Did You Know That Not Cleaning Your Sex Toy Properly Can Jeopardize Your Sexual Health?

Did you ever toss your sex toy back into your drawer after it has done its job? We are here to tell you why you should probably stop doing that!

After your intimate moments with your sex toy, disinfecting and storing it might not be your priority. However, overlooking this step could potentially affect your health and the durability of your device.

At the core of a safe and fulfilling sex life, we prioritize pleasure as a fundamental component and this article will tell you how to maintain your sex toy and ensure the well-being of your private areas.

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Cleaning & Storing Chart

All items associated with sexual play include a wide range of items such as cuffs, straps, cock rings, ball gags, vibrators, butt plugs, strap-ons, and everything else in between.

Different types of materials need specific care methods. This convenient chart outlines the appropriate maintenance procedures based on the material composition of your toys.

When dealing with items made from a combination of materials, each material should be considered during cleaning. For example, never immerse a motorized or battery-operated vibrator in water. Similarly, exercise caution with a silicone ball gag; avoid boiling it if the strap is not also silicone.

PS. Crystal, stone, and wood may vary in porosity depending on their type or the coating applied. If porous, clean them using room temperature water and a soapy washcloth.

Why it Matters

Using an unclean sex toy that has been improperly stored is similar to consuming a lost mint that has been rolling around at the bottom of a purse or gym bag for a while– sticky and covered in lint. Yikes!

Aside from the discomfort factor, improper cleaning and storage of sex toys can have serious health implications. It is crucial to clean your sex toys after each use because used toys can harbor bacteria, potentially leading to infections. They can also accumulate lint, dust, and other debris that you want to avoid in intimate areas.

Also, if you own pets, this “other debris” includes pet hair, which seems to get on everything.

Depending on the toy's exposure and whether it has been shared with others, you could inadvertently expose yourself to bacteria, viruses, and parasites quite literally. There's also a risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, or other infections, including gastrointestinal ones.

When Should You Clean it?

To be honest? Before and after every single use.

While it might appear overly cautious, prioritizing your health is always prudent.

If you're considering being less strict about it, at minimum, your sex toys and related items should be washed promptly after each use and both before and after sharing.

Figuring Out Your Specs

The packaging of any toy should clearly list its materials. If this information is absent, it could indicate a potential concern regarding its safety for bodily use. It typically suggests that the manufacturer may be sidestepping certain disclosure standards for personal products and opting for toys labeled as “medical grade” which guarantees the utmost quality and safety.

If you no longer have the original packaging, you should be able to locate information online by searching the product name or visiting the retailer or manufacturer’s website.

You can often determine the materials used based on characteristics such as flexibility, texture, and even odor. For instance, latex and rubber have distinctive smells, ABS plastic is firm, and jelly toys typically have a soft, wobbly appearance and feel.

Cleaning Dry Non-porous Materials

100% percent silicone, glass, and steel toys can also be cleaned with liquid or a toy cleaner than air dried. For a convenient beside cleaning option that does not require rinsing, toy cleaning tissues are body-safe and effective for maintaining nonporous toys.

With non-vibrating silicone toys that are not motorized, boiling or running it through the dishwasher are also acceptable. Make sure you do not boil soft porous toys or anything that turns on. It is better to clean non-waterproof toys with a washcloth.

For motorized toys, make sure to take out their batteries before you start cleaning. Then, close the toy back up and dry it thoroughly to keep water out of the battery compartment.

Cleaning Dry Porous Materials

You can effectively clean porous materials with soap and water or a toy cleaner. A mild liquid soap, such as what you use for your hands will work well for most toys. After washing your toy, allow it to air dry completely before storing it.

Beware that porous toys, much like skin, contain small pores that can retain bacteria even after cleaning. When it comes to other kinky gear, leather accessories such as dildo harnesses and BDSM equipment should be cleaned with gentle soap and water since leather is highly porous. 

Safely Storing Your Items

There are various practical storage solutions available for sex toys, but chances are you can find something suitable around the house, such as:

• A lint-free fabric bag
• A makeup case
• A sock
• Another non-plastic container

For those with a collection of toys and gear, you can be a little more creative. A lot of people use over-the-door shoe hangers, file drawers, or locking toolboxes. It depends on how accessible you need them to be and how much privacy you require.

If you require privacy, a discreet and lockable medication case is ideal if you have inquisitive children or curious houseguests.

When storing your toys, keeping them separated is wise, especially with certain materials. If you have jelly or other soft, non-silicone toys, store them separately to prevent them from melting together if they touch.

To prolong their lifespan, store battery-operated toys with the batteries removed to prevent draining or corrosion over time. For rechargeable toys, periodically charge them to maintain optimal performance.

Additionally, remember to always keep the toy’s manual. You never know when you might need it.

Finally

Taking the time to thoroughly clean and store your sex toys not only ensures your safety and that of your partner(s) but also preserves the quality of your toys.

Opting for toys crafted from high-quality materials can further enhance safety.

If you are not sure, consider using a condom on the toy before use and washing it afterward with a warm, soapy washcloth.

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We’re here to help

With whatever you’re experiencing, you are not alone. PULSE Social Enterprise is here for any concerns and questions that you might have about your health.

From general wellness to mental well-being to sexual health, we will be sure to give you fast, reliable, and safe diagnosis, treatment, and consultation.

To book an appointment, please email us at info.bkk@pulse-clinic.com or chat with us on your preferred platform.

+66-84-226-2569  @PulseRx    PULSEClinic