If you’ve ever had a moment of post-orgasm clarity that left you wondering, ‘how often should I be cleaning my vibrator? And does my silicone vibrator need to be cleaned differently than my plastic one?’ Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
Learning how to properly clean and care for your vibrator is just as important as discovering how you like to use it. If you’re not properly cleaning your toys, you’re increasing the risk of harmful bacteria affecting your vagina’s delicate bacterial balance, which can lead to itching, irritation, and discomfort. It can also lead to yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, UTIs, and (in the case of partner play) STIs and STDs.
Whether you’re using your vibrator in the shower or to spice up your couples (or group) play, knowing how to properly clean your vibrator is extremely important to keep you, your partners, and your favorite toy safe and ready for more enjoyment.
How Often Should You Clean Your Vibrator?
If you’re not already, you should be thoroughly cleaning your vibrator after every single use. Depending on how you store your vibrator, you might need to give it a quick rinse before your next solo session, too. If you put your vibrator away without completely drying it or toss it in a drawer with all of your other toys, it’s a good idea to wash it before using it.
Cleaning your vibrator is especially important if you 1) share sex toys with partners, 2) switch between vaginal and anal play, or 3) are prone to vaginal infections.
Just like sex, transferring sex toys between partners can spread STIs, STDs, and unwanted bacteria. Ideally, toys should be cleaned before switching between partners. However, if you don’t want to scrub down your toy while your partner is begging more, you might consider using condoms to help reduce the risk and speed up transition time. Bedside sprays and wipes can also be helpful to quickly clean your vibrator for those moments that just can’t wait.
How To Properly Clean Your Vibrator
Hand-washing your toys with warm water and antibacterial soap is an easy, gentle way to clean most types of sex toys. Waterproof vibrators can be emerged fully in water, but water-resistant or non-waterproof vibrators should only be cleaned with a damp, soapy towel. After washing, you should dry your toy with a clean cloth or towel.
Of course, this may not always be the preferred cleaning method for every vibrator or sex toy, so always check the cleaning instructions when purchasing a new toy.
When choosing a soap, make sure to choose one that is unscented and hypoallergenic to avoid irritating your hotspots or causing damage or wear and tear to the material of your vibrator. You should also steer clear of any cleaners that contain alcohol, acetone, or other harsh chemicals, as this can irritate both you and your sex toy.
How To Store Your Vibrator
After you’re finished cleaning and drying your vibrator, you’ll need to store it properly. Sex toys should be stored individually, preferably in a silicone case or a breathable cloth bag, though any clean, breathable, dust-free space will work.
Throwing all of your sex toys together into a bedside drawer can not only lead to cross-contamination between toys, but it can also mix and mingle with any other objects in your drawer. Careless storage can leave your toys exposed to dust, dirt, and other things that, well, you don’t exactly want in your vagina.
Remember that storage systems don’t have to be expensive or complicated. If you have a cotton or polyester drawstring bag on hand, give it a good wash and use it to stash your toy until your next use.
Lube Matters When Caring for Your Vibrator
Whether you’re treating yourself to some orgasm-heavy self-care or slipping between the sheets with your partner, you can usually play by one single rule: the wetter, the better. And if you’re only using lube to combat vaginal dryness, it’s time to think outside the box. Lube means less friction and better sex, no matter what your preferences are—And choosing the right lube can mean a longer or shorter life span for your favorite vibrator.
When caring for your vibrator, you’ll want to consider its lube compatibility. Lube comes in various bases, including water, silicone, oil, and a combination of these.
If you’re using the wrong type of lube, you might end up shortening the lifespan of your favorite vibrator. For example, silicone-based lubes work great with plastic, steel, and glass toys but can break down your silicone toys over time.
For silicon vibrators, like the dual-action iridescence vibrator, you should opt for water- or oil-based lubes. As the name implies, water-based lubes are water-soluble, so clean-up is a breeze. Oil lubes, on the other hand, can go a long way. One application can keep you wet for even the longest sex session. However, be warned that oil-based lubes don’t mix well latex condoms and can cause them to break, leading to well, you know.
Stay Clean While You’re Getting Dirty
Sexual hygiene is one of the most important elements in having mind-blowing, worry-free sex. And just like taking the time to go pee after intercourse and clean up any liquid messes, taking a few minutes to wash your sex toys is essential to a cleaner, more satisfying experience every single time.
The right vibrator can take your sex life to a new dimension and add a buzz to any solo or partner sesh. Even though post-O hormones don’t exactly help with productivity, properly cleaning and caring for your vibe is essential.
If you’re searching for a powerful vibrator that’s easy to clean after every session, the Iridescence Vibrator will be your MVP. The Iridescence is made with body-safe silicone and a 100% waterproof design, so cleaning is as simple as washing with warm water and antibacterial soap.
Order the Iridescence Vibrator today to stay squeaky clean, no matter how dirty you’re getting.