For any woman, no matter their sex life, sex toys can be an exciting thing to explore. They’re not only for solo use, either: they’re versatile items that can be used alongside intimacy with your partner.
If you’re looking into this area for the first time, however, there are several things you should know, and this article is here to help. Here are four key aspects you should think about when it comes to owning and caring for a sex toy.
1. Choosing the Right Material
You’ll be aware that sex toys come in many different shapes and sizes, but they’re also made from several different materials. Material matters firstly because of its role in comfort, and what feels right for one might not be for another.
For most people, the best materials are medical-grade silicone, stainless steel, or glass. These materials are also nice and easy to keep clean. Always check the materials section on the box or webpage for the toy you’re buying – don’t buy toys that contain PVC or phthalates, as these may be harmful to the body over time.
hen it comes to specific toys, there are plenty of options available for different experience levels. For example, if you’re new to penetration play, you might want to start with the best dildos for beginners, which are usually smaller, softer, and shaped in a way that makes them easy to handle and less intimidating.
On the other hand, those who already have some experience can explore larger or more textured toys, or even experiment with stainless steel and glass toys for a different kind of sensation. The same principle applies across the board with any type of sex toy—there’s always something suitable for beginners and something more adventurous for seasoned users.
2. The Importance of Keeping the Toy Clean
One of the most fundamental things you need to be aware of is the importance of keeping your sex toys clean. Like any item that goes near your body, an unclean toy carries a risk of spreading bacteria and infections. Every time you use a toy, it should be cleaned – both before and after: there are plenty of appropriate sex toy cleaners you can use that make the process quick and easy.
You should also be mindful of any electrical parts while cleaning if the item isn’t fully waterproof, and make sure to store your toys somewhere clean and out of the way.
3. Use Lubrication
A key factor for getting the most out of your sex toys is to use lubrication. As is the case with normal sex, lube reduces friction and increases comfort, which are both paramount for a pleasant experience.
Water-based lubricants are your best bet, as these work well with nearly all materials and have a good hygiene profile.
4. On Responsible Use
Finally, here are some more general tips on safety. ‘Responsible use’ is a relatively broad umbrella, but it mostly revolves around understanding your comfort zone and sticking to your boundaries. Always start with small toys at first, and never try to force anything into your body – any sign of pain means it’s time to stop and reevaluate things. Only do what feels comfortable to you.
It’s also key to remember to never share sex toys, as this can increase the risk of STI (sexually transmitted disease) transmission.
Wrapping Up
This article covered the very basics of sex toy usage, and you should now be ready to make your first purchase. While it might feel a little embarrassing at first, it’s usually a good idea to purchase in-store and talk to staff for recommendations. If you’re buying online, always check reviews to learn about other people’s experiences with the same products.