You probably feel nice spicing things up with your new toy. We are talking of a more exciting sex life accompanied by more orgasms. Remember it is important to clean your toy because they come into contact with your body fluids. If you don’t clean them soon enough, microorganisms such as bacteria will live on their surfaces. Some get into tiny holes found on your material’s toy. It doesn’t stop there, uncleaned toys interfere with your body’s PH exposing you to UTI, yeast infections, and bacterial vaginosis.
STIs are easily transmitted through unprotected sex, and uncleaned sex toys. HPV is an example of STI’s commonly transmitted through sex toys. HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia are more examples of what you and your partner risk contracting if you don’t clean your toys. Protect your investment and don’t store your toy with dried up body fluids. If you do, you will discolor or degrade it.
Cleaning your toys is as easy as washing your hands with water and soap. Make sure you know what material your toy is made of then it will be easier to clean it. This will not only maintain its shape but you will be able to use it for a longer period.
After buying your sex toy, it comes with some instructions on how you can clean. You probably threw it away that same day or you just don’t remember the instructions. Well, don’t worry because this article got you covered.
What materials are your sex toys made of?
Now that you wouldn’t want to mess with your natural biome, ensure you clean your toys with products that suit the materials. There are two types of materials. Porous and non- porous materials. Also learn if the material is waterproof or not. Those that are not water-resistant cannot be put in water. They are wiped using a piece of damp cloth and a mild soap, then dried up properly using a clean paper towel.
- Porous materials
Porous materials are harder to clean. That’s because they absorb bacteria and fluids. Even after washing they still harbor some of the bacteria inside. Think twice before adding it to your cart. Don’t be deceived because some come at very cheap prices. Porous material is not recommended for sex toys.
Avoid toys made from Thermoplastic elastomer polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Jelly rubber, elastomer, and cyber skin; they are manufactured from a combination of TPE, PVC, latex, and silicone. These toys can be cleaned using anti-bacterial soap and water, allow them to dry and then store them properly. It is advisable to use a protective barrier such as a condom to avoid direct contact. This is for your safety and for preservation of the toy.
- Non-porous materials
Non-porous materials are highly recommended. They can be easily disinfected and cleaned. They are a bit expensive but completely worth it because they last longer. Use this material to save yourself from those doctor trips.
Examples include Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic, medical-grade stainless steel, and silicone. Materials such as the ABS plastic can be easily cleaned using hot water and a mild soap.
Here are a few tips on how you can clean your toys:
Boiling
If your toy is not motorized and is made of stainless steel, Pyrex, silicone or stone immerse, it in boiling water. Leave it submerged for like five minutes. If your vibrator is removable and waterproof, remove it and insert it inside the boiling water too. Toys made of Pyrex can also get some good steaming and cleaning from the dishwasher.
Water and soap is okay
Soap and water will do the work just fine. Use a fragrance-free, mild soap to wash your toy for about 20 seconds. This will protect you from any irritation. This is a trick for the motorized toys that are not to be submerged, just wipe them up using a damp cloth and mild soap.
Suit up using a condom
Using a condom is one of the best recommended practices that are not only safe but will keep your toys cleaner for longer. Using some extra lube, put a condom on your toy especially if you are sharing it with your partner. This will prevent the transfer of bacteria through body fluids. Once you are done with it throw the condom away and ensure you put a new one on your next play.
High-tech sanitation
Get yourself a sanitizing system that disinfects all the bacteria from your toy using UV light. They are a little bit pricey but they remove 99.9 % of bacteria in ten minutes. You also get to charge your toy using the light while cleaning it. How amazing is that?
Toy cleaner
Buy toy cleaning sprays from sex shops. Spritz your toy and let it sit for a few seconds wipe it dry. Alternatively, use luke-warm water to wash the spray off and then dry it using a clean towel. Go for cleaners that are water-based and do not have preservatives such as parabens which can cause irritation to sensitive skin.
Dry off using clean towels
Your towel might be holding some bacteria hostage. Use a fresh paper towel or a super clean towel to dry off your toy. Ensure your toys are completely dried up because storing dump toys encourages the growth of mold on them. I know you wouldn’t want to use toys with such inside you.
How to store your toys
Storing your toys properly matters a lot. Throwing it in your drawers or under the bed after cleaning it will still expose it to dust. Here are some tips for proper sex toy storage;
- Grab a satin or silk bag that is specifically designed for sex toy storage.
- Use original packaging such as bags and boxes that they came in.
- Buy a plastic container from the online stores that are lockable and dishwasher safe.
Wash your toys before and after every single use:
Clean your toy before using it for the first time because you don’t know the number of hands and machines your toy has probably passed through. Do not give yourself an infection, take a minute to wash your toys after using them because I know you love your body.
