Half of Brits risking serious infection with ‘harmful’ sex toy habit

Before you start looking for that ancient vibrator to spice things up this Valentine’s Day, keep in mind that sex toys have a shelf life.

This seems to be a fact many have missed, as according to new research, almost 1 in 10 Brits have had theirs for a decade.

Perhaps even more worryingly, the Back Market survey of 2,877 people revealed 50% have never replaced their sex toys at all.

And beyond disappointing moments caused by reduced battery life, these ancient intimate gadgets are putting us at risk of infections and increasing our exposure to harmful chemicals.

A quarter of those surveyed who own erotic devices said they have up to five in their stash, while 66% own just one or two.

However, most participants claimed they keep using their sex toys until they’re worn out or broken, impacting both their pleasure and their health in the process.

NHS GP and Superdrug Online Doctor Hana Patel details how sex toys used over a long period without proper maintenance or replacement can pose several risks.

She tells Metro: ‘Over time, the materials of some toys, especially those made of porous substances like rubber or jelly, can degrade and harbour a multitude of bacteria. This can lead to bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or thrush.’

‘Additionally, small cracks, scratches, or other damage to the toy’s surface can create breeding grounds for harmful pathogens.’

And if that wasn’t enough to make you change your ways, ‘using degraded toys can also increase the risk of irritation, allergic reactions, or even exposure to harmful chemicals like phthalates in lower-quality materials.’

Signs that something may be wrong after using a sex toy include skin irritation, redness, itching, or a burning sensation, which could indicate an allergic reaction or sensitivity to the material.

You should also be aware of unusual discharge, a strong or unpleasant odour, or persistent discomfort in the genital area, which should be addressed promptly.

‘More severe symptoms, like fever or general unwellness, could indicate a serious infection requiring immediate medical attention,’ adds Dr Patel.

‘If symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen, or cause significant distress, it’s important to seek advice from your GP or a sexual health clinic.’

She also stresses the importance of taking precautions with sex toys, from cleaning thoroughly before and after use to preventing STI transmission with a condom if you’re sharing.

‘Ensure a fresh condom is used for each partner and each body area the toy comes into contact with,’ adds Dr Patel.

On top of this, you should avoid using toys that have any visible damage, such as cracks or tears, as these can retain bacteria and cause irritation.

But how exactly do you look after your toys and, perhaps more importantly, how do you know when their time has, ahem, come to head for the recycling bin?

‘The frequency of replacing sex toys depends on the material and quality of the toy,’ Dr Patel states, adding that ‘high-quality toys made of non-porous materials like silicone, glass, or metal can last for years if they are well-maintained’.

In contrast, porous materials like jelly or rubber are not as resistant to bacteria buildup and degradation as they are more difficult to clean.

These should generally be replaced every six to 12 months — or sooner if they show signs of wear.

As for electronic or battery-operated toys, they should be replaced when their mechanisms fail or if the outer casing becomes damaged. But bear in mind, toys often shared with partners may need replacing more often to ensure hygiene.

While regularly inspecting your toys for any signs of discolouration and changes in texture, you should also ensure each wash is a thorough one.

Use warm water and a mild, unscented soap, or a dedicated toy cleaner, to prevent bacterial and fungal growth.

‘For waterproof toys, submerge them completely during cleaning, but for non-waterproof toys, only clean the surface to avoid damaging the electronics,’ says Dr Patel, urging people to pay special attention to any seams or grooves where bacteria might become trapped.

And once your toys have reached the end of their lifespan, rather than chucking them into the household bin with your vegetable peelings and tea bags, rise above the embarrassment and dispose of it properly — anything with a plug, battery, or cable can be recycled, just in the same way a sonic toothbrush can.

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