Hygiene and care of sex toys are of great importance for sexual health. Cleaning and storing toys correctly ensures long-lasting use of the product and reduces the risk of infection. Here are the things to consider about the hygiene and maintenance of sex toys:
1. Cleaning According to the Material of Toys
The material of the sex toys determines the cleaning method. Different materials require different care, so knowing what type of material your toys are made of is important to ensure proper cleaning.
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 immersing them in boiling water for a few minutes.
- Things to Pay Attention to: Silicone-based lubricants may damage the surface of silicone toys. Therefore, water-based lubricants should be used instead of such lubricants.
Glass and Stainless Steel Toys:
- How to Clean: Glass and stainless steel toys are quite durable and can be cleaned with warm water, soap, or sexual toy cleaner. They can also be sterilized by boiling or washing in the dishwasher.
- Things to Pay Attention to: 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. However, such materials are more porous and bacteria are more likely to accumulate. Therefore, regular and careful cleaning is essential.
- Cautions: Do not boil these toys or expose them to high temperatures; because the material may be damaged.
Latex Toys:
- How to Clean: Latex toys can be gently cleaned with soap and water. If you have a latex allergy, you may need to avoid these types of toys.
- Things to Consider: Latex may be more fragile than other materials, so care should be taken with gentle movements when cleaning.
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) Toys:
- How to Clean: Toys made from this material are more porous and can be difficult to clean. You can clean it using soap and water, then let it dry completely. These toys generally cannot be boiled or washed in the dishwasher.
- Things to Consider: Since TPE toys are more prone to the accumulation of bacteria, it is important to clean them regularly.
2. How Should Electronic Toys Be Cleaned?
Rechargeable or battery-powered sex toys should be cleaned carefully, even if they are waterproof. It is necessary to be careful not to let water get into the electronic parts. Here are the things to consider when ensuring the hygiene of these toys:
- Waterproof Toys: If it's a completely waterproof toy (for example, one that can be used in the shower), you can wash it with soap and water. However, remember that electronic parts should not come into contact with water.
- Waterproof Toys: For toys that are water resistant but not completely waterproof, simply wipe the exterior of the toy with a soapy cloth. Be careful not to let water get into the electronic section.
- Toys with a Battery Part: In battery-operated toys, it is safer to clean them after removing the battery. Cleaning the surface with a damp cloth will be sufficient.
3. Cleaning Products and Methods
Some products and methods you can use to clean sex toys are:
- Antibacterial Soap: You can use antibacterial soap and warm water to clean the outer surface of the toys. This is a safe cleaning method for most toys.
- Sexual Toy Cleaners: There are special sexual toy cleaners available in the market. These cleaners provide hygiene without damaging the materials of the toys. Such products may 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. Therefore, avoid such 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 bacterial and fungal growth.
- Air Drying: After cleaning toys, let them air dry completely. Be careful, especially with porous toys, to prevent moisture from getting trapped inside the toy.
- 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 may cause damage to their materials.
- Keeping It Away from Sun and Heat: Protect sex toys from direct sunlight and extremely hot environments, as these conditions can damage their materials and deteriorate the structure of the toys.
5. After Use and Regular Cleaning
Sex toys should be cleaned and stored immediately after use. It is necessary to clean toys meticulously after each use, especially if you bring toys into direct contact with the body without using a condom.
- 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 diseases.
- Regular Cleaning: Toys that have not been used for a long time may also become dusty or dirty while they are stored. That's why it's important to clean them before use.
6. Preventing 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: Attaching condoms to toys before contact with different people or areas and changing condoms with each use reduces the risk of infection.
- Disinfecting Toys: If you share sexual toys with different people, be 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 deformations such as cracks, tears or discoloration on the surface of the toys, stop using the toys. Such deformations can cause bacteria to accumulate and put your health at risk.
Hygiene and maintenance of sex toys are very important for a healthy and safe sexual life. By keeping your toys clean and hygienic, you can protect yourself from infections and make your sexual experiences safer and more enjoyable. Regular cleaning after each use, using appropriate materials and keeping the toys in the right conditions are the basic rules of this process.
