Let’s face it, we all want to feel connected to our partners—emotionally, physically, and if you’re adventurous, perhaps with a little help from the toy aisle. Whether you’ve been together for a few months or decades, keeping intimacy alive can sometimes feel like a part-time job, complete with mandatory overtime. But before you start panicking, or worse, Googling "how to not turn into roommates," take a breath. Bang! is here to help you do just that, even if to just give inspiration on our site.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to ramp up that emotional connection, introduce toys into your intimate life without anyone running for the hills, and (drumroll, please) how to clean and maintain those toys like the responsible adults we pretend to be. Let's dive in!
1. Emotional Connection: The Unsung Hero of Sexy Times
If intimacy is a pizza, then emotional connection is the crust. Without it, everything else just falls apart. Yes, that includes the cheese and pepperoni, aka physical intimacy. Whether it’s a heart-to-heart conversation, or just laughing at the same cat meme on Instagram, emotional closeness is key to feeling, well, close in other ways too.
Here’s the deal: you don’t need to become a relationship guru to foster emotional connection. You just need to show up—mentally and emotionally. And while that sounds daunting (who can actually pay attention for more than 20 minutes in this day and age?), it’s easier than you think.
Tips for Emotional Bonding:
- Put the phone down: TikTok will survive without you for a night. Make eye contact instead of staring at the glowing screen during dinner.
- Ask questions: No, not the ones you’d ask a telemarketer. Deep, meaningful questions like "What was your favorite childhood memory?" or "If you could be a sandwich, what kind would you be?"
- Be vulnerable: Talk about your feelings, even if you’re not great at it. Saying, "Today sucked, and I feel like a deflated balloon," is far better than pretending everything’s fine when it’s not.
2. Spicing Things Up: Toys Are Not Just for Kids
So, you’ve built that emotional connection, and now you’re thinking, “Let’s add a little spice to the mix.” Welcome to the world of toys! No, DEFINITELY not the kind you buy for a young-in's birthday—I'm talking about the ones you’ll probably want to keep in a drawer out of reach of curious hands.
The idea of bringing toys into the bedroom can be exciting, but also a bit nerve-wracking. You don’t want to make your partner feel like they’re being replaced by a buzzing gadget, right? The key here is communication and a pinch of humor. Approach the topic with the same casual confidence as when you suggested watching a new Netflix show. Just, you know, with more giggles.
How to Introduce Toys Without Awkwardness:
- Start light: Maybe don’t start with something that looks like it came from a sci-fi movie. A simple, elegant toy might be the way to go.
- Research together: Make it fun! Browse online shops with your partner, share laughs over the weird and wild products, and choose something together.
- Be open to feedback: If your partner isn’t into a particular toy, that’s okay! Maybe save that one for your “me time.”
Remember, toys are enhancements to intimacy, not replacements. Their purpose is to increase pleasure for both partners, not create insecurity or discomfort. So, laugh a little, experiment a little, and most importantly, talk about what feels good or… not so good.
3. The Unspoken Truth: Cleaning Your Toys Like a Pro
Now, let’s get into a topic that doesn’t get enough airtime: maintenance. Just like that fancy blender you bought during your health kick (which is now collecting dust), sex toys require care and cleaning. Think of them as your intimate appliances—they need regular upkeep to keep running smoothly (pun intended).
Most toys are made from silicone, glass, or other body-safe materials that are meant to be cleaned. Neglecting this step is like leaving the dishes for two weeks—it gets gross fast, and no one wants to deal with it.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Toys:
- Read the manual: I know, manuals are boring, but they have important information like whether your toy is waterproof (which is crucial for cleaning).
- Soap and water: For most non-electric toys, warm water and mild soap will do the trick. Don’t use harsh chemicals unless you’re aiming for a side of irritation with your intimacy.
- Disinfect: If you want to go the extra mile, use a toy cleaner or a 10% bleach solution (rinsed thoroughly) for deeper disinfection. Do not submerge electrical parts unless your toy is labeled as waterproof!
- Storage: Don’t just toss them in your sock drawer. Use the pouches or boxes they came in, or invest in a separate storage solution. Keep them in a cool, dry place, and ensure they don’t touch each other. Trust me—materials can react, and nobody wants a melted mess.
Final Thoughts
Increasing intimacy is a journey, not a sprint. It involves connection, communication, and a healthy dash of humor. Emotional intimacy is the foundation, while toys are the shiny cherry on top (but only if you both want the cherry). And once you’ve got your tools in place, take care of them!
Ultimately, the goal is to enjoy each other, laugh together, and keep learning what makes your relationship click. So, whether you’re bonding over deep conversations or introducing some new fun in the bedroom, remember: it’s about the two of you (and maybe a well-maintained toy or two) sharing experiences that make your connection stronger.
Go forth, get closer, and for goodness’ sake, clean your toys!
