Sex

Sex Store Shopping Guide: Top Categories & Safe Buying Tips

Posted on by William Zheng

Discover a world of pleasure and intimacy with our comprehensive sex store shopping guide. Whether you’re exploring new sensations or enhancing connection with your partner, the right products can transform your experiences. Our guide highlights top tips, must-have items, and essential advice—empowering you to shop confidently and discreetly. Elevate your satisfaction and find exactly what you need with ease!

Comparison Table: Popular Categories at a Sex Store

Category Intended User Common Materials Typical Features Ideal For
Vibrators All Genders Silicone, ABS plastic Multiple speeds, waterproof, USB Solo play, couples
Dildos All Genders Silicone, Glass, Metal Realistic/non-realistic, suction Vaginal/anal penetration
Anal Toys All Genders Silicone, Glass, Metal Flared base, vibrating, beads Anal play, prostate stim
Male Masturbators Men TPE, Silicone, ABS Realistic design, automated, fits Solo male pleasure
Strap-Ons & Harnesses All Genders Silicone, Nylon Adjustable, double-ended, vibrating Partner penetration
BDSM/Bondage Accessories All Genders Leather, Metal, Nylon Cuffs, restraints, gags, crops Power play, sensation play
Couples’ Sex Toys Couples Silicone, ABS plastic Remote control, app connected Shared pleasure
Lingerie All Genders Lace, Satin, Nylon Bras, panties, teddies, bodystockings Dressing up, teasing
Lubricants & Enhancers All Genders Water, Silicone, Hybrid Flavored, warming, anal-specific Comfort, sensation

Types of Products You’ll Find at a Sex Store

Sex stores offer a range of products tailored to different experiences, desires, and comfort levels. Here’s an overview of the major categories:

1. Vibrators

  • Wide array includes clitoral, G-spot, wand, suction, rabbit, bullet, wearable, remote/app-controlled, and massage wands.
  • Perfect for all genders and orientations—great for solo or couple enjoyment.

2. Dildos

  • Realistic and non-realistic options, double-ended, glass, metal, and vibrating dildos.
  • Used for vaginal or anal penetration, compatible with many harnesses.

3. Anal Toys

  • Butt plugs, beads, prostate massagers, anal probes, and training kits.
  • Designed for safety with flared bases, offered in beginner to advanced sizes.

4. Male Masturbators

  • Strokers, sleeves, pocket pussies, blow-job simulators, and full-size love dolls.
  • Some offer vibration or automatic stroke features for enhanced pleasure.

5. Strap-Ons & Harnesses

  • Include harness systems paired with dildos, double strap-ons, hollow or strapless systems.
  • Useful for pegging, partner penetration, and gender-affirming play.

6. Bondage & BDSM Gear

  • Handcuffs, restraints, gags, floggers, impact toys, nipple clamps, and more.
  • Ranges from gentle sensation play to more advanced bondage for power dynamics.

7. Couples Sex Toys

  • Items that enhance shared play, like vibrating rings, couples’ vibrators, remote-controlled toys.
  • Facilitate connection and mutual pleasure with interactive features.

8. Lingerie & Apparel

  • Bras, panties, bodystockings, costumes, loungewear, and fetish wear.
  • Boost confidence, set the mood, and support role-play.

9. Lubricants and Enhancers

  • Water, silicone, or hybrid-based lubes; flavored, warming, or cooling variations.
  • Enhance comfort, glide, safety, and sensations.

Material Safety: What to Know Before You Buy

Material safety is paramount for sexual wellness products, as these items have direct contact with sensitive body parts. Here’s how to ensure you make a safe purchase:

– Preferred Materials

  • Medical Grade Silicone: Non-porous, hypoallergenic, easy to clean, compatible with water-based lubes.
  • ABS Plastic: Rigid, non-porous, used for many bullets and control panels.
  • Glass (Borosilicate/Pyrex): Body-safe, non-porous, temperature play compatible, very easy to sanitize.
  • Stainless Steel/Metal: Durable, non-porous, great for temperature play, fully sanitized by boiling.
  • TPE/TPR (Elastomers): Cheap, soft, but porous—can harbor bacteria; use condoms for extra safety.
  • Latex/Rubber, Jelly: Often porous; may contain phthalates or allergens—select phthalate-free options and use with condoms.

– Materials to Avoid or Use With Caution

  • Jelly, Rubber, Porous Plastics: Can harbor bacteria and contain potential irritants.
  • Porous Materials: Always use with condoms and replace frequently.

– Checking Product Certification

  • Look for products labeled as 100% body-safe, non-toxic, and phthalate-free. Trust reputable brands and official stores.

Maintenance and Cleaning: Keeping Toys Safe and Lasting

Proper toy maintenance not only preserves their lifespan but also ensures user safety. Here’s what you need to know:

Cleaning Basics

  1. Before First Use: Always wash new toys with warm water and fragrance-free, mild soap or a toy cleaner.
  2. After Each Use: Clean thoroughly—most non-porous toys can be rinsed with warm, soapy water.
  3. For Waterproof Toys: Submerge and wash; for non-waterproof, wipe with a damp cloth avoiding power components.
  4. For Porous or Motorized Toys: Use toy cleaner wipes or dampened cloth, carefully avoid battery/power ports.

Disinfecting

  • Silicone, glass, and metal toys (without motors) can often be boiled for a few minutes, or placed in the top rack of a dishwasher (no detergent), if allowed by manufacturer.

Drying and Storage

  • Pat dry with a towel and air dry completely.
  • Store in a clean, lint-free pouch or original box. Keep separate from other toys to prevent material reactions.

