Get to know each other
Sex toys are becoming an increasingly popular way to spice up your sex life. Vibrators are one of the most popular toys on the market, and more than half of all women in the United States have used one.
With hundreds of different vibrators available in a wide range of styles, sizes, and features, let’s start by finding out how a vibrator works.
Vibrators are hand-held devices that can vibrate at different speeds at the touch of a button. Some vibrators are battery-operated, while others need to be plugged in. When applied to the area around or inside the vagina, the vibrations stimulate blood flow and increase sensation and arousal. Vibrators can also lead to quicker or more intense orgasms.
When shopping for your vibrators, get to know the features that are available.
- Can you adjust the speed or intensity of the vibrations?
- How comfortable is the vibrator for you to hold in your hand for extended periods?
- Are there different vibration sequences?
- Is the vibrator’s texture or material pleasant to the touch?
- Does the vibrator emit any sound or light when in use?
- Is it possible to use it underwater?
If it’s your first time using a vibrator, you might want to choose one with multiple vibration settings so you can try out what feels best for you. You can also read product reviews online or ask sales associates about different brands or features.
Wash your vibrator
Once you’ve purchased a vibrator, the first thing you want to do is wash it. Make sure it’s free from any dirt, bacteria, or packaging chemicals.
Depending on the electrical components, you might need to clean your vibrator using a disinfecting wipe instead of soap and water.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing your vibrator, as some devices can’t be submerged underwater. Depending on the electrical components, you might need to clean your vibrator using a disinfecting wipe instead of soap and water.
Get in the mood
Once you’re ready to experiment with your vibrator, you might find it helpful to calm your nerves by getting in the mood for sexual stimulation. Some popular methods include:
- Taking a warm shower or bath
- Massaging your body with oil or lotion
- Dimming the lights or lighting candles
- Playing sensual music
- Touching yourself, using your fingers to stimulate sensitive areas on your body like your nipples, torso, or vulva
- Masturbate without climaxing in an orgasm
As your arousal increases, you’ll probably feel more comfortable with the idea of using a vibrator.
Use lube
When you feel ready to put your sex toy to use, apply a small amount of lube to the device and your genitals to reduce friction.
Be careful not to use a silicone-based lube if your vibrator is also made of silicone, since this could break down some of the material.
Experiment with speed and pressure
If your vibrator has different speed settings, try starting on the slowest one. You can change the speed or pressure of your vibrator to influence sensitivity.
There are vibrators designed for internal or penetrative stimulation and vibrators for external stimulation. Each type requires experimentation. For example, using a rabbit vibrator, which has elements that provide internal and external stimulation, will be different from using a bullet vibrator, which is designed primarily for external stimulation.
Use a mirror
Using a vibrator while looking at yourself in a mirror can be an erotic experience. Not only can it help you understand what your body is experiencing, but watching yourself get aroused may turn you on even more.
Try using a vibrator all over your body
Using a vibrator doesn’t have to be limited to your genitals. Try brushing your vibrator across other erogenous zones like your nipples, neck, butt, or feet.
Move slowly enough that you experience the different sensations, pausing in areas that feel good.
Use a vibrator as a couple
Studies have shown that couples who use vibrators report increased relationship satisfaction compared to couples who don’t.
You can try holding a vibrator over your clitoris while your partner goes down on you or while you’re having penetrative sex.
Studies have shown that couples who use vibrators report increased relationship satisfaction compared to couples who don’t.
If you’re doing foreplay and want to increase anticipation, you and your partner can alternate between using a vibrator and using your hands for stimulation. Play with finding the edge of orgasm with a vibrator before easing off on the heightened stimulation.
How to take care of your vibrator
Regardless of the kind of vibrator you have, you’ll want to make sure to take good care of it. Vibrators can sometimes be a pretty big investment, so you’ll want to do everything you can to make them last.
Store your vibrator in a case, or keep it in a drawer or box with your other sex toys when it’s not in use.
When you’re using your vibrator, only apply as much pressure as necessary. Try not to force the vibrator in a direction or shape that it’s not designed for, as this could break the device. If it’s battery-operated, remove the batteries after each use to help prolong battery life. If it uses an electrical outlet, be sure to unplug it after you’ve finished using it or it’s finished charging.
Store your vibrator in a case, or keep it in a drawer or box with your other sex toys when it’s not in use.
Safety tips
Using a vibrator is completely safe as long as you’re careful with how you use and store it. Follow these safety tips to make sure your vibrator doesn’t cause any unwanted side effects.
- It’s crucial that you thoroughly wash your vibrator according to the manufacturer’s instructions before and after you use it. Otherwise, your sex toy could collect bacteria and even transmit sexually transmitted infections if you’re sharing it with your partner.
- If you’re sharing a vibrator with your partner, put a new condom on the vibrator each time you share it to help prevent the spread of infection.
- Inspect your vibrator before each use to make sure there aren’t any cracks or damage, which can increase the risk of injury or infection.
- Never use a broken vibrator, and stop using it if it malfunctions.
- Stop using your vibrator if it causes you pain or discomfort or if it has a lingering odor even after washing it.
Vibrators are a great first step in getting comfortable with learning how to use sex toys. If it’s your first time using a vibrator, choose a simple one that will give you a well-rounded experience.