Your first sex toy
Buying your first sex toy can feel overwhelming. There are dozens of shapes, materials, and price points. Here's how to choose — without the confusion.
The global sex toy market is expected to reach $52 billion by 2030, and India is one of the fastest-growing markets. MyMuse, Leezu's, and other homegrown brands have brought sexual wellness products into the mainstream — available on Blinkit, Nykaa, and Amazon within 10 minutes. The era of feeling ashamed for buying a vibrator is ending. But with so many options, the question shifts from "should I" to "which one?"
Types of toys — simplified
External vibrators (clitoral stimulators). The most common starting point. These include bullet vibrators (small, precise, discreet), wand massagers (powerful, broad stimulation), and air-pulse stimulators (suction-like sensation designed specifically for the clitoris). If you've never used a toy before, start here. Over 75% of women need direct clitoral stimulation to orgasm — a good vibrator delivers that reliably.
Internal vibrators (G-spot stimulators). Curved to target the G-spot area. Some are purely for internal use; others are dual-stimulation toys (rabbit vibrators) that stimulate both the clitoris and G-spot simultaneously. These are an excellent second toy after you're comfortable with external stimulation.
Couples toys. Wearable vibrators that one partner wears during intercourse, vibrating against the clitoris. Also includes vibrating cock rings. Designed to bridge the orgasm gap during partnered sex.
Male masturbators. Sleeves, strokers, and similar devices designed for penile stimulation. Ranging from simple silicone sleeves to high-tech automatic strokers. Modern versions are discreet, body-safe, and easy to clean.
Materials matter
Body-safe silicone is the gold standard. Non-porous, hypoallergenic, easy to clean, and feels closest to skin. Use only water-based lubricant with silicone toys (silicone lube can damage them). Avoid toys made of jelly, PVC, or TPR — these materials are porous, can harbor bacteria, and may contain phthalates (chemicals linked to health concerns). If it smells like a shower curtain, don't put it anywhere near your body.
ABS plastic is non-porous and safe, though firmer. Glass and metal (surgical-grade) are non-porous, easy to clean, and great for temperature play — but require care not to chip or scratch. Always inspect them before use.
Safety and hygiene
Clean your toy before and after every use with warm water and mild soap (or a dedicated toy cleaner). Silicone toys can be boiled for 3-5 minutes to sterilize. Never share toys without washing them or using a condom over them. Store toys separately — silicone touching silicone can degrade the surface. A fabric pouch or their original packaging works fine.
Use the right lubricant — water-based with silicone toys, silicone-based for everything else. Never use silicone lubricant with silicone toys (it can create a sticky mess). And never use numbing lubricants unless you have a specific medical reason — pleasure is the point.
How to start — solo
Set aside uninterrupted time. Light a candle, put on music, whatever makes you feel safe and relaxed. Start with the toy on its lowest setting against your inner thigh or hand to get used to the sensation. Then explore externally — around the clitoris, labia, and vulva — before focusing on what feels best. There is no wrong way to do this. If something doesn't feel good, stop and try something else. The goal is pleasure, not a specific outcome.
If you're partnered, a toy is not a replacement for your partner. It's a tool that enhances pleasure for everyone. Couples who use toys together report higher satisfaction, better communication, and more orgasms. Introducing a toy can be as simple as saying "I want to try something new with you."
How to start — with a partner
Introduce the idea outside the bedroom, not in the heat of the moment. "I've been curious about trying a vibrator together — what do you think?" If your partner feels threatened, reassure them: the toy is not about dissatisfaction. It's about adding new sensations to what already works. Start by using the toy on your partner's body before applying it to yourself. Let them see, touch, and understand it. Make it a shared experience, not a solo one happening in parallel.
During intimacy, use the toy alongside penetration or manual stimulation — not instead of. The goal is to enhance, not replace. Many couples find that using a vibrator during intercourse dramatically improves the experience for both partners.
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Herbenick D. et al., Journal of Sexual Medicine, "Sex toy use in the US" (2010) · MyMuse India, market reports · American Sexual Health Association, "Toy safety" · Planned Parenthood, "Sex toys 101" · Nagoski E., Come as You Are (2015).