Used Sex Toys: A Good Idea? KissKiss Guide to Safe, Eco-Friendly Pleasure

A used sex toy? The idea might seem surprising at first. Yet, it’s a trend gaining momentum in Switzerland, driven by economic and ecological considerations. Buying a second-hand sex toy is a bit like hunting for vintage clothing: it requires a discerning eye and a few precautions, but it’s well worth it. We’re here to demystify it all, so pleasure can go hand-in-hand with safety and smart budgeting.

Why a Used Sex Toy is Appealing: Economy and Ecology

A used sex toy allows you to acquire products from reputable brands at a fraction of their new price, making the exploration of new pleasures more accessible. Frankly, who hasn’t dreamed of a high-end vibrator without breaking the bank? Buying a used sex toy makes this dream accessible. It allows you to acquire products from reputable brands at a fraction of their new price, opening the door to experimenting with new pleasures without a significant investment. A Womanizer Premium 2 or an Arcwave Ion, for example, represents a certain budget when new, but becomes much more affordable on the second-hand market.

Beyond the financial aspect, environmental impact is a significant argument. Giving an object a second life means reducing our consumption, limiting waste, and participating in a more circular economy. With an increased awareness of our ecological footprint, this approach fits perfectly into a responsible consumption strategy. In Switzerland, interest in second-hand items is very real, as 20min.ch already highlighted in 2023 (20min.ch, 2023), including for intimate objects.

Hygiene and Safety of a Used Sex Toy: The Crucial Point

Discussing used sex toys naturally raises the question of hygiene, which is paramount to preventing the transmission of bacteria, fungi, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). And that’s an excellent question! Cleanliness is absolutely essential to prevent the transmission of bacteria, fungi, or even sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The World Health Organization (WHO) and Santé Publique France emphasize the importance of good intimate hygiene practices to prevent risks related to sexual health (WHO, Santé Publique France).

The choice of material is crucial for a used sex toy. Sex toys made of medical-grade silicone, borosilicate glass, or stainless steel are safe bets. Their non-porous surfaces make them easy to clean and disinfect thoroughly. Conversely, porous materials like “jelly,” TPR (thermoplastic rubber), PVC, or “cyber-skin” should be absolutely avoided for second-hand use. These materials can retain bacteria, even after meticulous cleaning, and pose a risk to your intimate health.

How to Clean and Sterilize a Used Sex Toy

To clean and sterilize a used sex toy, start with an initial wash with hot water and mild soap, then disinfect according to the material. Once you’ve acquired a used sex toy made of the right material, the cleaning and sterilization step is non-negotiable. Begin with an initial wash using hot water and a mild soap, ideally a specific sex toy cleaner. Scrub all surfaces thoroughly, even the crevices.

The disinfection method varies depending on the material:

• Silicone, glass, stainless steel: These materials can be immersed in boiling water for a few minutes. Let them cool completely before handling. You can also use specific sex toy disinfectant wipes or a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution for effective disinfection, as recommended by the Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS) for certain medical devices (HAS).
• ABS (hard plastic): 70% isopropyl alcohol or a disinfectant spray for hard surfaces is suitable. Ensure the product is compatible with the plastic and will not degrade it.
• For all materials: Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions, even for a used product.

After disinfection, let the sex toy air dry completely before storing it in a dedicated fabric bag or clean box. This prevents moisture and bacteria from proliferating. To learn more about best practices, consult our guide on how to clean and maintain your sex toys.

Which Used Sex Toys to Buy and Which to Avoid?

Not all sex toys are equally suitable for the second-hand market: some are good candidates, while others should be avoided due to their material or condition.

Those you can consider:

• External vibrators: Whether they are clitoral stimulators or body massagers, as long as they are made of medical-grade silicone or glass, they are generally safe.
• Solid silicone, glass, stainless steel toys: Dildos, anal plugs, or Ben Wa balls made of these non-porous materials are the easiest to disinfect.
• Couple’s sex toys: A silicone Satisfyer Pro 4 Couples can be a good used option if perfectly cleaned.

Those to absolutely avoid:

• Porous toys: All sex toys made of “jelly,” TPR, PVC, or “cyber-skin” should be banned. Their surface retains bacteria and cannot be effectively sterilized.
• Sex toys with fragile or non-waterproof electronic components: Boiling water or strong disinfectants could damage them. Furthermore, a worn-out battery can be an issue.
• Internal male masturbators: The complex textures and often porous materials of these products (like some Tenga or Fleshlight) make them very difficult to clean thoroughly. For men’s sex toys, it’s preferable to opt for new, like an Arcwave Ion.
• Any sex toy showing cracks, discoloration, or abnormal signs of wear. These alterations can create breeding grounds for bacteria or irritating areas for the skin.

Before buying, always check the product’s general condition, ask for detailed photos if possible, and ensure that electronic components are working correctly.

Where to Find Used Sex Toys in French-Speaking Switzerland?

The second-hand market for used sex toys in Switzerland is booming, with several options ranging from specialized platforms to generalist sites. If you’re looking for a second-hand sex toy, several options are available to you.

Specialized platforms, such as secondhandtoys.ch, exclusively offer second-hand products, sometimes with cleaning guarantees or certifications. This is an interesting option for increased peace of mind.

Generalist sites like Galaxus Second Hand also have sections dedicated to used erotic products. These platforms offer a wide variety of choices and a certain security in the transaction.

Finally, online marketplaces and classified ads can be a source. Here, caution is advised: ensure the confidentiality of the transaction and anonymity if you desire it. The growing popularity of second-hand platforms in Switzerland (20min.ch, 2023) makes these options increasingly common and accepted.

To Go Further

Interested in discovering the latest innovations in new sex toys? Our article on technological innovations in female sex toys might interest you.