For Your Information

The health and safety of our customers is of utmost importance to us, and Uvibes is committed to providing you with useful, easy to understand hygiene and safety information. We recommend that you educate yourself about the materials used to manufacture sex toys and understand how best to maintain them for safe and hygienic use.

General Guidelines – Vibrating Sex Toys
Sex Toy Materials and Hygiene
Choosing the Right Lubricant
Choosing the Right Massage Oil

1. General Guidelines – Vibrating Sex Toys

IMPORTANT: If your toy is not waterproof do not immerse or expose any part of the battery pack or wiring to water. If your toy has a self contained removable vibrator module then you may immerse your toy in water during use or for cleaning, only if you have removed the vibrator module.

2. Sex Toy Materials and Hygiene

a) Silicone Based Products

Silicone is used to manufacture many different sex toys because it is hypoallergenic and very durable. It is also non-porous and pliable. It quickly warms to body temperature and can be produced in many different and bright colours. Amazingly, it also transmits vibrations very effectively. Most importantly, because it is non-porous, it is easy to clean.

We recommend that you thoroughly clean your silicone sex toys after each use, however if for some reason you are not able to do this, it would be advisable to use a condom on your toy, especially if you are sharing the toy with a partner. Non-lubricated condoms are recommended for use with silicone toys.

Silicone sex toys made from good quality silicone are usually more expensive than toys made from other materials, however your investment is worthwhile because your toy will be more durable, and can be kept more hygienic than toys made from some other materials. If you or your partner has any allergic reaction to rubber, vinyl or other chemicals commonly used in materials used in the manufacture of sex toys, then a silicone toy is probably the best choice.

Lubricating your Silicone Sex Toy

Water based lubricants are best for use with silicone sex toys. If you don’t have the correct non-silicone lubricant then you should use a condom on the toy and then apply lubricant to the condom. DO NOT use silicone-based lubricants on silicone toys as it can slowly degrade the silicone material.

Cleaning and Disinfecting your Silicone Sex Toy

Boiling – Bring a pot of water to the boil. Using a set of cooking tongs, carefully immerse your toy in the boiling water for a few minutes. This is the safest method of disinfecting your toy.

Washing – Use a body soap and water to thoroughly clean your toy. Rinse well and dry thoroughly before storing. Alternatively, you may use a specialized cleaning and disinfecting product that is suitable for cleaning sex toys. Do not immerse any non-waterproof vibrating sex toy in water.

b) Silicone & Rubber Composites

Silicone & Rubber Composites are a mixture of Silicone and Rubber and depending on the manufacturer there may be as little as 10% silicone in the mixture. Silicone & rubber products often contain rubber softeners such as Phthalates.

If you are sharing or not able to clean your toy immediately before or after or use then we recommend that you use a condom over your toy to ensure safe and hygienic use.

Lubricating your Silicone & Rubber Composite Sex Toy

Water based lubricants are best for use with silicone & rubber. If you don’t have the correct non-silicone lube then you should use a condom on the toy and then apply lubricant. DO NOT use silicone-based lubes on sex toys that contain silicone as it slowly degrades the silicone material.

Cleaning and Disinfecting your Silicone & Rubber Composite Sex Toy

c) Elastomer

Elastomer is phthalate-free, hypoallergenic, soft, and durable. However, it is slightly porous so it is important that extra care is taken when cleaning.

Because of its porosity, it is more hygienic if you use a condom over your toy, especially if you are sharing. The condom will also make it easier to maintain cleanliness.

If you have some concerns about exposing yourself to phthalates then a toy made from Elastomer may be a good choice for you.

Lubricating your Elastomer Sex Toy

We recommend the use of Water Based Lubricants for Elastomer sex toys.

Cleaning and Disinfecting your Elastomer Sex Toy

d) Jelly

Jelly is a term used for sex toys that are made from a soft, porous form of rubber that usually has a shorter lifespan than toys made from silicone or vinyl. Jelly rubber often contains Latex, which some people may be allergic to. Jelly rubber toys may also contain phthalates which are used to soften the base compounds.

If you prefer the sensations of soft sex toys or are looking of less expensive alternatives then jelly rubber may be a good choice for you. If you are concerned about phthalates then you can use a condom over your toy to prevent direct contact.

If you are sharing or not able to clean your toy immediately before or after or use then we recommend that you use a condom over your toy to ensure safe and hygienic use.

Lubricating your Jelly Sex Toy

We recommend the use of Water Based Lubricants for Elastomer sex toys.

