A Beginner's Guide to Sex Toys
WORDS BY SLY (a pseudonym).
When I first entered an adult XXX store the array of shapes overwhelmed me. My novice eye couldn’t tell a finger vibrator from a cock ring. If apprehension stands in the way of your exploration, you are not alone. This guide, though not exhaustive, aims to make comfortable that which can ignite exploration, promote play and increase pleasure!
Non-Penetration Vibration
Basically, anything that looks like a bean, egg, or bunny does not have to penetrate to kindle pleasure. Marketed towards vaginas, they come battery- or remote-operated yet egg vibrators can massage the balls also, for double the fun!
Vibrators That Also Penetrate
Stick vibrators vary from the size of your finger, growing from there. These magic wands are a starting point if a full-size dildo purchase incites apprehension.
Dildos That Also Vibrate
Traditionally dildos were made phallic for penetration and did not vibrate, yet plenty these days do. Whether you desire a true to penis copy or a rabbit to tickle your anus/clitoris, the choice is yours as the range extends to fantasy animal cock, like the dragon penis pictured.
Butt Stuff
In the name of exclusivity, lets skip anal dildos and vibrators to address the more classic butt plug. Used for pleasure and stimulation, and made of glass, metal, or silicone, we have surpassed practicality; the possibilities for elegance are endless! If you ever wondered why they appear in a set, the varying size prepares the anus for penetration. Butt plugs ascend in size and by slowly increasing through the day or week, the anus stretches to minimise eventual potential discomfort.
DO NOT cross contaminate your nether regions!!! Please be vigorously, meticulously, fastidiously clean.
Penis Stuff
Placing first in penis paraphernalia, cock rings help increase pleasure and maintain erection through stifling blood flow. Some are vibrators as well! However when penetration’s the intention, blow job simulators and penis masturbators are only a click away! Just remember that soapy hot water; if your toys do not smell clean, they’re not.
Couple Stuff
There are finger vibrators, partner vibrators (the toy penetrates one while the other presses against it) and double-ended dildos. The couple array is extensive!
Whips and Tricks
If your fetish tends towards bondage, discipline, sadism or masochism (BDSM) there are starter kits galore. Ball-gags range in shapes and sizes, as do whips and collars. Be safe (and educated) out there.
Start small, be clean, and respect your partners. Common curtesy is to inform your partner if you have used your sex toy(s) with previous persons. General practice is to buy new for/with each partner. Store clerks are often knowledgeable, sex-positive, familiar with their product and able to help if you have questions. Relax and enjoy the ride!
EDITORIAL NOTE: This article has been reuploaded and was originally published in 2020.