Maintaining the cleanliness of your sex toys is not just a matter of personal hygiene – it’s essential to ensure the longevity of your toys and safeguard your health. As it is important to clean sex toys properly before and after use, here we'll delve into the various aspects of sex toy cleaning and caring for your accessories.
From the most effective methods to the right products to use, we'll cover everything you need to know to keep your toys in pristine condition. Whether you're buying an adult toy for the first time or just want to make sure you’re cleaning your collection properly, we want to help you ensure that every experience is as safe and enjoyable as possible. So, let's look at sex toy cleanliness to help you maintain them for lasting pleasure and peace of mind.
Why Cleaning Sex Toys is Crucial
Each use of a sex toy can leave it with bodily fluids, lubricants, and bacteria, which, if not cleaned properly, can lead to the growth of harmful microorganisms. This not only poses a risk of infections but can also degrade the quality of your toys over time.
Neglecting proper cleaning can lead to the accumulation of bacteria and yeasts, which are known to cause infections and discomfort. Also, sharing unclean sex toys with a partner without proper sanitisation increases the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). So, the simple act of cleaning your toys after every use is a crucial step in preventing these health risks.
In addition to health concerns, regular cleaning also preserves the material and functionality of your toys. Different materials – silicone, glass, metal, or plastic – each require specific care. Proper maintenance ensures that your toys remain in good condition, maintaining their texture, shape, and performance capabilities.
General Guidelines for Cleaning Sex Toys
Before diving into the specifics of different materials and types of toys, it's important to understand some general guidelines that apply to most sex toys. These basic steps are essential for ensuring that your toys are cleaned effectively, regardless of their type or material.
- Read the Manufacturer’s Instructions – Always start by checking the cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer. Different materials and designs may require specific care, so it's crucial to follow these guidelines to avoid damaging your toy.
- Soap and Water – For many toys, a thorough wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap is sufficient. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the material of your toy and potentially cause irritation during use. Or use a specialist sex toy cleaner.
- Rinse Thoroughly – After washing, make sure to rinse your toy thoroughly under running water. Any soap residue left on the toy can cause irritation. Check which parts of the toy are not waterproof to avoid damaging it.
- Dry Completely – After rinsing, gently pat your toy dry with a clean, lint-free towel, or allow it to air dry completely. Storing a toy while it's still damp can lead to the growth of mould and bacteria.
- Storage – Once dry, store your toy in a clean, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Some toys may benefit from storage in a fabric pouch or dedicated sex toy storage to keep them clean and dust-free.
By following these simple yet effective steps, you can ensure that your toys are cleaned safely and ready for their next use. Remember, the key is regularity and thoroughness – cleaning your toys after each use is the best practice for maintaining hygiene and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience every time.
How To Clean Sex Toys – Different Materials
The material of your sex toy will affect how it should be cleaned. Each material will require specific care to maintain its quality and ensure its safety for use.
How To Clean Silicone Sex Toys
Silicone is a popular material for sex toys due to it being soft and non-porous. To clean silicone toys like silicone dildos and silicone cock rings you should:
- Use mild soap and warm water, ensuring you cover all surfaces.
- For toys without electronic components, you can also boil them in water for about 1-3 minutes.
- Dry thoroughly before storage.
How To Clean Glass, Metal, and Hard Plastic Toys
Materials used in glass dildos, metal dildos and similar are usually non-porous and can be easily cleaned.
- Wash with soap and water, and rinse thoroughly.
- Glass and metal toys can also be boiled for sterilisation.
- Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.
How Should You Clean Sex Toys Made From Realistic Materials?
Toys such as realistic vibrators and realistic vaginas can be made from materials that mimic skin and so require special care.
- Use a gentle cleanser specifically designed for these materials.
- After washing, allow them to dry completely and apply a renewing powder if recommended by the manufacturer.
