Sex Toy Cleaning – As enjoyable as sex toys are, they require proper maintenance to ensure that they remain safe and hygienic. The last thing you want is for germs to interfere with your pleasurable experience. Cleaning and storing your toys might seem like a hassle, but it’s a small price to pay for a safe and healthy sex life. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about keeping your sex toys clean and stored away safely.
Importance of Cleaning Your Sex Toys
It’s essential to clean your sex toys regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria, mildew, and mold. Not only can these germs lead to unpleasant odors, but they can also pose health risks to you and your partner. Cleaning your sex toys should become a regular part of your routine, just like brushing your teeth.
Identify the Correct Cleaning Method
Different materials require different cleaning methods. Toys made from porous materials such as Jelly rubber, latex, elastomer blends and anything labelled as “realistic feel” typically require more effort and time. They have tiny holes in them that can collect bacteria and mold. If your toy is made from a porous material, use a very mild, unscented soap (preferably antibacterial) and warm water to clean it. Rinse off all the soap and leave it in a dry, airy place.
On the other hand, non-porous materials such as glass, metal, hard plastic, and silicone are much easier to clean. Just soap and water will do the job. For silicone and glass toys, you can even immerse them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes to kill off all bacteria.
If in any doubt, sex toys should come with advice about how to clean and store them. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Choose the right Lubricant
Its important to follow the manufacturers instructions. For example, using a silicone-based lubricant on a silicone sex toy can make the sex toy harder to clean. It can damage the sex toy making it more likely to break and increase chances of passing on an infection. Use a good water based lubricant, they are compatible with all types of toys.
Cleaning Toys with Power
Cleaning toys that vibrate and aren’t sold as waterproof requires extra caution. Use a damp cloth with a little soap or toy cleaner and rub thoroughly, but do not submerge them in water. After cleaning, leave the toys to dry off.
Toys You Should Clean During Sex
If you share your toys with a partner, that brings additional risks, especially if its not a regular partner that you trust. It’s best to clean them during intercourse or use a condom for penetrative toys. Remember to avoid oil-based lubricants as they can destroy the condom’s protection. You can find more guidance on sex activites, risk and safe practices from the NHS.
For anal toys, wash them off with warm soapy water or toy cleaner and make sure the towel you use is lint-free to avoid irritation.
Male sex toys can be cleaned after use, and special antibacterial solutions are available from sex shops. If you want to save money, soapy water will do the job.
Storage Ideas for Sex Toys
After cleaning your toys, don’t just toss them back into your sex drawer. Instead, find a suitable storage solution that will keep them clean and organized. A silk or satin pouch is perfect for storing adult toys, and you can wash the bag from time to time to keep it clean. Alternatively, use a dedicated storage box or case that has separate compartments for each toy.
Cleaning and storing your sex toys properly is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. It’s not difficult, and it will quickly become a habit that you won’t even think about. Remember to follow the correct cleaning method based on your toy’s material, and store your toys safely to ensure their longevity.