Sex toys aren't just for solo use, they are the perfect way to up the ante, explore each other and reach new heights, together. They can be a real game changer, and although sex toys may make nights spent home alone your favourite part of the week, pleasure is so much better shared. Just about any sex toy you can be used together during foreplay or the main event, whether they're specifically designed for couples, or just involve getting creative with a toy you already own . For tips on what's out there, check out our Couples Guide to Sex Toys.

Sometimes the short distance between the bed and the bottom drawer can feel just a little bit too far, though. It can be nerve-racking to broach the subject, but we understand – and we're here to help. No matter what you want from your sex life with your partner, there's always a toy to help or add some spice. Some like it hot.

It's good to talk

We'd say this for just about everything. Talking. It's essential in every relationship – especially when it comes to sex. Chatting about what you like, what you don't like, and what you're curious about and what really turns you on is not only useful for you both, it can be a real libido boost and get you both in the mood.

Starting the conversation may not be easy, but in all our years of experience, no partner has ever reacted in horror to the idea of introducing toys to the bedroom. It may be daunting, but no one's a mind reader and if you want to make your fantasies a reality, it's totally worth it.

If you're keen to change up the vibe in the bedroom, you need to be a little more direct. It can be hard for some people to talk about sex in the plainest of terms, and that's fine – that's why we're here to help. We advise our customers on introducing toys to their relationships literally every day, and we know the best way to do it, as well as how to achieve the best results – so read on for our tactics for talking.

Starting fresh

Asking a long-term partner to suddenly start using sex toys can be intimidating if you're not sure how they'd react. They could be worried about where your newfound desire has come from. Are you bored of them? Aren't they enough for you? But you know what? Worrying about their worries is the worst thing of all. It won't make anyone happy. So stay positive, and keep talking. It may seem scary at first, but as soon as that first word has come out of your mouth it'll be as easy as a conversation with your nearest and dearest. Wait a minute...

Whether you've got something hidden away that you've been too nervous to bring out of the drawer, or you want to get your partner on board before you pick out something you both enjoy, taking that first step and discussing toys feels like a big one – but it shouldn't be.

Once again, we really think the old classic of making coy references and hoping your partner picks up on it is pointless – unless you have the chance for something really blatant. A quick "looks like fun" or "always wanted to try one of those" when toys crop up on TV should help you gauge some reactions, and provide a solid reminder that this stuff really isn't a taboo anymore.

If you've been together for a while, then having an honest conversation about trying something new will be something you both feel comfortable with. Relationships are a team – whether you're picking out new tiles for the kitchen or new toys for the bedroom, just discuss it together and hear each other out.

Of course, you could just try introducing toys in the heat of the moment. A brief pause. A quick whisper of "I bought us something special, want to try it out?" – we're sure they'll be nice and receptive...

Toys enhance...not replace

Everyone can feel a little bit intimidated by sex toys when a partner suggests bringing them out to play. Most people like to think they can provide satisfaction without the need for any additional help – but that way of thinking sort of misunderstands what sex toys are even for in the first place.

Explain that they're not about replacing anything, or fixing anything that doesn't work – it's all about enhancing experiences in ways that aren't humanly possible. There's nothing wrong with their equipment – but no one vibrates. Some couples toys are also ideal for date night naughtiness out of the bedroom. For the more adventurous, invest in a remote controlled vibe and go out for dinner...you'll be rushing home for dessert.

However you want to use them, it's all about exploring together and discovering new sensations. You'll be closer for it, so don't worry about raising the question.

Start Small

Everyone needs some time to warm up to anything new – even if bae's ready to play, you can't expect them to go from 0-60 straight away. There are plenty of toys perfect for the curious sex toy apprentice, and it's just a case of picking something you are both comfortable with.

Simple bullet vibes are the perfect sex toy for those looking to start out small – but not necessarily slow. Put your partner to work and they'll quickly see how much you enjoy the added bonus of some seriously good vibes – it'll be a real turn on for them too and they'll see what the fuss is about once the tables are turned...

Straightforward cock rings like the Clear Stretchy Cock Ring will let him figure out whether he likes the sensation before you ramp up to the vibrating options. And if you've always wanted to try anal play, try some training with a Beginner's Butt Plug or Small Thai Anal Love Beads. Lube up, relax and go slow are the three rules to remember when you get fruity with the booty!

A great place to start is a Body Wand. Designed as a powerful massager, they are non-phallic, unthreatening and can be used to turn a back rub into an orgasmic erotic massage. The soft, flexible head can be used anywhere on the body and most include up to 10 different vibe settings for power packed stimulation. It's magic, baby.

Explore

Once your partner's on board with toys, this amazing silicone world is yours to explore. Mix it up and incorporate some bondage during sex toy play, with handcuffs and restraints to surrender and take turns to drive each other wild with those new sensations.Your sex life is the envy of all your friends and your bedroom is banging. Sleeping is so overrated.

Once you're both on the same page, there's no limit. Undo your buttons and push those buttons. Together.

To make shopping for new toys easier, check out our product reviews and buying guides. We're the leading erotic experts and we are here to bring you the latest and greatest products. Play time never felt so good.

The nuclear option...

Of course, if all that talking and waiting sounds like no fun, you could just go nuclear. Wait for your partner to come home, dressed to kill, with your sex toy of choice ready and waiting in hand. Do you really think they'd say no? Have fun you naughty minx.