How to Use a Vibrator for Top-to-Toe Pleasure

You’ve likely heard all sorts about vibrators, from how overusing these buzzy friends can desensitise your clitoris (not true) to how they can make your orgasms so much better (true). But one thing’s for certain: they’re a great way to explore the boundaries of your pleasure.

Whether it’s your first time diving into the world of these sex toys, or you just want a few tips on how you can pleasure yourself better with them, you’re at the right place! In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know – from picking a vibrator to getting things rolling, slipping, and sliding!

Vibrators come in different shapes and types. Some of them provide external stimulation, while some others are meant for internal stimulation. Some even do both!

Here’s the downlow on the most common vibrator types according to the type of stimulation they offer.

• Bullet vibrator: Small, handy, and shaped like a bullet, you’ll find these in every “vibrator for beginners” starter pack. They’re perfect for teasing any external erogenous zones, from your nipples to your perineum. Place the tip of the bullet vibe against your skin for intense pleasure, or hold it horizontally for gentler vibrations over a wider surface area.

• Wand vibrator: Wands are the OG vibrators – and they’re pretty magic, too. Bigger and often more luxurious than a bullet vibe, a magic wand can be used externally (and even doubles as a body massager). When you choose your vibrator, always check to see if it’s insertable.

• Clitoral suction vibrator: As the name suggests, these vibrators have a mouth-like opening that goes over your clitoris. Through a mixture of air pulses and suction technology, this sex toy mimics the sensation of receiving oral sex. Seal this clitoral vibrator over your pearl and just sit back and let it do its thing!

• G-spot vibrator: These internal vibrators feature a curved shaft with a bulbous tip that strokes your G-spot. Want to try squirting ? A G-spot is the way to go! Just make sure you’re using water-based lube to ease you in.

• Anal vibrator: These vibrators massage your perineum or prostate to add a whole new dimension to your anal play sessions. You can use a vibrating version of your favourite anal toy – be it anal beads, butt plugs, or dildos. If you’re new to anal play, we recommend the Lovehoney Ignite Silicone T-Bar Butt Plug. Its modest size and T-bar base make it easy to insert and snuggle into place – perfect for getting used to the new feeling.

• Rabbit vibrator: If you enjoy the sensation of being penetrated while playing with your clit, a rabbit vibrator might be right up your alley. With two arms that resemble bunny ears, these dual stimulation vibrators stimulate your G-spot and clitoris at the same time.

The material your vibrator is made of is just as important as the type. Because you want to make sure that you’re getting something body safe. The material of your vibrator also influences how it feels, the type of lube you need to pair it up with, and how to clean it.

Silicone vibrators, in particular, are great for first time users. They’re silky smooth, completely safe, and transmit vibrations really well, making for a great vibrator debut.

Silicone is also non-porous, which means it can be easily and thoroughly cleaned. Keep an eye out for non-porous materials like stainless steel, ABS plastic, and borosilicate glass. These are all much easier to clean than porous materials, which can trap bacteria and dust even if you clean your toys thoroughly.

Now that you’ve got your new toy, it’s time to play! Warning: intense orgasms ahead.

1. Get to know your vibrator

Before you let your first vibrator get all up in your sensitive bits, you need to familiarise yourself with it. Read the instruction booklet, which will contain important information such as how to turn your vibrator on and off, how to switch between different vibration patterns and speeds, along with cleaning instructions. In short, get to know how your vibrator works so that you know how to run that thing when you take it for a test drive.

Got a mini vibrator ready to go? Check out our guide on How to Use a Bullet Vibrator for more tips

2. Seduce yourself

Get comfortable – either on your bed, or your couch, whatever you prefer – and get yourself going. This could include anything – from dimming the lights and playing some calming music to reading (or listening to) erotica or indulging in some good ole fantasies.

You can also use your vibrator over your muscles to release any lingering tension and enter a state of relaxation. Magic wand vibrators are great for this because they’re bigger than bullet vibes, for example, and often made of more luxurious materials.

