We all know sex toys can be a healthy and welcome addition to a couple’s bedroom practices; however there are so many sex toys and pleasure products available in the market today.  In fact, there are over 114 million results for “sex toys” on Google and over 35 thousand results for “sex toys” on Amazon.   So, where do you start? How do you decide which toy is right for you and your partner?   Unfortunately, most people simply guess which one is right for them.  Well, here are 3 easy steps to help you get started along with some important safety tips to consider:
 
1.  Decide – First, you have to decide what you want a sex toy to do?  Meaning, what pleasure are you seeking from the toy?  What erogenous zone(s) do you want stimulated and how?  For example, do you want a sex toy to provide internal vaginal stimulation, clitoral stimulation or both?  Do you want a sex toy for anal stimulation?  Do you want to experiment with vibrations, pulsations and escalations?  Is the sex toy for you or your partner?
 
Here are just a few types of sex toys to think about:

• Vibrators: Sex toys that vibrate and are used for sexual stimulation. These can be used on any erogenous zone.
• Dildos: Sex toys that are shaped like an erect penis and are used for some type of penetration such as vaginal or anal penetration.
• Anal Sex Toys: Toys that are designed specifically for safe anal penetration.  They will typically have a flared base or some type of handle.  Due to the suction, if the toy doesn’t have a base, it is possible for it to get pulled up into the rectum.   You want make sure the toy is smooth and seamless.
• Penis Rings (cock rings): ): A ring that’s worn around the base of the penis that can prolong an erection. Some rings come with mini vibrating bullets that can be pleasurable for both the wearer and the partner.
• BDSM (Bondage, Domination, Sadism and Masochism) Toys:  These toys include floggers, paddles, nipple clamps, restraints, blindfolds, and much more.
• Lubricants, Adult Movies and Erotica: Remember, these can be considered sexual toys/aids as well!

 
2.  Research Together – Next, we suggest that you begin researching sex toys and pleasure products together.  WARNING:  This alone can start to create some anticipation and sexual desire!   You can research sex toys through online adult stores or by visiting adult stores in your area.  People love going to Toys R Us and other toy stores, because the displays are just amazingly vibrant — all the counters and walls are draped with these bright, blazing primary colors with packages designed to capture the eye and hold your attention.  Similarly, it’s also fun going to brick and mortar couples’ stores where adult sex toys are sold, because the displays are strikingly the same, awash in primary colors with a few more bright pinks, reds and purples — though the imagery is typically far from family friendly!
 
3.  Now Experiment – You may have to try a few sex toys before you find out works best for you.  You may want to start out with a less expensive sex toy first and one that is simple. And remember, just because a sex toy is expensive does not mean it’s a good toy for you!
 
Some Sex Toy Safety Tips!

• Make sure to find out what the toy is made of in order to avoid any potential allergic reactions.  For example, some people are allergic to latex and some toys are made with latex.
• Find a toy that has quality materials.  When in doubt, look for the Safe and Pure logo, found on many CalExotics products.
• If you are using your toy for anal sex make sure the toy has a base.  Due to the suction, if the toy doesn’t have a base, it is possible for it to get pulled up into the rectum.
• Make sure the toy doesn’t have any sharp edges and it is smooth and seamless.
• If using a penis ring, don’t use it longer than 30 minutes at a time.  Remove immediately if experiencing pain or discomfort.
• Even though we advise against it, if you are going to share your toy or use it both vaginally and anally, put a condom on it to minimize the risk of transmitting infections.
• Make sure you use lubrication that is appropriate for the toy.  Water-based lubes tend to be safe for most sex toys.
• Clean the toy before the first use and after each use with soap and water or a sex toy cleaner.
• Remember to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation on how to clean the sex toy and on the best lubricant to use with the toy.