Common Mistakes When You Buy A Sex Toy

Not everyone possesses familiarity with safe sex toys, and there is a wealth of knowledge to acquire about these intimate devices. Purchasing your inaugural sex toy might seem like a daunting endeavor, but fret not! We are here to guide you through the most common pitfalls when procuring sex toys and show you how to sidestep them, enabling you to embark on a new realm of self-care!

Remarkably, statistics reveal that over 80% of individuals in the United States view masturbation as a form of self-care, and this number has been steadily rising in recent years. It’s no wonder that an increasing number of people are incorporating sex toys into their self-care regimen. As a result, there will be numerous newcomers to the world of self-pleasure. Additionally, approximately 59% of those who have yet to explore the world of sex toys express an inclination to acquire one in the future. When you’re on the cusp of making your first purchase, it’s normal to feel a tad perplexed or uncertain about where to seek advice regarding what to buy. Rest assured, we’re here to provide the assistance you need!

Here are some of the most common mistakes people make when buying sex toys and some valuable tips to help you avoid them!

One prevalent but surprisingly little-known fact is that sex toys in your country may not be subject to strict regulations or any regulations at all. This holds true even for sex toys manufactured in the USA. Consequently, there is a significant risk of unwittingly acquiring a sex toy made from harmful materials if you don’t conduct proper research.

These hazardous materials often include specific types of plastic, PVC, and materials containing phthalates. It’s also advisable to steer clear of toys made from porous materials when possible, as these can become breeding grounds for bacteria without appropriate cleaning methods. While outdoor toys can be acceptable with proper maintenance, indoor toys should be washed and stored correctly.

For your safety, consider opting for sex toys made from the following materials:

• Silicone.
• Stainless steel.
• Borosilicate glass.

On the other hand, it’s generally best to avoid the following materials due to their cheapness, porous nature, or the potential presence of phthalates:

• PVC and/or vinyl.
• Rubber.
• Jelly.

The wisest course of action is to conduct more in-depth research to ensure the safety of the product you wish to purchase. Additionally, if you want to learn more about the safety of sex toys and how manufacturers ensure their products are body-safe, you can explore their specifications and safety practices.

Proper Lubricant Use

Whether you call it grease, lubricant, or lotion, lubrication is paramount, and we cannot emphasize this enough. Not only can using lube enhance your sexual toy experience, but selecting the right lube can elevate it even further. It ensures a smoother, more enjoyable process.

A common error is not knowing which lube is suitable for your sex toy. This is more crucial than you might realize, as using the wrong type can potentially harm the material of your new toy.

When in search of a suitable lubricant, the following general guidelines typically apply:

• Silicone-based lubricant is compatible with almost all non-silicone sex toys.
• Oil-based lubricant works well with most sex toys, except for those made of latex and condoms.
• Water-based lube is generally considered compatible with all sex toys and is a preferred choice.

While it’s a good idea to have plenty of lube on hand, be mindful that an excessive amount can lead to leakage during use. Conversely, using too little can result in unpleasant chafing, depending on the product. So, as with most things in life, striking the right balance is essential.

It’s worth noting that many products come with a sample of lube, but it’s advisable to purchase additional supplies separately to avoid running out.

For those seeking more detailed information on the best lubricants for both masturbation and sex toys, you can find it in our comprehensive guide here.

Cleaning Your Sex Toys

We get it, the last thing you may want to do after a satisfying session is cleaning your toy. However, taking the time to do so will ultimately leave you feeling more content.

Inadequate cleaning can result in the growth and spread of bacteria, potentially leading to damage to the product. Even worse, you might expose yourself to potential health issues, such as yeast infections. Therefore, it’s well worth the extra effort to clean your toy thoroughly.

The process isn’t as time-consuming as you might think. Most sex toys can be cleaned with warm water and a mild, neutral soap (avoid products that are too acidic, alkaline, or contain alcohol or harsh chemicals). After cleaning, simply allow them to dry in a safe environment.

That being said, some toys come with special features designed to make the cleaning process more convenient and effective.

Neglecting Size or Dimension Verification

Selecting the right size for a sex toy is crucial. Whether it’s too small or too large, it can significantly impact your experience. While many sex toys are designed with a standard size in mind, double-checking can help you avoid future issues.

Official online stores provide detailed information about the width, depth, and maximum stretch of their products. Take the extra time to review these specifications before making your purchase. It’s a small effort that can prevent potential regrets later on.

Avoiding Customer Review Comparisons

In today’s market, consumers are well-aware of companies’ claims that their products are the best. Thankfully, customer reviews exist to offer diverse perspectives. While it’s essential to be cautious about paid reviews, don’t dismiss them entirely. They can provide valuable insights and a range of opinions about the product you’re considering.

Most reputable online stores feature a product review section where previous customers share their experiences. Be sure to explore these reviews before making your purchase to make an informed decision.

Beware of Unreliable or Shady Sellers

In today’s fast-paced world, major online marketplaces have become an integral part of daily life for many due to their unmatched convenience. However, when considering a purchase from these platforms, it’s essential to keep some vital factors in mind.

These e-commerce giants typically host a multitude of stores and sellers, offering a wide range of brands and products. But not all items are guaranteed to be 100% authentic or safe, and here’s why:

Risk of Fake or Counterfeit Products

Reputable companies collaborate with retailers to ensure counterfeit goods stay off the market. Nevertheless, you should exercise caution when encountering products that seem unbelievably cheap. Purchasing from unknown sellers might necessitate extra research to ensure you’re making a safe transaction.

Limited Product Quality Control

Prominent online marketplaces pride themselves on offering a vast array of products, encompassing nearly every item imaginable. While this variety is impressive, it also means that when seeking an appealing yet budget-friendly sex toy, you might stumble upon subpar products crafted from potentially unsafe materials for intimate use, as previously discussed.

If you harbor any doubts about a product’s authenticity, the safest course of action is to purchase directly from the original manufacturer whenever feasible.