{"id":45740,"date":"2025-05-01T07:36:24","date_gmt":"2025-05-01T05:36:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lelo.com\/blog\/?p=45740"},"modified":"2026-03-17T05:58:29","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T04:58:29","slug":"cleaning-sex-toys-used-during-menstrual-periods-tc","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lelo.com\/blog\/cleaning-sex-toys-used-during-menstrual-periods-tc\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Safely Clean Toys Used During Menstrual Periods"},"content":{"rendered":"

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 <\/span>improve sleep<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>stress<\/span><\/a>, 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

While we are here to tell you that masturbation and menstruation are totally healthy and normal, cleaning your <\/span>sex toys<\/span> is a necessary part of this activity. Disinfecting your toys is the best way to prevent bacteria growth and remove stains. While on your <\/span>period<\/span><\/a>, the vagina area is more susceptible to infections, so it’s crucial that your toys stay clean.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Why Cleaning Sex Toys After Menstrual Use Requires Extra Care<\/h2>\n

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 \u2014 and should be cleaned this way regardless of period blood.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you want to avoid blood on your toy, try a clitoral toy<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If the blood comes into contact with the sex toy, then the toy will need to be thoroughly cleaned<\/a>. 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Step-by-Step Guide To Cleaning Sex Toys Used During Menstruation<\/h2>\n

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, <\/span>masturbate in the shower<\/span><\/a> 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When it comes to cleaning your toy while on your period, we have a few easy steps for bacteria prevention and stain removal.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Step 1: Rinse Immediately After Use<\/h3>\n