It's 2017, and the sexual revolution is fully underway, yet some of us are still a little shy about making that first big sex toy purchase. It's totally understandable — getting your first vibrator can be intimidating, especially given how many options there are. But most toys are far less complicated than they seem, and once you get one, you'll wonder what you were stressing about. Here are some quick-and-dirty shopping tips to guide beginners.
Take it slow
If you're a newbie, you're probably not going to want to start by bringing a gigantic piece of equipment into your life. Start small and simple, experiment on your own and then work your way up to something with more bells and whistles.
Head online
Sure, if you go into a brick and mortar sex shop, you get the benefit of a salesperson in the store steering you toward some location favorites, but it's also likely you'll feel a little inhibited and won't want to take your time examining each item.
If you shop online, you have a huge selection, and you don't have to worry about anyone peering over your shoulder. Go to websites that are really great at providing educational/expert information with their toys, like Babeland, Good Vibrations and the Sinclair Institute. Some sites even give you the option to chat with a live representative who can answer your questions.
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"It doesn't hurt to buy a sex toy book, which can guide you with all of your options and how to use them safely while maximizing pleasure," says Astroglide's sexual health and wellness ambassador and sex expert, Dr. Yvonne Fulbright.
Don't forget the lube
As with most sexual encounters, lube makes everything better when you're experimenting with toys.
"No matter what, for a number of toys, the best and easiest use involves at least a couple of drops of lubricant for comfort," says Fulbright.
Next Up: Your first vibe
Originally published October 2013. Updated February 2017.
Your first vibe
If you're on the market for your first sex toy, a vibrator is your best bet.
"Vibrators are always great for beginners because they’re not only simple and easy to use, but they’re versatile and can create different sensations for different people based on what speed is used and where you put it," says Dr. Jane Greer, marriage and family therapist.
Also, they're great for self-pleasure as well as for being pleasured by your partner. Be open to discovery and trying new things with your partner, and be OK with the fact that your partner may not enjoy a toy you really like — you might have to move on to something else that you both enjoy.
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Here are some of our favorites.
1. Adam & Eve's Slim Pink Pleaser Vibrator
Perfect for beginners and those who are more experienced, this super-affordable vibe with adjustable speeds is waterproof and perfect for foreplay. (Adam & Eve, $20)
2. Crave Solo Vibrator
As the name suggests, this one is perfect for a solo mission. It's powerful, rechargeable, waterproof and it comes in an adorable black leather storage bag. (Crave, $139)
3. Jimmyjane Hello Touch
Imagine if humans all had vibrating fingertips — that's the world we want to live in. The Hello Touch makes those dreams come true. Each finger pad has its own motor, making it the perfect combination of human touch and technology. (Amazon, $40)
4. Lelo Lyla 2 Vibrator
A great way to get a partner involved in the experience is with a remote-controlled vibrator. This egg vibrator can be used both internally and externally and is waterproof and rechargeable. (Lelo, $159)
5. We-Vibe Sync
We-Vibe knows that no two bodies are alike, so the Sync can be adjusted to fit your unique shape. There are two adjustable points to better target the G-spot and clitoris with more or less pressure. Sync fits comfortably in place even as you change positions during sex. (Déjà Vu Love Boutique, $189)
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Before you go, check out our slideshow below.
