The material of a sextoy is a determining factor for its safety and its impact on your health. Some materials are porous and can harbour bacteria, while others may contain harmful chemicals. Medical silicone is widely regarded as the safest material for sextoys. It is non-porous, hypoallergenic and easy to clean. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a rigid plastic often used for vibrating parts or internal structures, but it must be covered with a safe material such as silicone. Avoid sextoys made from PVC, TPR (thermoplastic rubber) or jelly, as they may contain phthalates, endocrine disruptors that are potentially dangerous to health. Always check the composition of the sextoy before buying it.

Be particularly vigilant with sextoys whose composition is not clearly indicated. An abnormally low price may be an indicator of the use of inferior and potentially dangerous materials. Jelly sextoys, which are often very cheap, should be avoided due to their porosity and the possible presence of phthalates. Similarly, beware of PVC sextoys, a plastic that can release toxic compounds. Favour recognised brands that clearly display the composition of their products and comply with the safety standards in force. If in doubt, do not hesitate to contact the manufacturer or seller for further information.

Certifications and quality labels are important indicators of the safety of a sextoy. They certify that the product has been tested and meets specific standards for materials, manufacturing and electrical safety. Look for certifications such as CE (European Conformity), which indicates that the product complies with the requirements of the European Union in terms of health, safety and environmental protection. Other labels, such as RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances), guarantee the absence of hazardous substances such as lead, mercury or cadmium. Although there is no specific certification for sextoys, these general labels are a guarantee of quality and safety. Buy preferably from trusted retailers such as KissKiss.ch who select products that comply with the standards in force.

CE compliance is a legal requirement for many products sold in Europe, including some sextoys. It means that the manufacturer has declared that its product complies with the applicable European directives on safety, health and environmental protection. The presence of the CE marking does not in itself guarantee the safety of the product, but it constitutes a first level of control. Manufacturers are required to carry out tests and document their compliance. If in doubt, you can check the validity of the declaration of conformity with the competent authorities. CE compliance is particularly important for vibrating or heating sextoys, which must meet specific electrical safety standards.

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your sextoys in good condition and prevent the growth of bacteria. Always wash your sextoys before and after each use with warm water and a mild antibacterial soap. Avoid scented soaps or soaps containing oils, as they can damage certain materials. For silicone sextoys, you can use a specific sextoy cleaner. Dry your sextoys thoroughly after cleaning and store them in a clean, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing your sextoys together, as some materials may react with each other. Replace your sextoys if they show cracks, tears or signs of deterioration.

There are a variety of cleaning products specifically designed for sextoys. These cleaners are generally formulated to be gentle on materials and effective against bacteria. They are available as sprays, foams or wipes. You can also use a mild antibacterial soap, but make sure it does not contain harsh ingredients that could damage your sextoys. Avoid rubbing alcohol, which can dry out and crack certain materials. After cleaning, you can apply a thin layer of talcum powder (asbestos-free) to silicone sextoys to keep them soft and supple.

Vibrating sextoys operate on batteries or a rechargeable battery, which raises electrical safety issues. Make sure the battery compartment is sealed to prevent contact with water or other liquids. Only use the batteries or charger recommended by the manufacturer. Never leave a vibrating sextoy charging unattended. If you use a vibrating sextoy in the bath or shower, make sure it is waterproof and designed for use in water. Avoid completely immersing a vibrating sextoy that is not specifically designed for this. In the event of a malfunction or overheating, stop using the sextoy immediately and contact the manufacturer or seller.

Vibrating sextoys can operate with replaceable batteries or an integrated rechargeable battery. Batteries offer the advantage of being easily replaceable, but they can be expensive in the long term and require responsible management of used batteries. Rechargeable batteries are more environmentally friendly and economical, but they have a limited lifespan and can be more difficult to replace. Whatever your choice, make sure you use quality batteries or a charger and follow the manufacturer's safety instructions. Avoid counterfeit or poor quality batteries, which can present a risk of explosion or leakage.