Cleaning and Disinfecting your Elastomer Sex Toy

Washing – Use a body soap and water to thoroughly clean your toy. The porous structure of Jelly rubber means that they are more difficult to clean than toys made from Silicone or Elastomer so take a little extra time in the cleaning process.

Rinse well and dry thoroughly before storing. Alternatively, you may use a specialized cleaning and disinfecting product that is suitable for cleaning sex toys made from Jelly. Do not immerse any non-waterproof vibrating sex toy in water.

e) Vinyl

Vinyl toys have a more solid feel than Jelly rubber toys however they are less porous. Because vinyl is slightly porous it is still advisable to use condom over your toy. Vinyl is longer lasting than jelly rubber, but not as durable as silicone. Toys made from Vinyl may contain phthalates.

If you are sharing or not able to clean your toy immediately before or after or use then we recommend that you use a condom over your toy to ensure safe and hygienic use.

Lubricating your Vinyl Sex Toy

We recommend the use of Water Based Lubricants for Vinyl sex toys.

Cleaning and Disinfecting your Vinyl Sex Toy

Washing – Use a body soap and water to thoroughly clean your toy. Rinse well and dry thoroughly before storing. Alternatively, you may use a specialized cleaning and disinfecting product that is suitable for cleaning sex toys. Do not immerse any non-waterproof vibrating sex toy in water.

f) Lucite, Acrylic, and ABS Plastic

Lucite, Acrylic, and ABS Plastic can be termed as “Hard plastic”. Sex toys made from these materials have smooth hard surfaces and are generally non-porous and relatively easy to clean. Hard plastics are more flexible than glass and are shatter-proof.

If you are sharing or not able to clean your toy immediately before or after or use then we recommend that you use a condom over your toy to ensure safe and hygienic use. Hard plastics do not contain phthalates.

Lubricating your Hard Plastic Sex Toy

All lubricants suitable for contact with the skin are suitable for use with hard plastic sex toys.

Cleaning and Disinfecting your Hard Plastic Sex Toy

g) Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) is a light-weight, flexible material which may also be referred to as Thermoplastic Rubber (TR). Because of its slight porosity we recommend that you use a condom over your toy, especially if you are sharing. The condom makes it easier to maintain a high standard of hygiene and cleanliness. Thermoplastic Elastomer / Rubber do not contain phthalates.

Lubricating your Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Sex Toy

We recommend the use of Water Based Lubricants for TPE sex toys.

Cleaning and Disinfecting your Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Sex Toy

h) Glass

Glass toys have smooth hard surfaces and are generally made from Pyrex or laboratory–quality glass that is shatter-proof. Glass retains temperature extremely well and requires very little lubricant to achieve a very enjoyable and slippery experience. If you are sharing or not able to clean your toy immediately before or after or use then we recommend that you use a condom over your toy to ensure safe and hygienic use. Glass toys do not contain phthalates.

Lubricating your Glass Sex Toy

All lubricants suitable for contact with the skin are suitable for use with glass sex toys.

Cleaning and Disinfecting your Glass Sex Toy

Washing – Use a body soap and water to thoroughly clean your toy. If you want to give the toy an extra good clean you may put it in your dishwasher, however rinse it off afterwards to ensure that there is no soap or residue remaining. Dry thoroughly before storing. Alternatively, you may use a specialized cleaning and disinfecting product that is suitable for cleaning sex toys.

i) Aluminium

Aluminium is a much lighter metal than stainless steel and in an anodized form it has an attractive appearance. It is easy to clean and maintain for hygienic use which makes it a good material for use in the manufacture of sex toys.

Lubricating your Aluminium Sex Toy

All lubricants suitable for contact with the skin are suitable for use with Aluminium sex toys.

Cleaning and Disinfecting your Aluminium Sex Toy

j) Phthalates

Phthalates are (as described by the United States Centre for Disease Control) “a group of chemicals used in the manufacture of plastics”. They often are called plasticizers. Phthalates can prolong the lifespan or durability of plastics and increase the flexibility of some plastics. In addition, phthalates have been used as solvents for other materials. They are used in hundreds of products, including vinyl flooring; adhesives; detergents; lubricating oils; automotive plastics; plastic clothing such as raincoats; and personal-care products, such as soap, shampoo, hair spray, and nail polish.

Phthalates are used widely in flexible polyvinyl chloride plastics (PVC), such as plastic bags, garden hoses, inflatable recreational toys, blood-storage containers, intravenous tubing, children’s toys, and some pharmaceutical and pesticide products. Before 1999, phthalates were used in pacifiers, soft rattles, and teethers.”

