Vibrators are widely used yet still greatly misunderstood. One common myth people still believe is that once you start using a vibrator, you won’t be able to have an orgasm without it. We’re here to tell you that’s not true.

Vibrators won’t cause desensitization, and you’ll still be able to enjoy partnered sex (maybe even more so, by the way), so don’t worry.

In this beginner’s guide to sex toys, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the best self-pleasure toys, orgasm tips, and how to use a vibrator to enhance your self-pleasure sessions.

Alright, let’s start with choosing the right vibrator for you. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or uncertain – there are so many different vibrators available on the market.

Choosing Your First Vibrator

You want to choose a toy that meets your comfort level, suits your personal sexual preferences (internal or external stimulation, or both), and doesn’t make you intimidated to use it.

Here are some essential things you want to consider and know before you make that first purchase:

Vibrators come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Some are small and discreet, like bullet vibrators. They’re designed for external stimulation and are perfect for travel.

There are also larger vibrators that are often designed for either full-body stimulation (wand vibrators) or internal stimulation (rabbit vibrators). They will pack a punch and offer deeper, rumbly vibrations.

It’s normal for beginners to go for something smaller and discreet as their first vibe to get a feel of the vibrator play.

If you want something small yet designed for internal stimulation, opt for a sleek and slender G-spot massager like Gigi 3.

Size & Shape

Things To Consider Before Buying Your First Vibrator

Materials. Body-safe vibrators are made from non-porous, medical-grade materials such as silicone, ABS plastic, stainless steel, or glass.

Premium silicone is popular because of its soft texture, ease of cleaning, and body-safe properties.

Glass and stainless steel toys are often less flexible and feel firmer, but they’re a great choice for temperature play because both materials are easy to warm up or cool down.

When you buy a vibrator, always check that it has body-safe materials that won’t cause allergies or irritation and won’t harbor harmful bacteria after use.

Intensity Levels. Now, all vibrators have different intensity levels. Some can be mild, while others have a range from mild to intense, and some vibrators are very intense right off the bat.

For a beginner, something that has a wide range of intensities might be the best option. This way, you have plenty of options, and you can start at the lower settings and increase the vibration power as you get more comfortable with your new toy.

The intensity levels determine the strength of vibration, with some models offering customizable patterns.

Explore the varied intensity options to find the perfect match for your preferences and desired sensations.

Rechargeable vs. Battery-Operated

Most high-tech vibrators are now rechargeable, but you can still find battery-operated devices.

Recheargable vibrators are more convienient and powerful, and in many cases much quieter than battery-powered vibrators (especially the larger size ones).

However, battery-powered vibrators are often more budget-friendly. So, if budget is a consideration, you might want to choose a battery-operated vibe.

One thing to note with battery-powered toys is that they can run out of battery at any time, so you want to always have some on hand so you can replace them when needed.

Bullet vibrators: Discreet, perfect for external clitoral stimulation. Wand vibrators: Powerful, designed for full-body stimulation. G-spot vibrators: Curved tip for precise internal G-spot stimulation. Air-pulse vibrators: Waves of air that gently stimulate the clitoris without direct contact.

Preparing for Solo Play with a Vibrator

To make first-time masturbation with sex toys as enjoyable as possible, spend some time preparing beforehand and setting up your space to create a relaxing and comfortable environment.

Set The Mood

Create a comfortable and relaxing space where you can focus on your body and all the sensations without interruptions. Your environment plays a huge role in how you receive pleasure.

Light a favorite scented candle, dim the lights, play soothing music or set soft blankets and pillows under you and around you. Do whatever helps you feel at ease before you play.

Self-pleasure is a time to practice self-care and self-love, so treat it like a special occasion – something you deserve and look forward to. It will make all the difference.

Use Lube

One of the best ways to enhance the sensations and pleasure during solo play is to use a high-quality lube. While natural lubrication is great, there is absolutely no harm (only benefits) to adding even more lubrication.

Lube helps reduce the friction so the vibrator glides smoothly against your skin, which is essential if you’re using penetrative vibrators.

More lubrication during solo play will greatly intensify the pleasure you experience and will make you much more sensitive to stimulation. It will also help prevent any irritation or discomfort.

Water-Based vs. Silicone-Based Lube

There are many choices of lubes available for you to explore. You’re probably wondering: which lube should I choose?

When it comes to solo play with vibrators, a water-based lube might be the best option for you.

Water-based lubes are compatible with all types of toys and are easy to clean. They feel like your natural lubrication.

Silicone-based lubes last longer and offer a silkier feel. Check compatibility with your pleasure toys.

