Whether you’re a dildo connoisseur, or just dipping your toes into the realm of sex toys for the first time, keeping your sexy toys squeaky clean is non-negotiable. After every use – yep, every single use. It’s kind of like picking up your dog’s poop! It’s part of being responsible, for you and anyone else involved.
So cleaning your sex toys might seem like a no-brainer, and for the most part it is – but let me hit you with some crucial recommendations to ensure optimal hygiene and longevity. First and foremost, let’s start with an important question – are your toys porous or non-porous? Porous toys would be TPR/TPE, Elastomer, PVC, Jelly, rubber, vinyl and cyberskin. Non-porous toys would be silicone, glass and stainless steel. We recommend against porous toys because bacteria, fungus and mildew will make your toys it’s new home no matter how much you clean and/or sanitize them. And no, simply washing the surface of your sex toy won’t be enough – these microorganisms have the capability to penetrate deep into the core of your toy. So… why take the risk?
Preparation
You’re going to want a bucket filled with hot water, and mild plant-based antibacterial soap. Some people opt for sex toy cleaners – do approach this with caution. Do your due diligence and read the ingredients to make sure it’s all the good stuff – water-based, paraben and sulfate free and all natural. You want products that have been vetted time and time again.
Washing
Simple Method
There’s multiple ways to approach cleaning your toys, but the golden rule is to “keep it simple, stupid”. Fill a bucket with some hot water and mild plant-based antibacterial soap, and wash your toys for a minimum of 20 seconds. Some even prefer using a soft-bristled brush, especially if you have textured sex toys like these grinders. This is the cheapest and most effective option, but some people like to use sex toy cleaners – again – approach this with caution. Do not throw your motorized toy into the bucket.
Dishwasher
Did you know you could also use the dishwasher to clean your sex toys? If you go down this route – do not use dish-washing detergent. Always use non-toxic plant-based natural soap. This method only works with non-motorized toys; silicone, glass, and stainless steel, so do keep that in mind.
UV Light
Using a UV light to sanitize sex toys has gained some popularity over the last few years — where light penetrates through your toy and has the ability to damage the genetic material (RNA) of microorganisms including viruses and bacteria. When the genetic material is damaged, the microorganisms are unable to replicate or reproduce, rendering them non-infectious. However, while it has gained popularity there is also some controversy that comes with it, as always, do your own research!
Deep Clean
Give your non-motorized sex toys a deep clean by boiling them for a few minutes. Keep in mind that while this does kill bacteria or viruses, it doesn’t necessarily clean them of bodily fluids and such. Before deep cleaning, make sure to bathe them in hot water with mild anti-bacterial plant-based soap.
Drying
Drying your sex toys post-cleaning is king — preventing mold and extending its longevity. Believe it or not, your toys can get moldy. Even platinum-grade silicone can get moldy if you slack on the drying process. Use a paper towel or clean cloth to make sure those toys are bone dry!
Storage
After you’ve nailed the cleaning and drying routine, don’t just chuck your toys in a drawer. They’re magnets for dust and dirt, and when it’s go time, it’s go time. You won’t be thrilled about spending another 15 minutes on another clean-up mission. Use the case your toy came in, or invest in a sealed storage container.
So, whether you’re a solo rider or spicing it up with partner play, the importance of cleaning, thoroughly drying and securely storing your sex toys cannot be overstated. Your body deserves the best treatment, and part of that is making sure your toys are in tip-top shape. Regular cleaning doesn’t just keep things hygienic; it also saves you from any nasty surprises down the road. Plus, sex toys aren’t pocket change, so who wouldn’t want their favorite toys sticking around for the long haul? You will thank yourself later for all that extra TLC.
Leave a Comment