The hygiene and care of sex toys are of great importance for sexual health. Cleaning and proper storage of toys will both ensure long-lasting use of the product and reduce the risk of infection. Here are the things to consider about the hygiene and care of sex toys:
1. Cleaning Toys According to Their Material
The material of the sex toy determines the cleaning method. Different materials require different care, so knowing what kind of material your toy is made of is important to ensure you clean it properly.
Silicone Toys:
- How to Clean: Silicone toys can usually be cleaned with antibacterial soap and warm water. If you know the toy is waterproof, you can sterilize the toys by placing them in boiling water for a few minutes.
- Things to Consider: Silicone-based lubricants can damage the surface of silicone toys, so water-based lubricants should be used instead.
Glass and Stainless Steel Toys:
- How to Clean: Glass and stainless steel toys are very durable and can be cleaned with warm water, soap, or sex toy cleaner. They can also be sterilized by boiling or washing in the dishwasher.
- Things to Consider: Check toys regularly for cracks or breaks. Broken toys can cause irritation.
Plastic and Gel Toys:
- How to Clean: Plastic and gel toys can usually be cleaned with soap and water, but these types of materials are more porous and more likely to accumulate bacteria, so regular and careful cleaning is essential.
- Things to Consider: Do not boil these toys or expose them to high temperatures as this may damage the material.
Latex Toys:
- How to Clean: Latex toys can be gently cleaned with soap and water. If you have a latex allergy, you may want to avoid these types of toys.
- Things to Consider: Latex can be more fragile than other materials, so be gentle and careful when cleaning.
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) Toys:
- How to Clean: Toys made from this material are more porous and can be difficult to clean. You should clean them using soap and water, then allow them to dry completely. These toys generally cannot be boiled or washed in the dishwasher.
- Things to Consider: TPE toys are more prone to bacteria accumulation, so regular cleaning is important.
2. How to Clean Electronic Toys?
Rechargeable or battery-powered sex toys should be cleaned carefully, even if they are waterproof. Care should be taken not to get water on the electronic parts. Here are some things to consider when keeping these toys clean:
- Waterproof Toys: If it's a completely waterproof toy (for example, shower-proof), you can wash it with soap and water, but remember that the electronics should not come into contact with water.
- Water Resistant Toys: For toys that are water-resistant but not completely waterproof, simply wipe the outside of the toy with a soapy cloth. Be careful not to get water into the electronics.
- Toys with Battery Part: For battery operated toys, it is safer to clean after removing the battery. Cleaning the surface with a damp cloth will be sufficient.
3. Cleaning Products and Methods
Here are some products and methods you can use to clean sex toys:
- Antibacterial Soap: You can use antibacterial soap and warm water to clean the outside of toys. This is a safe cleaning method for most toys.
- Sex Toy Cleaners: There are special sexual toy cleaners sold on the market. These cleaners provide hygiene without damaging the materials of the toys. Such products can be preferred especially for toys made of sensitive or porous materials.
- Alcohol and Harsh Chemicals: Alcohol, bleach, or other harsh chemicals can damage the materials of toys, so avoid these types of chemicals when cleaning toys.
4. Drying and Storage
It is very important to wait for the cleaned toys to dry completely. Toys left damp can cause bacteria and fungi to grow.
- Air Drying: After cleaning the toys, let them air dry completely. Be careful not to trap moisture inside the toy, especially in porous toys.
- Storage in a Dry and Clean Place: Store your toys in a dry and clean place, preferably in a separate box or cloth bag. Storing your toys in contact with each other can cause damage to their materials.
- Keep Away from Sun and Heat: Keep sex toys away from direct sunlight and excessive heat, as these conditions can damage the materials and deteriorate the structure of the toys.
5. Post-Use and Regular Cleaning
Sex toys should be cleaned and stored immediately after use. Especially if you are using toys that come into direct contact with your body without using a condom, you should clean them thoroughly after each use.
- Cleaning After Each Use: Cleaning and storing toys after each use reduces the risk of infection. This is especially important to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
- Regular Cleaning: Toys that are not used for a long time can also get dusty or dirty while they are stored, so it is important to clean them before use.
6. Avoiding the Risk of Cross-Infection
If you use a sex toy with more than one person or use the same toy in different areas (vaginal, anal), you need to take precautions against the risk of cross-infection.
- Condom Use: Putting a condom on toys before touching different people or areas and changing the condom after each use reduces the risk of infection.
- Disinfecting Toys: If you share sex toys with other people, make sure to clean the toys thoroughly after each use.
7. Life of Toys
The lifespan of sex toys depends on the materials used and cleaning habits. If you notice any deformations on the surface of the toys, such as cracks, tears or discoloration, stop using the toys. Such deformations can cause bacteria to accumulate and put your health at risk.
Hygiene and care of sex toys are very important for a healthy and safe sexual life. By keeping your toys clean and hygienic, you can protect them from infections and make your sexual experiences safer and more enjoyable. Regular cleaning after each use, using appropriate materials and keeping toys in the right conditions are the basic rules of this process.
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