The toy aisle — digital or physical — is overwhelming on purpose. More options means more sales. Here’s how to cut through it and actually pick something you’ll use.
Start with the material
Body-safe means non-porous: medical-grade silicone, glass, or stainless steel. Skip anything labeled “jelly,” “rubber,” or that doesn’t list a material at all — porous materials trap bacteria and can’t be fully sanitized, no matter how well you clean them.
Buy for where you actually are, not where you want to be
The most-returned toys are the ones bought for an “advanced” version of yourself that doesn’t exist yet. Start smaller and simpler than you think you need — you can always size up.
What to avoid on a first purchase
- Anything with a dozen settings you’ll never use — simple, reliable, and quiet often wins
- Non-adjustable or one-size restraints if you’re still learning your fit and comfort
- Novelty-only products with no clear material listed
One well-chosen piece beats five impulse buys sitting in a drawer. Slow down, read the material label, and buy for tonight-you, not aspirational-you.