I’d like to thank my new pickle vibrator (seriously) for helping me through this quarantine

Since the beginning of these “wild times” (as every email I’ve received in the last five weeks weeks has put it) of sheltering at home, I’ve moved between two main emotions: stress and horniness. Admittedly, as a full-time introvert and a daytime sex writer, this is very on brand. Unfortunately for me, though, my partner (with whom I’m self-quarantining) has been working 12-plus-hour days. Quite the pickle, right? So imagine the sheer joy I felt when I checked the mail and found a vibrator that’s very on brand for my situation: the Pickle Emojibator.

Shaped like a big, old dill from the deli, this five-inch silicone toy is an internal and external vibrator. “Approachable, affordable, and straightforward, the pickle vibrator is as unintimidating as sex toys come,” says Joe Vela, co-founder and CEO of Emojibator. And as someone who’s tested many vibrators in her day, I wholeheartedly concur. But this vibe’s CV includes many more skills beyond “doesn’t look like a fleshy penis”; it’s also waterproof and has 10 vibration settings.

“The texture is designed to intensify the sensation. It feels different internally than it does externally.” —Kristin Fretz, co-founder and CMO of Emojibator

Unique to this vibrator, though, are its stipples, which are the lumps and bumps that coat most pickles. “The texture is designed to intensify the sensation,” says Kristin Fretz, co-founder and CMO of Emojibator. “The texture feels different internally than it does externally, so I recommend you give both a try.” And so I did.

One afternoon, while my partner was on a Very Important Zoom call, I shut the door to the bedroom, lit some candles, and cued up the Weeknd’s new album. Then, I grabbed my favorite water-based lubricant (reminder: silicone toys can’t be used with silicone-based lube), and had myself little pleasure snack. Nay, a full-blown picnic.

In other words, thanks to this pickle vibrator, I got to enjoy the anxiety-busting benefits of an orgasm, which is more important than ever during these high-tension times. Now, every day when my partner has his meetings, I have mine. I call it quarantine self care.

Shop now: The Pickle Emojibator, $27

Why the Emojibator pickle vibrator is the best first vibrator

I’ve tested hundreds and hundreds of vibrators (including the Ora 2, Le Wand Point, and Hot Octopuss Pulse Duo), but none have been as fun or goofy as this one. That’s exactly why I think it’s a great option for folks who’ve never used a vibrator before.

Fretz agrees. “The Pickle is a perfect starter vibrator because the familiar shape helps folks leave behind the shame we are taught to feel about masturbating, and instead experience pleasure.” While masturbating should never make you feel ashamed, as Frez points out, many of us have nonetheless internalized sex-negative messaging. Luckily, this toy “can help folks bust through that shame, and give them the freedom to experience pleasure from something not intimidating and super-fun,” she says.

But even if you’re not new to the vibrator scene, the pickle vibrator may deserve a welcome home in your nightstand. Even at its highest intensity setting, the device is still rather mild compared to other models on the market, so it’s probably not ideal for folks who prefer a more vigorous masturbation style. For vulva-owners who enjoy a lighter and more gentle stroke, though, it’s a good bet. And considering its super-reasonable price tag, there’s really no downside to consider before adding to cart.

If you’re looking for a water-based lubricant to use with the pickle vibrator, I recommendSliquid Sassy. And to get you in the mood in the first place? You might want to try some arousal oil.