Over the past few decades, the sex toys industry has seen impeccable growth. From singles to couples and from teenagers to the elderly, sex toys have been a hot selling product for everyone. Sex toys are known to not only help you get some action when you are alone, but they also let things steam up when partners use them together.
However, just like after a satiating meal the pile of dirty dishes cannot be ignored or skipped, cleaning up your sex toys after using them for pleasure, should not be missed. Maintaining hygiene while using sex toys is not only about cleaning them before or after the use, but it is also about being aware while buying them and while in action and using them.
So how do you do it?
We totally understand that maintaining hygiene and safely using sex toys, is not your topmost thought during your post-climax bliss. So we’ll surely help you with 4 important aspects that can make your experience using sex toys, a safe and pleasurable one.
1. Be aware of the details of what you are buying, especially the material
This is the very first thing you must consider before you buy any sex toy. Because, unlike other things that are consumed/used by the body like food, medicine etc., sex toys are not commissioned by any health authorities or councils that set a benchmark (for eg. like the FDA does for food brands).
Know the material: Porous v/s non-porous materials
Some sex toys are made up of phthalates – a harmful chemical that causes disruption in hormones and is also banned for usage in children’s toys. It is specifically found in porous toys which are very soft and jellylike. So do check if the sex toy consists of this chemical. Porous toys can gather bacteria and spread infection (despite cleaning them regularly). On the other hand, non-porous sex toys are safe to use and do not tamper with your hormones or skin. These are usually made with medical-grade silicone or stainless steel, glass and also Pyrex. You must always look for the term “medical-grade” on the packaging of the sex toys.
2. Buy them only from known and credible websites or stores
Like we mentioned before, this is a hot selling industry and this clearly indicates a wide and open market. And we are all aware that large markets are filled with original as well as duplicate products. So you must source your sex toys only from credible manufacturers/companies, who have a good market reputation and online presence. A good start would be going for a product that has absolute clarity on its compositions, usage and other specifics mentioned on the back. If you are buying via online retail portals, only go for verified brands. You must also do some basic research and read the verified reviews before adding the sex toy to your cart.
3. Protection is a must – even while using sex toys
If you are using any phallic-shaped sex toys that are being shared with your partner and used for oral or vaginal penetration, it is highly recommended to use a condom. Condoms can reduce the risk of infection and give you a safe yet pleasurable experience. It is also recommended to change the condom on the sex toy with every change of the penetration area.
4. Cleaning up before and after every use and storing them well
Wash – Dry – Clean: Remember these golden words.
Cleaning up is the most basic yet important aspect to follow, for using sex toys safely. And this must be done before and after every single use.
When the sex toys come in contact with the vaginal fluid or the semen, they carry the bacteria from the same and these bacteria are stored on their surface, making the sex toys infectious and harmful.
So, you must clean them properly with clinical soap/shampoo and warm water and pat them dry immediately with a regular soft cloth. You may also find some packaged sex toys cleaner at the store or online that are meant for this sole purpose. After usage, the sex toys must be stored in their original packaging or rolled up in a satin sack and then placed properly in a drawer or box in dry conditions.
We are hopeful that you will follow these important aspects to make your experience with sex toys, a safe one. You can always reach out to the manufacturer or consumer forum in case of any issues or complaints with the quality of these toys.
Disclaimer - This information is provided for educational purposes and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare practitioners before undertaking any changes in your diet or adding supplements.
Proactive For Her is a digital clinic for women, offering accessible, personalized, and confidential healthcare solutions. We offer products and services for out-patient health concerns of Indian women, across their lifetime - from puberty to pregnancy to menopause. To know more on the sexual and reproductive health of women, visit https://www.proactiveforher.com/