Just because it’s your time of the month doesn’t mean using your sex toys is taboo. In fact, masturbation can ease period cramps and improve sleep and stress, so by all means, use your toys for relief. Many people, on their periods, see an increase in libido and desire due to hormonal fluctuations.
While we are here to tell you that masturbation and menstruation are totally healthy and normal, cleaning your sex toys is a necessary part of this activity. Disinfecting your toys is the best way to prevent bacteria growth and remove stains. While on your period, the vagina area is more susceptible to infections, so it’s crucial that your toys stay clean.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the best way to sanitize your adult toys, non-toxic sex toy cleaners, how to remove blood from silicone, and address common concerns about bacteria and pH balance.
Why Cleaning Sex Toys After Menstrual Use Requires Extra Care
Using a vibrator while on your period is bound to stain your vibrator a bit with period blood. But don’t worry, you can wash it. Water-safe or water-resistant sex toys can be easily cleaned with soap and water — and should be cleaned this way regardless of period blood.
However, not all sex toys are made with materials that easily remove blood. Porous materials like TPR, TPE, rubber, and PVC can harbor bacteria and are difficult to clean. Hard plastic, metal, silicone, and glass are non-porous and can be easily cleaned.
If you want to avoid blood on your toy, try a clitorial toy.
Beyond blood stains is the risk of the toys harboring bacteria from blood. Period blood is a mix of blood cells, uterine lining tissue, and fluids. Some germs from this mixture can throw off your pH balance. The vagina has a natural pH balance of 4.5 to protect against infections. But menstrual blood left on toys can alter the pH if it contains bacteria.
If the blood comes into contact with the sex toy, then the toy will need to be thoroughly cleaned. Disinfection after use is key to maintaining a healthy vagina. If it’s not cleaned, then you’re at risk of causing a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis due to the imbalance.
Step-by-Step Guide To Cleaning Sex Toys Used During Menstruation
If you’re a clean freak, prepare ahead of time by laying down a towel and having extra towels nearby. If you have a fully waterproof sex toy, masturbate in the shower to avoid any mess on your bedsheets. Have some handy wipes within reach or quickly rinse your vulva, but never your vagina, as the vagina is self-cleaning.
When it comes to cleaning your toy while on your period, we have a few easy steps for bacteria prevention and stain removal.
Step 1: Rinse Immediately After Use
- Run warm water over the toy to remove surface residue.
- Avoid letting blood dry on the toy, as this makes cleaning more difficult.
Step 2: Wash with Mild Soap or a Specialized Toy Cleaner
- The best to sanitize adult toys is to use fragrance-free, pH-balanced soap or a body-safe toy cleaner.
- Gently scrub all surfaces, focusing on any ridges or textured areas.
Step 3: Disinfect for Extra Hygiene
- For Non-Porous Toys (Silicone, Glass, Stainless Steel):
- Boil in water for 3-5 minutes (if non-electronic).
- For glass toys, put a washcloth in the boiling water, too, so it doesn’t break against the pot.
- Use a diluted hydrogen peroxide soak for deeper sanitization.
- For Electronic or Non-Waterproof Toys:
- Wipe with antibacterial wipes or a damp cloth with mild soap.
- Use a UV sanitizer if available.
Step 4: Remove Any Stains (If Needed)
- For Silicone Toys: Soak in a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and warm water.
- For Glass or Stainless Steel: Use baking soda paste to lift any discoloration.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly and Dry Completely
- Ensure all soap or disinfectant is fully removed.
- Pat dry with a lint-free towel and let air dry before storing.
Safe Storage Tips for Menstrual Use Toys
Store menstrual sex toys in a clean, dry place to prevent bacterial growth. Always keep toys out of direct sunlight as it can damage the material. This can typically be a drawer, container, fabric pouch, or in their original packaging. Always make sure your toys are sterilized before storing them. And never store porous and non-porous sex toys in the same storage space.
If you keep up with keeping your toys clean and storing them properly, your sex toys can have a long lifespan.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to sex toy hygiene, there are some easy mistakes that you can avoid.
First, don’t wait too long to clean your toy. After you’re done using it, make sure you clean your toy right away, as period blood can dry quickly. Once it’s dried, it’s more difficult to remove.
Another common mistake is using harsh chemicals on your toys. Avoid bleach and alcohol, as they can degrade materials and cause irritation. The best products for cleaning are non-toxic sex toy cleaners, water, and soap.
Don’t skip the disinfection step when cleaning your toys. Blood can harbor bacteria, so deeper cleaning by boiling your toys or using antibacterial wipes is crucial.
Conclusion
Learning how to clean your menstrual-use sex toys is important not only to sustain the quality of your toy but also for the health of your vagina.
Use our easy cleaning guide after your post-masturbation play to ensure proper hygiene after use.
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