Whether you like to keep your goodies all to yourself or share the good vibes with your partner from time to time, there’s nothing like a well-curated sex toy collection. After all, you never know when you’ll be in the mood for a little something different. Plus, it’s easier to be more adventurous when you already have a variety of different tools on hand.
But knowing you’re ready to upgrade your current sex toy collection is one thing. Building a genuinely well-rounded collection is another. Here’s a look at what to consider when you’re ready to start cultivating the pleasure chest of your naughtiest dreams.
Sensations You Already Love
No two people will be exactly alike when it comes to how they like to be stimulated. Whether you’re in the market for your first new sex toy or your hundredth, start by considering what you’re already into, and then take it from there.
Do you love a little anal play or nipple pinching at just the right time? How do you feel about external versus internal stimulation? What is your partner into? Consider the sensations involved in answering these questions and choosing some new tools to explore them further.
Your Curiosity Zone
A mission to round out your sex toy collection a little is all the permission you need to really push some boundaries and chase your curiosity a little. You can’t be positive you’ll love a toy until you’ve tried it, but sometimes being interested in trying something specific is a good enough reason to splurge on something outside the box.
Most sex toy types come in a wide range of prices and sophistication levels, so you can always start with something inexpensive and basic. Then upgrade to something more expansive once you’re sure you’re into what it brings to the table.
The Right Materials
Vibrators, dildos, and other popular types of sex toys come in many different materials, but don’t assume the right choice is strictly a matter of preference. It’s important to know what you’re getting into when it comes to each option.
Porous materials like jelly rubber can feel good, but they’re also more prone to harboring bacteria, viruses, and microbes. They tend to deteriorate more quickly than non-porous materials, as well. Glass, plastic, metal, and silicone are all non-porous, hypoallergenic, long-lasting, and easy to sanitize thoroughly, so consider those first when exploring your options.
The Right Size
Those who are new to sex toys or have only limited experience with them tend to assume bigger is always better, and they really shouldn’t. There are plenty of people who were positive what they really needed was a colossal 12-inch insertable vibrating cock right out of the gate, only to realize they bit off more than they could chew once they got the toy home. Err on the smaller side until you’re truly confident you can handle something oversized or more extreme.
Be especially careful when shopping for new toys online. Yes, an online toy emporium will have a much better selection, but you can’t hold the toys in your hands or see them in front of you. Pay close attention to the dimensions listed, and when in doubt, use your fingers as a guide.
Get the Essentials First
If you’re looking to fill a pleasure chest from scratch and aren’t sure where to start, consider building a base sex toy collection of must-haves first. Include an insertable toy of some kind, an external vibrator like a bullet, two or three lube options, a handy spray-on toy cleaner, and perhaps one item that’s a bit kinkier or more unusual. Double-check to make sure the lubes you choose are compatible with your toys before using them together.
You’ll also want to give some careful thought to storage. Good sex toys are way too important to simply toss in a nightstand drawer or stuff underneath your mattress for safe-keeping. Instead, empty an entire drawer in your bedroom bureau and arrange your toys in it, each in its own fabric bag. A lockable toolbox is also a great idea, especially if privacy is a big concern for you.
Once you have the basics under your belt, you’ll have a better idea of where to go next. Start a dedicated toy box just for BDSM if you can’t get enough of the paddle, whip, and handcuffs you bought a while back. Keep a little something around to get your partner all revved up when it’s go time. Build your collection around an emerging theme or a signature color you really like.
At the end of the day, your sex toy collection should be more than just a bunch of items you use to get off once in a while. It should be appealing, cohesive, and absolutely irresistible to you and anyone you may share it with!