If you’re reading this article, then you’re probably looking into buying your first-ever sex toy. Congratulations! Buying your first toy can be an exciting experience; however, it can be equally parts frustrating.
In today’s world, there are multiple different avenues for buying sex toys. If going into a physical storefront isn’t really your style, plenty of online marketplaces sell an array of sex toys to fit your needs and lifestyle. Whether you are shopping for a toy to use for yourself, one to use with a partner, a vibrator, a dildo, or anything in between, here is a guide to choose the best sex toy for you.
Buying Your Toy Online
Shop around and browse several different online marketplaces.
There are countless online storefronts that carry a plethora of sex toys. Good Vibrations is an incredible resource for a diverse collection of sex toys, including vibrators, dildos, penis toys, and anal toys. Plus, with the privacy of shopping online, you can literally spend hours looking up different products before finding one that calls to you. Take your time to research different websites and peruse their selection to see what catches your eye and interest.
Make sure that your toy is body-safe.
This is even more important to confirm when you are shopping for a toy online. Be sure to carefully read the product description and any applicable reviews to ensure that your toy of choice is made from a body-safe material. As a rule of thumb, body-safe materials typically include porous silicone, glass, and wood. Click here to check out a comprehensive guide to determining if a sex toy is safe to insert inside your body!
Read reviews and blog posts on the toy you are planning to purchase.
It’s important that your research includes actual reviews from people who have used the same product before. There are lots of communities of well-informed bloggers and content creators out there who review sex toys. Considering using their knowledge and experiences to make educated decisions regarding your upcoming purchase.
In our experience, you cannot go wrong with the Magic Wand. It’s probably one of the most iconic vibrators on the market. In fact, many vulva-owners consider it a “must-have” toy. It’s also very intuitive (though certainly not lacking in power) and a greater starter toy for beginners. A smaller vibe like the Mimi from JeJoue is excellent for partner play. And with 5 speeds and 7 patterns, you’ll be able to discover what you like when it comes to using vibrators.
Don’t be afraid to step outside the box.
Another great toy is the Womanizer, purely because it’s so unique. The Womanizer uses “pleasure air technology,” which can provide an incredible sensation on your clitoris, and making it a nice alternative to your vibrating toys. Adding both to your sexual arsenal will increase your masturbation game tenfold.
If you want something really discreet (like, so discreet it doubles as jewelry), go for the Vesper necklace from Crave. It’s a tiny bullet vibe that looks like a necklace. Though don’t let its innocent appearance make you think that this toy doesn’t make a punch—it’s as powerful as it is pretty.
Buying Your Toy In-Person
Bring your partner or a friend with you.
Bringing someone else with you to buy your first sex toy can help to ease any anxiety or awkwardness you may be feeling and can make the experience more enjoyable for you. It may also be preferable to go shopping with a friend who has more experience with selecting and purchasing sex toys. This way, if you have a question but are too nervous to approach an employee, you are able to ask this friend any questions you may have!
Do your research before visiting.
This process is all about you, so don’t feel like you need to rush to settle on a toy. Take your time to explore all your options and assess which toy is right for your needs. That being said, if something sounds intriguing to you, don’t be afraid to explore it! There are so many options out there, and it’s guaranteed that you’ll find a toy that brings you the pleasure you’re seeking.
The employees are there to help you.
These workers most likely deal with dozens of first-time shoppers a day, so no question is too taboo for them. There is no question that will embarrass them or make them think less of you—it’s their job to help you find the toy that is the best fit for your body and your needs! Sex stores typically work to create a nonjudgemental and welcoming environment for their customers, so feel free to ask any questions you may have in the moment.
Most importantly, don’t put too much pressure on yourself that the experience of buying your first sex toy becomes stressful rather than enjoyable. The experience should be fun and playful – do your research and trust your instincts, but don’t overthink it too much! As you experiment, you can always grow your collection more. There are so many incredible sex toys out there to try, so go ahead and start exploring the vast selection that exists both in stores and online!
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Sami Harris is a freelance writer and social media consultant born and raised in Orange County, California. She is currently the written editor for Jawbreaker Zine, has bylines in Pure Nowhere, Clover Letter, Adolescent Content, Uniquely Aligned, Also Cool Mag, Lithium Magazine, Always In A Funk, and Odyssey Online, and work forthcoming in Sumou Mag and Polemical Zine.
