From trying (and finally nailing) shower sex [1] to inviting a third party into the bedroom [2], there are tons of ways you and your partner can spice up your sex life.
Whilst it might not be as wet or wild as a water-based escapade, or a threesome, a new sex toy is a go-to for spicing things up. There's a strap-on [3], ring, or wand out there for every kind of couple, whether you're looking to expand your nightstand collection or you're brand new to sex toys altogether. When shopping for a sex toy [4], it's important to remember they aren't only for penetrative stimulation. Never underestimate the power of foreplay, or a spontaneous toy massage. You'd be surprised how many nonpenetrative ways you can stimulate your partner using a vibrator [5]!
Some people might cringe, or even feel inferior, at the thought of using a robotic assistant on their partner, but Eddie Marklew, a sex expert at TENGA [6], tells POPSUGAR that adult toys shouldn't be viewed in such a close-minded way. "Sex toys should not be viewed as a replacement for sex, but a way to make pleasure better," they tell us. "Just as we sleep right, eat well, and take care of our bodies, masturbation and sex toys should be another part of our self-care routine and a great way for couples to explore their sexuality."
Marklew continues: "Using couples sex toys is a great tool to help build trust and intimacy in a relationship, as well as add excitement and variety to one's sex life. Sex toys can do things our bodies can't, like pulse and vibrate and thus can open up entirely new realms of pleasure for everyone involved." Nonetheless, it's still important to speak to your partner about their likes, and dislikes. "Communication is key but by using toys, couples can experiment with different sensations and learn what things they might enjoy," says Marklew.
Whatever you and your partner are in the market for, we've found lots of options ranging in price, shape, speed levels, vibration patterns, and more. Shop items like handcuffs, double-ended dildos, and remote-control toys to take your sex life to new pleasurable heights.
— Additional reporting by Gabriella Ferlita
TENGA Iroha SVR
TENGA Iroha SVR [7] (£80)
This toy is the smart vibrating ring created to enhance the sensations of partnered pleasure, however that may look for you. This invention features five different vibration intensities, and two rhythm modes. It's made of soft, body-safe and stretch silicone, so you won't find yourself struggling to find a comfortable fit, either.
Hot Octopuss DiGiT Finger Vibrator
Hot Octopuss DiGiT Finger Vibrator [8] (£60)
This vibrator might look small, but boy, is it mighty! It's the perfect way to introduce toys into sex with a partner. Have you partner slide the vibrator onto their finger during foreplay and tease your erogenous zones to spice things up.
Namii by Biird
Namii by Biird [9] (£100)
Obii is a sex toy brand out of Rotterdam, Netherlands, and their new 2-in-1 clitorial stimulator is as cute as it is functional. Somewhat resembling the shape of a whale, this toy offers both suction and vibration functions which can be used independently, or at the same time. Also, the base doubles as a lamp, emitting a warm mood light as it takes pride of place on your bedside table (no awkward hiding your sex toys here!).
DAME Eva II Hands-Free Silicone Couples Vibrator
DAME Eva II Hands-Free Silicone Couples Vibrator [10] (£95, originally £135)
This little beauty is a clitoral vibrator designed to be worn during sex for shared, hands-free pleasure. With flexible wings, and three intensity levels, you can warm up before diving in and finding that perfect spot. It is waterproof and can be anchored under the labia. Pretty cool, right?
Lovehoney Extra Powerful Multispeed Plug In Massage Wand Vibrator
Lovehoney Extra Powerful Multispeed Plug In Massage Wand Vibrator [11] (£60)
With over 3,000 five-star customer reviews, the guarantees to take yours and your partner's sex life to new heights. This latex-free toy has an extra powerful motor and is best for external play (your clitoris will thank you). It scores a five out of five for orgasm rating, value, quality, and vibration strength. Lovehoney recommends using the product with a generous amount of water-based lubricant.
Lovehoney Double Duty Vibrating Double-Ended Strap-On Dildo
Lovehoney Double Duty Vibrating Double-Ended Strap-On Dildo [15] (£60)
Made out of hypoallergenic silicone, this toy features three speeds and seven patterns of shared vibration. Some customer reviews noted that because the ends are different lengths (five and seven inches), it could take a few tries to find which end fits and feels better for you and your partner. It also depends on the position, too. A harness and remote control are also included.
DAME Pom
Dame Pom [16] (£69, originally £86)
Described as "pleasure in the palm of your hand," this sex toy is great for first-time players. The external vibrator is super flexible and moves with you, rather than making you reposition to fit the toy. Users can choose between broad or targeted stimulation or alternate between both. Customers rave about how discreet and quiet it is.
