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Selling sex toys may sound strange to some people, but for those in the know, it’s a fun, rewarding, and yes—profitable business. If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve already dipped your toe in the adult products pool or you’re seriously considering it. So let’s get started and explore how you can sell sex toys and keep your sanity and sense of humor. Let’s start by talking about the importance of understanding the market:
Understanding The Market
The adult toy industry is really been booming, especially in the last few years. More and more people are embracing their sexuality and seeking out products that enhance their pleasure, so now is the perfect time to get in. But before you start loading up your virtual shelves with every vibrator and dildo known to mankind, you need to understand your audience. Not everyone is looking for the same thing.
Tim Larson, a sex toy tester since 2016 and author of a book on how to become a sex toy tester (available on Amazon Kindle), says, “The key is to listen to what people want. If you think you can sell the same product to a college student, a newlywed couple, and a retiree, think again. Each group has different needs and understanding those needs is key.”
Choosing Your Niche
In a market this big, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of options. That’s why finding a niche is important. Whether you decide to focus on luxury products, eco-friendly toys, or products for beginners, having a clear focus will set you apart from the competition. It’s like choosing your favorite dish at a buffet—you can’t have it all, but you can pick the best that suits your taste.
Tim Larson says, “I’ve seen businesses try to be everything to everyone and they fail. Stick to what you know or what you’re passionate about. If you love tech, maybe focus on high-tech toys. If you’re all about body-safe materials, then make that your thing. I talk about the importance of selecting a niche for product testing in my book, and it applies to selling them as well.”
Sourcing The Products
Now that you have your niche, the next step is to source the products that will stock your store. This is where the rubber meets the road—literally, in some cases. The quality of your products will make or break your business so sourcing them carefully is key.
I recommend starting with researching suppliers and manufacturers. Look for those with a good reputation, good customer reviews, and who align with your niche. For example, if you’re focusing on eco-friendly products, make sure your supplier uses sustainable materials and ethical production practices. Alibaba and AliExpress are good places to start.
Tim Larson says, “Don’t just go with the cheapest option because you want to sell products you can stand behind. If you’re proud of what you’re offering, it’ll show in your marketing and your customers will trust you more.”
I also recommend asking for samples before you commit to large orders. Test the products yourself or get a few trusted friends to try them out. This hands-on experience will give you a better understanding of what you’re selling and help you identify any potential problems before they get to your customers. The feedback loop is important!
Product Compliance and Safety Standards
Before you list your products, make sure they meet all relevant safety standards. This includes checking for certifications on materials, electrical safety (for devices), and any other regulations in your country. This is a way to both protect your business from legal issues and also your customers will trust you more knowing the products they buy are safe and reliable.
I recommend having multiple suppliers to not put all your eggs in one basket. This strategy will protect you from supply chain disruptions and allow you to offer more products. But remember quality over quantity is key.
Tim says, “Think of your products as your brand’s ambassadors. They represent you so choose wisely. If a product doesn’t meet your standards don’t hesitate to drop it no matter how trendy it might be.”
Building a good relationship with your suppliers is also important. Good communication can lead to better deals, faster shipping times and, even early access to new products. Treat your suppliers well and they’ll go the extra mile for you.
Building an Online Presence
Let’s face it; in today’s digital world having an online presence is non-negotiable. But it’s more than just throwing up a website and calling it a day. Your website needs to be user-friendly, visually appealing, and packed with the right information. People want to feel safe and informed when shopping for intimate products.
I like to say that your website should be a welcoming storefront. The kind where people feel comfortable walking in, browsing, and asking questions without judgment. That’s the atmosphere you want to create online.
Tim says, “Make sure your website looks good but also offers real value. Include guides, tips, and even personal stories if you can (I use this trick a lot). People are more likely to buy from someone who seems knowledgeable and trustworthy.”
Shipping and Discreet Packaging
An often overlooked part is how you handle shipping and packaging. Given the intimate nature of the products, your customers will appreciate discreet packaging that protects their privacy. Reliable shipping is also important; customers expect their orders to arrive on time and in perfect condition. Don’t skimp on these important parts!
