Can You Get STDs From Sex Toys?

The straight answer? Yes. It is possible to get STDs from sex toys - but it depends. Let's cut to the chase and break down the real deal on how this can happen and how you can keep your pleasure toys clean and safe to use.

Sex toys can potentially transmit certain STDs if they're being shared between partners without being properly cleaned between uses. The most common culprits that can potentially hang out on your toys include:

1. Bacterial infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea
2. Some viral infections like herpes and HPV
3. Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (not technically STDs, but nobody wants those either)

The good news is that this only happens if you share toys. If you use toys solo, you're mostly just dealing with your own bacteria, which is way less concerning. If you have an active infection while using a toy, and you don’t properly clean it and use it again after, it’s possible to reinfect yourself.

Some bacteria can remain on a sex toy even after it's been washed. However, after 24 hours, the percentage of bacteria drops dramatically. An additional safety measure is to let your toy rest for a day after cleaning before using it.

The material of your toy makes a huge difference in how you should clean it and how likely it is to harbor unwanted guests.

Non-porous materials are your safest bet. These materials don't have tiny microscopic holes for bacteria to hide in, making them easier to clean and less likely to transfer infections.

These include:

1. Medical-grade silicone (the gold standard)
2. Glass
3. ABS plastic
4. Stainless steel

Porous materials are the ones to be careful with since these toys have microscopic pores where bacteria, fungi, and viruses can hang out even after a surface cleaning. When possible, avoid buying toys made of this material entirely.

1. "Jelly" rubber
2. PVC
3. TPE/TPR
4. Cyberskin or Realistic materials

You can dramatically reduce the risk of getting an STD from a sex toy if you clean it regularly. For non-porous toys, wash them with mild, unscented soap and warm water before and after you use them. For silicone glass or stainless steel, boil them for 3-5 minutes for complete sterilization.

Porous toys need to be cleaned thoroughly with warm water and mild soap. Accept that these toys will have a shorter lifespan, and you’ll need to replace them more frequently.

For electronic toys, follow the instructions in the manual that came with it. If the toy is waterproof, wash it with soap and water. If not, use a damp cloth with your cleaner or mild soap, being careful not to get the electronic components wet.

One of the simplest ways to prevent STD transmission through toys is by putting a condom on it. This is especially important for porous toys that can’t be fully sterilized. Then, you gotta make sure to change the condom when switching between partners and different body parts. For example, anal to vaginal is a big no-no without a new barrier.

For toys that aren't phallic-shaped, putting a condom on can be awkward. Try to tie off the condom the best you can, or use a glove or non-microwavable saran wrap instead.

If possible, stick to non-porous materials and clean thoroughly between uses and partners. If you're in a regular relationship, consider investing in dedicated toys for each partner. Never, ever share toys if either partner has an active STD or yeast infection.

Generally, you don't need to get tested after using your own sex toys. But, if you shared a toy with a partner without knowing their status, it's a good idea to get tested.

In fact, it's preferable to test after any new sexual encounter, and every several months regardless of sex toy use. Many clinics now offer discreet testing options, and there are

even at-home testing kits available if you want privacy.

Sex toys are supposed to enhance your pleasure, not cause health problems. With proper care, cleaning, and common sense, the risk of STDs transmitting into your toys is pretty low.

Remember the basics:

1. Quality materials matter
2. Clean before and after use
3. Use barriers when sharing
4. When in doubt, don't share at all

Keeping these guidelines in mind means you can focus on your pleasure without worrying about unwanted infections crashing your party.