Injecting sex toys into a relationship can be incredibly fun – it can also feel a little daunting, though. The truth is, used wisely and with communication, toys can bring you and your partner closer, deepen trust and unlock completely new shared experiences.

This guide will help you introduce toys in a comfortable and laid-back way, whether you're both brand new to them or simply curious.

1. Start with an open, honest conversation.

This is key. The first step should be a relaxed, low-pressure chat about sex toys, rather than a mad rush to the nearest shop. During this discussion, consider:

• What you'd each like to try or explore
• What you absolutely want to avoid
• Any worries or insecurities you might have
• What kind of toy you might feel comfortable with sharing

The tone should be light and playful: "Hey, want to try something fun together?"

2. Choose a toy for the two of you.

Not all toys are suitable for couples, so it's best to start with something simple that can be easily shared.

Here are some of the best beginner sex toys for couples:

• Vibrating rings
• Small vibrators to be used on, or during, intercourse or foreplay
• Air-pulse stimulators
• Flexible dildos
• Massage-style toys
• Remote-controlled sex toys

A LELO Tor 3 Vibrator Ring for example, would make an ideal starter option for couples wanting to play with something simple, or a LELO Ida Wave Couples Massager specifically designed for use with a partner. For a playful and app-controlled toy with a teasing element, try a Satisfyer Bullseye Ring Vibrator App. The main goal is to introduce something that enhances pleasure, not distracts or overwhelms the experience.

3. Integrate them as part of foreplay, not a substitute.

One of the main concerns is that you will somehow be 'replaced', and so many people fear sex toys will be used in lieu of their partner's involvement. While toys can and do fulfill specific stimulation needs during sex, it's usually best not to think of them as replacements at all.

You could try using small external vibrators during intercourse or massage each other and build sexual anticipation while using them, add gentle vibration to penetrating sex or just explore new types of sensations on each other without feeling pressured to "perform" while using it. Essentially, it's about what the toy adds, not what it replaces. A good beginner's toy here is a Volta G5 Clitoral Vibrator which is small, discreet and easy to add to your foreplay sessions.

4. Take it slow and enjoy the discovery together.

The first time you play with a sex toy shouldn't be about testing how well you can perform or for how long it can last. It should be fun, and playful, and about exploring each other and the toy together.

Allow your partner to try holding the toy, try the different intensity settings, experiment with position changes and check in regularly on how you're both feeling. The aim of the first session with sex toys should not be about achieving orgasms but about exploring with shared curiosity.

5. Keep the communication going.

The more you can discuss how things feel, the better. Be sure to constantly ask your partner "Does that feel good?", "Want to try a different speed?", or "Is this too much or is it perfect?" Any small bits of feedback will help to make your partner more comfortable and confident sharing his/her feelings throughout the experience.

6. Ensure comfort and cleanliness.

These little things can make all the difference. It's vital to:

Use water-based lubricants for a comfortable, enjoyable experience.
Clean your toys before and after each use.
Take time to adjust position if you feel uncomfortable or it interferes with your pleasure.
Take turns using the toy yourself, so your partner also feels included and explored.

7. Building trust through shared play.

Shared sexual play using sex toys can actually bring a couple closer together due to the increased level of openness, laughter, awareness of one another’s bodies, teamwork and synchrony and playfulness.

Every positive shared experience will create a new shared memory that builds upon the foundation of trust in your relationship. For couples wanting to take it a little further, a blended-stimulation toy like a Womanizer Duo 2 Stimulator can make a great next step once you already feel confident experimenting together.

It's important to remember that sex toys are just toys. They can be exciting possibilities, but they're simply tools that you can use together to connect on an entirely new level. If approaching them with an open mind, plenty of honesty and mutual respect, your journey into exploring sex toys as a couple can be transformative. It's not about doing something wildly unconventional, but about exploring and creating an extra spark within your intimacy, and enhancing the connection you share.