The sex toy industry is booming, with an estimated market size of more than $34 billion in 2021 that is only expected to grow. Although still taboo in some circles, sex toy ownership is at an all-time high, with more than half of American adults having at least one adult toy.
If you’ve never owned a sex toy before and are interested in trying one out, you’re not alone. About 20% of adults surveyed in 2019 reported wanting to start or expand their collection of intimacy devices. Still, we understand that hitting the shelves at your local sex shop for the first time can be a little overwhelming. That’s why we created this FunLove.com guide to the simplest (yet most pleasurable) sex toys for beginners.
Beginner Sex Toys for Women
Women’s sex toys are some of the most widely recognizable. While there are dozens of high-tech gadgets designed to tease and please every erogenous zone imaginable, there are three basic sex toys for women that everyone with a vagina should know about.
#1: Vibrators
The vibrator might just be the most iconic sex toy of all time, and it all started with the invention of the original Magic Wand. Initially marketed as a personal massager for aching muscles, this rumbly vibrator took the U.S. by storm in the early 1970s (Let’s just say it was a good decade for the clitoris). Of course, a lot has changed since then—these days, many vibrators are small and discreet enough to be carried in your purse or disguised as a tube of lipstick. Big or small, though, vibrators continue to be best sellers nearly 50 years later.
How It Works
Vibrators come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and intensity levels. Just turn it on, adjust the vibration level to your liking, and apply pressure to whatever body part feels good. While primarily used near or on the clitoris, vibrators can also stimulate nipples, inner thighs, and other erogenous zones. Some styles are even insertable for internal pleasure.
Top Picks for Beginners
If you’ve never used a vibrator before, start small with a bullet vibe. For budget-friendly exploration, The Charmer by Intrigue is a great starter vibrator. It’s discreet, USB rechargeable, waterproof, and offers seven vibration settings.
Looking for more options? Try the Flirty Five Bullet Kit by Intrigue. With five unique sleeves, this kit offers a variety of sensations, making it ideal for beginners who want to try a little bit of everything.
#2: Dildos
Dildos have a long history dating back to the Stone Age. While their design has evolved, their purpose remains the same: providing pleasure through penetration. Modern dildos are available in various sizes, shapes, and materials, making them versatile tools for solo or partnered play.
How It Works
To use a dildo, apply lubricant, insert it slowly, and experiment with different motions and angles to find what feels best. Dildos can be used vaginally or anally, but beginners may prefer smaller, slimmer options.
Note: Dildos can be used by people of any gender for anal stimulation. For beginners, smaller anal toys like a butt plug may be a better starting point.
Shop the Entire FunLove Collection
With over 30 years of experience as a leading retailer of adult toys, lingerie, and sexual wellness, FunLove.com is your one-stop shop for online and in-store shopping across our 16 locations in Arizona and Colorado (with more on the way).
