It turns out many people are making some serious mistakes when it comes to using their sex toys, and experts say it’s time for a change.
Kate Shelor, a well-known intimacy coach and hypnotherapist, has shed light on the issues that arise from purchasing cheaper, low-quality toys, and what can go wrong if we don’t take proper care of them.
Why Cheap Sex Toys Can Be a Health Hazard
One of the biggest mistakes people make is opting for inexpensive toys, which might seem like a great deal at first but can end up causing serious hygiene issues.
Shelor pointed out that cheap materials like jelly, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), or rubber can break down quickly.
This can lead to the toys trapping bacteria even after a thorough cleaning.
“When a toy becomes sticky, discolored, or starts smelling strange no matter how much you clean it, it’s time to throw it away,” Shelor said.
She added that these lower-cost materials are porous, meaning they hold onto bacteria even after being washed, which can lead to infections and other health concerns.
Materials Matter: What to Look for in High-Quality Toys
According to Shelor, better quality toys made from materials like silicone, glass, or stainless steel can last much longer with proper care.
These materials are more durable and less likely to break down, which makes them safer and easier to clean.
Daryn Parker, VP of CamSoda, supported this advice, noting that soft materials like jelly or rubber should be replaced more often — typically within one or two years — as they wear down quickly.
Parker emphasized that quality should always come first when buying new toys.
“Opt for body-safe silicone and easy-to-clean designs for long-term health and satisfaction,” he advised.
The Right Lube Matters Too
Another common mistake that Shelor highlighted is using the wrong type of lubricant with your sex toys.
She explained that silicone-based lubricants can degrade silicone toys, and oil-based lubes can damage latex condoms.
Being aware of these incompatibilities can save your toys from premature damage and help maintain safety during use.
The Risk of Using Non-Anal Toys for Anal Play
Perhaps the most dangerous mistake, according to Shelor, is using non-anal toys for anal play.
This mistake can lead to serious issues, sometimes even requiring an emergency room visit.
Shelor explained that anal toys are designed with a flanged base to prevent them from getting stuck, while non-anal toys lack this safety feature.
“It’s absolutely crucial to use toys specifically designed for anal play,” Shelor said.
“Using a toy that isn’t meant for that purpose can lead to it getting stuck inside the body, causing panic and requiring medical intervention.”
New Technologies for Intimate Play
For those looking to take their toy experience to the next level, Parker suggested exploring new innovations like teledildonic technology, which CamSoda recently introduced.
This technology allows couples to connect no matter the distance, providing real-time sensations and vibrations that mimic real-life interactions.
It offers a more interactive and engaging way to share intimate moments with a partner, especially for long-distance relationships.
Why People Keep Their Old Sex Toys
It’s not just about using the wrong materials or not maintaining toys properly — many people hold onto their old sex toys for far too long.
According to a study from Back Market, 50 percent of Brits admit they’ve never replaced their toys.
Luke Forshaw, Head of Brand and Marketing at Back Market, pointed out that people often don’t know how to dispose of them properly.
“Sex toys, like our everyday gadgets, contain valuable materials that shouldn’t end up in landfills,” Forshaw explained.
“But unfortunately, they often do.”
Conclusion: Upgrade Your Toys, Stay Safe
If you’re still holding onto those old, low-quality sex toys, it might be time for an upgrade.
Prioritizing safe materials, proper cleaning, and the right lubricants will ensure you’re not only getting the best experience but also keeping yourself safe.
Take care of your toys, and they’ll take care of you!
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