Let’s celebrate that we live in the 21st century. This comes with a lot of benefits, including the fact that people are increasingly more open about sexuality as time passes. Even more so, family and friends are more open with each other about getting intimate. According to a recent study, 65% of women ages 35 and younger received their first sex toy from a friend. But how do you know if your friend or loved one will enjoy receiving a vibrator as a gift? We have a list of the top dos and don’ts so you know if this is a gift that will have them buzzing, in a good way!

Do:

Trust your gut

There’s a reason this saying is so common. Before you gift a vibrator, consider if you have any doubts about giving this person this gift. If you have talked about intimate bedroom details, experiences with toys, or are very close with this person and you know it is something they will like, then this could be a good gift. The best way to find out: ask them first. If you have any hesitation about gifting a vibrator, then that’s probably a sign that you shouldn’t. It would be better to consider a less intimate gift, like a lotion or fragrance.

Keep it simple

Different people like different vibes. When you’re buying a toy for someone, you want to stay away from something they might consider too large. Stick with the favorites like everyone’s go-to bullet or a trustworthy dual action vibrator. If you’re still unsure of which one to pick, you can also give them the option to choose which one they would like. Sure, it will no longer be a surprise, but you will be sure that they love their gift! What’s better than seeing the unbridled joy of someone opening a great present they’ll enjoy and actually use?

Pick the optimal occasion

Imagine the awkwardness of opening a vibrator in front of your grandparents. Choose a location and time away from those big family moments to give your gift. This is perfect if you are giving your partner a vibrator, as you can share a special moment with just the two of you. If the vibrator needs batteries, include this in the gift. Also, make sure they have a place to stash it if you just pulled them away from the party.

Bonus Tip: If buying for a partner, this is a great time to give them a gift you can both enjoy. Try something new like a remote controlled toy!

Do Not:

Give a vibrator to a co-worker

You may think you are really close with your co-worker, but giving them a vibrator, especially if it’s at a work event, is a definite no-no. These are not appropriate gifts for the workplace. End of story.

Give one as a gag gift

Human sexuality is not a joke. There is a stigma around sexuality and by giving a vibrator as a “joke” gift, you are reinforcing that stigma. Yes, giving them this gift should be fun, but it shouldn’t be something you are ashamed of!

Make assumptions about sexuality

You may have a favorite toy that you think everyone should own, but every person and every person’s sexuality is different. If they try the vibrator that gives you a mind-blowing experience, but didn’t find it quite as orgasmic, don’t take it personally. If you’re wondering which toy to get them, try sending them a helpful quiz.

Hopefully you’ll have the perfect holiday season and get your loved ones the gifts they’ll enjoy for months and years to come.

Tori Tromblay

Tori Tromblay

Special Projects Producer
Tori Tromblay (she/her/hers) is a book enthuisiast, cat lover, and Cincinnati native. She graduated from Ohio University with a degree in journalism. After traveling to New York, D.C., London, and Tulsa, she settled back home, where she lives with her husband and two cats. She has worked for Pure Romance for two years and loves to learn and teach about sex education.