Maintaining and properly cleaning sex toys is vital, whether you’re new to using pleasure products or have a wealth of experience. Ensuring their cleanliness is not just about promoting confidence and exploring intimate boundaries but also about averting potential health risks. A UTI from an improperly cleaned vibrator, for instance, can not only be uncomfortable but may also fuel embarrassment about self-pleasure, creating reluctance in individuals to indulge in it.
The lessons learned during the pandemic emphasize the significance of conscientious sanitization, especially concerning our body’s most sensitive areas. Cleaning sex toys, though it might not initially sound appealing, is a crucial aspect of self-care, much like washing your hands after handling anything or cleansing your body post-sexual activities. The cleaning process isn’t just a mundane chore but a step toward ensuring safety and well-being.
Moreover, proper storage of your clean sex toy is equally important to maintain its cleanliness. Neglecting this aspect would render the cleaning process ineffective. Akin to washing your hands and then contaminating them instantly afterward, failing to store your toys properly could necessitate re-cleaning them. While many toys come with their dedicated pouches for storage, multiple storage options are available to cater to different preferences.
To prevent unpleasant or risky situations, consulting experts on how to clean sex toys in the safest and most comprehensive manner is essential.
Appropriate Cleaning of Sex Toy Materials
Prior to purchasing a new toy, considering its cleaning process is prudent. Opt for nonporous materials like silicone, as porous toys are prone to harboring harmful bacteria. Materials like hard plastic, elastomer, thermoplastic elastomer (TPR), or jelly rubber are porous and may retain bacteria even post-cleaning, according to experts. Mintz recommends favoring toys made from medical-grade silicone for their nonporous nature and bacterial resistance. Seek guidance from the seller if the toy lacks cleaning instructions to determine the best cleaning method.
However, if you choose to use a porous toy, there are precautionary measures you can adopt. Properly cleaning the toy with mild soap and water, storing it separately in a clean toy bag or box away from other porous toys, can maintain its safety for solo use. For partnered activities, anal use, or susceptibility to yeast infections, Finn advises using a condom on porous toys. If a toy shows discoloration or a foul odor, it’s time to discard it.
Shopping at reputable retailers ensures toy quality, steering clear of materials like jelly rubber, often labeled as “novelty” materials. This approach safeguards against porous toys, thus minimizing the risk of bacterial retention. I recommend our pucket pussy which is made of safe medical grade silicone, trust me, it’s worth a try.
Can I wash sex toys with soap and water?
All experts unanimously agree that most sex toys can be effectively cleaned using mild antibacterial soap and warm water. It’s essential to wash them for a minimum of 20 seconds, mirroring the handwashing guideline. Once cleaned, ensure to dry them thoroughly with a clean towel. This method applies to both motorized or non-motorized toys made of silicone, stainless steel, or glass. Expert recommends this technique as generally adequate for nonporous toys.
What about sex toy cleaners?
While soapy water usually suffices, specialized sex toy cleaners are also available for purchase. Expert recommend a water-based cleaner devoid of alcohol and parabens. However, it’s crucial to verify that the cleaner is compatible with your toy’s material. This information is often accessible on the toy company or merchant’s website. Caution is advised for cleaners containing unpronounceable or potentially harmful ingredients, particularly since these products come into contact with intimate areas. Bleaches and toxic cleaners should be avoided, especially due to the vulva’s high absorbency.
Can sex toys be cleaned in the dishwasher or with boiling water?
Dishwashers and boiling water should be avoided for most toys, as they can damage or melt various materials. Certain nonporous materials like pure silicone are exceptions and can be safely boiled for 1-3 minutes, provided the toy is waterproof and lacks an internal motor that might be affected by heat. However, non-motorized toys made of silicone, glass, or stainless steel can be placed in the dishwasher without soap for 5 to 10 minutes.
What about UV light for cleaning sex toys?
UV sterilizers like UVee and b-Vibe UV Sterilizer Pouch are available on the market. While these products effectively disinfect, it’s important to note they do not clean the toy’s surface. After UV sterilization, it’s still necessary to wash or wipe down the toy with a damp cloth. UV light kills bacteria but doesn’t eliminate bodily fluids or dust, necessitating a comprehensive cleaning routine even after UV sterilization.
Can I clean sex toys with wipes?
Yes, using wipes to clean sex toys is acceptable, but they are most effective when used in conjunction with other cleaning methods. Post-play wipes serve as an interim cleaning solution if you lack access to a cleaner or running water. However, it’s crucial to follow up with a thorough disinfection using an antibacterial cleaner or soap and water as soon as possible.
How frequently should sex toys be cleaned?
Cleaning your sex toys after each use is paramount. Failing to do so can lead to rapid bacterial growth. Since genital tissue is sensitive and absorbent, especially for those with vulvas, neglecting routine cleaning after every use can result in yeast infections, urinary tract infections, and bacterial vaginosis flare-ups.
What’s the proper way to store sex toys?
Properly storing sex toys is as crucial as their cleaning routine. If you clean a toy and then store it alongside other unclean toys, it will likely gather bacteria again. Storing your toy in a case, especially if it came with one, is essential. If not, a clean container with a closure like a makeup bag featuring a zipper or Velcro closure works well. Treat the storage of your sex toys with the same care you would for other sensitive items, such as a menstrual cup.
While sex toy cleaning might not have been part of your sex education, it’s a vital step in safeguarding yourself and your partners. Similar to caring for any consumer product, maintaining sex toys is crucial. Just as you oil cast iron pots or clean cutting boards, part of maintaining a sex toy’s quality and hygiene is regular cleaning, ensuring it remains as sanitary as when you first received it, alongside recharging or changing batteries as needed.