Figuring out how to use a vibrator can be a little overwhelming, particularly when you’re searching for your very first sex toy. Should you get that slightly intimidating-looking rabbit vibrator or that tiny little bullet vibrator?
That’s why Teen Vogue spoke to sex experts to get the best tips on how to use a vibrator—and which ones are the best for getting down as a first-timer.
“Buying a pleasure product for the first time is an exciting and freeing experience,” said Kit Richardson, certified sexual health and pleasure educator and the buyer and merchandiser for the Museum of Sex. “You are investing in pleasure and yourself, so you want to make sure you do it the right way. Set aside the preconceived notions, myths, taboos, and guilt surrounding pleasure, and you are ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.”
If you’re a first-timer, here’s how to use a vibrator—along with some suggestions for the best ones to start your ~sexy adventure~.
1. Set the mood
If you’re having a hard time getting out of your head, a little ambiance goes a long way, Richardson said.
“Plan your sexperience with a date night for yourself,” she said. “Take a bath, light some candles, and even turn on some Billie Eilish. Relaxation and arousal are essential to experiencing pleasure, and if your body is prepared, [your] vibrator is charged, and your mind is at ease, pleasure will come naturally.”
Try: This little wand vibrator by Luna, which has a powerful vibration that you can use on the muscles all over your body to release tension during a full-body self-massage before you use it to get down.
2. Make sure your vibrator is juiced up
Nothing kills the mood like a dead battery.
“If battery-operated, make sure to use fresh batteries,” said sexologist Megan Stubbs, EdD, author of Playing Without a Partner: A Singles’ Guide to Sex, Dating, and Happiness. “Don't pull the ones from your remote — they aren't strong enough. If it’s a rechargeable vibe, make sure it’s fully charged. You don't want [the] disappointment of being so close to orgasm only to have your toy die on you.”
Try: Unbound Babes’ Divvy, a fantastic remote vibrator that makes charging easy with its design and universal charging cord. Plus, you can use it either with the wireless remote control or as a standalone!
3. Take your time
It’s understandable to feel a little performance anxiety even when you’re going solo, but don't be afraid to go slow and figure out what feels good to you. “This isn’t a race,” Richardson told Teen Vogue. “[S]ometimes, when we go too quickly, especially when pleasure is involved, we miss the beauty of the process.”
Try: The Flex Vibrator from Crave, a USB rechargeable vibe that boasts an extra-long battery life, so you can take all the time you need.
4. Explore your body
You can have all the right materials, but it can be hard to get started if you don’t know what you like! “If you haven’t explored your body and the sensations that turn you on, you’ll have some difficulty picking the right product,” Richardson advised. “Spend some time navigating the pleasure points of your body. Once you’ve established what feels good, [whether it's] internal stimulation, external stimulation, or even both, you are ready to start the process of your pleasure product purchase.”