Explore All Erogenous Zones

How well do you know your erogenous zones? Your journey to sexual exploration doesn’t have to be confined.

There are plenty of areas on your body that feel great when stimulated, such as:

Neck Inner thighs Ears Nipples Valley between your breasts Inner wrists Lower stomach

You might have other areas that are highly sensitive, too. Why not use your new vibrator to explore and discover those highly sensitive areas that respond to touch before you dive into genital stimulation?

Experiment with erogenous zones to learn the full range of your body’s pleasure capabilities. This holistic approach will help you build anticipation, foster relaxation, and make the overall experience much more pleasurable.

How To Use a Vibrator for the First Time

So, how to self-pleasure using a vibrator? Well, everyone’s different, and you may have different preferences from someone else. However, here are our best tips for pleasurable solo play with a vibrator.

Take what you like, leave what you don’t – experimentation is key!

Start Slow

When you’re new to vibrator play, it’s best to ease into it slowly. As we already discussed, spend some time exploring your erogenous zones outside the genitals and build arousal.

Turn yourself on and even tease yourself. Engage in a solo form of foreplay.

Test out how different patterns and strengths of your new vibrator feel against those highly sensitive areas of your body. Play around with it, and when you’re ready, bring the vibrator to your most sensitive zones.

Clitoral Stimulation Tips

The clitoris has thousands of nerve endings, which makes it highly receptive to pleasurable sensations.

It might be small, but the clitoris itself has different areas that might feel different when stimulated.

Direct vs. Indirect Stimulation

Some might prefer to hold the vibrator right in the center of the clitoris and enjoy some direct stimulation. For some, it might be a bit too intense and even uncomfortable.

If direct vibrations feel too intense, position the vibrator slightly off to either side of the clitoris. Some people might enjoy the right side stimulation more, while others find that the left side has a much better feel.

See what feels good for you.

If that’s still too much, you can ease the pressure and hold the vibrator gently over the clitoris (hover above it).

To soften the vibrations even further, consider adding a barrier between the clitoris, like panties, a blanket, or even your hand or fingers.

Having panties over the clit while using a vibe not only softens the impact of the vibes but adds extra texture, which can feel super good.

Patterns & Pressure

Most vibrators offer various speeds and pulsation patterns. Try different combinations of pressure and speed to see what feels the best. Also, don’t be afraid to shift the toy’s angle to find the best one for you.

This type of mindful experimentation may help you fine-tune your orgasms and really hone in on what makes your toes curl from pleasure.

Internal Stimulation Tips

If you’re using a vibrator to explore vaginal penetration and G-spot pleasure, here are some things you may want to try to maximize the pleasure:

Move Slowly

Really taking your time to warm up and get fully aroused is even more important before penetration play than for clitoral-only solo play.

Make sure your body is well-lubricated and open, so don’t rush into it.

Before you dive inside, spend some time playing with the clit.

Once you’re fully relaxed, you can gently slide inside to explore.

If you notice discomfort, pause and add more lube to warm up.

Combine Clitoral Stimulation with Internal Stimulation

The best is simultaneous clitoral and G-spot stimulation.

Use the bullet vibe on the clit, use a G-spot massager internally.

Use it for internal stimulation while fingers stimulate clitoris.

Listen to your body and play with what feels best for you.

Pulsing: Mimic the pulsing motion by pressing the vibrator to the clit before easing it off and pressing it again. Circular motions: Move the vibrator in small circles around the clitoris. Play with speeds: Switch between the lower and higher settings. Change positions: Different positions offer different sensations.

Common Mistakes To Avoid as a Beginner

It’s normal to make mistakes when you’re a complete novice. Don’t sweat it if you do make any of these mistakes! Next time, you’ll know what to avoid.

Going Too Fast, Too Soon

It’s normal to get excited and jump straight into the highest setting. But this may overwhelm your body and not give you the best experience.

Start at the lowest intensity and build it up from there gradually. Patience is your friend here!

Skipping Lubrication

Even if you’re using an external vibe, friction can make the whole experience not so pleasurable. Lack of lubrication may lead to irritation, and even discomfort. So, always apply a generous amount of lube.

Not Cleaning Your Vibrator

Hygiene is critical for your sexual health, so don’t skip on cleaning your sex toys often! Bacteria can accumulate on toys if they’re not properly cleaned, which can lead to infections.

Always clean your vibrators before and after each use and store them properly in between uses.

Ignoring Your Body’s Signals

Don’t ignore your body’s signals – if you feel discomfort, pain, numbness, or overstimulation, take a break.

