Vibrators are continuously on the rise in popularity in the sex toy market. It turns out electronics are hot in the bedroom, and advanced technology is getting people to come back for more.
Whether it’s a rabbit or a Hitachi, vibrators range from $10 to $300, depending on your desires and bank account. If you’re on the cheaper side, you may be less concerned about damaging your toy, but since some vibrators cost a pretty penny, caring for them is essential for their lifespan.
Cleaning a vibrator requires special care, and we’re here to dive into concerns about water damage, motor safety, and introduce the best practices for safe cleaning and maintenance.
Understanding Waterproof vs. Non-Waterproof Vibrating Toys
When you purchase your vibrator, the instructions and manufacturing information will let you know if your vibrator is waterproof, splashproof, or non-waterproof.
- Waterproof toys (IPX7 or IPX8 rated) can be fully submerged in water. They are made with materials that won’t degrade when under or near water. They can be used underwater without any issues, making clean-up easier as well.
- Splashproof toys (IPX4 or similar) can handle light splashes but should not be submerged. Think: using them in the shower but not in the bathtub.
- Non-waterproof toys must be cleaned carefully to prevent water damage. They cannot be exposed to water.
Waterproof toys tend to be pricier due to stronger motors (AKA more pleasure) and advanced technology for underwater use, so price points can vary for these types of perks.
When deciding on what type of toy to purchase, consider weighing in on your hygiene routine, too. If you’d like something you can throw in the dishwasher, consider a waterproof toy. But if you don’t think you’ll be using your toy underwater and cleaning isn’t a big deal to you, consider a non-waterproof or splashproof toy.
Learning how to clean your sex toys is important, as cleaning them incorrectly can lead to damage and decreased lifespan, costing you money and play time. Cleaning your toys correctly means you’ll prevent bacterial concerns, increase the time you can enjoy the toy, and practice good hygiene.
Cleaning Methods for Waterproof Vibrating Toys
Since waterproof sex toys are, well, waterproof, they can be washed and exposed to water.
The best cleaning ingredients for vibrating waterproof sex toys are simple: mild soap and warm water or a body-safe toy cleaner like LELO’s Premium Toy Cleaning Spray.
Here’s how to clean your waterproof vibrator:
- Rinse your vibrator under warm water.
- Apply mild soap or toy cleaner and gently scrub.
- Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely behind storage.
Deep cleaning tip: check your manufacturer’s guidelines for your sex toy because some waterproof toys can be boiled or placed in the dishwasher for optimal cleaning.
Cleaning Methods for Non-Waterproof Vibrating Toys
As for non-waterproof vibrating sex toys, submerging in water should be avoided at all costs. Cleaning them is still easy, but it will require you to take the correct steps to keep your toy safe.
The best cleaners for non-waterproof vibrating toys are a damp cloth with mild soap, antibacterial wipes, and alcohol wipes (but check that they are compatible with your toy).
Here’s how to clean your non-waterproof vibrator:
- Avoid direct water exposure.
- Wipe the surface with a damp, soapy cloth.
- Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
- Dry completely before storing in a box or bag away from sunlight and moisture.
Protecting Battery-Operated and Rechargeable Toys
For all sex toys, it’s important to keep the battery compartments dry to prevent corrosion and charging ports free from water exposure. You can clean around the exterior of the USB or charging port, but do so carefully and make sure moisture doesn’t enter the port.
Many vibrators and electronic toys are made from silicone, which can degrade if exposed to alcohol frequently. Remember this when protecting the material of your toy and using alcohol wipes often.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Keeping your toys safe and long-lasting can be simple once you understand your vibrator and the safety measures you should take when cleaning it. In addition to protecting the longevity of the vibrator, cleaning your sex toy after every single use is necessary to avoid infections like bacterial vaginosis or UTIs as well.
Common mistakes to avoid when cleaning your electronic sex toy include:
- Submerging non-waterproof toys in water.
- Using harsh chemicals that degrade materials or affect the motor.
- Forgetting to dry toys properly before storing them.
- Not checking the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations.
Proper Drying and Storage Tips
In addition to cleaning and washing your toys, storage is crucial for longevity. Certain materials can degrade faster, and bacteria can grow in areas that are humid.
Make sure to air dry your vibrator completely before storing it to prevent moisture buildup. Use a soft storage pouch to prevent dust and bacteria accumulation. If you want to store your toy in a box, separate it from other sex toys to prevent degradation and material breakdown.
Always keep your toys in a private, dark, and humidity-free place in your home. Never expose your toys to constant heat or sunlight.
Conclusion
Overall, avoiding damaging your vibrating and electronic sex toys and learning how to clean your toys can ensure a proper hygiene and maintenance routine. Check your toy’s waterproof rating and clean it using the recommended method we’ve outlined above.
Regular cleaning keeps you and your sex toy safe and happy. And don’t we all need a little TLC to keep our motors running?
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