The Beginners Guide to Sex Toys

Everyone remembers their first one. Hidden in the drawer or slipped beneath the covers. That muffled buzz, the grasp of the sheets. Not quite a story to tell the grandkids, but it still goes down in history. The first orgasm of (hopefully) many in your life.

Feeling a bit of FOMO right about now? Poor thing. But it’s never too late to join the sex toy revolution - that’s why you’re here, isn’t it? So come and learn from the masters and discover the best toys for beginners. We promise you won’t regret it...

The Best Sex Toys for Beginners

First things first, you need to know what you're dealing with. The world of sex toys can seem daunting if you're a beginner but don't worry, we’ve put together our list of the different types of sex toys and the best toys for beginners to get you started.

1. Vibrators

Vibrators, colloquially known as vibes, are a perfect starting point for the eager sex toy apprentice. There are a few different kinds of vibrators for beginners, such as shaft vibrators and wand massagers.

For you lucky first timers, we recommend the clit-stimulating bullet vibrators. They’re discreet little things, but they have a fierce kick that’ll leave you buzzing for hours after you turn up the heat and they’re one of the best vibrators for beginners. They’re among the most affordable toys out there too, so you won’t have to spend a small fortune for that first sex toy. Plenty come with adjustable speeds and power settings, too. Take control - you’ll love it.

2. Dildos

Dildos come in a whole range of different shapes and sizes. Mostly penis-shaped, for obvious reasons. But still, some are a little more realistic than others. The best dildos for beginners and the one (or two) you decide to choose will depend on how into the idea you are. The veiny textures mean extra stimulation, but then so do the ridges on the more discreet designs. It’s all about personal preference so size ‘em up for yourself and see what takes your fancy. Just don’t forget to lube up first!

3. Rampant Rabbits ®

It wouldn’t be a beginner’s guide to sex toys without a mention of the Rampant Rabbit ®. Oh yes, this one’s our baby and we’re incredibly proud of it. Back in the day Ann Summers started a sex toy revolution with the launch of the Rampant Rabbit ®, the likes of which you wouldn’t believe, and we guarantee that it’s still the best you’re gonna get.

The Rampant Rabbit ® combines a vibrating dildo with a bunny-eared bullet; so you still get deep penetration but with the mind-blowing clitoral stimulation. It really is the best of both worlds.

4. Cock rings

You don’t have to play alone when it comes to sex toys. Unlock the cooperative achievements with some couple's playtime. Cock rings are the perfect beginner’s sex toy for couples for a whole host of reasons. They keep your man harder for longer and stimulates the clitoris at the same time. Everybody wins.

Anal toys for Beginners

Now you have a pretty good grasp of the ins and outs of sex toys, it’s time to take things a little further. If you’ve made it this far through the guide, then you’re just about ready for anal toys.

If the idea of playing with the back door gets you a little excited but don’t know where to begin,anal beads and butt plugs are a great place to start. And they are perfect for both solo and couples play.

Read the beginners guide to anal sex for more information on getting started.

The best beginner sex toys for men

Don’t forget, boys - you’ve got options too. We’ve got plenty of male sex toys just waiting for you to explore. We’ve already discussed the two main ones: cock rings and anal toys, but if you’re looking to intensify your solo missions, then male masturbators, including fleshlights are your new best friend.

Skin-soft sleeves, vibrating options and plenty of discretely-disguised designs, these toys will amp up your pleasure in ways you never thought possible by your own hand.

We also stock a range of penis pumps and extenders for that extra inch when you need it!

The Do’s and Don'ts of using sex toys

As with anything to do with your body, there are certain rules to follow to ensure not only that you stay safe, but also that you have a good time. But never fear, we’ve broken them down into a few simple dos and don’ts.

The do’s…

DO make sure you use the right lube. For silicone toys, silicone or oil-based lubricants should be avoided as it will stick to the material and start to erode the surface of your toy. Your safest option is water-based lube.
DO use a condom if you are playing with a partner. If you’re using sex toys in a new relationship, fingers, penis, toys all need their own condoms. For solo play you don’t necessarily need a condom as long as you keep the toy clean.
DO wash your toys after every use. If you really want to be safe and avoid the spread of harmful bacteria, you should wash them before every use too. Read our guide on how to clean sex toys for more information.

The don'ts...

DON’T share sex toys with anyone else. Cock rings or double ended dildos are a given - you have to share these to some degree - but you should never use a vibrator or a dildo and pass it onto someone else regardless of whether you’ve cleaned it or not.
DON’T put a toy anywhere you shouldn’t. This rule mostly applies to anal play; you shouldn’t insert any toy up there that doesn’t have a flared base, otherwise you run the risk of losing it! Boy, wouldn’t that be an embarrassing trip to A&E?
DON’T chuck your toy in a drawer until you next use it. There can be all sorts in drawers from dust, hair, food crumbs and bacteria. The best tips for storage are to either keep it wrapped in a cloth (or a cloth bag if it comes in one) or its original box.

How often should I change sex toys?

If you keep your toys clean and in excellent condition, then your sex toys should bring you pleasure and happiness for many years to come. Knowing when it’s time to get a replacement is really all down to common sense. If there is noticeable damage to your toy, if the batteries have leaked or if a non-waterproof toy has sustained water damage it might be time to treat yourself to a new one. As if you needed another excuse.

Time to play...

Hopefully now you’re feeling educated and very excited to get started with some brand new toys. We know you’ll be desperate to dive in headfirst but take your time, explore and find a toy that really hits the spot for you.

Take a look at our Sex Toys

The Beginners Guide to Sex Toys