Understanding your body and sensuality requires listening to your body.

Take things slow, breathe deeply, and pay attention to how your body responds.

The Amazing Benefits of Solo Vibrator Use

Solo play with vibrators offers numerous health and sexual benefits:

Boosts Body Confidence & Self-Awareness

Frequent self-exploration can strengthen your body connection and sensuality.

Discovering pleasurable touches enhances your body's sensitivity and appreciation.

Paying attention and being mindful of your body’s reactions helps foster that connection.

Enhances Orgasm Intensity

Vibrators increase the intensity of orgasms, and for some, the only way. They offer pleasurable sensations.

Reduces Stress and Improves Sleep

Stress relief is one of the benefits of masturbation. Orgasms reduce cortisol, help you relax, and improve sleep.

Encourages Better Intimacy with Partners

When you understand your body well and are confident in your own pleasure, you’ll notice that your partnered sex experiences also improve.

That’s because when you know what type of touch and stimulation gets you off, you’ll be able to utilize that knowledge with a partner and have a much more satisfying sex life.

This knowledge may also spark curiosity in your partner, which can lead to a new level of openness in your relationship that allows you to explore new toys together.

How To Care for Your Vibrator

To ensure your vibrator serves you for many years to come and that your sexual health and overall wellbeing aren’t compromised, it’s important you care for your vibrator properly.

Cleaning & Storing Your Toy

Most silicone, ABS plastic, stainless steel, and glass toys can be safely cleaned with gentle soap and lukewarm water. You may also use a specialized sex toy cleaner.

If your vibrator has mechanical parts that aren’t supposed to be underwater, stick with wiping it down with a damp cloth or using a sex toy cleaner.

Always allow your sex toys to dry completely before storing them away. You can let them air dry or pat them down with a lint-free towel.

Once the toy is dry, store it in a lint-free pouch or a box away from dust and direct sunlight or heat.

These practices will help your sex toys last longer, remain in great shape, and help avoid any health concerns like infections.

Charging and Battery Care

If your vibrator is rechargeable, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Avoid keeping the toy plugged in for extended periods of time so it doesn’t overcharge, which can shorten the battery life.

You should usually charge the new vibrator to the full before using it for the first time.

If you have a battery-operated vibrator, then always remove the batteries from the toy when you’re not using it to prevent corrosion.

Waterproof vs. Water-resistant

Before you plunge your new vibe into water, always check whether it’s waterproof. Not all vibrators are made equally; even more expensive high-tech toys may not be 100% waterproof.

Check the packaging and the manual to determine whether the toy is waterproof or only water-resistant. If you see an IPX7 marking in the manual, you can safely use and clean the toy – it’s completely waterproof.

Exploring More Advanced Play

Once you nail the basics, you might be ready to elevate your self-pleasure routine. Here are some more advanced ways to broaden your pleasure horizons:

Try Dual Stimulation Vibrators

Dual stimulation vibrators offer simultaneous external and internal stimulation of the clitoris and G-spot. These vibrators are often referred to as rabbit vibrators, like Soraya.

Combining sensations can be exciting. Patience is key, as mastering it may take time.

If you enjoy suction, consider a suction dual stimulation toy, like Enigma.

Incorporate Temperature Play

To enhance solo play, try temperature play with a vibrator with heat.

An easier way to explore temperature play is to warm up or cool down your sex toys.

Submerge the toy in warm or cold water for a few minutes, then test on your body.

Explore Edging. Edging is a sexual practice of intentionally delaying orgasms. It means you bring yourself to the edge of an orgasm.

Repeat that a couple of times to build the tension and arousal before you finally allow yourself to climax.

Many people report that orgasms feel very powerful after edging. The Bottom Line

Using a vibrator for the first time to enhance solo play can be intimidating but extremely rewarding.

It’s a great way to discover your body and sexuality better, build confidence in your pleasure, and feel sexually empowered.

When trying something new for the first time, you want to take your time and do it slowly. Make sure you’re relaxed and comfortable.

Everything, even using a vibrator, takes time and practice. So, be gentle, kind, and patient with yourself on this journey of self-discovery.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with different speeds, patterns, positions, and techniques to enhance pleasure. Treat it as a never-ending journey towards better orgasms and higher sexual satisfaction – there’s always something new to discover.

Some of the best beginner-friendly vibrators are: bullet vibrators, G-spot massagers, wand vibrators and suction toys. Depending on what type of stimulation you prefer, you may like internal toys better than external and vice versa.

When you’re ready to find the perfect vibrator for you, check out our best beginner-friendly toys.

Discover pleasure with: