For some women, successful solo masturbation can feel more complicated than intercourse. For others, it’s actually much easier to reach orgasm alone. After all, nobody comes with an instruction manual for their body, and discovering what makes you tick is something we all have to learn along the way.
Before investing in a collection of expensive toys, it’s often worth starting with your own hands. Understanding what feels good, what doesn’t and which sensations excite you is the first step towards discovering your personal preferences.
But really, should you do it alone?
Solo pleasure can be every bit as satisfying as playing with a partner, and sometimes even more enjoyable. When you masturbate, you have complete freedom to explore your body without worrying about somebody else’s expectations or rushing towards the finish line.
It’s your adventure, and you get to decide exactly how it unfolds.
You also don’t have to worry about disappointing a partner, an unexpected pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections from another person. Most importantly, solo play is about your own satisfaction, whether that means experiencing an orgasm, relaxing after a stressful day or simply discovering something new about yourself.
So, where should a curious beginner start?
How to Begin?
The first step is understanding what feels good for your body. Do you enjoy penetration, or do you prefer external stimulation? Are you curious about experimenting with different sensations, or perhaps discovering a kink you haven’t explored before?
Sex toys should be considered helpful additions rather than necessities. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying masturbation without them, and you certainly don’t need an expensive gadget to have a satisfying experience.
Think about what you enjoy with a partner, if you’ve had one, and compare those experiences with what feels good when you’re alone. Are there particular sensations you prefer? Do you enjoy slow, gentle touching or something more intense?
Some women find penetrative stimulation enjoyable, while others discover that clitoral stimulation is much more effective for reaching orgasm. In fact, many women don’t regularly orgasm from penetration alone, so there’s no reason to worry if that doesn’t work for you.
The important thing is experimenting without putting pressure on yourself. Once you understand your preferences, choosing the right sex toy becomes considerably easier.
Types of Sex Toys
Sex toys can generally be divided into three categories: penetrative, non-penetrative and multipurpose devices designed for both internal and external stimulation.
Penetrative toys include products such as dildos and certain vibrators, while non-penetrative options include clitoral stimulators, massage wands and other accessories designed for external pleasure.
Multipurpose toys combine different features, allowing users to explore several types of stimulation with a single device.
Beginners might prefer something simple and non-penetrative, but there’s no universal rule. Some women are comfortable experimenting with internal toys immediately, while others would rather stick to external stimulation.
Your previous sexual experience doesn’t determine which toys you’ll enjoy, and there are plenty of options for every preference.
To make choosing a little easier, we’ve put together a beginner-friendly selection covering different styles of toys, including a few kinkier accessories for those feeling adventurous.
Best Sex Toys for Beginners
Penetrative Sex Toys
Dildos
The good old-fashioned dildo is still one of the most recognisable sex toys around, and there’s a reason it remains popular.
Available in countless shapes, sizes and materials, dildos offer plenty of variety for anyone interested in internal stimulation.
For beginners, a smaller toy made from smooth, body-safe silicone is often a comfortable starting point. Silicone is generally easy to clean, while non-porous materials such as properly designed glass or stainless steel are also available.
Avoid unsuitable household objects and products made from materials that can’t be cleaned properly. A little water-based lubricant can also help make the experience more comfortable.
Vibrators
Think of a vibrator as a dildo’s more technologically adventurous cousin, although many vibrators are designed specifically for external use rather than penetration.
These toys introduce vibration into the experience, with settings ranging from gentle buzzing to stronger sensations.
For beginners, choosing a model with several adjustable intensity levels is sensible. Start with a comfortable setting and experiment with different patterns to discover what you enjoy.
Very intense vibration can occasionally cause temporary numbness or reduced sensitivity, so taking a break if something feels uncomfortable is a good idea. Normal vibrator use isn’t known to cause permanent loss of sexual sensitivity.
Anal Plugs
Not everyone is interested in anal stimulation, but some women enjoy exploring it as part of their solo experiences.
Small anal plugs specifically designed for beginners can provide an introduction to this type of sensation.
However, anal toys require additional care. Always choose a product with a secure flared base, use plenty of suitable lubricant and never force insertion.
Comfort, hygiene and choosing the correct design are much more important than experimenting with larger or more complicated toys.
Non-Penetrative Sex Toys
Wand Vibrators
Massage wands are among the most powerful external vibrators available, and they’re particularly popular for clitoral stimulation.
Many feature large, rounded heads that distribute vibrations across a wider area, making them suitable for different erogenous zones.
Because some wands produce very strong vibrations, beginners should start on a low setting rather than immediately choosing the most intense option.