Lovehoney Basics Slimline Butt Plug
Lovehoney Basics Slimline Butt Plug [17] (£10)
Want to incorporate some bum fun into your sex life? Thhis butt plug has over 1,800 positive customer reviews, many of which describe the butt plug as a great starter toy for beginners. Its slim design offers a less intimidating approach to anal play. Customers also suggest applying an ample amount of lube; Lovehoney recommends a water-based lube.
Lovehoney Oh! Foreplay Dice (3-Pack)
Lovehoney Oh! Foreplay Dice (3-Pack) [18] (£6)
If you want to experiment with sex toys but aren't sure how to initiate the conversation, allow these little dice to do the heavy work for you. Different prompts are displayed on every side of the dice, directing you and your partner what act you'll be performing and where. This game makes for a fun, romantic weekend-getaway activity.
Hot Octopuss Atom
Hot Octopuss Atom [19] (£50)
This cock ring is ergonomically designed to bring you and your partner's climax to an exceptional new level of pleasure. But there's more! While the curved design enhances intensity, it's the deep, powerful motor will keep you both coming, and coming, for more.
Nu Sensuelle Remote Control Cock Ring
Nu Sensuelle Remote Control Cock Ring [20] (£56)
Not only is this cock ring remote controlled, but the control itself vibrates in time with the ring so it's a 2-for-1 toy, which is pretty nifty.
Satisfyer Partner Plus
Satisfyer Partner Plus [21] (£31)
This wearable vibrator with a remote control has two motors and is designed to stimulate multiple spots when inserted. With 10 vibration levels, and a waterproof design, the opportunities to use this exceed more than the bedroom.
Yarosi Micro Wand Massager
Micro Wand Massager [22] (£33)
While this massager from Yarosi is great for solo use, it's pretty awesome to use in conjunction with your partner. With eight speeds and 20 vibrating patterns, there is pretty much a guarantee that you'll find something to match your bedroom rhythm.
Dame Fin Finger
Dame Fin Finger [25] (£85)
This toy is simple yet effective; the 3-speed vibrator slips over you or your partner's finger during sex or foreplay. "For something so small I honestly didn't think it would have so much power!" one reviewer on Cult Beauty exclaimed. You're in for a treat.
Lelo Picobong Transformer
Lelo Picobong Transformer [26] (£85)
This is a does-it-all sex toy that's definitely worth the investment. Like all Lelo toys, it's made of medical-grade silicone and waterproof, but this one can be bent, curved, and manipulated into a variety of shapes to hit you and your partner's pleasure spots. And when we say does it all, we mean it: it's a rabbit vibrator, pleasure ring, G-spot stimulator, a prostate massager, a double-ended vibrator and double-ended dildo.
We-Vibe Chorus App and Remote Control Couple's Vibrator
We-Vibe Chorus App and Remote Control Couple's Vibrator [27] (£190)
With an adjustable fit and the ability to customise the vibration (say what?), this toy brings both partners pleasure (we know from experience!). But arguably the best part about this sex toy is that by using the app, your partner can turn you on whether you're on a business trip across the country or on the other side of the couch.
Desire Luxury Rechargeable Remote Control Love Egg Vibrator
Desire Luxury Rechargeable Remote Control Love Egg Vibrator [28] (£70)
Whisper quiet and with 8 patterns of waves and pulses and 12 levels of adjustable intensity, this toy is another remote-control, silicone vibrator that lets you and your partner have some fun even when you're not together in the bedroom (although, with this one, you can't be farther than 8 metres away from each other).
Bondage Kit
10-piece kit [29] (£15, originally £16)
Truth is, there is nothing like a bondage kit to spice things up a bit. This includes handcuffs, a blindfold, restraints, and a ball gag, just to name a few items, making it a good investment for novice and experienced BDSM couples alike.
Lelo Tiani 3
Lelo Tiani 3 [30] (£111, originally £139)
This toy is waterproof for the ability to have fun in a variety of places and has eight pleasure settings. A wireless control tops it off so you can put your hands in other more interesting places.
Screaming O Vibrating Ring
Screaming O Vibrating Ring [31] (£8)
Disposable, if you so desire, this toy fits snugly on the base of the penis. It has a clit stimulator and a ring filled with nubs for extra "for her" pleasure. Also awesome? The battery lasts for 30 minutes.
Lovehoney Wild Weekend Mega Couple's Sex Toy Kit
Lovehoney Wild Weekend Mega Couple's Sex Toy Kit [32] (£80)
And if you can't decide exactly which sex toy to introduce to your partner, why not clear the whole damn shelf? This kit is the brand's bestselling, and offers 11 specially selected toys for weekend exploration including a slimline butt plug, jiggle balls, and a textured masturbator.