With so many options out there, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. The good news? Choosing the right toy comes down to understanding your body, your preferences, and a few simple guidelines. Let's make it simple.
Start With Yourself
Before browsing, take a moment to think about what you're actually looking for:
- What kind of stimulation do you enjoy? External, internal, or both?
- Solo play, partnered play, or both?
- Are you a complete beginner or looking to try something new?
No right or wrong answers here — this is purely about narrowing things down in a way that feels personal to you.
Match the Toy to Your Body
You Prefer External Stimulation
Vibrators are your best starting point. Bullet vibrators are small, simple, and perfect for exploring erogenous zones like the clitoris, nipples, and perineum. Wand vibrators offer broader, deeper vibrations and are wonderfully easy to use. Air pulse toys are worth considering too — they use gentle air pressure rather than vibration to create a completely different and hugely popular sensation.
You Prefer Internal Stimulation
Start with a smooth, simply shaped dildo in a beginner-friendly size. No ridges or texture — just a comfortable, intuitive introduction to penetrative play. Body-safe silicone is the most popular and beginner-friendly material choice.
You Enjoy Both
Rabbit-style vibrators combine internal and external stimulation simultaneously and are a great all-in-one option for those who enjoy both.
You're Curious About Anal Play
Start small, use plenty of lube, and always choose a toy designed specifically for anal play with a flared base or retrieval cord — non-negotiable for safe use. A small beginner anal plug is the most approachable starting point.
Size: Always Start Smaller Than You Think
This is the most common piece of advice for first-time buyers and it's worth repeating. Starting smaller is more comfortable, more enjoyable, and gives you a much better sense of what you actually like before exploring further.
A simple guide:
- Internal toys: Slim and smooth, around 1 inch diameter or less
- Anal toys: The smallest beginner option available
- External toys: Size matters less — focus on vibration strength and ease of use
Choose Body-Safe Materials
The material your toy is made from affects how it feels, how safe it is, and how easy it is to keep clean. Always look for:
- Medical-grade silicone — soft, flexible, hypoallergenic, easy to clean
- ABS plastic — firm, smooth, non-porous, budget-friendly
- Borosilicate glass — durable, non-porous, great for temperature play
- Stainless steel — weighty, smooth, incredibly easy to sanitize
Avoid jelly rubber, PVC, or any toy without clear material labelling — these are often porous and difficult to keep truly hygienic. For more detail visit our What Are Body-Safe Sex Toy Materials? (And Why They Matter) guide.
Features Worth Considering
Vibration settings — Multiple speeds and patterns give you more to explore. What feels right varies from person to person so variety is always a plus.
Waterproof rating — A fully waterproof toy is easier to clean and opens up more options for where and how you use it.
Rechargeable — More convenient, more powerful, and better for the environment than battery-operated toys. Most modern toys charge via USB.
Noise level — If discretion matters, check reviews before buying. Many modern toys are whisper-quiet but it's worth confirming.
A Few Final Shopping Tips
- Buy from reputable retailers who are upfront about materials. No material labelling? Move on.
- Read reviews for real insight into comfort, noise, and ease of use.
- Start with one toy. Get to know what you enjoy before expanding your collection.
- Always use lube. Water-based lubricant works with every toy material and makes every experience more comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right sex toy is a personal process — and that's what makes it exciting. Take your time, trust your instincts, and enjoy the journey of discovering what feels good for you. 🧡
Up Next
- What Are Body-Safe Sex Toy Materials? (And Why They Matter) — The one thing worth knowing before you buy anything
- Best Sex Toys for First-Time Users — Not sure where to start? We've done the shortlisting for you
- How to Clean and Store Sex Toys Safely — Two minutes of care that makes every experience better
- Beginner's Guide to Sex Toys: Everything You Need to Know — The complete starting point for your pleasure journey
