But what do you do with these toys? Just how do you play with them? Vibrators are the most commonly bought sex toys and are a marvellous wake-up call for de-sensitised zones. If you haven't used one before, try one on your own first, as they can take a little getting used to. 'I was done in 10 seconds!' one friend told me after her first go. And when you do move on to using one with a partner, don't just think 'insertion' - take turns to run the thing slowly over each other, concentrating on the back, neck and feet, as well as erogenous zones. You'll come up with your own ideas once you get going, but do try letting the vibrator lie between you as you make love, nestling in your cleavage and humming away. Nice!
There are so many models to choose from - some are brazen, ugly phalluses, but there are lots of pretty ones, like the Little Gem from Durex (£44.99, available from Superdrug). It's a completely unphallic little number that looks like a mini spaceship - you hold it between your fingers and its rubbery pad vibrates gently wherever you place it. Again... nice! Looking for something that does look like a willy but still don't want a monster? Try the Velvet Vibe Lavender (£9.95, www.blissbox.com), an elegant, quiet, slender-looking model that could pass as a hairbrush handle in your handbag. Really can't cope with being caught carrying one? Go for the Lipstick Vibrator (£19.99, www.stringfellows.com) - a chic but powerful mini massager.
Now, how about a treat specifically for him? Aw, go on - not all the toys are for you! Test Tickles (£16, www.annsummers.com) is a stretchy, silicone double ring that'll fit over his willy and balls, giving him a surge of pressure just where it's needed and helping keep him hard for longer. Beware: some men don't like the harder rings. And note: you can use the Test Tickles with or without its lovely little extra, a vibrating bullet that sits between the rings to give you both a buzz.
Fancy finding a new way to tease him? A Truncheon Whip (£25, www.annsummers.com), with its saucy pink handle and suede tassels is less serious than it sounds. You don't have to thwack him 'til he's raw (or at all, in fact) – just say he can't have you (or your breast, or whatever part of you he wants) unless he says please or begs, whichever Madam requires! Sometimes just the sight of a whip can drive a bloke wild with desire. Strange but true.
And finally, no beginners' guide to sex toys would be complete without mention of Lavender Wrist Cuffs (£19.95, www.blissbox.com). It's fab to lie back and be taken in this unthreatening light bondage gear. And it can be such a turn-on to see him helpless in them, too. Be sure you agree to untie whenever either of you asks. Lavender Leather Ankle cuffs, of course, also available (£19.95, www.blissbox.com).
Take it slowly with your toys, exploring them together, allowing yourselves to have a giggle over them and even choosing them together - used well they can help keep you open to new ideas and to a fresh, vibrant and fun sex life for years to come, which can't be bad, can it?
