First and foremost, as with any sexual activity, consent is mandatory. Whenever you want to try something new in bed that you haven't done before, talk it out with your partner first. Always remember, don't be pushy, try to guilt them into something they don't want to do or make your partner feel like they owe you something. All of those lead to less enjoyment, openness and trying other new things in future.

If your partner isn’t initially interested in trying your suggestion, talk it out so you can identify their issue with it if possible. If they simply don't want to try it, drop the subject for a bit, try asking if they'd be willing to consider it again a few months down the line instead so they don't feel like you're badgering them about it. If not, it's probably best to simply drop the idea altogether if you care about your partner at all. If not performing a sexual act is a deal breaker for you and they're not interested in it, it might be worth considering if the strain that sexual incompatibility can put on a relationship is worth it.

On the other hand, if the idea of toys make them feel “inadequate”, or they have concerns about being “replaced”, those are a whole lot easier to address. Particularly through action and communication. One way to approach it initially is to explain to your partner about how sexy you believe they'd look masturbating with a product incorporated into you having sex together. Make them feel included by encouraging them to use a toy in combination with something they're doing, like asking them to use a product on you while they perform oral. Or make it sound like something fun like telling them you heard you can improve orgasms by using a given toy while you perform oral on them.

Make it a priority to emphasise that they're the important part of the equation, not the toy. It's about you and them feeling good together. Unlike a personal masturbatory session where they can easily be the main event, toys are spices and garnishes to a couple's relationship and sexuality. They are a way to enhance things rather than a replacement for it.

Always bear in mind, when trying anything new, even when everyone is enthusiastically interested: take things easy. Introduce new things slowly and start light, get to know you and your partner’s limits and ease into things so you don't suddenly find yourself overstepping those limits without warning. It's not a race, take the time to feel things out with your partner. The process of feeling out each other’s limits can be a great way to bond with your partner. If they're reluctant about trying toys at all, taking your time can be a great way to get them to warm up to the idea of them. Then you can start exploring the wonderful world of sex toys together.