The cultural conversation surrounding sexual wellness has changed over time. People are increasingly open to discussing these kinds of topics, and the health aspect of sex is normalizing within groups, as it should be. In turn, acceptance for sex toys to be viewed as valid tools for self-care and health is on the rise.
Whether one refers to it as a personal massager, vibe, or simply that favorite accessory, the incorporation of these tools into one's routine works wonders for both body confidence and stress relief. Like any tool, however, there is a right way to use them.
Making the most of it does call for a little know-how about materials, hygiene, and technique so that things can stay safe. In this guide, we cut through the noise to help you navigate the practical sides of pleasure so you can focus on the fun part and not the "what ifs."
Why Safety And Technique Matter
It's not all about the buzz at that particular moment, but there are actually real health benefits to using sexual aids. Research has shown that a regular and satisfying sex life is linked to less stress, better sleep, and even good pelvic floor health.
In fact, studies have pointed out how sexual aids may serve to help people overcome sexual function issues by allowing them to reconnect with their bodies in a low-pressure environment. [1] However, safety is one of the very things in life that you really don't want to take lightly. The skin around intimate areas is highly absorbent and sensitive.
Playing with a doubtful material toy or skipping a cleaning session can lead to the introduction of bacteria or irritation. Do not see prioritizing safety as a buzzkill. Practicing precautions just ensures your pathway to pleasure continues, with minimal to no risks involved.
How To Choose The Right Device
Choosing your first or fifth pleasure item may be a little like being in a candy store as a kid, but not all candies are good for your teeth. No matter if it is a massager or an adult sex machine, quality is above all else.
Material & body-safe construction
To be highly recommended, a product must be made of "100% medical-grade silicone." Materials such as silicone, glass, and stainless steel are non-porous, which means they have small microscopic holes where bacteria can hide and multiply.
On the other hand, avoid “jelly” or “rubber" materials. Such materials smell strongly of chemicals; in fact, they are always porous, thus impossible to sanitize. Finally, look at how it needs to be cleaned. Although waterproof immersion cleaning is common with toys, larger mechanical models may call for detachable components which must be independently sanitized.
Size, shape & intensity
Sometimes, bigger simply isn’t necessarily better, especially if you are just beginning. Many a time, it pays to begin small. Still, people who are looking to upgrade from doing things manually to automated, intense sessions will be hard-pressed to beat the power offered through a sex machine.
Another thing you need to consider is the lifestyle you have. If you live with other individuals in a joint living situation or house with other people, you will want a "whisper quiet" motor. If you are traveling from place to place, you will want travel-friendly locks.
Intended use
Know where it’s going. Products designed for external or vaginal use aren’t always safe for anal play. The golden rule for anything internal in the back is that it must have a flared base or a secure attachment point. Without one, the vacuum effect of the rectum can pull the object inside, resulting in a very awkward trip to the emergency room.
Step-By-Step: Safety Use & Technique
With the right equipment, it comes down to being prepared, then listening to your body. Here is how to keep it smooth and safe.
Preparation
Wash your hands before anything touches your body. It's basic, but it really is the easiest way to stop transferring bacteria. Give the toy a once-over for nicks, tears, or loose parts. If using a porous toy-which we don't recommend, but if you have one-or sharing with a partner, always pop a condom on it.
Lubrication
Friction is the opponent of pleasure. There’s a difference between sex without lube, sex with ordinary lube, or sex utilizing the right lube. High-quality silicone sex toys require only water-based lube.
Silicone-based lubes should not be used when silicone sex toys are involved since it melts the surface of the toy and makes it sticky. Oil-based products, such as coconut oil, should not be used when latex condoms are involved since it results in condoms breaking.
Go slow & listen to the body
There's no prize for being first, or using the highest setting right off. Proceed with the lowest intensity and tease the area tenderly to warm it up. Stop if it hurts. Pain is a stop sign from your body, not a level you push through.
Special tips for anal play
If you're experimenting with anal play, patience is golden. The sphincter does take some time to relax. Use a lot more lube than you think you're going to need-the rectum isn't self-lubricating. Again, be sure there's a flared base.
Finally, clean up well afterwards to help prevent the transfer of bacteria into the urethra or vagina, a common cause of UTIs.
Shared toy safety
Sharing can be a lot of fun, but it demands hygiene discipline. If a toy is moving between partners-or even from the anus to the vagina on the same person-switch condoms every single time. It keeps everybody healthy by preventing cross-contamination.
Cleaning, Storage & Maintenance
You wouldn't eat off a dirty plate, so give your toys that same respect. Proper maintenance will extend the life of your purchase and protect your health.
Cleaning methods
Clean it depending on what it's made of. For waterproof, motorised silicone, plastic or glass toys: "Mild warm water and anti-bacterial soap works well-or a specialist toy cleaner. Scrub for 20 seconds and then rinse. [2]
Actually, solid silicone, glass, or steel non-motorized items can actually be submerged into a pot of water, and boiling for a few minutes will deeply sterilize them. Just make sure that they are not touching the bottom of the pot directly.
Drying & storage
Never throw a wet toy in the drawer, as bacterial and fungal growth thrives in moist conditions. Air-dry them completely and wipe with a free-of-lint cloth. Store them in breathable pouches made of cotton or velvet that usually come along with the product. Do not store silicone toys touching each other because sometimes they can react and fuse with each other.
Battery care
If it's rechargeable, don't let the battery completely drain on a regular basis. If it requires AA or AAAs, take them out if you are not going to be using the toy for many weeks or more, to avoid corrosion. If you smell burning, the motor sounds gravelly, or the silicone starts to crack, then it's time to retire your toy.
Conclusion
Although it’s an extremely safe product line overall, it’s also important to pay attention to your body when things feel off when using them. A relationship with sex toys in your bedroom should be about fun, relief, and exploration! Your experience can be not only safe, but also pleasant, by using body-safe materials and listening to your body!
Looking for an upgrade? Take a look at our resource guide for the best personal massager and accessories for you.
References
[1] Use of Vibrators in the Treatment of Sexual Dysfunction (PMC7678780)
[2] How to Clean Sex Toys: Materials, Methods, and More (Healthline)
