Intimate products are as personal as a toothbrush, and they need the same regular care. Proper cleaning protects your health, and proper storage helps your products last for years. In this article, we've put together simple tips on how to do it right and what you should never do.
Why is cleaning so important?
Any surface that comes into contact with the body is left with moisture, bodily fluids and bacteria. If a product isn't cleaned after use, bacteria can multiply and cause irritation or infections. So here's a simple rule: clean your product before and after every use.
First, find out the material
How you clean a product depends on what it's made of. The material is usually stated on the packaging or in the product description.
Medical-grade silicone. Non-porous, hygienic and durable. Wash with warm water and mild soap or a dedicated toy cleaner. Silicone products without electronics can also be boiled in water for a few minutes.
Glass and stainless steel. The easiest materials to clean. Soap and water work well, and without electronics they can be boiled too. Before doing so, check the glass for cracks or sharp edges.
ABS plastic. A hard, non-porous plastic often used for vibrator casings. Wash with soap and water or a toy cleaner, but don't boil it.
TPE, TPR, "jelly" and realistic materials (such as cyberskin). Soft and pleasant, but porous, so bacteria can get into the tiny pores. Wash with warm water and mild soap, dry thoroughly and don't boil. They're not recommended for sharing, and if you do share, use a condom.
Products with electronics
Before cleaning, check whether the product is water-resistant. If it's waterproof (for example, rated IPX7), it can be washed under running water. If it's only splash-proof or has no rating, wipe it with a damp cloth and cleaner without submerging it, and keep the charging port dry.
What never to do
- Don't use alcohol, bleach, acetone or harsh household cleaners. They can damage the material and irritate sensitive skin.
- Don't put products in the dishwasher unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it.
- Don't boil products with electronics or those made of porous materials.
- Don't use silicone-based lubricant with silicone products, as it can damage the surface. Choose a water-based lubricant instead.
Drying properly
After washing, let the product air-dry completely or pat it dry with a clean, lint-free towel. Moisture is a breeding ground for bacteria and mould, so never put a product away damp.
How to store properly
A place for each product. Store products separately, for example in fabric pouches or separate compartments. Some materials can react when they touch each other, changing colour or becoming sticky, especially silicone with TPE or "jelly" materials.
A dry, cool, dark place. Sunlight and heat can damage materials. The best place is a cupboard or drawer, not a windowsill or a spot next to a radiator.
Away from dust. Soft materials attract dust and hair. A closed pouch or a box with a lid helps keep them clean.
Discreetly. If you have children or guests at home, use a lockable box or pouch. It protects both your products and your privacy.
Batteries and rechargeables
If a product won't be used for a while, remove the batteries so they don't leak and damage the electronics. Rechargeable products should be topped up now and then, as a battery left fully drained for a long time can lose capacity.
When to replace a product
Even with good care, products don't last forever. Replace a product if cracks, scratches or stickiness appear on the surface, if it changes colour or has a smell that won't wash off, or if a product made of porous material has become worn and hard to clean.
Conclusion
Cleaning before and after use, choosing the right cleaning method for the material, drying completely, and storing products separately in a dry, dark place: four simple rules that protect your health and help your products last longer.
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