If you're a seasoned sex toy user, you most likely already know the pre-use rituals when it comes to your favourite toys. For those just starting out, we know you might be anxious and possibly even tempted to tear open the packaging and use your shiny new toy straight away! Before that, we recommend following a few quick tips to ensure your toy is safe and ready for use.

1) Give it the initial once-over...

You will want to give your sex toys a good rinsing (if waterproof) or wipe down with a toy cleaner/water before first use. Also, give the entire toy a good visual once-over. Some moulded toys may still have a seam or two, or a plastic nub left over from the manufacturing process, which isn't supposed to still be there and it won't feel good when you use it. You may need to pinch off or file down any such seams.

2) Condoms perhaps...

Yes, even your dildo may need to use a condom. Any time you share sex toys, you'll want to clean it after each use - but to make sure you're not introducing bacteria and risking infection, you might even want to use a condom with your toy; if a condom can be used with it of course!

3) In between uses and storage...

It's important to make sure each sex toy is clean and fresh, free of whatever residues may be left over from your last session. Keeping each toy in its own box, bag or container is a good start. Many sex toys come with a case or a special bag, so make use of it - that keeps your toys from getting scratched, or accidentally infused with whatever other lotions, scents, or liquids you may also have in your toy box. Such storage bags also help to keep your toy free from dust and lint. Remember to take note of the included instructions provided in with the product. If it's not waterproof, don't submerge it in water to clean it. In most cases, ordinary soap and water and a good thorough rinsing will do the job, but just to be extra safe - especially if you're sharing toys - we recommend you use an anti-bacterial cleanser. After cleaning, towel-dry it with a soft cloth. You'll always want to be making sure your products are dry before you store them away.

The caring and cleaning of your sex toys is super important when it comes to ensuring the longevity of your product and also your own safety. We hope the above simple tips helped shed some light for those new to the wonderful world of sex toys!