Apparently, there are no documented or proven cases of anyone ever having been harmed as a result of the use of products containing phthalates however there does appear to be some concern about the potential for as yet undefined health related effects. As a result of these concerns the governments of Europe and the USA have legislated certain restrictions that prevent the use of phthalates in the manufacture of toys for young children.

If you would like to find out more about Phthalates you can look at the following websites:

http://www.cdc.gov
http://www.pvc-toys.com
http://www.americanchemistry.com

3. Choosing the Right Lubricant

Lubricants are made from many different products and some may not be suitable for you or your sex toy. Whether you decide to try petroleum-based, oil-based, water- based or silicone-based lubricants, always check to see what restrictions apply to each type. Experiment with the many different kinds to find the right flavours, consistencies and textures for you and your lover.

Lubricants and oil aren't just for partner sex. The most common use for lubricants and oils is for solo sex. Using a good lubricant for masturbation creates a sensual much more enjoyable experience than solo sex without lubricant! Sex toys and fingers are meant to slip and slide as much as possible so use as much as you like of a type of lube that's compatible with the toy you're using. You don't want to irritate yourself or damage your toys! If you are sharing your sex toys with your partner, remember that the safest method is to use a condom.

Whether or not you feel comfortable using lubricants and or massage oils with every sexual partner, it is great to be well prepared and have some close by in case you need them.

a) Water-based Lubricants

Water-based lubricants usually contain glycerine, propylene glycol, nontoxic preservatives and de-ionized water. There are flavoured and unflavoured mixtures, however un-flavoured types may still be somewhat sweet to taste. Water-based lubricants do not irritate, generally do not stain, and are safe for use with latex and other types of condoms. They will dry out quicker than some other types of lubricant but can be re-activated using a little water or saliva. Water-based lubricants are generally considered to be the best form of lubrication.

b) Silicone-based Lubricants

Silicone-based lubricants retain their lubricating properties better and longer than water-based lubricants and because of their concentrated makeup you do not require much to get the desired effect. Silicone is OK to use with latex however silicone-based lubricants can degrade sex toys made from silicone Do not use a silicone-based lubricant on a silicone sex toy.

c) Petroleum-based Lubricants

Petroleum-based lubricants are made from petroleum jelly, mineral oil or petrolatum. Petroleum-based lubricants are the most commonly used type of lubrication however they can irritate sensitive vaginas, can stain fabric and can be difficult to wash out. Vaseline based products and baby oil are typical of this type of product. Petroleum-based lubricants can destroy latex very quickly and should not be used with condoms or any other form of latex birth control devices. On the plus side, petroleum-based lubes can be a good economic option for male masturbation or anal sex.

d) Oil-based Lubricants

Oil-based lubricants are usually made from products such as vegetable and nut oils. They do stain fabrics and can be difficult to wash off. Oil-based lubes can destroy latex, so, like petroleum-based lubes, they should not be used with condoms or other birth control devices made from latex. Oil-based lubricants are suitable for anal and vaginal sex and male or female masturbation.

4. Choosing the Right Massage Oil

Massage oils can spice up a night with your lover, or add to the sensuality of a simple back massage. Oils make a body silky, slippery and sexy. Pour a small amount in the palm of your hand and rub your hands together to warm the oil before gently applying to your lover's body. You can rub oil anywhere on your lover’s body except on the vaginal area unless the bottle specifies that the oil is safe for internal use. Regardless of what is on the label it is recommended that you test a small amount on the skin first to make sure that you and your lover won't have any kind of reaction to it.

You can use regular hand lotion for a back rub, however it's best to use oils specifically developed for massage. They generally leave some residue and usually have a pleasant aroma and/or taste. If you have an oily skin, be sure to shower after your massage as many massage oils can cause increased oiliness and pimples on your back or chest.

Massage oils and lotions should not be used with latex products unless the bottle specifically states that they are safe for use with latex.

Warming massage oils warm the skin during massage, which will give your lover a pleasantly warm sensation. While not the best option for full-body massages, warming oils are great for massage of the genital area, or for massaging the breasts, buttocks, thighs and arms. Some warming oils can't be used with latex products - make sure you read the label before application.

Warming oils should not be used for vaginal or anal penetration but you can apply them to the surface of your genitals. Some of the warmth-inducing elements may irritate skin so apply a little first to test it out before using it during sex.