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The Nightstand · Buying Guides

The First-Timer’s Field Guide to Buying a Toy

The OCA Editors · · 6 min read

A hand opening a cream gift box

No jargon, no pressure. Everything you actually need to know before your first purchase — and nothing you don’t.

Everyone starts somewhere, and if you’re here, you’re starting somewhere very good. Buying your first toy should feel exciting, not intimidating, so let’s keep this simple.

Start small, then explore

Compact, external toys are the easiest place to begin. They’re intuitive and easy to figure out. Our First Time? collection gathers simpler, smaller picks from what’s in stock now.

Read the material on the product page

Each product page shows the manufacturer’s own description, including materials where they are listed. Non-porous materials such as silicone, glass and metal are generally easier to clean.

Lube is not optional

A water-based lubricant makes almost everything more comfortable and is compatible with every toy material.

Still not sure?

Take the Find Your Match quiz. A few quick questions, and it suggests products from the live catalog.

In stock now

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