Guest written by Missy Modell, a musical parody artist and activist focused on the intersection of social justice and pop culture. Missy is the founder of YES MAM Creative, a consultancy for mission-based brands. You can find Missy on Instagram at @missymodell.
Let's talk about cleaning your sex toys! Although it may seem like the LAST thing you want to do before and after use, we're here as a gentle reminder- those extra few seconds will save you a whole lot of time (and potential discomfort.)
QUICK LINKS:
- Why You Need to Clean Your Sex Toys
- Sex Toy Cleaning Agents
- How to Clean Your Sex Toys
- Top Rated Toy Cleaners
Why It’s Important To Clean Your Sex Toys
After using a sex toy, there can be bacteria on it from either you or your partner (or both). This bacteria can cause STI’s, UTI’s, or other infections. It’s helpful to make it a habit to simply wash your toy right after use!
Materials like silicone, ABS plastic, glass, and stainless steel are nonporous which makes for easy cleaning. They are body-friendly and long-lasting, too! Other sex toy materials like elastomer, TPE, TPR, jelly, and latex are porous, making them difficult to clean- plus, they harbor bacteria. We recommend using a condom with these toys, especially when sharing with sexual partner(s).
What Do I Use To Clean My Sex Toys?
We recommend toy cleaner because it’s quick, discreet, and disinfects toys without harming the material. You can also use mild anti-bacterial, unscented soap (it should be light enough to leave no residue behind).
Silicone, glass, and stainless steel toys (without motors) can be disinfected on the top shelf of your dishwasher (without soap) or placed in boiling water for 8-10 minutes!
How Do I Clean My Sex Toys?
Yes, there is a bit of a process to this! Here are some helpful steps:
- Run the toy under warm water (non-waterproof toys can be wiped down with a damp, soapy washcloth).
- Spray toy cleaner directly onto your toy, and make sure to cover the entire surface.
- Rinse with warm water and make sure there is no leftover residue.
- Pat or air dry completely before putting away.
- Always be sure to store your toys in a clean and dry location!
Top Rated Toy Cleaners
Lovers Foaming Toy Cleaner ($14.50)
Our popular Lovers Foaming Toy Cleaner is completely safe to work on all toy materials you may have. Nothing is more important to your toy than proper hygiene, and this toy cleaner will keep it bacteria free, sanitized and disinfected which will help the longevity of your toy.
Green Tea Spray Toy Cleaner ($24.50)
For an all-natural, clean feeling, try Intimate Earth's Green Tea Toy Cleanser Spray. Green Tea Toy Cleaner is made with natural cleaning ingredients such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and natural anti-bacterial Guava Bark.
Sensuva's fragrance-free restoration powder is designed to improve the longevity of your sex toys through its powerful, absorbent properties. Renewal powders help to maintain a clean and dry surface on semi-porous materials like TPE, TPR, rubber, and jelly. It is ideal for toys that are prone to molding or discoloration. Target tacky, oily, and sticky surfaces between each use with a protective layer of restoration powder that resists lint, dust, and dirt.
Want more great sex tips?
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Further Reading:
How To Clean Your Sex Toys So You Can Use Them Safely: Self
How To Clean Your Sex Toys: Mashable
How to Sanitize Your Sex Toys: New York Times
With Pleasure,
LOVERS