Buying your first sex toy is exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. With hundreds of different products available, knowing where to begin isn't always easy.

The good news is that there's no such thing as the "perfect" first toy for everyone. The best choice depends on what kind of sensations you enjoy, whether you're shopping for solo play or with a partner, and how adventurous you want to be.

At Scandals, we've been helping people find the right products for over 20 years. Whether you visit one of our stores or shop online, our aim is to make choosing your first sex toy simple, comfortable and enjoyable.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before making your first purchase.

Why Try a Sex Toy?

Sex toys are designed to enhance pleasure, help you explore your body, and introduce new sensations that you may not experience otherwise.

People choose sex toys for many different reasons, including:

• Exploring solo pleasure
• Enhancing intimacy with a partner
• Discovering new sensations
• Improving confidence
• Adding variety to their bedroom routine
• Supporting sexual wellness

There isn't a "right" reason to buy a toy. The important thing is finding something that suits your comfort level and interests.

Browse our full collection.

Start by Asking Yourself One Question

Before looking at products, ask yourself:

What type of stimulation am I looking for?

Your answer will help narrow down your options.

You might enjoy:

• External stimulation
• Internal stimulation
• A combination of both
• Couples' play
• Anal exploration
• Penis stimulation

Once you know what you're looking for, choosing a toy becomes much easier.

If You Want External Stimulation

External toys are often recommended for first-time buyers because they're easy to use and don't require insertion.

Popular beginner options include:

Bullet Vibrators

Compact, discreet and surprisingly powerful, bullet vibrators provide targeted stimulation and are ideal for beginners.

Perfect for:

• First-time users
• Solo play
• Couples
• Travel

Browse Bullet Vibrators.

Clitoral Suction Toys

Rather than traditional vibrations, these toys use gentle air pulse technology to stimulate the clitoris without direct contact.

Many people love the unique sensations they provide.

Browse Clitoral Suction Toys.

Wand Massagers

If powerful external stimulation appeals to you, a wand vibrator is worth considering.

Originally developed as body massagers, they have become famous for their deep, rumbly vibrations.

Shop Wand Vibrators.

If You Want Internal Stimulation

Internal toys come in many different shapes.

For beginners, smaller and slimmer designs are usually the most comfortable.

Classic Vibrators

Simple, versatile and easy to use, classic vibrators are an excellent first purchase.

Many can be used both internally and externally.

Browse Vibrators.

G-Spot Vibrators

Recognisable by their curved tip, G-spot vibrators are designed to provide more focused internal stimulation.

Browse G-Spot Vibrators.

Dildos

Not everyone wants vibration.

Dildos offer complete control over movement, speed and pressure while being available in a huge range of sizes and materials.

Browse Dildos.

If You Want Both Internal and External Stimulation

Rabbit vibrators combine two forms of stimulation in one toy.

The internal shaft stimulates the vagina while the external arm targets the clitoris at the same time.

This combination has made rabbit vibrators one of the world's most popular toy styles.

Browse Rabbit Vibrators.

Shopping for Someone with a Penis?

There are plenty of beginner-friendly options available.

Male Strokers

Designed to provide sensations that differ from manual stimulation, strokers come in disposable, reusable and vibrating versions.

Browse Male Masturbators.

Cock Rings

Cock rings fit comfortably around the base of the penis and can enhance firmness while adding extra stimulation.

Some models also vibrate for shared pleasure during partner play.

Browse Cock Rings.

Prostate Massagers

Designed specifically for prostate stimulation, these toys feature curved shapes to help reach the prostate comfortably.

Many beginners choose smaller models before progressing to larger designs.

Browse Prostate Toys.

Curious About Anal Play?

If you're interested in exploring anal toys, always choose products specifically designed for anal use.

These feature a flared base for safety.

For beginners, look for:

• Small silicone butt plugs
• Slim anal beads
• Beginner anal training kits

Use plenty of lubricant and take your time.

Browse Anal Toys.

Choose Body-Safe Materials

One of the most important things to consider is what your toy is made from.

Body-safe materials include:

• Silicone
• Stainless steel
• Glass
• ABS plastic

Premium silicone is especially popular because it's soft, non-porous and easy to clean.

Rechargeable or Battery Powered?

Rechargeable toys have become the preferred choice for many people.

Benefits include:

• Stronger motors
• No replacement batteries
• Waterproof designs
• Quieter operation
• Longer lifespan

Battery-powered toys can still be an excellent option if you're shopping on a budget or buying your first toy.

Waterproof Is Worth Considering

A waterproof toy offers greater flexibility.

Benefits include:

• Easier cleaning
• Shower play
• Bath compatibility (where specified)
• Greater durability

Always check the manufacturer's instructions before fully submerging a toy.

Don't Forget Lubricant

Lubricant makes almost every toy more comfortable and enjoyable.

For most silicone toys, water-based lubricant is the safest choice.

Browse Lubricants.

Read our complete guide.

 

Keep Your Toy Clean

Cleaning your toy after every use helps maintain hygiene and prolongs its lifespan.

Most toys can be cleaned using warm water and a dedicated toy cleaner (following the manufacturer's instructions).

Browse Toy Cleaners.

Your First Toy Doesn't Have to Be Your Last

One of the best parts about exploring sex toys is discovering what you enjoy.

Many people begin with a simple bullet vibrator or classic dildo before exploring rabbits, suction stimulators, couples' toys or app-controlled devices.

Take your time, experiment and remember that there's no rush to try everything at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best first sex toy?

A bullet vibrator, classic vibrator or small silicone dildo are all excellent beginner-friendly choices thanks to their simplicity and versatility.

Should I buy rechargeable or battery-powered?

Rechargeable toys generally offer stronger performance, quieter motors and lower running costs, while battery-powered toys can be a good entry point if you're on a budget.

Do I need lubricant?

Using a quality water-based lubricant can improve comfort and is compatible with most body-safe toy materials.

Can I use my first toy with a partner?

Absolutely. Many beginner-friendly vibrators, cock rings and wearable toys are designed to be enjoyed during partnered intimacy as well as solo play.

Discover Your First Sex Toy at Scandals

Choosing your first sex toy should feel exciting, not intimidating. Whether you're looking for a discreet bullet vibrator, a realistic dildo, a couples' toy or something completely different, Scandals has a wide range of beginner-friendly products to help you explore with confidence.

With discreet UK delivery, trusted brands and expert advice, we're here to help you find the perfect first toy—and every toy after that.

Browse our complete collection today.