If direct contact feels overwhelming, try using the toy over underwear or through a soft layer of fabric.
Waterproof models may also be suitable for use in the bath or shower, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions before getting an electrical device wet.
Clitoral Suction Stimulators
Clitoral suction stimulators have become increasingly popular thanks to their unusual approach to external stimulation.
Rather than relying entirely on traditional vibrations, many use pressure waves or pulses of air around the clitoral area to create different sensations.
Some women absolutely love this style of stimulation, while others prefer the more familiar feeling of a vibrator.
Beginners should choose a model with adjustable intensity levels and follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding placement, cleaning and recommended usage.
There’s no need to use the strongest setting or continue if your body starts feeling uncomfortable.
Multipurpose Sex Toys
Egg Vibrators
These compact little toys are popular because of their versatility and convenient size.
Depending on the design, an egg vibrator may be suitable for external stimulation or internal vaginal use, with different settings and features available across models.
Some use a traditional wired controller, others come with wireless remotes, and more advanced versions can connect directly to smartphone applications.
If you’re just beginning to explore sex toys, a simple model with adjustable settings may be all you need.
However, if you enjoy technology and fancy experimenting with something a little more adventurous, modern app-controlled versions offer additional possibilities.
Our app-controlled sex toys guide explores remote-controlled vibrators, interactive devices and the possibilities they offer for couples and solo pleasure.
Rabbit-Style Vibrators
The name might sound a little peculiar, but rabbit vibrators have become favourites for many women.
Their distinctive design usually combines an internal vibrating section with a smaller external attachment intended to stimulate the clitoris.
This allows users to enjoy different sensations simultaneously, although the experience depends on individual anatomy, preferences and the particular toy’s design.
Many modern versions feature adjustable speeds, separate vibration controls and different shapes, making them surprisingly versatile.
For beginners, choosing a smaller model with simple controls can make experimenting considerably less intimidating.
Kinky Accessories
Once you’ve become comfortable exploring your body, you might discover that your interests extend beyond traditional vibrators and dildos.
There’s an enormous variety of accessories designed for people curious about BDSM, sensory play and other intimate interests.
Some popular options include:
Nipple clamps – Accessories designed to create different pressure sensations. Adjustable, gentle designs are preferable for beginners, and they should be removed immediately if they cause pain or numbness.
Soft impact-play accessories – Items such as soft paddles can introduce new sensations for consenting partners. Avoid anything that could cause injury.
Bondage accessories – Soft cuffs and other restraints are popular for consensual partner play. Self-bondage can be dangerous, particularly when someone cannot release themselves, so beginners should avoid restricting their own movement without appropriate safety precautions.
Experimenting with kink doesn’t mean you have to abandon the things you already enjoy. For some people, adding an unexpected sensation or playful element is enough to make an experience feel completely different.
And if your curiosity eventually extends towards exploring these interests with another person, our fetish escorts page introduces the variety of fantasies and preferences associated with professional fetish companionship, with personal boundaries and expectations discussed beforehand.
Choosing Your First Sex Toy
With so many options available, it’s easy to get carried away when shopping for your first toy. However, the most expensive or complicated device isn’t necessarily going to provide the most enjoyable experience.
Start by thinking about what you already know about your body. If you prefer external stimulation, a simple vibrator or clitoral stimulator might be a sensible choice. If you enjoy penetration, a smaller dildo or appropriately designed vibrator could be more appealing.
Pay attention to the materials used, whether the toy is waterproof, how easy it is to clean and whether replacement parts or chargers are available.
Choose reputable manufacturers and follow their cleaning and storage instructions. Wash toys before and after use, and take extra care when sharing toys or switching between different areas of the body.
Most importantly, remember that there isn’t a perfect toy for everyone. Something your friends rave about might do absolutely nothing for you, and that’s perfectly normal.
A Little Self-Love Goes a Long Way
Figuring out your favourite way to masturbate can be a wonderful form of self-love. It’s an opportunity to become more familiar with your body, discover different sensations and enjoy pleasure without worrying about somebody else’s expectations.
Of course, the enormous selection of sex toys can feel overwhelming when you’re starting out, but there’s no need to purchase half the shop on your first visit.
Begin with something simple, explore at your own pace and gradually discover which features and sensations appeal to you.
Once you’re comfortable using toys on your own, you might also enjoy introducing them into foreplay or sharing the experience with a partner. Just remember that communication and mutual consent are essential whenever somebody else becomes involved.
Whether your perfect evening involves a powerful vibrator, a luxurious bubble bath or nothing more complicated than your own imagination, the important thing is enjoying yourself.
After all, when it comes to solo pleasure, you’re the one making the rules!