. You are now ready to enjoy your bigger, harder and more sensitive member.

Hydro penis pumps

1. Make sure you are relaxed and set aside time to pump. You won’t get good results if you’re distracted or interrupted.

2. Let the warm water from the shower or tub warm up both your body and your penis.

3. Close the valve at the tip of the pump and fill the cylinder with warm water.

4. Insert your penis and place the pump against the pubic bone without letting too much water escape. Your testicles should remain outside the cylinder.

5. Open the valve and pump gently a few times by pressing the cylinder in against your pubic bone. The pump should sit tightly, and you may want to take a moment or two to get used to the sensation of the pump and the pressure.

6. Now pump until your penis is fully erect and the size you want. Hold this negative pressure for a few minutes. If you experience any pain, discolouration or discomfort, then break the vacuum immediately.

7. Use the pump for between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on how experienced you are and preferably at intervals.

8. You are now ready to enjoy your bigger, harder and more sensitive member.

REMEMBER! No matter what kind of pump you choose, it’s important to avoid over-pumping. Be patient, pump slowly and listen to your body. You should feel pressure around your penis as the vacuum does its job, but you should not experience any discomfort, pain or discolouration.

How to get the best results

Last but not least, here come our tips and tricks for a great result. In many cases, a small difference can improve your experience, and who knows, perhaps one of the tips below may be just what it takes to make things fall into place for you.

Use lube

We simply can’t talk about sex toys without mentioning lube in the same breath. And we really can’t say it enough, either.

You probably already have a trusty bottle in the drawer of your night stand, but if not, be sure to buy yourself some good quality water-based lube.

Apply the lube to the bottom part of the cylinder and to your penis as well if desired. This will make it easy to slide your penis into the cylinder before pumping. It will also help alleviate any problems you might have with the cylinder not closing tightly or slipping away from the skin.

Give yourself a trim

Don’t worry – there’s no need to take your penis pump with you to the barbershop, even if we’re fairly certain it would be a big hit with the other customers.

No, we’re talking about your pubic hair. If you’ve got a bit of a bush growing around the base of your penis and pubic area, then it might be tough for the pump to seal completely. So you might want to clip the hedges down there before getting started. Avoid using the same trimmer that you use up top. Instead, use a trimmer or a razor that is specially designed for intimate grooming so you’ll be guaranteed a clean and hygienic shave.

Try a cock ring

Want to enjoy the results a little longer? Then try using a cock ring together with your penis pump. Cock rings sit around the base of the penis and make sure that all the blood which has flown in stays there. Put on the cock ring before beginning to pump for the best effect.

If you’re using a penis pump as an aid to help you get an erection, then a cock ring will be completely indispensable.

Not sure what kind to choose? Go for a set of three different sizes and experiment to find the best match for you. 

Happy pumping!