We believe there are an infinite number of definitions for sex positivity. For us, being sex positive is the revolutionary concept that sexual behavior and pleasure is fundamentally healthy and good! Sex positivity is about breaking the shame surrounding sex and sexuality and uplifting what is ultimately a natural human act. Sex impacts our lives in so many different ways, and this variety is represented not only within each of us throughout our lives as we grow, but also throughout the diversity of people in our society.

Most sex toys and products are sold as “novelty items” and therefore are not strictly regulated by the FDA like many other body products you use. Many lubes, edible body paints, and massage oils have harmful chemicals in them such as cetyl alcohol, glycerin, harsh petrochemicals, and parabens which can contribute to tissue dryness, yeast infections, urinary tract infections, excess estrogen levels, as well as more serious health complications. Sex toys are often created with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), latex, and jelly rubber. These materials are porous and cannot be disinfected effectively. These products have also been shown to contain phthalates which are linked to endocrine disruption, hormone changes, and birth defects.

At Lotus Blooms, our sex educators do the work for you. We carefully review every item in our store to find the most pleasurable items made with the healthiest materials and ingredients--that’s our body-safe philosophy. When you shop at Lotus Blooms, all you have to think about is what you want to try next!

It's rare that someone learned everything they needed to know about sex before they started having it--it’s ok, we’re all in the same boat! Our educators not only believe in sex positivity and body-safe products, but we also actively seek out the education and the information to make it a reality. Each staff member has had their own unique journey--some include bachelors, masters, doctorate degrees and certificates; some have nonprofit and advocacy experience; and others bring personal experience and self-exploration. All new hires are interviewed and trained through a rigorous process to ensure they are fully capable of helping you and answering any questions you have!

“Poppers” are an inhalant which is used by some during sexual experiences. The main ingredient is alkyl nitrate which is used in many heart medications. Prescriptions, however are regulated by the government for purity and your doctor to ensure you do not have a negative interaction (for example, Viagra and alkyl nitrate combined can be fatal).

Poppers sold online or in some stores have additives that can cause irreparable damage to the brain and nervous system. They also compromise judgment and can have a numbing effect which is not safe for pleasurable sex--listen to your body and what it loves! If you are interested in items that facilitate anal sex, we highly recommend gel formula lubricants and/or anal plugs.

In short, no, we do not sell nor advocate using poppers (also known as VCR cleaner, rush, etc).

Many guests ask for numbing agents. Usually this is because something during sex is painful or not pleasing for someone. To be clear, you have the right to refuse to do something you don’t want to do/already did/are in the middle of doing. Sex is only fun when everyone wants to be there and involved! Pain allows your body to communicate when something goes wrong; numbing agents prevent it from doing this.

Numbing agents can also have harsh and irritating ingredients that are not body-safe (e.g. they can cause infections).

So, no, we do not sell nor advocate using numbing agents.

We don’t sell penis enhancement pills because they are not regulated and can be dangerous as a result. We are in the process of expanding our pump offerings, which can provide temporary growth and sensitivity.

Fast anatomy lesson to show that bigger isn't always better - the shaft of the penis is made of three chambers of erectile tissue which engorge with blood when aroused. Having said that, no testosterone supplements, weight lifting or stretching, or pumps will produce lasting effects, if any. Another cool anatomy tip - most nerve endings are towards the outside of the body. The bulk of nerve endings in the vagina, for example, are in the outer third. In addition, the vagina is 3-4 inches long when it's not aroused. Confidence is sexy and so much more effective in producing pleasure than penis supplements!

We carry a set of graduated, silicone dilators with a slight ergonomic curve to them. They have an easy-to-hold loop at the end and are non-vibrating. We worked with a few pelvic floor therapists to identify the best options out there, and we found these: Inspire Silicone Dilator Set

We want every guest to feel comfortable and confident that they are the only person who has owned their piece. It also goes against our body-safe ideals to accept used intimate items. While we do not accept returns, we will work with you to take advantage of warranties and troubleshoot with you if a product seems to have issues when brand new.

We do our best to select products and brands that have warranties. This is so that you can relax knowing you made an investment in a toy that the manufacturer (and Lotus Blooms) stands behind. Lotus Blooms does not accept returns and we cannot accept a toy back that you simply do not like.For all products that have warranties, we are able to help! We will troubleshoot and replace a broken toy and fulfill the warranty with the manufacturer on our end.

If something stops working after use, please send us an email describing the issue and we will provide some troubleshooting suggestions. After that, we'll have you bring the washed toy & accessories for us to troubleshoot in store.

We have a beautiful boutique at 1017 King Street in the heart of charming Old Town Alexandria, VA. For hours, parking, and map, see our Contact Us page.

We are open Monday to Thursday from 12 PM to 8 PM; Friday and Saturday from 12 PM to 9 PM; and Sunday from 12 PM to 7 PM.