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Guides October 19, 2026 · 2 min read

How to Use a Dildo: A Gentle Guide for Beginners

Everything to know before using a dildo for the first time: choosing a size and material, warming up, lube, angles and positions, partner play and cleaning.

Dildos are among the oldest and simplest pleasure toys there are: no buttons, no charging, just shape and feel. That simplicity is exactly why so many people love them. A dildo puts you in full control of depth, angle and rhythm. Here's how to start comfortably.

Choosing your first dildo

  • Size: start smaller than you think. Comfort matters far more than size, and you can always explore further later.
  • Shape: a gentle curve follows the body's natural shape and can make it easier to reach the front wall of the vagina.
  • Material: choose a non-porous, body-safe material such as silicone or glass. Our materials guide explains why this matters.

Our Amour Silicone Dildo is made from soft, flexible silicone with a gently curved design, which makes it a comfortable first choice. It's also part of The First Blush Box.

Before you begin

  • Wash it with warm water and mild soap.
  • Set the mood. Relaxation and arousal make insertion much more comfortable, so take your time.
  • Use lube generously. A water-based lube such as plusOne Aloe Glide is safe with silicone. Reapply whenever things feel less slippery.

Step by step

  1. Warm up with your hands, or by running the tip of the dildo along your vulva.
  2. Insert slowly, just the tip at first. Breathe out as you do.
  3. Pause and let your body adjust before going further.
  4. Explore angles. Pointing the curve towards your belly targets the front wall, where the G-spot area is.
  5. Find a rhythm. Try slow strokes, shallow movements, circles or simply holding it still while you touch your clitoris.

Positions to try

  • On your back, knees bent: the easiest way to control depth and angle.
  • A pillow under your hips tilts the pelvis and changes where the dildo presses.
  • Kneeling or squatting lets you set the pace with your own body.
  • On your side is relaxed and comfortable for longer sessions.

Adding more sensation

Many people enjoy combining internal and external stimulation. Use your fingers, or a small toy such as a bullet vibrator, on the clitoris at the same time. If you find you love both together, a rabbit vibrator does both in one.

Using a dildo with a partner

Handing the dildo to a partner can be intimate and exciting. Agree on a "slow down" signal, guide their hand at first, and keep talking about what feels good. Our couples' toy guide has more ideas for sharing toys.

A note on anal play

Only use toys with a flared base for anal play, because the base stops a toy from slipping too far inside. If you're curious about anal play, choose a toy designed for it, such as the Rosé Crystal Glass Plug, and read our beginner's guide to anal play. Never move a toy from anal to vaginal use without washing it first.

Cleaning and storage

Wash your dildo after every use with warm water and mild soap or a toy cleaner, let it dry fully, and store it in a soft pouch. Keep silicone toys from touching each other in storage.

Quick answers

What size dildo should a beginner choose?

Start with something slim and moderate in length. Comfort matters most, and a smaller size is easier to relax with.

Do I need lube with a dildo?

Yes, lube makes insertion more comfortable even if you're naturally lubricated. Use water-based lube with silicone toys.

Can I use any dildo for anal play?

No. Only use toys with a flared base for anal play, and choose one designed for it.

How do I clean a silicone dildo?

Wash it with warm water and mild soap or a toy cleaner, rinse well, and let it air-dry before storing.

Written by the Dearly Desire team

A small, woman-owned team writing kind, plain-spoken guides to pleasure and intimacy. This article is general information, not medical advice — if something hurts or worries you, talk to a healthcare provider.

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