Marketing Your Products
Marketing sex toys is tricky. You can’t just throw up an ad on Facebook and call it a day because most social media platforms have strict guidelines around adult content so you’ll need to get creative. But don’t let that stop you—where there’s a will there’s a way.
Influencer partnerships, blog content, email marketing, and even podcasts can be ways to reach your audience. The goal is to normalize the conversation and make people feel comfortable engaging with your brand.
Tim says, “One of the best ways to market sex toys is through education. Instead of just showing off a product, explain how it works, why it’s good, and who it’s for. Educational content is less likely to get flagged and more likely to build trust.”
Customer Service
Let’s talk customer service next. Selling sex toys isn’t just about making a quick buck; it’s about building relationships. People are often shy or embarrassed when buying these products so it’s your job to make them feel at ease.
Imagine you’re hosting a dinner party. Your guests arrive nervous, unsure of what to expect. But by the end of the night, they’re laughing, feeling relaxed, and grateful for the experience. That’s the vibe you want to create with your customer service.
Whether it’s through live chat, email or even social media always be ready to answer questions, offer advice, and handle any issues that arise with grace and understanding (That’s how you get returning customers!).
Return Policies and Customer Satisfaction
Given the intimate nature of sex toys, customers may have concerns about privacy and the possibility of returning products. Therefore, having a clear and fair return policy is crucial. Some products due to hygiene reasons may not be returnable but offering a satisfaction guarantee or exchanges on defective items can go a long way in building customer trust and loyalty.
Tim’s Pro Tip: “Never underestimate the power of a personal touch. I often include handwritten notes in packages or offer follow-up advice through email. It’s those little things that keep people coming back.”
Staying Ahead of the Curve: Looking Ahead
The sex toy industry is always changing. New products, new technologies, and trends pop up all the time and you need to stay ahead of the game. Keep an eye on what’s new, attend industry events if you can, and always be willing to adjust your inventory to meet changing demand.
Remember: just because something is trending doesn’t mean it’s right for your business. Always consider whether a new product aligns with your brand and your audience.
Tim says, “Trends are important but don’t chase them blindly. Make sure they fit your brand and serve your customers. That’s how you stay relevant without losing your identity.”
Pricing Your Products
Ah, pricing—one of the hardest parts of selling anything let alone sex toys. Price too high and you scare customers away; price too low and you might not cover your costs. Therefore, the key is to find that sweet spot where you’re offering value without underselling yourself.
Consider your target market when pricing. If you’re selling luxury items your prices should reflect that. If you’re targeting budget-conscious customers be competitive but fair. Offering different price points for similar products can also help attract a wider audience.
Tim says, “Pricing is all about perception. If people see value in what you’re offering they’ll pay for it. But you have to show them that value first.”
Management Inventory
Filling your online store can feel like walking into a candy shop. So many options, so little time! But beware—ordering too much inventory can be a costly mistake. On the other hand, not having enough stock can be a missed opportunity.
Therefore, I recommend starting small and growing your inventory as your business grows. Pay attention to what sells and what doesn’t and adjust your orders accordingly. It’s better to have a few products that sell consistently than a warehouse full of products collecting dust.
Tim says: “I’ve learned the hard way that it’s better to sell out of a product and reorder than to be stuck with products that don’t move. Keep it tight and focused. Growing small and steady is better than burnout too fast!”
Legal Considerations
Selling sex toys has its own set of legalities. Different countries and even country and even states have different laws around adult products so make sure you know the laws in your area to avoid getting caught out.
I know. It’s not the most exciting part of the business but it’s important. Ignorance of the law won’t save you if you get caught on the wrong side of it.
Tim says, “It’s worth investing in legal advice if you’re serious about this business. I found a lawyer on Upwork that helped me immensely when I started out. It doesn’t need to be super expensive.”
Final Thoughts
There you have it. Selling sex toys is a business like no other. It’s entrepreneurship, education, and a dash of bravery. But with the right approach, a clear understanding of your audience, and a willingness to adapt you can carve out a successful and fulfilling business in this industry.
Tim Larson with his years of experience and insight into what works wraps up this article with these words: “Selling sex toys is more than just stocking products; it’s about connection, understanding and making people feel good—about themselves and their choices.”
Good luck!
Rachel
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