Gifts for first-timers
For someone new to all of this, or a couple trying something together for the first time. Nothing intimidating: small, friendly first toys, the essentials everyone needs, and a few things to set the mood.
Every piece here is one we've vetted. Braise is reader-supported: we may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no cost to you. How that works.
A gentle first toy
Small, soft and simple to use, with nothing to set up.
- Dame ProductsDame Pom
A soft, bendable massager that molds to your body and fits in your palm, so it works for slow solo time or shared moments.
View at Dame - irohairoha zen
A small vibrator ribbed like a bamboo tea whisk, for a gentle, textured touch at a friendly price.
View at TENGA$49 - Dame ProductsDame Dip
A simple, compact vibrator that makes a friendly first toy, with nothing intimidating to figure out.
View at Amazon - MysteryVibeMysteryVibe Poco
A compact, flexible vibrator with two motors that bends to the body, small enough for solo time or to bring into sex.
View at Amazon
The essentials
Good lube, a cleaner, condoms and somewhere discreet to keep it all.
- SliquidSliquid H2O Water-Based Lube
A simple water-based lube that works with every toy material and rinses away easily, a safe everyday pick.
View at Sliquid - SliquidSliquid Shine Toy Cleaner
A plant-based toy cleaner spray to use after each session, part of a simple routine that keeps toys ready for next time.
View at Sliquid$16 - SKYNSKYN Elite Latex-Free Condoms, 36 ct
Latex-free, ultra-thin condoms made from polyisoprene, a good everyday pick for anyone with a latex sensitivity. Use water- or silicone-based lube, not oil.
View at Amazon - AmazonSatin Drawstring Pouches (6 Pack)
Soft satin drawstring bags that keep each toy separate and dust-free, so materials don't touch in the drawer.
View at Amazon
Set the mood
Soft light and a good scent take the pressure off.
- Kama SutraIgnite Massage Candle, Vanilla Sandalwood
We use Ignite at home: it lights the room, then melts into warm massage oil you pour straight onto skin.
View at Amazon - BrightechCelia Cordless Mushroom Lamp (Cream)
A cordless, rechargeable mushroom lamp that dims with a tap, so soft light can move from the nightstand to the bath.
View at Amazon - VoluspaJasmine Midnight Blooms Classic Candle
Jasmine and tuberose, the flowers that open at night, for a bedroom that smells like a warm garden after dark.
View at Voluspa$34 - SlipPure Silk Pillowcase, Queen (Pink)
A mulberry silk pillowcase that feels smooth against the face and makes the whole bed feel like a hotel bed.
View at Amazon











