Ask Bob
How it works
Call (503) 363-3846 any time, day or night, and dial extension 690. Leave your question after the tone. You don't need to say who you are. Please don't leave your name or number.
Every week Bob answers as many questions as he can right here. A few get the full treatment, the rest get a quick answer, and similar questions get answered together, so keep an eye out for yours.
Questions Bob hears all the time
Before the phone line warms up, here are the questions we hear across the counter all the time.
What's a good first toy for someone who's never bought one?
Start simple, folks. A small external vibrator, often called a bullet, or a palm-sized wand is the classic first buy. They're easy to use, not intimidating, and they work for just about every body. Look for a few speed settings rather than forty, rechargeable over batteries, and body-safe silicone. Spend a little more than the cheapest thing on the shelf, because cheap toys tend to be loud, weak and short-lived. There's no wrong answer. Your first toy is how you find out what you like, so the second one will be easier to choose. Come ask us at the counter. We've heard it all and we're happy to show you around.
Can I use silicone lube with my silicone toy?
This is the big one, and the honest answer is: usually not. Silicone lube can bond with silicone toys over time and leave the surface gummy or tacky, which ruins the finish and makes the toy harder to clean. With silicone toys, reach for a good water-based lube. It's toy-safe, condom-safe and rinses right off. Save silicone lube for skin-on-skin, the shower, or glass and steel toys, where it really shines. Not sure what your toy is made of? Bring it in or tell us the brand and we'll sort you out. When in doubt, dab a little lube on the base of the toy first and see if anything changes before you go all in.
Is it normal to want sex more (or less) than my partner?
Completely normal. In fact, it might be the most common thing in the world. Desire goes up and down with stress, sleep, health, medications, age and a hundred other things, and two people almost never line up perfectly. The mismatch isn't the problem. Not talking about it is. Pick a calm moment, not the bedroom, and ask what makes each of you feel wanted. Sometimes the answer is more touch without pressure, sometimes it's scheduling time together, and sometimes it's trying something new to shake things up. If the change came on suddenly or it's weighing on you, it's worth a chat with your doctor too. There's no shame in any of it.
Lightning round
How do I clean my toys?
Warm water and mild soap or a toy cleaner, every time, before and after. Let them dry fully before you put them away.
I'm nervous to shop here. Is that normal?
Totally. Most first-timers are. Our staff are friendly, discreet and have heard everything, so just say “first time” and we'll take it from there.
Can toys be shared between partners?
Body-safe silicone, glass and steel toys can be, if you clean them well in between. Use a condom over porous materials, or keep those toys to one person.
How do I store toys so they last?
Clean, dry, out of the sun, and not touching each other. A pouch or a box keeps them dust-free and stops materials from reacting.
This is general information, not medical advice. If something hurts or worries you, see a doctor.
You must be 18 or older to visit Bob's. Find us at 3815 State Street, Salem, Oregon. Hours & directions.