Starting your journey with adult toys should be exciting, not intimidating. Whether you’re exploring solo or with a partner, the right first toy can open the door to a whole new kind of pleasure — and you don’t need a cabinet full of gear to begin. Below are ten beginner-friendly favourites, what each one is good for, and an honest guide to picking the right version of each. New to all of this? Our Getting Started guide is the gentlest possible place to begin.
1. Classic vibrators
A classic vibrator is the staple of any collection — straightforward, versatile, and forgiving for first-timers. Look for a body-safe silicone finish and a few speed settings so you can find what feels right. Start here: Best Classic & Standard Vibrators.
2. Bullet vibrators
Small, discreet, and surprisingly powerful, the bullet is perfect for pinpointed clitoral stimulation and easy to work into partnered foreplay. It’s also the most travel-friendly toy on this list. Start here: Best Bullets, Eggs & Rings.
3. Dildos
For those who enjoy a feeling of fullness, a dildo adds a different dimension of pleasure — solo or with a partner. Beginners do well with a smaller, body-safe silicone model. Start here: Best Realistic Dildos or Best Suction Cup Dildos for hands-free play.
Want deep-dive, independent reviews before you buy? Our friends at Bedbible test a huge range of toys in detail.
4. Couples’ vibrating rings
A vibrating ring adds stimulation for both partners during intercourse — one of the easiest ways to bring a toy into partnered play without changing your routine much. Start here: Best Cockrings & Lassos.
5. Anal plugs
Curious about anal play? A small, tapered plug with a wide base is the safe, beginner-friendly starting point. Go slow, use plenty of lubricant, and never skip the flared base. Read our Anal Play for Beginners primer first, then browse the Best Butt Plugs.
6. Kegel balls
Kegel balls offer more than pleasure — they help strengthen the pelvic floor, which can mean stronger orgasms and better control. Start with a lighter set and build up gradually. New to the idea? Our Getting Started guide covers the basics.
7. Nipple clamps
Nipple clamps introduce a new kind of sensation — adjustable pressure that builds arousal and releases a rush when removed. Adjustable versions let you dial the intensity to your comfort. Explore our bondage & sensation range.
8. Blindfolds
Take away sight and every other sense sharpens — every touch and whisper becomes more thrilling. A soft blindfold is one of the cheapest, easiest ways to add anticipation. Browse blindfolds.
9. Feather ticklers
Gentle, playful, and a perfect introduction to sensory play, a feather tickler teases and tantalises without any pressure — ideal for building tension slowly. Find them in our sensation & play range.
10. Beginner’s bondage kits
A starter kit is a gentle, all-in-one introduction to light BDSM — exploring trust, control, and surrender safely and consensually. Set clear boundaries, agree on a safe word, and keep talking. Start here: Best Restraint Kits & Combos.
A few honest reminders
Exploring is personal, and there’s no wrong pace. A few things that make it better every time:
- Materials matter. Body-safe silicone is worth it — we explain exactly what everything’s made of in our Materials & Ingredients guide.
- Lube is your friend. The right one changes everything — see How to Choose Lube.
- Not sure of a term? Our plain-language glossary has you covered.
Ready to explore? Browse the full Guide Library, shop our best sellers, or find exactly what you’re after with Shop by Need. Everything ships in plain, discreet packaging — no one needs to know but you.