As they say, cleanliness is next to godliness. Care and cleaning of sex toys is just as important as knowing how to properly use them. Cheaply made or broken toys can cause many health issues for the end user. From rough seams to porous materials there are many things to check to ensure that your sexual adventures go smoothly.
Hopefully this guide will help lead you on your path to sexual cleanliness.
BEFORE FIRST USE | CLEANING | STORAGE TIPS
BEFORE FIRST USE:
ALWAYS check your new toys for imperfections before initial use. Things to watch for:
- Rough Seams (With any material it is possible there was an issue with the mold, double check to be sure)
- Cracks (Especially in glass and plastic toys).
- Tears, rips or divots for toys made of softer materials.
The last thing anybody wants is an internal cut/tear or unwanted infection due to bacteria, checking for these things first can save a lot of hassle.
Fresh batteries should always be used when testing a new toy. Batteries that are running low can make toys seem sluggish and unresponsive, not a good first impression. Double check the instructions for battery insertion diagrams.
When using rechargeable vibrators, always follow manufacturer guidelines for initial charging. This will ensure longer battery life.
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CLEANING:
Different materials require different methods of cleaning, though some are similar to others. If you are unsure of what materials your toy is made with, wash with warm water and antibacterial soap and leave it to air dry completely.
Silicone: Because it is a non-porous material, silicone toys are dishwasher safe and can also be boiled† if they are not battery operated. You may also use an anti-bacterial soap with warm water, or a good toy cleanser to get them nice and clean. Pat dry with a soft towel or leave out to air dry completely.
Elastomer: Always clean elastomer based products using warm water and an antibacterial soap or toy cleanser. leave out to air dry completely.
Glass or Metal: Glass or metal toys that are not battery operated can be boiled† or placed in the dishwasher for easy cleaning and disinfection. You may also use an anti-bacterial soap with water, or a good toy cleanser with a soft cloth. Pat dry with a soft towel or leave out to air dry completely.
NEVER use an abrasive cleaner or pad on glass or metal toys, this can scratch and groove the surface!!
Plastic: Similar to glass toys, if it is not battery operated you may boil† or place in the dishwasher. Otherwise, use an anti-bacterial soap and warm water or toy cleanser with a soft cloth to clean plastic toys. Pat dry with a soft towel or leave out to air dry completely.
NEVER use an abrasive cleaner or pad on plastic toys, this can scratch and groove the surface!!
Jelly, Vinyl or Latex: All of these toys can be cleaned with hot water and an antibacterial soap or toy cleanser. It is recommended to let them air dry completely before storing. Remember, jelly materials cannot be fully disinfected because of their porous nature.
Cyberskin or other 'realistic' material: Wash with warm water and an antibacterial soap. Leave out to air dry completely then powder lightly with cornstarch or Cyberskin Renew product (NEVER use Baby powder or Talcum powder as they have been known to cause health issues for women). Remember, these materials cannot be fully disinfected because of their porous nature.
NEVER use hot water on these toys, it can cause the material to break down.
† If you are boiling toys for disinfection, leave submerged for 3-5 minutes before allowing it to air dry.
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STORAGE TIPS:
It's just as important to properly store your toys as it is to maintain them, the investment has been made, keep it healthy! Always remember to clean your toys before storing them, you want them ready to go the next time you need them!
- Keeping toys in reach of the bed is rule number one. Toys and accessories (Condoms, lube, extra batteries, etc) should be easily accessible so as not to overly disrupt play if something is required. Grab and go!
- When storing battery operated devices, the batteries should always be removed to prevent damage to the device if a battery leaks or ruptures.
- Always keep toys made from different materials separate by wrapping them in a T-Shirt, Sock or plastic baggy. Certain materials don't play nice with other materials and can cause discoloration or deformities in the products.
- Don't store your toys where they will be exposed to direct sunlight or heat. As the song goes "put it in a cool dry place".
- If you don't have a bedside table with drawers (Or even if you do!), it may be worth looking into 3rd party storage options. There are different sizes and shapes available, and many come with a locking feature to keep prying eyes out!
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