A Beginner’s Guide to Sex Toys

Sex toys can be an amazing way to enhance pleasure and intimacy in the bedroom. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming trying to find the right toys for you. This guide will walk you through how to choose the best sex toys, use them safely, and get the most satisfaction out of your sexual experiences.

How to Select the Best Sex Toys

The first step is figuring out what kinds of sensations you want to experience. Here are some of the most popular categories of sex toys and what they can offer:

Vibrators

Vibrators use motors to provide pleasurable vibrations. They come in many shapes and sizes and can stimulate the clitoris, G-spot, penis, or other erogenous zones. Start with a simple bullet vibrator if you’re new to vibration. Rabbit vibrators feature both internal and external stimulation. Wand massagers have large, powerful heads that deliver deep, rumbly vibrations.

Dildos

Dildos are phallic-shaped toys made for penetration. Look for body-safe materials like silicone or glass. Size, shape, texture, warmth, and realism vary widely. Double-ended dildos allow for penetration by both partners.

Suction cup bases let you mount dildos to surfaces for hands-free play.

Anal Toys

Butt plugs are designed for anal insertion and prolonged wear. Make sure they have a flared base. Anal beads provide bead-by-bead stimulation when pulled out. Vibrating anal toys add extra pleasure. Start small with fingers or slender toys before working up to penetration.

Masturbation Sleeves

Strokers and masturbators envelop the penis to recreate intercourse. Texture, grip, and vibration all affect the sensation. Full-size masturbators like Fleshlights allow deeper thrusting. Compact sleeves are more discreet. Lube enhances the experience.

Bondage Gear

Restraints like handcuffs, blindfolds, and bondage tape restrict movement and deprive senses for erotic domination games. Always establish consent and safety precautions first. Have safety shears nearby. Start slow and communicate regularly.

Consider your interests, desired sensations, solo or partnered use, budget, privacy needs, and more when selecting sex toys. High-quality toys tend to be safer and give better results. Read customer reviews to help choose the best options.

Using Sex Toys Safely and Hygienically

Proper use and care are essential for safe, enjoyable toy play. Here are some key tips:

• Always clean toys thoroughly before and after each use with mild soap and warm water. Sterilise nonporous toys occasionally by boiling, bleaching or using UV light.
• Store toys separately to avoid cross-contamination. Never share toys between partners without sterilising first. Use condoms on porous toys.
• Inspect toys for damage before use and discard if they have rips, smells, or other defects. Avoid jelly rubber which can leak chemicals.
• Only use water-based lube with silicone toys. Oil-based lubes break down silicone. Always use lube for anal play. Reapply frequently.
• Start slow, relax muscles, and stop if you feel pain. Numbing lubes are risky. Listen to your body.
• Do not fully insert large toys anally or cover genitals with toys, which can cause nerve damage. Leave space for circulation.
• Keep batteries fresh in vibrating toys. Remove when not in use. Don’t charge buzzing toys unattended.

Following these hygiene and safety guidelines reduces the risk of infections, injuries and other issues. It also makes playtime more pleasurable.

Maximising Satisfaction from Toy Play

To fully enjoy your sex toys, incorporate these tips:

• Set the mood with music, candles, lingerie or anything else that relaxes and arouses you. Build anticipation. Engage all your senses.
• Use lots of lube to reduce friction. Reapply frequently. Lube enhances sensation considerably.
• Try teasing yourself. Run toys over the skin before direct stimulation. Take your time building up. Edge yourself for intense climaxes.
• Explore different motions, speeds, pressure levels and vibration patterns to see what feels best. Communicate with partners about preferences.
• Combine toys with other activities like oral sex, dirty talk, fantasy role-play and more for multidimensional experiences.
• Use toys together during foreplay or intercourse for new sensations. Let your partner control toys on you. Explore each other’s responses.
• Try toys in different positions, such as doggy-style or woman-on-top. Adjust angles to target pleasure points.
• Relax and clear your mind. Don’t get frustrated if orgasm is elusive. Take breaks to prevent numbness.
• After orgasming, enjoy the blissful afterglow. Cuddle, kiss, laugh together. Fall asleep satisfied if solo play.

With some preparation and a spirit of playful exploration, sex toys can enhance your bedroom adventures and intimacy. Follow these tips for picking the best toys, using them safely, and maximising pleasure. The rewards will be earth-shaking.