Special Care

  • Remove batteries after use.
  • Avoid using silicone lube on silicone toys; opt for water-based options.
  • Regularly inspect for wear or damage and replace if needed.

Privacy Tips: Shopping and Storing Discreetly

Sexual wellness shopping should always feel comfortable, safe, and private. Here’s how to protect your privacy from purchase to storage:

Discreet Shopping

  • Reputable stores always ship in plain packaging with generic return labels.
  • Billing descriptors are neutral (e.g., “Customer Service” or a general store name).
  • Shop online incognito or clear browser history if preferred.

Safe Storage

  • Invest in lockable or coded storage boxes/pouches.
  • Use travel pouches for portability and discretion.
  • Keep toys out of direct sight, away from children and pets.

Receiving Packages

  • Packages from sex stores usually do not indicate the contents.
  • Signature delivery can be chosen for added privacy.

How to Choose the Right Product for You

Choosing from a vast selection can be overwhelming. Use the following advice to narrow down your choices:

1. Determine Your Goals and Boundaries

  • Identify your desires (solo play, couple enhancement, kink, fantasy).
  • Set any boundaries—materials, sizes, level of intensity, or features.

2. Start with Experience Level

  • Beginners: Choose smaller, non-intimidating toys made of body-safe materials.
  • Intermediate/Advanced: Experiment with larger dimensions, dual stimulation, or electro/kink accessories.

3. Consider Anatomy and Use Case

  • Choose toys designed for your anatomy and the stimulation you want (clitoral, G-spot, prostate, anal).

4. Features to Assess

  • Power source (battery, USB, plug-in)
  • Speed and pattern variety
  • Noise level
  • Waterproofing and cleaning ease
  • Remote/app controls for partner play or discreet use

5. Budget and Brand

  • Balance investment according to use frequency and quality desires.
  • Reputable brands often provide safer and more reliable products.

Practical Tips and Best Practices

  • Start slow, especially with new or anal toys.
  • Always use lubricant to prevent friction and discomfort.
  • Communicate openly with partners before use.
  • Gradually increase stimulation, especially for penetrative or large toys.
  • Never share porous toys between partners without a condom.
  • Read manuals for special toy features (remote pairing, charging).
  • Periodically review and clean your toy collection to retire older products.

Technical Comparison Table: Key Features Across Popular Categories

Product Type Power Source Waterproof Control Methods Noise Level Cleaning Method Typical Price Range
Bullet Vibrators Battery/Rechargeable Often yes Button, remote/app Low Washable/wipes $10–$50
Wand Vibrators Plug/Battery/USB Varies Button, dial, remote Med-Loud Washable/wipes $30–$150
Dildos (Silicone) N/A Yes Manual Silent Boil/wash $20–$80
Anal Beads/Plugs N/A/Vibration Often yes Manual, button Silent/Low Boil/wash $15–$80
Couples’ Vibrators Rechargeable Often yes Button, remote/app Low-Medium Washable/wipes $50–$200
Male Masturbators Manual/Auto/Battery Some Button/manual Low-Medium Washable/wipes $20–$150+
Strap-Ons & Harnesses N/A/Vibration Most Manual, button (if vib.) Silent/Low Washable $35–$150
BDSM Restraints N/A N/A Manual Silent Wipe/leather care $15–$100
Lingerie N/A N/A N/A Silent Launder $20–$80

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Conclusion

A sex store is more than just a retail outlet—it’s a gateway to self-discovery, intimacy, and pleasure. By understanding the types, materials, maintenance, and privacy aspects of sexual wellness products, you can make confident choices that enhance your most personal moments. Shop for quality, prioritize safety, respect your privacy, and don’t be shy about exploring new sensations. With thoughtful selection and care, your experiences can be healthy, fun, and deeply fulfilling.

FAQ

  1. Are purchases from sex stores discreet?
    Yes, reputable sex stores prioritize your privacy by shipping in plain packaging with generic labeling, and billing information is neutral.

  2. How do I select the right sex toy for beginners?
    Start with smaller, body-safe toys like bullet vibrators or slim dildos. Look for “beginner-friendly” tags and prioritize ease of use and cleaning.

  3. What materials are safest for sex toys?
    Medical-grade silicone, ABS plastic, borosilicate glass, and stainless steel are considered the safest (non-porous and hypoallergenic).

  4. Can I share my sex toys with a partner?
    It’s safest to avoid sharing. If you do, use a new condom over the toy each time, especially with porous or anal toys, and clean thoroughly after each use.

  5. How do I clean my sex toys?
    Wash with warm water and mild soap or specialized toy cleaner after each use. Non-porous, non-electronic toys can be disinfected by boiling.

  6. What features should I look for in a couples’ toy?
    Adjustable settings, remote or app control, flexible shapes, and body-safe materials are important. Some toys are designed specifically for simultaneous use.

  7. Does product size matter?
    Absolutely—choose a size that matches your comfort level and desired experience. Beginners should avoid large toys until they feel ready.

  8. Is it okay to use any lubricant with my toys?
    Water-based lube is the most compatible with all materials. Avoid silicone-based lube on silicone toys and check manufacturer recommendations.

  9. How do I store my purchases discreetly?
    Use designated storage pouches or cases, ideally in a private drawer or lockbox. Many stores sell special storage solutions.

  10. What if I receive a defective or unwanted item?
    Most reputable sex stores have clear return or replacement policies for unopened, unused items. Always check the store’s policy before purchase.

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William Zheng