Try building some anticipation with your foreplay by touching spots close to your non-genital erogenous zones – such as your nipples or inner thighs – before giving them any direct stimulation. Finally, move on to touching your clit, G-spot, or penis. The wait will make the first touch that much better!

3. Drizzle some lube on

Lube makes any type of sexual experience better (yes, even if you do have a vagina, which produces some natural lubrication). It reduces heat and friction and makes toys slide and glide more easily over your skin, eliminating any discomfort and enhancing the good sensations. So, whether you’re engaging in external play or internal play, use lube (a generous amount) over your genitals and your vibrator to make the slide easier.

Though there are 3 major types of lubes, water-based lube is your best bet as a sex toy newbie. It’s compatible with all types of toys, is easy to wash off, and doesn’t leave a sticky residue after.

4. Explore and experiment

Now, it’s time for the main act of the play! Start with the vibrator on at the lowest setting to prevent overstimulation. You can also keep your underwear on if the sensations are too strong.

A good starting point is to think of what you like during masturbation and replicate it with your toy instead of your fingers. Experiment with different pressures and angles to see what works best for you. Switch up between slow and fast strokes, try holding it steady over your clitoris or shaft, or move it in circles or tap it over your sensitive areas.

You can also try riding the vibrator by placing it on your pillow and straddling it. Or get down on all fours, doggy-style, and touch yourself with the vibe in that position. Just mix and match till you find your rhythm.

If you’re going for some internal stimulation, open yourself up a little with your fingers before inserting the toy. Some toys aren’t insertable, but you can still use them on your clitoris while you insert your fingers instead.

If you like watching yourself, up the ante by touching yourself in front of a mirror. Don’t hesitate to dial the intensity up or down, because one of the main goals during your first time is to find out what you like.

5. Remember that it’s about the journey

While reaching the peak is great (and very much encouraged), you also need to enjoy the climb. So, don’t go into it with the sole purpose of having an orgasm. It’s totally okay even if you don’t climax. Think of it as me-time where you leave out the stressors of the outside world and indulge in some self-care by exploring and enjoying new sensations. At the end of it, the goal is to feel more loose-limbed and mentally relaxed than before.

6. Share it with a partner

Introducing toys to partnered sex can give you some of the most intimate sex you’ve ever had. Studies have found that using toys with partners leads to an increased sexual desire and pleasure and improves your connection with your partner. Just be sure to have a chat with your partner first – to make sure you’re both on the same page while building that anticipation together.

When you’re ready to get things moving, pick your favourite vibrator and be prepared to explore different sex positions. If your partner has a penis, a cock ring might be your vibrator of choice. This will send rumbly sensations along the shaft, stimulating both partners at the same time.

7. Clean it up!

And by “it,” we mean your vibrators. Used toys can hang on to bacteria and dust, potentially leading to infections the next time you use them. There are sex toy cleaners available, made specifically to give your vibrators a good wash or a rub down, so always have those handy.

If your vibrating toy is battery operated and waterproof, use an antibacterial foaming cleanser (or a mild soap) with warm water. If you have a rechargeable buddy, just wipe it down with some disinfectant wipes. Let the toy dry thoroughly before you store it.

Finally, there are some sex toy storage dos and don’ts that you need to follow to let your beloved toys live longer. After drying them completely, store each type of sex toy separately, which means no mixing and matching or touching. For best results, use drawstring bags for each toy and keep them away from the sun.

Get that post-orgasm glow with Lovehoney

Vibrators bring a lot of fun, pleasure, intimacy, and empowerment into your life. And if this is your first time, you’re in for a treat! Once you start exploring, you’ll find that it’s the same as using your fingers or getting your partner’s mouth to go to town on you – just better. So, pick the right vibrator (or two), use Lovehoney’s expert tips from above, and get ready for some fun!