Buying sex toys is a completely normal and natural thing to do. No matter your age, gender or sexual preferences, having sex toys can only spice up your sex life be it with a partner or by yourself. And while nowadays you can get sex toys from the comfort of your home and get everything discretely online, without having to go to an actual sex store, sometimes it might be a good thing to visit one.
A sex toy store is like a wonderland for adults; you will get to see many different things, observe the toys from any side, check their actual size, feel their scent, and probably find something new you never thought you'd needed. An adult store is a sex-positive place where people can explore new things and get extra info from the employees. If you're feeling like visiting your local sex shop, here's what to have in mind.
Observe the Store
Take your time to walk around and see the things they're selling. There will be many different products from lingerie, lubricants, and fluffy cuffs, to actual sex toys for both men and women. Be like a kid in a toy store; there's no shame to check the products they're selling. Not only you'll find something you never thought you were looking for, but you might actually learn about new toys as well.
Ask Questions
Even though sex stores shouldn't be a taboo nowadays, if you're visiting it for the first time, it's completely normal to feel a little awkward. After all, these toys are meant to be used in your most intimate moments, so don't feel bad for being a little nervous. Some people know what they're looking for, others not so much. If you are a bit confused, it's entirely normal to ask questions.
The clerk is there to help you, so feel free to ask. Ask how a certain product works, ask about materials, what you can expect from the toy and just any question you have. The clerk will be more than happy to give you all the answers. And even if you don’t buy anything, it would be a great warming up experience.
After all, visiting a sex toy store for the first time is a wonderful way to familiarize with the products they’re selling. Some people like to check the store out, see the toys they want to get, and then order them online; others are simply curious. Whatever your reason for heading to your local sex shop is, don’t overthink it – just enjoy it.
Be Open Minded
Some products might look intimidating and odd, especially if you don't know how to use them. But, allow the clerk to explain their purpose and what you can expect from their use. Of course, you don't have to buy everything you see, but if you feel curious about something, you can give it a try. Maybe you’ll end up liking it.
How to Choose a Toy?
It would be a good idea to do a little research before heading to the sex store. This way you will know what you're looking for. Some people look for vibrators or dildos, while others seek flashlights, lingerie, lubes, accessories such as cuffs, etc. But when it's time to choose your toy there are a few things you should do.
First of all, observe the toy from every side. You don't have to get the largest one, especially if it feels intimidating. Maybe the clerk will try to convince you that it'll give you the ultimate experience, but you know your body best, so if you feel like you should get something in a smaller size, don’t hesitate.
Check if it Works
Nobody wants to buy a broken product. In most cases, the clerk will probably open the toy and show you how it works. In case they don't do that, feel free to ask them to show you the toy. Not only you'll see if the toy is working well, but you can get to see if the speeds work well for you. Remember only you get to decide if a speed is too strong or too weak for you.
Consider the Scent
Did you know that it's entirely all right to smell the toy? After all, you will use it, so there shouldn't be any off-putting odours that would make your intimate moments unpleasant. A toy should be "phthalate-free"; phthalates are plasticisers associated with breast cancer risk, so be sure to avoid toys that contain them.
The good thing is that phthalates give a distinctive rubber-like, tire-like smell and you'll instantly know that the certain product isn't a good choice. No matter how much pleasure the said toy can bring you, your health should be your primary concern. Anything that goes inside your body should be phthalate-free and safe.
Silicone Toys
Medicine silicone is a common material used for making sex toys. This is 100% body-safe medical-grade silicone. It is a bit more expensive, but you’ll feel free and safe when using the toy. If you aren't sure about the material, ask the clerk or simply check the box and see what materials were used to make the toy. There are other materials manufacturers use for making toys such as stainless steel or plastic, but my suggestion is to stick with the safe medicine silicone.
Lube
Now that you have chosen your toy of choice, don't forget to get a lube. No matter if you're going to use it with a partner or by yourself, a lube will help things go smoother. Choose water-based lubricant (there's also silicone-based lube) so there won't be any irritations or potential condom damage. Both types of lubes have differences, especially in the slickness, odour, flavour and viscosity. Water-based lubes are more affordable, easier to clean and ware water-soluble. Your clerk will surely recommend you some good brands.
