Staying Safe With Sex Toys

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Why Is Safety Important With Sex Toys

There are risks linked to unsafe materials and practices in adult toys that you need to be aware of. Not all brand-new dildos are safe to insert into your body right away. Using a product made from questionable materials could expose you to harmful chemicals.
Proper cleaning will save you from germs—and this couldn't be truer when it comes to these items. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to dodge infections. Good hygiene practice ensures many more happy, healthy years of use. Body-safe devices are reliable and trustworthy, as they always put your health first.

If you notice itching, burning, or a rash after using your device, it might be an allergic reaction. Don't ignore these signs. Switch to a different material and see if the problem goes away. If not, it's time to check in with a healthcare professional.

Common Mistakes

How Do You Use It?

Each sex toy is crafted with a particular purpose in mind—whether it's for anal, vaginal, or external stimulation. Your job is to ensure you pick the proper tool. Be smart about a device's limitations and capabilities!
And remember that household objects are not stand-ins for the real deal. Just because it looks sturdy doesn't mean it's safe for your body. Stick to professionally designed adult pleasure products. it's not worth risking an awkward ER visit.
Remember that little booklet that comes with your newly purchased device? The one you often toss aside? That's the manufacturer's instructions. Before you power up your vibrator, read up. It's the best way to ensure you use it correctly and safely.

Check For Damage/Wear And Tear

Regularly check your sex toys. Look for cracks, tears, or discoloration. These are clear signs of damage. If your pleasure device has rust in it, then that's something to worry about. These flaws where bacteria thrive can lead to infections.
Visible wear and tear can also mess with a device's performance. The moment you see damage in any of your collection, stop using it, clean it properly, and dispose of it properly. Then, treat yourself to a shiny new replacement. Because you deserve pleasure without the peril.

Understanding Sex Toy Materials

The material your devices are made of is as crucial as the action itself. You wouldn't eat food off a questionable surface, right? The same goes for adult pleasure products.

Toxic Materials To Avoid

Phthalates are often found in plastics to make them bendy but can harm your health. Many products contain this material. If your device has a chemical smell or feels suspiciously greasy, it’s best to replace it with one made of safe material.

The Perils Of Porous Materials

Over time, porous toys break down and lose their charm, becoming a bacteria breeding ground. So, what can you do to sidestep this mess? When all you have at the moment is a porous pal, cover it with a condom and clean it meticulously. Invest in a sex aid made of safe material because your friend won’t last.

Body-Safe Materials You Can Trust

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Non-porous, body-safe materials are the VIPs of the adult product bash. Silicone, glass, and metal are the A-listers here. They don't harbor bacteria, and they clean up easily. Plus, they're durable, so your investment will keep you smiling for years. Ensure your device is what it claims to be—because fakes are a buzzkill. Investing in quality means investing in your pleasure and health. Love and protect yourself, so choose the best for your bits!

Proper Cleaning And Maintenance

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty of keeping your products in great condition.

Routine Cleaning Tips

Always clean your adult devices after use. Here's a no-fuss, step-by-step guide to follow:
  1. Rinse your device under warm water to wash away debris.
  2. Apply a scent-free soap or use a specially formulated toy cleaner if available. These will be gentle on your toys and won't leave behind any unwanted fragrances.
  3. Scrub the toy thoroughly but gently.
  4. Rinse again, making sure all soap is gone.
  5. Wipe off moisture with a clean towel or let it air dry completely before storing it.
Mold and bacteria are the party crashers you didn't invite. Drying your pleasure toys thoroughly will keep them away. Store them in a clean, dry place, as it's where they should be when not in use.

Deep-Cleaning Methods For Sanitization

Give your toys a little extra TLC. Here's when and how to deep clean:
  • Boiling: Dive your silicone, glass, or metal toys into boiling water for 3-5 minutes. This will give them deep cleaning.
  • Bleach Solution: Mix 10% bleach solution (9 parts water to 1 part bleach) and dip your toy in it quickly. Then, rinse it thoroughly under warm water.
  • Rubbing Alcohol/Disinfectant Sprays: These can be effective, but check your toy's material first – not all sex aids are made of the same components.
Different toys have different needs. Like people, they're unique, so treat them that way. And if you're slacking on your sanitizing schedule – don't. Your health is worth the hassle.

Eliminating Odors And Residues

If and when your toys have started to smell like they've been working overtime, it's time for an odor intervention:
  • Vinegar is a great odor-neutralizer. Mix equal water and vinegar, soak the toy briefly, then rinse.
  • If your pleasure device is less than body-safe and it's holding onto odors, take it as a sign to upgrade. Your nose (and body) will appreciate it.
  • Cover your toy with a condom to make clean-up a breeze and keep odors at bay.
Remember that proper maintenance is the secret to satisfying play. Clean your tool properly to guard yourself against infection.

When To Replace Your Sex Toy

It’s perfectly normal for sex toys to have signs of wear and tear after some time of actively giving you blissful encounters. It's crucial that you recognize them before they get worse. If your sex aid seems to have lost its zest, or you spot any cracks, discoloration, or tears, don’t hesitate to say goodbye. It’s a safety measure to avoid infection-causing bacteria.
Materials matter and they come with an expiration date, depending on what it's made of. Glass and metal can last longer, while materials like jelly can degrade quicker. So if you've noticed a change in texture or firmness, consider it a nudge to start shopping.
Why update your collection? Obviously, it’s exciting to upgrade and — more importantly — for your safety and pleasure. Plus, who doesn’t get excited about a new toy?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Simone Brooks

A Southern-based author brings clarity to the intimate world of sex toys, focusing on user-friendly guides and reviews for dildos and nipple toys. Drawing from her past as an educator, she crafts content that enlightens and equips her readers, making the exploration of pleasure accessible to all. Beyond writing, she finds solace in nurturing her garden and roaming the countryside with her favorite dogs, where she gathers inspiration for her work.