Buying sex toys is hugely normalised these days. But why does the idea of going to a sex shop leave us all pink-faced and flustered?
It’s time to break the misconceptions surrounding sex toy shopping. From the benefits of in-store shopping to what to do when you arrive, this blog will be your handy companion for all things sex toy shopping.
Why you shouldn’t be nervous to go to a sex shop
Sex shops can be intimidating, but you shouldn’t be nervous to visit one. However, we totally understand that saying that won’t suddenly remove your anxiety.
So, it’s better to remember that being nervous is completely normal and not a bad thing.
Sex shop staff are used to nervous shoppers, and they’re there to help in a non-judgmental and kind manner. They know how to make you feel comfortable!
Talking to a staff member isn’t likely on your list if you’re nervous, though it’s actually the best way to jump in. Not only will workers have the best toy insights, but talking to someone will help you get out of your head and more in the moment – reducing your anxiety and bringing you some A+ toy recommendations.
All in all, it’s normal to be nervous, and the pleasure you’ll receive from your purchase will far outweigh the stress of visiting an in-person store for the first time.
Plus, once it’s done, you’ll be much more confident next time. A mind-blowing toy collection is in your future!
Ordering online vs shopping in-person
Unsurprisingly, most people shop for sex toys online these days. With next-day delivery and discreet packaging, it’s all too tempting to ditch the anxiety-inducing in-person shopping spree.
But before you click confirm order! Take a moment and pause – it might be easier to find the perfect toy for you by visiting an in-person shop. Here’s why:
- Sex shops carry toys from lots of different brands. So, you can buy different toys from one place rather than making multiple online orders.
- Personalised recommendations. This is one of the main reasons why you should visit an in-person shop—the experts will help you find your perfect match. Remember, they’re professionals. They won’t ask risqué questions unless you’re comfortable. If they can tell you’re feeling awkward, they’ll ask whether you’re a beginner and go from there.
- Honest reviews. Not all sex toys are as good as the online marketing suggests. A sex shop assistant can give you honest feedback on the product, giving you insider insights you wouldn’t find on the product webpage.
- No delivery time. This is another vital benefit of shopping in-store—you won’t have to wait three to five business days to try out your new product! Result.
- High-quality products. Depending on where you shop, when you buy sex toys online, you might not receive a high-quality product. Some retailers peddle harmful materials, low-quality designs, and vibrators with poor power.
- Are you diving in the deep end and trying out kink? The thought of discussing this with someone you don’t know might make you sweat, but it’s the best way to find safe and satisfying toys—plus, they may be able to recommend sex education media or places to learn.
- Confidential. Discreet online orders aren’t the only way to buy privately! Sex shops won’t blast your name or put you on a list. You simply arrive, pay, and leave without private information.
- What you see is what you get. Lastly, when you buy in person, what you see is what you get. So, you won’t have to worry about catfish deliveries or frustrating returns.
Of course, if the idea of visiting a sex shop in person is extremely distressing, don’t force yourself through it.
Start off slow with online orders to get used to buying sex toys, preferably from small businesses so you can support local brands or new creators.
However, if you do start feeling curious, take the plunge. The benefits above are well worth the shopping time!
Tips for visiting a sex shop in real life
Whether you’re raring to go or only thinking about visiting a sex shop, make sure you know how to behave.
While sex shops are laid-back places, there are some etiquette points to note so you don’t make the experience awkward for other shoppers. Here are the main tips:
1. Don’t open anything
Touching everything, opening boxes, and playing with toys that’ll one day be used is a big no-no. This is for sanitary reasons and out of respect for other customers.
2. Don’t test the testers
That’s right – sometimes, sex shops have testers. However, they’re not designed for actual testing.
Rather, they give you the chance to see the sex toy and feel the materials. Don’t pick up the toy and put it near your genitals or other intimate areas. Simply check how it feels without doing anything inappropriate.
3. Focus on the toys, not the person
When you work with a sales assistant, they’ll ask questions about your needs to help you find the perfect sex toy fix.
You don’t have to give extremely intimate details. Rather, you should discuss whether you like internal or external toys or vibrators.
Focusing on what the toys do and not whether your assistant has personally used them helps avoid awkward encounters when you don’t know their boundaries.
4. Take a moment after you enter
It’s common for first-time shoppers to walk into a sex shop and be completely overwhelmed. This is normal, especially if you’ve never seen a wall of dildos before.
However, taking a moment to assess the room and take a deep breath can help you ease into the situation and find what you’re looking for.
5. Be open-minded
Most people hope not to be judged while shopping, so it’s important to maintain the same non-judgmental attitude to create a comfortable, welcoming environment.
You might see other customers buying toys you’d never touch in a million years. Some kinks aren’t your taste, but that doesn’t mean they’re wrong.
Refrain from giggling or commenting on other people’s purchases. You wouldn’t want that to happen to you!
It’s always good to know-before you go. Keep learning about sex and wellness on the Vivastreet blog.
