SAFE USE

Safe use of sex toys: the basics to know before you start

5 min read · Updated 25 October 2026

Most problems with intimate products come from a few avoidable things: the wrong product for the purpose, too little lubricant, rushing, poor hygiene and ignoring pain. These basics keep things comfortable and lower the risk.

Before the first use

• Read the manual, including any warnings about water, charging and cleaning.
• Clean the product as the maker advises, even if it is new.
• Look at the surface for cracks, sharp edges, loose parts and any strong chemical smell. Do not use a product that looks damaged.
• Check that the product is intended for the use you have in mind. Our beginner's guide explains why this matters.

Use lubricant, and the right kind

Lubricant makes insertion more comfortable and helps avoid small tears. The Sexual Medicine Society of North America points out that the anus does not self-lubricate the way the vagina can, so lubricant is especially helpful for anal products. Consumer organisation Test Achats advises never using a product dry and choosing a water-based lubricant, because oil- and silicone-based versions can damage some products. Oil-based lubricants also weaken latex condoms. Always check the lubricant label and the product instructions.

Go slowly and listen to your body

Start on the lowest setting and increase only if it is comfortable. Take your time with insertable products. Stop if you feel pain, burning, numbness or anything that does not feel right. Test Achats advises consulting a health professional if there is pain or bleeding. Vibrating products can also warm up; stop if a product becomes hot.

Times to pause or ask a professional first

Some health sources advise avoiding insertable products for a period after childbirth or intimate surgery, or while you have a urinary tract infection or a sexually transmitted infection. If any of these applies to you, ask your doctor, midwife or sexual-health clinic when it is appropriate to resume. Also ask for advice if you are unsure about a medical condition or a medication.

Precautions for anal use

• Use only a product designed for anal use, with a flared base or a wide stop that cannot slip inside. Apotheken Umschau notes that a product must be easy to remove again.
• Do not use objects that were not made for the purpose, particularly anything fragile or that can create suction.
• Use plenty of lubricant and go gently; the lining can be injured.
• If a product becomes stuck, the Sexual Medicine Society of North America advises seeking medical attention immediately. Do not try to force it out.

Keep body areas separate

Bacteria from the bowel, including E. coli, can cause infections if they reach the vagina or urinary tract. Apotheken Umschau advises using a condom or cleaning thoroughly when moving a product from anal to vaginal use. The simplest rule is to change the condom, or wash the product, every time you move from one body area to another. Plain soap and water do not remove every virus, so a barrier is the safer choice when in doubt.

Sharing products

A product used by more than one person without cleaning can pass on infections. The Sexual Medicine Society of North America advises avoiding sharing where possible and, if a product is shared, covering it with a new condom for each use. It also notes that small tears or sores can pass blood-borne infections more easily. Clean thoroughly between users, whatever else you do. See our materials and cleaning guide for how.

Latex and other allergies

If you have a latex allergy, avoid latex condoms and products that contain latex, and check the material list. Apotheken Umschau warns that an allergic reaction can be serious. Stop use and seek medical help if you have swelling, hives, breathing difficulty or a spreading rash. Irritation or itching that appears after use is a reason to stop and ask a professional.

Electrical and battery safety

• Use only the charger and cable that came with the product, or the maker's recommended ones.
• Do not use a product while it is charging unless the maker says you can.
• Do not immerse a product that is not rated for it, and do not use it if liquid has entered an electrical compartment.
• Stop using a product with a swollen, very hot or damaged battery and follow the maker's disposal advice.

When to seek medical help

• A product is stuck and cannot be removed easily.
• Pain, bleeding or numbness does not go away.
• You notice fever, unusual discharge, a burning feeling when passing urine or other signs of infection.
• You have a rash, swelling or breathing difficulty after use.

Trust your judgement: if you are worried, ask a health professional. There is no need to feel embarrassed; they deal with these questions routinely.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

• Sexual Medicine Society of North America: how can one use sex toys safely?
• Test Achats: 6 tips for using your sex toy safely (French)
• Apotheken Umschau: how to use sex toys properly (German)
• Planned Parenthood: sex toys, materials and safer use