Sharing intimate items, especially something as personal as a sex toy, may seem like a fun idea, but it comes with its own set of risks. You might think, “It’s just a toy, how dangerous can it be?” Well, the truth is, it can be more risky than you think. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of sharing sex toys and see what you need to know before making the decision to share. The good news is that with the right precautions, sharing might be safe. But you’ve got to know what you’re doing!
The Risks of Sharing Sex Toys
When we think about sharing sex toys, the first thing that should come to mind is health and hygiene. After all, we’re talking about items used on the most intimate parts of the body, and bacteria or viruses can easily transfer if proper care isn’t taken.
You might not have an infection right now, and neither might your friend, but pathogens can live on sex toys even if they’re not immediately visible. These microscopic intruders can thrive on sex toys, especially if they are not cleaned thoroughly between uses. For example, if a toy has been used internally, it could carry bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can lead to infections. Even with the best intentions, the transfer of these germs can happen if you share a toy without taking proper precautions.
For example, some types of STIs, like herpes or human papillomavirus (HPV), can survive on surfaces like sex toys. Even if your friend and you are both healthy, the bacteria or virus could still spread, especially if the toy is used on different parts of the body. The more porous the material of the toy, the higher the likelihood that bacteria could stick around after cleaning. So, sharing a toy without taking proper steps to sanitize it is asking for trouble.
The risks aren’t just limited to STIs either. There are also more common infections like vaginal yeast infections or UTIs, which can easily be triggered by unclean sex toys. You may not even notice these infections right away, but they could develop over time if hygiene isn’t a top priority.
Hygiene and Cleaning: Your First Line of Defense
If you and your friend are still interested in sharing a toy (despite the risks), then hygiene is your first line of defense. And let’s be clear—cleaning is more than just a quick rinse with soap and water. In fact, it’s essential to follow a few steps to ensure you’re protecting yourself and each other.
Wash Thoroughly After Each Use: Always clean the toy after each use. The best way to clean it is to use warm water and a mild antibacterial soap or a cleaner specifically made for sex toys. These cleaners are designed to kill bacteria and disinfect the toy without causing any damage to its material.
Use Barriers Like Condoms: If you’re going to share, it’s a good idea to use a condom on the toy, especially if it’s something that will be inserted into the body. Change the condom each time you pass the toy between partners. This may seem like extra work, but it’s totally worth it for your health. Plus, it makes sharing safer and easier.
Pay Attention to the Material: The type of material your toy is made from can affect how easily it can be cleaned. Porous materials, such as jelly rubber or certain plastics, absorb bacteria and are harder to sanitize properly. If you’re planning to share a toy, go for non-porous materials like silicone, glass, or stainless steel. These materials are easier to clean and pose much less risk of bacterial growth.
Dry Completely: After cleaning, make sure your toy is completely dry before you store it. Any leftover moisture could attract bacteria or mold. You don’t want to risk anything growing on your toys, so always let them air-dry fully before putting them away.
Sterilize When Possible: Some toys, especially those made of silicone or metal, can be sterilized. This means you can boil them or wash them in very hot water to kill germs completely. If you’re going to share a toy, sterilizing it between uses is one of the best ways to ensure it’s safe.
While these steps seem simple, they are crucial to preventing the spread of germs and keeping both you and your friend safe. If cleaning feels like too much work, or if you’re unsure about the safety of sharing, you may want to reconsider or opt for personal toys instead.
Setting Boundaries and Talking About Comfort
Before you and your friend even think about sharing sex toys, communication is key. No matter how close you are, sharing a toy is still an intimate act, and both of you need to be comfortable with the decision. It’s important to talk openly about boundaries, comfort levels, and expectations.
For some people, the idea of sharing a sex toy may feel uncomfortable. That’s totally okay! Don’t feel pressured to do something just because your friend suggests it. Maybe one of you is not okay with sharing toys used for anal play, or perhaps you both feel uncomfortable with a particular type of toy. These are personal preferences that need to be respected.
Having an open conversation about these boundaries will help prevent any misunderstandings or awkward situations. You’ll both be clear about what’s acceptable and what’s not. This ensures that no one feels uncomfortable or coerced into something they’re not ready for. It’s all about respect, trust, and understanding.
And remember—boundaries can change over time. What may feel okay in one moment might not feel so great later. Always feel free to revisit the conversation if anything feels off. Communication is an ongoing process, especially when it comes to sharing such intimate items.
Why Personal Use is Still the Safest Option
If you’re still on the fence about sharing a sex toy, the safest and most hygienic option is to stick to personal use. Owning your own toys ensures that you have full control over their cleanliness and their usage. You don’t have to worry about cross-contamination or misunderstanding boundaries.
Plus, it’s much easier to maintain your own toys without needing to worry about someone else’s cleaning habits. Everyone’s hygiene practices are different, and it’s better to err on the side of caution.
By using personal toys, you also get the added bonus of knowing the toy is completely customized to your preferences. No need to worry about whether your friend likes a toy in the same way you do. You get to enjoy the toy exactly how you like it, without any concerns.
Finally, personal toys are more likely to be made from high-quality, non-porous materials that are safer to use and easier to clean. Investing in your own toys means investing in your health and your pleasure. Plus, you’ll be able to explore your own desires in complete privacy and comfort.
If your friend is curious or in need of a new toy, why not gift them one? It’s a great way to share the love while ensuring safety for everyone involved.
Should You Share or Not?
Ultimately, sharing sex toys with a friend comes down to personal choice, but it’s important to take the risks seriously. If you’re going to share, make sure you’re both on the same page when it comes to hygiene and boundaries. Always clean the toy thoroughly, use barriers, and choose non-porous materials whenever possible. Open communication is crucial, as is respecting each other’s comfort levels.
But, if you want to be absolutely safe and avoid all risks, consider keeping your toys personal. There’s no harm in treating yourself to your own, and it’ll give you peace of mind knowing that your health is fully in your hands. In the end, there’s no wrong choice—just what works best for you and your friend.
