What’s Stopping You From Buying One Sex Toy?

Besides looking at the toy, consider what it’s made of. Porous materials like latex, silicone and cyberskin can be washed with antibacterial sex toy cleaners and mild soap.

Make sure to wash it after every use and before sharing. Also, always put a condom over the toy before touching anyone else’s genitals.

1. You don’t know what to get

Whether you’re looking for something to give or someone else, it can feel daunting to navigate the world of sex toys. But there are plenty of resources to help you find the right one for your needs and desires. And if you’re still confused, it doesn’t hurt to ask the experts for advice.

A good place to start is by asking a trusted sex educator for recommendations, says Cadell. You could also bring your partner into the store with you to browse together and see what sparks their interest. Both Ellison and Cadell agree that going in-person is the best way to shop for a toy, even if you plan to buy online. They say it’s an intimate and fun experience, and a great way to talk about the bedroom and what’s exciting about it.

If you do go the online route, check out the toy’s reviews on sites like Amazon. It will give you an idea of what people love and what they don’t. It can be helpful to ask for suggestions from the toy’s manufacturer as well. This is especially important if you have an issue with the toy. For example, if the vibrator stops working or doesn’t turn on, reach out to the company and describe your issue in detail. This will help them to identify the problem and work to fix it for future devices.

Another thing to consider is cleaning and storing your sex toy correctly. If you don’t, your sex toy can get pretty gross, says Searah Deysach, a sex educator and owner of feminist sex shop Early to Bed. It can get sticky and covered in lint, which can lead to bacteria and viruses, she adds.

Deysach recalls one of her clients who got recurrent yeast infections, which she realized was because she wasn’t cleaning her toy properly. Using dirty or old sex toys can also cause urinary tract infections, because germs from the toy may enter your urethra when you use it, says Rachel Hoffman, a New York-based social worker who specializes in sexuality and intimacy.

2. You don’t have the money

Some people simply don’t have the money to buy a sex toy. This is understandable. The sex toys industry is relatively new and a lot of these products are quite expensive. Despite this, it’s important to remember that the sex toys industry is still growing.

As the economy continues to recover, more people will have more money in their pockets and be able to spend it on things like sex toys. This is why we’re seeing a lot more people entering the industry and more brands popping up to meet the needs of this market.

It’s also important to remember that sex toys aren’t just for adults. They can also be used by teens. In fact, some sex toys are specifically designed for teen use and come with age-appropriate packaging to make it easier for parents to approve the purchase. This is especially important as sex toy use in teens is on the rise.

If your teen wants a sex toy, be sure to talk to them about it. Gently explore why they want a sex toy and ask them if they are mature enough to care for it properly. If they are, then go ahead and help them purchase one. Just be sure to set some ground rules, such as cleaning the toy after every use and storing it in a private place where it won’t get damaged or ruined by siblings or other household members.

It’s important to remember that sex toys can spread infections, including sexually transmitted diseases. Dweck cites a patient who was baffled as to why she kept getting trichomoniasis, a common and curable STI, until her doctor explained that the toy she had been using was retaining bacteria from unwashed hands. It’s a good idea to always wash a toy after each use and, if possible, to only use sex toys made from body safe materials, such as silicone, glass, or stainless steel.

It’s also a good idea to take a look at adult-oriented stores that focus on high-quality toys and don’t cut corners. For example, Dame Products, Babeland, Unbound, Wildflower and Sweet Vibrations are just a few of the highly-curated toy shops that don’t mess around when it comes to quality.

3. You don’t know what to buy

Sex toys are used for a variety of purposes, including masturbation, pleasure during sex, and even to help with certain medical conditions or sexual dysfunction. They aren’t just for older people either — many teens find orgasm with sex toys, and there is nothing wrong with that at all. In fact, sex toys can make your orgasms more intense and help you orgasm longer.

However, there are a few important things to keep in mind before purchasing sex toys. For starters, you should always buy from a trusted source or store. Sex stores or adult shops are the best option, as they offer a large selection of sex toys and have knowledgeable staff who can answer questions about their products. You should also take the time to read the toy’s label and packaging, as some toys are made with materials that can cause reactions, especially if you’re sensitive or have any medical conditions.

Additionally, sex toys should be cleaned properly. This is especially important if you are using a toy that goes inside your body, like a dildo or vibrator. Proper cleaning will prevent bacterial infection and reduce the likelihood of spreading STIs, such as chlamydia. Chlamydia can live on sex toys for weeks or months after use, and it is more likely to be passed between partners if the sex toy is shared without cleaning.

Finally, you should always wash your sex toys before and after every use. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria and fungus. It’s also a good idea to store your sex toys in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. And don’t forget to use a lubricant that is safe for your sex toy. Silicone lubricants can react with some toys, so opt for a water-based lube instead.

Finally, if you’re worried about a toy being too racy or raunchy for your taste, it’s best to start off with something small and gradual. Then, as you orgasm more with your toy, you can gradually increase the size and complexity. In addition, you should always listen to your body and stop if anything feels uncomfortable.

4. You don’t know what to buy

Buying a new sex toy can feel intimidating. However, sex toys can be a great way to explore what turns you on and boost intimacy in committed relationships. Experts recommend starting with a dildo made from non-porous, body-safe materials like glass, silicone, or metal. Add plenty of lubricant, and don’t forget to use condoms for safety.

It’s also important to keep in mind that sex toys can carry bacteria and sperm, so proper cleaning is essential for safe, healthy use. Manufacturers typically attach easy-to-follow cleaning instructions on their packaging, and sex toy stores can provide advice and support in this area. For example, a sex toy with a rubber base should only be used with water-based lubricants. Oil-based lubricants can cause latex to rip, which could lead to bacterial infections and STIs.

Additionally, if you’re shopping for a toy with a partner, experts recommend broaching the topic with them and going to a store together, if possible. Both Ellison and Cadell say this is a fun, exciting experience that allows couples to explore their interests together.

If you’re not comfortable discussing sex toys with your partner, sex therapists specialize in working with clients on sexual shame and can be a great resource to help normalize the use of toys in a relationship. They can even teach couples how to use toys together, which can lead to greater intimacy and exploration in sex.

Once you’re ready to buy, Finn suggests focusing on quality over price. It’s common to assume that the most expensive sex toys are the best, but it’s not always true. In fact, cheaper toys can feel just as good, especially if you take the time to find ones that suit your needs and tastes. If you’re not satisfied with a product, experts recommend speaking to customer service and providing detailed information about the problem. This will help them identify the source of the issue, and they may offer a refund or replacement for your convenience. In addition, they may be able to offer suggestions for a better product that will meet your needs.