SEX TOY HYGIENE- KEEPING YOUR SEX TOYS SAFE AND CLEAN

Introduction

Sex toys and their types

Before learning the need for keeping your sex toys safe and clean let’s discuss types of materials used in making of the sex toys and the need for their hygiene. Sex toys are objects or devices used to increase sexual pleasure. They are designed to be used on various parts of the body or specific sensitive areas to heighten pleasure and sensation and prove to be a useful tool for cam girls too,

Sex toys come in various shapes, styles, materials, and designs. They can be manual (non-motorized) or electric (motorized). The materials can be porous, like rubber, jelly, and plastic, or non-porous, like silicone, glass, and stainless steel. Some toys are used for vaginal or anal insertion, while others are used externally on the skin.

Some common types of sex toys include masturbators, vibrators, dildos, anal toys, cock rings, sex dolls, Kegel balls, and BDSM toys. Some of them can also be remotely controlled.

Sex toys can be used alone or with partners and are intended to enhance orgasms during intercourse or help overcome sexual challenges. Some also them as kinks and fetishes. Certain toys are used for interactive camming sessions.

Need for Hygiene

Due to the intimate nature of use, hygiene regarding sex toys is imperative. For good sexual health and to prevent infections, as well as for increasing the lifespan of the toys, sexy toy hygiene is important for keeping your sex toys safe and clean.

What Could Go Wrong?

• Infections: If not cleaned properly, sex toys are prone to bacterial and fungal infections. They often come into contact with semen, vaginal discharge, and other bodily fluids, making them susceptible to the growth of various disease-causing bacteria and fungi. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common risks.
• Allergies and Rash: Residual materials on toys may cause skin irritation and discomfort if they are not cleaned properly.
• Cross-Contamination: Shared toys can lead to cross-contamination between partners, risking everyone’s health.
• Medical Expenses: Health issues related to unclean toys can lead to frequent doctor visits and increased medical expenses, adding both financial and emotional stress.

Hence, keeping your sex toys safe and clean is highly recommended.

How Does Cleaning the Toys Help?

Clean toys, free from bodily fluids, help maintain vaginal health by balancing natural pH. Proper residue removal reduces the risk of rashes, allergies, and skin irritations. Clean toys promote a risk-free, comfortable sexual experience, contributing to long-term health. Consistent cleaning can also prolong the durability of sex toys, making them fit for longer use.

How to Clean Toys?

Cleaning methods depend on three main aspects:

1. Mechanism: Motorized vs. Non-motorized
2. Material: Porous vs. Non-porous
3. Use: Internally (insertion) or Externally (over the skin)

Now that we are aware of the need for hygiene, let’s look at how to clean sex toys under each category. Remember to refer to the product manual!

Non-Porous Material

Glass, hard plastic, silicone, and stainless steel are some non-porous materials used in sex toy manufacturing. These are the easiest to clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals.

1. Glass and Pyrex: Glass toys can be washed with soap and water. Use mild soap, lather well, apply it, and rinse. Alternatively, soak in soapy water for a few minutes and then wipe clean. Pyrex toys are even dishwasher safe. Rubbing alcohol can also be used. Keep glass toys away from extreme temperatures.
2. Stainless Steel: Stainless steel toys can be washed with warm water or boiled. If it’s a non-motorized toy, boil water and place the toy in it for a few minutes. Wipe with spray water and disinfectant.
3. Hard Plastic (ABS): These cannot be boiled. If motorized, wipe with a damp soapy washcloth. If non-motorized or waterproof, rinse with cold water and soap. Some may be dishwasher safe—check the label.
4. Silicone: Pure silicone is smooth, body-safe, and easy to clean. Use a sex toy cleanser or warm water with mild soap. Non-motorized silicone toys can be boiled or placed in the dishwasher or even used in shower. Avoid silicone-based lubes with silicone toys.

Porous Material

Rubber, jelly, leather, and TPE are examples of porous materials. These are more difficult to clean due to micro-gaps that absorb bodily fluids.

Using a condom over porous toys is recommended.

1. Rubber and Rubbery Materials: These include elastomer, jelly rubber, TPR, and TRE. Rubber toys are prone to dirt accumulation. If motorized, wipe with a damp soapy washcloth. If not motorized or waterproof, rinse with warm (not hot) water and mild soap.
2. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and Silicone Blends: Clean the same way as rubber. Sprinkle cornstarch after drying to reduce moisture retention.
3. Fabrics and Latex: Fabrics like nylon and leather are often used in BDSM toys. Nylon toys can be machine washed on a delicate cycle or hand washed. Leather should be wiped clean with a damp soapy cloth. Latex is sensitive to temperature.

Non-Motorized Toys

Non-motorized toys lack electrical parts, allowing for submersion in water. Depending on their material, they can generally be cleaned easily.

Motorized Toys

Motorized toys have batteries and electrical parts. Remove batteries before cleaning. These toys are usually non-submersible; use a damp cloth with mild soap or disinfectant to wipe them, ensuring no water seeps into electrical compartments.

Selecting Sex Toys

• Avoid household objects like bottles or cucumbers as they can cause injury.
• Choose non-porous materials over porous ones for easier cleaning.
• Select toys with smooth, unbreakable materials and fewer crevices.
• Prefer medically approved or certified brands.
• Ensure lubes are compatible with the toy material, as some can damage the toys.
• Do not share toys without using a condom.
• Ensure insertion toys are retrievable to prevent medical emergencies.
• Choose toys that can be efficiently cleaned, especially those for insertion.
• Replace toys after their expiry date or if damaged.

Some More Things

1. Among Partners: Discuss the use and hygiene of sex toys with your partner to ensure everyone is comfortable and informed. Consider using condoms and birth control methods during sexual play involving toys.
2. Cleaning and Cleaners: Refer to product manuals. Clean toys before and after each use to prevent microbial growth. Some materials may require specific cleaning care. Keep antibacterial wipes or sprays handy, but remember they do not replace thorough cleaning. Use a soft brush for groves or crevices. Disinfect toys using a bleach solution after surface cleaning. Choose mild, unscented soap to maintain vaginal pH.
3. Post-Cleaning Care: Drying: Allow toys to dry completely before storing. Pat dry if needed, but avoid rubbing vigorously. Use a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
4. Storing Toys: After drying, store toys in a plastic container or fabric pouch to prevent dust accumulation. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
5. Disposal of Toys: Dispose of toys if they show cracks, cuts, or any damage. Changes in shape or color also indicate a toy is no longer safe to use. For motorized toys, dispose of them if the battery stops charging properly.
6. Purchase: Make sure to check out range of products and compare alternatives and their specifications to decide on which is the ideal sex toy for you and your uses while also considering the ease while cleaning it.

Conclusion

While keeping your sex toys safe and clean may seem like a hassle, it is a quick and necessary process for the health and safety of the user, as well as for enhancing sexual pleasure. By following these cleaning methods, one can enjoy many pleasurable sessions with their sex toys. Better to be safe than sorry when it comes to keeping your toys clean consistently!