It’s no secret that sex toys are a fantastic way to add some spice and excitement to your solo or partnered playtime. However, just like any other personal care item, keeping your pleasure products clean and sanitary is essential for a healthy and enjoyable experience.
Think about it: sex toys come into contact with your most intimate areas… As such, proper hygiene helps prevent the spread of bacteria and keeps you comfortable during use. Not to mention, a clean toy simply feels better! Understanding what does normal discharge look like is essential for maintaining good personal hygiene and identifying any potential health concerns early on.
Here’s a breakdown of the personal hygiene essentials you need to keep your sex toys sparkling clean and safe for use…
Warm Water and Mild Soap
This is your go-to cleaning duo. Nice and simple. Skip the harsh antibacterial soaps or detergents – as they can damage the delicate materials of your sex toys and indeed potentially irritate your skin. Instead, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free soap or a dedicated toy cleaner.
Easy Cleaning Steps
- Rinse your sex toys with warm water.
- Apply a small amount of soap and gently lather it up, paying attention to all nooks and crannies.
- Use a soft washcloth if needed to remove any stubborn residue.
- Rinse the toy thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
Disinfectant (Optional)
While not always necessary, a disinfectant can offer you an extra layer of protection, especially for non-porous toys like silicone or glass.
Look for a toy cleaner that contains a disinfectant specifically designed for sex toys – to be on the safe side.
Important Note: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and disinfecting your sex toys. Some materials may require specific cleaning methods.
Drying is an Essential Step
Leaving your toy damp can and will foster a breeding ground for bacteria. After rinsing, make sure you thoroughly dry your sex toy with a clean, lint-free cloth. You can also let it air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Your toys, your choice.
Storage Matters
Once your toy is nice and clean and dry, make sure you store it properly. You should avoid keeping it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
A cool, dry place like a drawer or a dedicated storage pouch is ideal. That, and you probably shouldn’t leave your intimate toys lying around the house…unless you live alone, of course!
Benefits of Keeping Your Sex Toys Clean:
What’s all the fuss? Is it really worth the effort? Here’s why you should keep your sex toys clean:
- Prevents infections: Bacteria and other germs can easily spread through unwashed sex toys. Proper hygiene reduces the risk of contracting UTIs, yeast infections, and other unpleasant conditions.
- Maintains Toy Quality: Regular cleaning helps to preserve the quality of your sex toys. By removing residue and preventing the growth of bacteria, you can extend the lifespan of your pleasure products.
- Enhanced Pleasure: It’s as simple as this: a clean toy feels better! Knowing your toy is hygienic allows you to relax and fully enjoy your experience. After all, you wouldn’t want a man with dirty fingernails coming near your body, so you should afford your pleasure products the same level of scrutiny.
Bonus Tip: Consider having a designated cleaning brush for your sex toys. This can help with deeper cleaning, especially for toys with textured surfaces and hard-to-reach ‘nooks and crannies’.
Remember, taking care of your pleasure products is an investment in your sexual well-being!
