Lately, we’ve covered a few fun ways to add some sizzle between the sheets. If you need a recap, check out our blogs on toys, pineapple (IYKYK), games and lingerie. But have you heard about the grapefruit technique and its ability to spice up the bedroom? 

We first heard about this interesting method of using grapefruit in bed from our girl Fatty on Instagram. With research, we realized the grapefruit technique has been a buzzing internet trend for years, although it's making a comeback thanks to the movie, “Girls Trip".

WHO KNEW AND DIDN'T TELL US? AND WHAT'S THE FUSS ABOUT?

Keep reading and we’ll go over all your burning questions, such as what the grapefruit technique is, how to prepare, ways to do it, and if it's worth the hype.

WHAT IS THE GRAPEFRUIT TECHNIQUE?

Before we get into the deets of how to grapefruit, let’s fill you in on what the grapefruit technique even is: 

Simply put, the grapefruit technique is a novel way to treat your partner during oral sex. You core out the middle of the grapefruit and use it to slide up and down a man’s penis shaft, while also using your mouth on the tip. The lure of using the grapefruit technique is meant to mimic the feeling of intercourse but on a more intense level with the extra juice, texture, and motions. 

Intrigued? We are too!

Now that you know what the grapefruit technique is, let’s dive into some of our favorite tips to help you prepare and perform this fun and juicy practice:

HOW TO PREP FOR THE GRAPEFRUIT TECHNIQUE 

Don’t run to the grocery store to start cutting out a grapefruit just yet – first, we have some words of advice to help ensure the best experience using the grapefruit technique. To start:

1. You can use either a grapefruit or a large navel orange, depending on your taste preference. 
2. Let the fruit of your choice sit out for a bit to get to room temperature. Can you say shrinkage?
3. You can take things a step further, which we recommend, by running the fruit under warm water before using it for a more comfortable temperature.
4. Next, roll the unpeeled fruit around on the counter for a few minutes to soften it up and release the juices. The juicier the better!
5. Thinly slice off the two ends, leaving a thick middle section. This is the part you’ll be using.
6. Lastly, cut out a small to medium-sized hole in the center of the fruit to slide onto your partner. 

PROTIP: If you use a grapefruit, a ruby red one is the most preferred for its sweeter taste. 

HOW TO USE THE GRAPEFRUIT TECHNIQUE ON YOUR PARTNER

Now that your fruit is warm, ripe, and ready to use, it's time to talk about what you really want to know: how to do the grapefruit technique.

Before beginning, make sure to put a towel under you and your partner as the grapefruit technique gets messy (and we mean MESSY). If you’re worried about ruining your towels, our special bedroom towel is the perfect remedy.

Here is how to use the grapefruit technique on your partner:

• Engage in some foreplay first, like kissing and touching. This gets you and your partner warmed up and aroused. 
• If comfortable, blindfold your partner to amp up the anticipation and heighten his senses.
• Once your partner is ready, slide the fruit on and gently twist, moving up and down. 
• Keep sliding the fruit to release the juice. This provides a tastier experience for you.
• Add in your mouth and tongue, focusing on the tip, while still moving the fruit up and down.
• Continue to completion or as a thrilling precursor to the main event of intercourse.

PROTIP: Shower together afterward to clean up and as an intimate transition for sex. Once out of the steamy shower, slip into one of our gorgeous lingerie pieces to keep the spice going!

GRAPEFRUIT TECHNIQUE DISCLAIMERS TO KNOW 

While the grapefruit technique is stimulating and sensuous, citrus juice isn’t ideal for the nether regions, male or female. 

Citrus fruits are very acidic and can be rough on skin, especially sensitive skin. And while it’s rare, some people are allergic to citrus. Even a mild allergy could be a major buzzkill on an otherwise very memorable night. No one wants to be on an episode of “Sex Sent Me to the ER”.
Here are a few tips we recommend for a happy experience with the grapefruit technique:

• Before trying the grapefruit technique, make sure there aren’t any breaks in the skin on and or around the penis. Acidic juice in a cut feels just like salt in an open wound.
• If there are any strange tingling, itching or burning sensations for either of you, stop and rinse off with water right away. Any trouble with breathing, hives, or rashes, seek immediate medical help. These are symptoms of a grapefruit allergy (mentioned above).
• Be careful of juice getting into your partner’s urethra, which could result in some burning sensations. Your partner should clean well afterward and use the bathroom to help flush out any remaining juice.
• Likewise, make sure to wash completely before engaging in intercourse or other sexual activities. Citrus is not great for women’s vaginal PH balance and could also cause some irritation. 

