Are you an expert on sex toys? There's a lot of misinformation out there — from outdated taboos to outright myths that put people off exploring something that could genuinely enhance their sex life. Let's set the record straight. Here are five of the most common myths about sex toys, debunked once and for all.
If you're new to sex toys entirely, our blog The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Sex Toys is the perfect starting point alongside this one — it covers everything from materials to what to buy first.
Myth 1: You Can Get Addicted to Your Vibrator — And It Will Desensitize You
Truth: Vibrator addiction has been debunked time and time again. Some people attribute this to the clitoris becoming less sensitive due to vibrator use — but that's simply not true. In fact, one survey found that vibration can actually increase the number of nerve endings in tissue it's used on.
The reason so many people — women especially — come to rely on their vibrators is that they make orgasm easier, and sometimes even possible for the first time. You can certainly become accustomed to using your vibrator, but that's true of any masturbation style. If you feel like you rely on it too heavily, simply take a break and try other methods. It might take longer, but you'll get there.
Browse our full vibrators collection to find the right one for you — from gentle beginners options to more powerful models.
Myth 2: You Don't Need a Sex Toy If You Have a Partner
Truth: There's a persistent idea that sex toys are only for people who don't have a partner — as though having someone in your life means you shouldn't need or want one. But masturbation isn't just a stand-in for sex, and sex toys aren't a replacement for a partner. They provide something different entirely.
A sex toy is a tool. A partner is a living, breathing person with whom you share experiences, emotions, and connection. The two aren't in competition. In fact, using toys during partnered sex can make it easier to experience pleasure, reach orgasm, and introduce exciting new dynamics into your relationship. Our blog Communicating Sexual Fantasies is a great read for couples looking to open up that conversation.
Browse our couples toys collection for options designed specifically for shared pleasure.
Myth 3: Sex Toys Are Only For People Who Are Single, Lonely, and Desperate
Truth: This is just as false as the myth above. The idea that people who use sex toys can't find partners — or that using one means admitting defeat somehow — couldn't be further from reality. People in relationships use sex toys all the time. And single people who use them are not desperate or lonely — they may be happy, fulfilled, and simply choosing to prioritise their own pleasure. There is nothing wrong with that.
Sex toys are tools for self-discovery and pleasure, full stop. Browse our vibrators and dildos collections for solo-friendly options at every experience level.
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Myth 4: Sex Toys Are Bad For You
Truth: There are plenty of myths out there suggesting that using sex toys, masturbating, or even just being a sexual person is somehow harmful. These judgements come from parents, religious leaders, and society at large — and in most cases they're completely wrong. You're a sexual being, and there's no reason not to explore that with toys. Masturbating won't make you go blind, and a sex toy won't desensitize you or cause bodily harm when used correctly.
The key phrase there is when used correctly — which leads us nicely to myth five. If you're curious about what's safe and what to look for, our blog Best Anal Toys for Beginners: Safe, Comfortable & Fun Options is a great example of how to approach any new toy category with the right information first.
Myth 5: Any Sex Toy on the Market Is Safe
Truth: This one is important. While using sex toys in general is perfectly healthy, the industry is largely unregulated — which means companies can make almost anything and say almost anything about their products. Here's what you need to know before you buy:
- Porous materials — jelly, TPR/TPE, latex, rubber, and PVC are all porous, meaning they can harbour bacteria inside the material even after cleaning. The only way to mitigate this is to cover the toy with a condom. Never use a porous toy anally and then vaginally without thorough cleaning.
- Jelly toys leach chemicals over time due to the softening agents used in their manufacture. They become misshapen, stained, and covered in a strange film — and should not be stored next to other toys or used for extended periods.
- Non-porous materials — silicone, glass, ceramic, treated wood, plastic, and metal — are the safe options. These can be stored touching each other and won't leach chemicals.
- Silicone toys and lube — softer silicone toys may be incompatible with silicone-based lubes. Do a spot test by applying lube to the base and rubbing vigorously for 5–10 minutes. If the material becomes tacky, stick to water-based lube instead.
- Lube ingredients — lubes containing glycerin and parabens may not be body-friendly for everyone. Look for water-based lubes without those ingredients. Also avoid numbing lubes — if you can't feel your body's feedback, you risk injury.
- Anal toys — only use toys with a flanged base or handle anally. The neck must be significantly narrower than the base. No exceptions. Our blog How to Choose the Right Anal Lube for Your Needs covers the lube side of anal safety in full.
Shop Safe, Shop Smart
The best way to make sure you're buying safe, high-quality toys is to shop with a retailer you trust. At Romantix, every product we carry is vetted for quality — and our team is always available to help you choose the right toy for your needs.
Browse our full collection at Romantix and explore our best sellers to get a sense of the most popular and trusted toys on the market. And if you have any questions at all, contact us — we're here to help, judgment free.
