How to get the best out of your sex toys!
Whether you’re new to sex toys or have a collection to rival Ann Summers and Lovehoney combined, you want to make sure you’re enjoying them to the full. That means:
- Choosing the right toy for you
- Knowing how to use it
- Making sure it’s clean as a whistle
Sex toys are a great way to explore your own body, boost your confidence in the bedroom, and enhance your pleasure with a partner. So, let’s make sure your journey is as empowering and exciting as can be.
How to get started with sex toys
If you’re new to sex toys, the selection process can feel a tad intimidating; in fact, the phrase ‘spoiled for choice’ springs to mind. You’ve got vibrators, dildos, clitoral stimulators, wands, love eggs, anal toys, prostate massagers, bullet vibrators, cock rings, rabbits, and even roses. They come in all colours, shapes and sizes – for him, for her, for couples and thruples and everything in between.
Confused? Don’t be. Here's how to get started:
- Begin with small and non-intimidating toys, like bullet vibrators, small dildos, or finger vibrators.
- Choose toys made from body-safe materials such as silicone or medical-grade plastics to avoid irritation.
- Use a quality lube to enhance sensation and make insertion more comfortable.
- Avoid silicone-based lubes when using silicone-based toys, and instead opt for water-based, or plant-oil based lubes (more on that later).
- Take time to explore your body and understand what feels good – experimenting with different sensations and speeds.
- Approach the experience with an open mind and without pressure – orgasm doesn’t have to be the goal here.
How to use sex toys with a partner
If you’ve only ever used sex toys for solo pleasure, you might be wondering how to get someone else in on the act. Using sex toys with a partner can help you to introduce them to what you like, and the sort of techniques, rhythm and pace that works for you. If you’re both comfortable with the idea of using toys together, it can deepen your level of connection, increase intimacy, and boost pleasure all-round.
Here's how to approach it:
- Discuss desires, boundaries, and preferences with your partner before using toys.
- Incorporate toys into foreplay or lovemaking by experimenting with different positions and techniques.
- Treat it as an opportunity to explore each other's bodies in new ways – encouraging creativity and spontaneity to keep things exciting.
- If your partner is hesitant or unsure, respect their boundaries and take things slow.
Choosing the right sex toy for you
The vast array of sex toys on the market today is confusing to say the least. But with choice comes freedom – and so much fun. All you need to do is think about what you really want from your sex toy. Will you be using it alone, or with a partner? Are you in the market for something small and discreet to keep you company on those work trips, or is bigger, better?
Here are some things to consider:
- Think about the type of stimulation you enjoy—whether it's clitoral, vaginal, or anal—and look at toys that cater to your specific needs.
- Do your research into different types of toys and read reviews and recommendations from other pleasure-seekers.
- To give you the most bang for your buck, look for toys with multiple functions or settings to appeal to varying preferences and moods.
- While budget-friendly options are available, investing in high-quality toys is best for durability, safety, and satisfaction in the long run.
Using lubricant with your sex toys
Lube is a wonderful thing. Whether you experience vaginal dryness or you simply like to up the ante in the bedroom, lube is an absolute game-changer. But what some people don’t realise is that silicone-based lubricants can actually interact with silicone sex toys and cause them to degenerate over time. This makes the surface of the sex toy more porous – making it harder to clean and heightening your risk of infection.
Here's what you should be thinking about:
- You need a lube that’s compatible with sex toys. Our recently launched YES® COCO as well as YES® OB are great alternative for silicone lubricants, as the plant-based oils won’t damage silicone toys.
- Use a generous amount of lube to make insertion smoother and more comfortable and to increase stimulation. And don't hesitate to reapply as often as needed.
- If you have sensitive skin or allergies, opt for natural or organic lubes to avoid irritation or discomfort. Every YES® lubricant is certified organic, works in harmony with your intimate health, and designed to be side effect free.
How to clean your sex toys
While your vagina is self-cleaning, there are times when you might want to freshen up with something more than water – and when you do, it’s really important to use the right products for your intimate areas. It’s the same with sex toys.
Our YES® CLEANSE intimate wash is pH-matched to avoid disruption to your vaginal and vulval health. This makes it perfect for cleaning your sex toys!
We recommend:
- Cleaning your toys before and after each use to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Keeping your toys in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Right then, we’ll leave you to enjoy…