PROTIP: You can use a condom if you’re worried about sensitive skin or a possible allergy. But if you’re using a flavored condom, pick one that doesn’t clash with the citrus flavor. 

SO IS THE GRAPEFRUIT TECHNIQUE WORTH DOING?

The answer to this is: possibly. 

According to reviews from couples who have tried the grapefruit technique, many have said that it was a major hit and something they would do again. While others claimed it was more trouble than it's worth, especially considering the mess and clean-up afterward. Some said they would consider doing it again, but only for a special occasion. 

With the juice dripping down into all the nooks and crannies, some men found the sensations and temperature variations intriguing and exciting. But then others said that it felt weird and uncomfortable. Many men also felt that overall, the grapefruit technique didn’t enhance their oral experience much, while others said being grapefruited made a big difference. 

Several women reported that despite the mess, using the grapefruit technique (or an orange) did make giving oral easier and tastier. It also prevents the option of deepthroating, which was a relief to many women. 

So, will you like the grapefruit technique? Maybe. We find that it depends on you and your partner’s preferences, sense of adventure, and how well you can tolerate messiness.  

THE GRAPEFRUIT TECHNIQUE MIGHT NOT BE WORTH THE HYPE, BUT IT SURE IS FUN

While the grapefruit technique may not be for everyone, if you’re up for something new and want to add a unique skill to your bedroom repertoire, give it a try! 

At the very least, you can have a great laugh with your partner, (which is always a good thing), and a memory you likely won’t forget. Or at the very best, you have discovered a sexy, refreshing way to utilize another common fruit (move over pineapple) to give pleasure to your partner.

To learn more about the grapefruit technique and see what real couples are saying about it, check out Fatty’s IG highlight bubble.
Let us know if you try the grapefruit technique and if it’s a smash or pass!

FAQ for the Grapefruit Technique

The grapefruit technique can be a game-changer – but like anything worth trying, you probably have a few “Wait, but what about…?” moments. 

Here’s everything you wanted to know (and maybe a few things you didn’t know you needed to know):

Q: Can the grapefruit technique be done with a condom on?

A: Yes, you can do the grapefruit technique with a condom on, but many don’t because citrus can degrade latex. If you do want to use protection, try a polyurethane condom instead – and test for reactions.

Q: Will the grapefruit technique  make my partner smell like citrus afterward?

A: Yes, your partner will probably smell citrusy post-play. Grapefruit has a strong scent that can linger on skin, so if you're not into walking around smelling like brunch, a quick rinse afterward helps.

Q: Can grapefruit technique cause yeast infections or irritation for me (the giver)?

A: Yes – the grapefruit technique  can cause yeast infections or some irritation, especially if you’re prone to yeast or have sensitive skin around your mouth. The acidity from the grapefruit can throw off your pH or irritate your lips/mouth if you have micro-cuts or dryness.

Q: Is the grapefruit technique only for men?

A: The grapefruit technique, yes, is for men, but grapefruit play can be enjoyed by anyone.The grapefruit technique is specifically designed for penile stimulation, so it’s typically demonstrated on men. But with creativity, warm fruit and oral play could be adapted into broader sensory exploration (like temperature play or flavored body play).

Q: Should I practice the grapefruit technique first?

A: Yes, if you’re nervous, a bit of practice doing the grapefruit technique can definitely help calm some nerves and help you feel more sure of yourself. Try cutting the fruit and getting comfortable with the motions (even on a banana or dildo). That way, you’re confident when it’s go-time.

Q: Do I really have to use a grapefruit? What if I don’t like grapefruit?

A: No, you do not have to use a grapefruit to do this technique. Any citrus (like orange or tangerine) can work – just make sure it’s juicy, seedless, and the right size. Or skip fruit altogether and try other flavored lubes, popsicles, warm honey, or even a warmed-up silicone sleeve – because it’s the sensory surprise that counts, not the exact prop.

Q: What’s the point of the grapefruit technique  – is it better than regular oral?

A: The grapefruit technique is not necessarily better than regular oral; it’s just different. It’s more about switching things up, adding surprise and novelty, and engaging more senses – temperature, texture, smell, taste, and sound.

Q: How do I bring the grapefruit technique up with my partner?

A: You can bring up trying the grapefruit technique with your partner by leaning into the fun: “I saw this wild thing online involving a grapefruit and… well, I kind of want to try it with you.” Keeping it light makes it feel playful, not pressure-filled.