Sex Toy Hygiene: A Guide to Cleaning your Toys

If you're looking to bring extra excitement to the bedroom, sex toys can be a great option. However, it's crucial to use them responsibly, including keeping them clean. Since sex toys come into contact with both partners' genitals, cleanliness is vital to prevent bacteria transfer and potential infections. Although it's easy to get caught up in the moment, it's essential to clean your sex toys after every use. Whether you're a sex toy veteran or a recent buyer, maintaining hygiene is non-negotiable. This article offers insight into keeping your sex toys clean.

Cleaning levels by depth. A survey of 1,435 participants found that over 52% used sex toys. While most cleaned them with soap and water, 21.7% shared their toys with partners. With frequent use and sharing, understanding proper cleaning is crucial. When it comes to sex toy hygiene, there are different levels of cleaning.

Surface cleaning. Done after every use to remove lingering bacteria and keep the toy fresh.

Disinfecting, sanitizing. More aggressive techniques used less frequently, like bleach or high temperatures.

Main cleaning methods.

1. Surface cleaning. Routine surface cleaning involves water, mild soap, and a clean cloth. This simple method should be performed after each use to ensure the toy is fresh and bacteria-free.

2. Bleaching. Bleach can be used for deep cleaning if the toy material is suitable. Ensure no bleach residue remains before use, as it shouldn't come into contact with skin.

3. Boiling. For toys made of suitable materials, boiling can disinfect them after a surface clean. Boil the toy for a few minutes, handle it with tongs, and allow it to cool before rinsing with cold water.

4. Dishwashing. Some non-electrical sex toys can be cleaned in the dishwasher without soap. Ensure the toy is made of dishwasher-friendly materials like stainless steel or borosilicate glass.

5. UV Cleaning. UV light technology is a newer method for cleaning sex toys. While convenient, it is less cost-effective and hasn't been around as long as other methods.

Choosing a Cleaning Method Based on Your Product. Choosing a suitable cleaning technique depends on the toy's material. Here are general guidelines:

100% suitable for most cleaning techniques due to its durability and non-porous nature.

Borosilicate glass tolerates high temperatures and is non-porous, making it suitable for boiling or dishwashing.

Stainless steel, robust and non-porous, suitable for all cleaning methods.

PVC, porous and less suitable for deep cleaning methods like boiling or bleaching.

Porous and unable to withstand high temperatures or deep cleaning techniques.

Rubber, porous and generally not recommended for sex toy use.

Porous versus non-porous. Porous materials are undesirable for sex toys due to hard-to-clean areas where bacteria can thrive. Non-porous toys are easier to clean and more robust, making them preferable for hygiene and durability.

Electric versus non-electric. Cleaning techniques vary for sex toys with electrical components. Remove batteries from vibrating toys before submerging them in water. Vibrators with permanent electrical fixtures should never be submerged in water.

Other sex toy hygiene tips.

1. Drying. Immediately dry your sex toys after cleaning to prevent dampness and odors. Let them air dry on a clean cloth or gently wipe them with a fiber-free cloth.

2. Storing. Store sex toys appropriately to maintain hygiene. Avoid places where they can gather dust or debris.

3. Using condoms. If sharing sex toys, using condoms can reduce infection risks. However, regular cleaning is still necessary.

Why should you clean your sex toys after every use?

Bacteria harvest. Unclean toys can carry bacteria that may lead to infections or STI transmission.

STI transmission. Sex toys can carry STIs, emphasizing the importance of cleaning them thoroughly.

Toy longevity. Keeping sex toys clean can prolong their lifespan, especially if they are expensive.

Avoid smells. Clean toys prevent foul smells, ensuring they are pleasant to use and maintain sexual arousal.

Summary. Keeping your sex toys clean is vital for sexual health. Regular cleaning with soap and water or deep cleaning with boiling water or bleach protects against bacteria and STIs, maintains toy quality, and prevents unpleasant odors. Always consult the manufacturer for specific cleaning guidance. Prioritizing hygiene ensures a safer and more enjoyable sexual experience for you and your partners.

 

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