Remember to always check the product’s instructions for any specific cleaning recommendations, and when in doubt, opt for gentle, non-abrasive cleaning methods or use a sex toy cleaner.
How To Clean A Sex Toy with Electronics
For toys that have electronic components, such as motors or batteries in vibrators or electro-sex toys, they will require extra care during cleaning to ensure their functionality is not compromised. Here's how to safely clean these types of toys:
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Read the Instructions & Power Off – Always start by reading the cleaning guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This step is crucial for electronic toys as they may have specific instructions to prevent damage. Before cleaning, ensure the toy is switched off and, if it's rechargeable, disconnected from any power source.
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Avoid Immersing in Water – Do not submerge electronic toys in water as this can damage the electrical components. This means boiling and dishwashing are not suitable cleaning methods for these toys.
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Use a Damp Cloth – Dampen a cloth with warm water and a mild soap. Gently wipe down the toy, paying special attention to crevices where bacteria might accumulate. Avoid getting water near the charging port or battery compartment.
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Use Specialised Wipes or Cleaners – If you're using sex toy cleaning wipes or sprays, ensure they are safe for use on electronic toys. Apply the cleaner to the toy's surface and wipe it with a cloth or let it air dry, as instructed by the product.
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Dry Thoroughly – After cleaning, dry the toy with a soft, lint-free cloth. Ensure the toy is completely dry before charging or using it again.
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Regular Checks – Regularly inspect the toy for any signs of damage, especially around the areas where electronic components meet the surface. If you notice any cracks or damage, it might be time to replace the toy to avoid potential safety issues.
- Storage – Store your electronic toy in a dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If the toy has a battery compartment, consider removing the batteries before storing them for extended periods.
What To Clean Sex Toys With
While soap and water are typically effective for cleaning sex toys, there are also specialised products designed to ensure thorough sanitisation and care for your toys. Understanding when and how to use these products can enhance your cleaning routine.
Sex Toy Cleaning Wipes
- Convenient for Quick Cleaning – Ideal for a quick clean, especially when you don't have immediate access to water and soap. They're great for use both before and after toy usage.
- Suitable for Most Materials – Generally safe for use on a variety of materials, but always check the label for any restrictions.
Specialised Sex Toy Cleaners
- Formulated for Safety and Effectiveness – These cleaners are designed specifically for sex toys, ensuring they're gentle on the material but tough on bacteria.
- Easy to Use – They usually come in a spray or foam form. Apply it to the toy, leave it for a specified amount of time, and then wipe or rinse it off.
What to Avoid
- Alcohol and Harsh Chemicals – These can degrade certain toy materials and cause irritation.
- Abrasive Cleaners – Can scratch and damage the toy's surface.
Best Practices For Clean Sex Toys
- Read the Instructions – Always read the instructions on the cleaning product and your toy to ensure compatibility.
- Patch Test – If unsure, do a patch test on a small, less visible area of the toy to check for any adverse reactions.
- Rinse Thoroughly – After using any cleaning product, ensure you rinse the toy thoroughly to remove any residue. If it contains electronics, avoid this and use cleaning wipes or cleaning spray that doesn’t require rinsing.
Remember that the best way to clean a sex toy depends on the toy's material and your personal preferences. Whether you choose specialised cleaners, wipes, or stick to soap and water, the key is regular and thorough cleaning after each use.
Keep Your Sex Toys Clean & Ready To Use
Cleaning shouldn’t be seen as a chore, but an essential part of your sexual wellness routine. By following the guidelines, avoiding common mistakes in cleaning, and storing your toys, you can ensure both your safety and the longevity of the products.
Remember, the care you take in cleaning and storing your sex toys reflects the care you take in your own health and pleasure. So, take a moment after each use to clean sex toys thoroughly, and store them properly. That way you can enjoy your pleasure products for much longer and get added satisfaction, not irritation.
For more advice please visit our blog, where you can learn all about how to have an orgasm, to having sex during your period.
