Do you remember your first roller coaster ride? That wild mix of excitement, curiosity, and a dash of nerves? That was me, standing on the threshold of a sex toy store for the first time. Like a fish out of water, I was wide-eyed and overwhelmed, albeit buzzing with anticipation.
My first rendezvous was with a petite, purple vibrator named 'Violet'. It was small, non-intimidating, and had a friendly vibe (pun intended). But standing there, in front of an array of colourful, mysterious gadgets, I felt like an alien in an unknown world. The shelves were lined with objects of all shapes and sizes, each promising a different kind of pleasure. It was thrilling, a little daunting, and definitely a departure from my comfort zone.
I remember taking Violet home, my heart pounding the whole way. The mix of anticipation and uncertainty was palpable. I had so many questions: will I enjoy it? Will it be too much? Did I choose the right one? Looking back, I realize these questions are all part of the process, part of the discovery of one's own body and desires.
Sound familiar? If it does, you're in good company. Let's go on this journey together, and let me share with you what I've learned along the way.
Five tips for choosing your first sex toy
Think about what you like
When choosing your first sex toy, it's crucial to consider the kind of sensations you enjoy and how you intend to use the toy. Co-founder of Bableland, Claire Cavanah, advises beginners to think about whether they prefer internal or external stimulation, or perhaps a combination of both. Consider the size too - are you drawn to something slim, or does a thicker option appeal more? If you're exploring vibrators, would you prefer one that's curved for G-spot stimulation, or something smooth and straight?
Similarly, Dr. Ian Kerner, a well-known sex counselor and author, encourages people to focus on their specific interests. He suggests, "If penetration is what you're after, keep that as your guiding principle. This approach can make the selection process less daunting. Most stores are grouped by these categories, so having a clear idea of what you're looking for can help you navigate past the intimidating wall of options and focus on what will truly satisfy you."
Remember, understanding your own desires is the cornerstone of a rewarding and satisfying experience with sex toys. It's not about finding the perfect toy at your first attempt, but about exploring your preferences and finding out what works best for you.
Do your research beforehand
Before making your first sex toy purchase, take advantage of the information available online! A personal favourite of ours is checking out product reviews and reading blog posts that talk about the different types of sex toys. These can give you a sense of how a product performs in real-world scenarios and might even shed light on aspects you hadn't previously considered, such as noise level, battery life, or ease of cleaning. Also, talk to your fellow girl friends! Make it a fun activity, sit down over a cocktail and discuss what types of sex toys they use and ask as many questions as your heart desires!
It is important to keep in mind that terms like 'soft', 'hard', 'big', and 'small' are relative and subjective. What feels mild to one person might be intense to another, and what one person considers large, another might find just right. So, use these reviews and discussions as a guide, but remember, the final decision should align with your personal comfort and desires.
Quality matters
Just like you wouldn't compromise on the quality of the food you consume or the car you drive, the same principle applies to sex toys. Quality and safety should be your top priorities. Look for toys made from body-safe materials like silicone, glass, or stainless steel. These materials aren't just luxurious to the touch, they can also be cleaned and sterilized easily, making sure your playtime is not just pleasurable but also safe.
Beware of products made from cheap plastics or jelly-like materials. These can be porous, acting like tiny sponges that absorb and harbor bacteria, which can lead to infections. Not the kind of surprise you want from your intimate sessions!
High-quality toys like Uno are often designed with your ultimate comfort and pleasure in mind. They are more likely to have ergonomic designs, a wider range of settings, and a longer lifespan. So, while they might require a bigger initial investment, their performance and durability often make them more cost-effective in the long run.
Always remember, when it comes to your body and your pleasure, you deserve the best. Don't compromise on quality - your satisfaction (and health) depends on it!
Good things come in small parcels
The size and shape of a sex toy can be as unique as the individual using it, and these factors can greatly influence your experience. If you're a beginner, it can often feel daunting walking into a sex toy shop and not knowing where to even begin (don’t worry, we’ve all been there!). With the endless amount of shapes and sizes out there, rabbits, bullets, g-spot, wands… the list goes on.
Starting with something small and simple can be a good choice for beginners. It can help you ease into the experience, understand your preferences, and build confidence. Don't be seduced by the biggest or most complex toy on the shelf, start with something fun yet simple like Uno. It's super soft tip designed to cup and guide your clitoris from fold to fold, meeting a round curvy butt that's easy to grip and flow. Whether you like it with your eyes opened or closed, Uno will feel like an extension of your hand.
And as you become more comfortable and knowledgeable about what you like, you can gradually experiment with different sizes, shapes, and types of toys. The world of sex toys is vast and varied - there's always something new to explore and enjoy!
Image by Freepik
Seek expert advice
Walking into a sex toy shop for the first time might feel intimidating, but remember, the people working there are professionals who are there to help you. They've seen and assisted customers just like you every single day - those who are new to toys, unsure of what to choose, and looking to explore their sexuality.
The store employees are typically well-versed in the various products, their uses, and safety aspects. They can guide you through the process of choosing a toy that will suit your desires and comfort level. They can explain the differences between materials, sizes, shapes, and functionalities of various toys, and can offer advice on how to use and care for them.
Don't be afraid to ask questions. Whether you're curious about the intensity of a certain vibrator, how to use a certain toy, or the best way to clean and store it, their guidance can be invaluable. Rest assured, these conversations are just part of their day-to-day job - they're not there to judge but to assist.
Repeat after me: Buying a sex toy is not shameful
To all my shy friends out there, standing at the edge of this exciting journey, I want to share a few words of encouragement. Buying a sex toy is not a taboo, it's a voyage of self-love and pleasure. It's about daring to journey into new depths of your own body and mind, and giving yourself the permission to seek and discover what brings you joy and satisfaction.
Remember, there's nothing to be embarrassed about. We all have desires, curiosities, and a right to pleasure. Exploring them is a natural part of being human. So, let's drop the fear and the shame that society may impose. Instead, let's embrace the adventure with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. Let's take that first step into the world of sex toys with confidence, knowing that we're embarking on a path of self-love, pleasure, and empowerment. Here's to exploring, experimenting, and most importantly, enjoying the journey!
Ready to experiment with your first sex toy? Meet Uno, a beginner-friendly vibrator that's perfect for those new to the game. It's sleek, comfortable and easy to use. Uno promises to be your faithful companion on this exhilarating journey of sexual pleasure. So, why wait? Start your adventure today
