Sex toys are often a source of debate, with some taboo toys taking the spotlight in discussions. The topic of sexuality is often controversial, with certain lines being drawn between what is considered normal behavior and which acts are immoral. The increased awareness of sexuality in Western cultures is leading to less and less taboos and more acceptance of devices that were previously considered taboo toys. As much of Western culture is strongly influenced by religious concerns, taboo toys and practices have often been frowned upon, although the sexual benefits can be amazing. In modern times, celebrities and other public figures have been more willing to discuss their sexuality and this has led to a rise in the popularity of taboo toys. Also, there has been increased exposure of sexual preferences in televised media and films. This exposure has sparked the desire for more adventure in the bedroom and toys that explore previous taboos are one way that exploration is being realized.

One genre of sexual toys that is often considered taboo is those devices and clothing which are used for domination play. This sexual niche is populated by people who enjoy both controlling other people as well as those that prefer to be controlled. This niche market is often characterized by the leather clothing and metal harnesses that are used to exert control on a partner. Other devices that are commonly used in domination scenarios are the following items: handcuffs, leashes, collars, muzzles, and bondage sets. In a similar vein, S&M (sadism and masochism) is often a sexual area that is considered to be across the line. Participants in S&M activity are concerned with the connection between pleasure and pain and employ such toys and devices that are used to deliver pain. This can be in the form of whips, chains, nipple clamps, and other such implements. While these two forms of sex play are often criticized as being taboo, by far the most taboo subject is anal sex. There are many toys that have been designed specifically for sexual activity that concerns the anus. Anal beads, dildos, and double penetration devices are only a few of these common items.

The idea of what makes a toy taboo is often the perceived notion that it crosses the line between decent sexual activity and activity that is "dirty" in some way. For a large number of people, the idea of anal sex is "dirty." Despite this common perception, anal sex is practiced by many people with very pleasurable results. Toys such as anal dildos and butt plugs remain some of the highest sellers in many adult sex toy stores and their popularity are indicative of the behavior that occurs behind closed doors. While the acceptance of sexual behavior that is not traditional is growing, there is still a large part of the population that views certain acts as being against normal morality. This view is usually the result of both an unfortunate fear and shame associated with sex and a person's sexuality. As long as there are people who are unwilling to explore their own sexuality, certain devices will be labeled as taboo toys despite the pleasure they bring to people who use them.