I’ve been in the sexual wellness field for years, and I’ve heard this question more times than I can count: Can sex toys cause infection?
The short answer? Yes — but only if you’re careless. The long answer? With the right materials, good cleaning habits, and a bit of common sense, your toys can be 100% safe to use.
And let’s be real for a second… most infections linked to sex toys are avoidable. I’ve seen people blame the toy when the real issue was skipping a rinse, using the wrong material, or, yep, “borrowing” from a partner without protection. So, before you swear off your vibrator or that beautiful glass toy sitting in your nightstand, let’s go through what actually causes infections, and how to keep things fun and safe.
Table of Content
Why Sex Toys Can Sometimes Cause Infection
Here’s the thing — your body has a delicate balance of bacteria and, in some cases, fungi that naturally live there without causing problems. When you introduce a sex toy, you’re bringing in something from outside your body. If it’s not cleaned, stored, or used properly, that’s where trouble starts.
Some common culprits:
Poor cleaning habits — leftover fluids and bacteria stay on the toy.
Sharing without a condom — yes, STIs and vaginal infections can spread this way.
Switching from anal to vaginal use — this can transfer harmful bacteria like E. coli.
Porous or cheap materials — these can trap germs in tiny holes that soap can’t reach.
(If you’re wondering what materials to avoid, check my guide on 5 Dangerous Sex Toy Materials to Avoid for Your Health.)
When I first started buying toys, I didn’t think about materials at all — if it was cute and had good reviews, I was sold. Big mistake. I learned the hard way that a jelly toy I bought on impulse was impossible to clean completely. Never again.
Real Infections Linked to Sex Toys
To make this real, here are the most common infections you could get from unsafe toy use.
1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Happens when bacteria (often E. coli) get into the urethra.
Symptoms: Burning when you pee, feeling like you need to go all the time, lower belly pain.
Why toys matter: Anything near the urethra that’s not squeaky clean can push bacteria in.
2. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
This is an imbalance of your natural vaginal bacteria.
Symptoms: Thin grey discharge, fishy smell, itching.
Toy connection: Using unwashed toys or switching between partners without protection can introduce foreign bacteria.
(Pro tip: Non-porous toys like medical-grade silicone are much safer. See my breakdown in Silicone vs Jelly Sex Toys: What’s Safe & What to Avoid.)
3. Yeast Infections
Caused by Candida fungi.
Symptoms: Thick white discharge, intense itching, soreness.
Toy connection: Moisture + leftover bodily fluids on a toy is basically a spa for yeast.
4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
STIs like chlamydia, HPV, herpes, and HIV can spread through shared toys or reused condoms. In fact, a peer-reviewed study published in Sexually Transmitted Infections found that HPV could still be detected on sex toys even after cleaning, sometimes lasting up to 24 hours after use. This highlights just how important it is to clean your toys thoroughly and avoid sharing without protection (see the full study here).
High-Risk Situations You Should Watch Out For
From what I’ve seen, these are the most common “uh-oh” moments:
| Risky Practice | Why It’s Dangerous |
|---|---|
| Using porous toys | They trap bacteria you can’t wash out |
| Sharing without condoms | Directly transfers infections |
| Skipping cleaning | Bodily fluids are dry, but bacteria remain |
| Switching from anal to vaginal use | Moves harmful bacteria |
| Using damaged toys | Cracks can hold germs |
And yes, I know some people will roll their eyes at “don’t share without protection.” But here’s the truth — even in committed relationships, infections can happen if one partner already has something without knowing.
How to Use Sex Toys Without Worrying About Infections
Here’s the good part: infection risk drops dramatically if you follow a few easy rules.
1. Choose Non-Porous, Body-Safe Materials
Look for toys made of:
Medical-grade silicone
Stainless steel
Glass
ABS plastic
Avoid jelly rubber, TPR, PVC, or latex unless you use a condom over them. They’re cheaper, sure, but not worth the health risk. If you need ideas, I’ve rounded up Best Body-Safe Silicone Sex Toy Brands for Women in 2025.
2. Clean Your Toys Before and After Every Use
Yes, every single time — even if you’re using it twice in the same night.
Non-porous toys: Mild soap + warm water.
Boil-safe toys: 3–5 minutes in boiling water.
Not waterproof: Use antibacterial wipes or a damp cloth.
If you travel a lot, keep a small bottle of toy cleaner spray in your bag. I can’t tell you how many people skip cleaning “just this once” — and that’s exactly when problems start.
3. Store Them Safely
Dry them completely, then keep each toy in its own cloth bag. Tossing them into a dusty drawer or letting them touch other toys can undo all your cleaning work.
4. Use Condoms on Toys for Extra Protection
Especially if you:
Share toys
Switch between anal and vaginal play
Use porous toys
Plus, cleanup is so much easier.
5. Don’t Share — Or If You Do, Do It Right
Even with cleaning, sharing adds risk. If you’re going to, use a new condom for each person and clean the toy between uses. And skip using the same toy for different people in the same session.
What About Menstrual Cups, Kegel Balls, and Smart Toys?
They’re still “insertables,” so the same rules apply:
Choose medical-grade silicone
Clean thoroughly after use
Store properly
Don’t share
For my favorite non-toxic options, check out Best Non-Toxic Female Masturbation Toys.
Signs You Might Have an Infection
Don’t ignore these:
Burning when peeing
Unusual discharge
Itching or swelling
Pain during sex
Fever or chills
If anything feels off, stop using toys and see a healthcare provider. Seriously, don’t just hope it’ll “go away on its own.”
Final Thoughts
So, can sex toys cause infection? Yes, if you’re careless with cleaning, materials, or sharing. But with a few smart habits, your toys can be just as safe as your favorite skincare products — and a whole lot more fun.
Your pleasure is worth protecting. Take care of your body, take care of your toys, and they’ll take care of you.
If you’re still feeling nervous, you might like my article on 10 Sex Toy Myths You Should Stop Believing Today. Spoiler: most fears are totally fixable.
FAQs About Can Sex Toys Cause Infection
Q: Can sex toys cause infection even if I clean them?
A: If you clean properly with the right methods, the risk is extremely low.
Q: Is it okay to use baby wipes to clean toys?
A: Not ideal. They can leave residue and don’t disinfect well. Use mild soap, warm water, or a toy-safe cleaner.
Q: Can sex toys cause infection if used during my period?
A: Not if cleaned before and after. In fact, some people find toys help relieve cramps.
Q: Are infections from sex toys common?
A: Not really — most happen from poor hygiene, cheap materials, or sharing without protection.
Q: Is it normal to use sex toys regularly?
A: Absolutely. Read more on Is It Normal to Use Sex Toys.
