Table of Contents

• Choosing Unsafe Materials
• Using Too Little (or the Wrong) Lubricant
• Skipping the Pre-Use Clean
• Forgetting to Clean After Use
• Improper Storage
• Buying the Wrong Size or Shape
• Starting Without Foreplay or Communication
• Ignoring the Instructions
• Sharing Toys Without Protection
• Neglecting Battery Maintenance
• The Bottom Line

Choosing Unsafe Materials

This is often the first—and most critical—mistake. Not all sex toys are created equal when it comes to quality and safety. Certain porous materials can trap bacteria, residue, and odors, compromising hygiene and comfort over time. For a worry-free experience, it is always best to choose toys made from body-safe materials.

The specialized ranges of male sex toys and female sex toys from TENGA and iroha are designed to be body-safe while providing controlled, long-lasting sensations.

Using Too Little (or the Wrong) Lubricant

Lubricant is often treated as optional, but that is a mistake. Without it, friction increases, sensations become less pleasant, and the risk of irritation rises. A high-quality, water-based lubricant improves glide, enhances the toy's textures, and protects your skin.

Using a compatible lotion not only extends the life of your toy but also makes every session smoother and more comfortable.

Skipping the Pre-Use Clean

Just because a toy is new doesn’t mean it’s clean. Between the factory, packaging, and shipping, invisible residues can remain. Rinsing a sex toy under lukewarm water with mild soap before its first use is a simple but essential step for a fresh start.

Forgetting to Clean After Use

It’s tempting to put off cleaning after you're done, but it’s not recommended. Leaving a toy unwashed encourages bacterial growth and can gradually damage the material. Cleaning your toy after every use and letting it dry completely ensures impeccable hygiene and keeps sensations consistent over time.

Improper Storage

Storage is frequently overlooked. However, leaving a toy out in the open or in contact with different materials can damage it. The ideal solution? A separate pouch or a clean box, away from dust, light, and humidity. Taking care of how you store your toys ensures the pleasure lasts.

Most reusable sex toys from TENGA come with integrated drying and storage systems to make this process as easy as possible for you.

Buying the Wrong Size or Shape

Enthusiasm can sometimes lead you to go "too big, too fast." Choosing a toy that is too large or overly complex right out of the gate can cause discomfort and discourage further exploration. It is better to start with simple, ergonomic shapes, especially if you are a beginner.

Our male and female collections offer a wide variety of approachable shapes and manageable sizes. These intuitive, user-friendly designs allow you to explore at your own pace without pressure, making it easier to graduate to more intense or targeted experiences when you feel ready.

Starting Without Foreplay or Communication

Pleasure can't be rushed; it needs to be cultivated. Jumping straight in without foreplay or "setting the mood" often limits the intensity of the experience and can even lead to frustration. Whether alone or with a partner, taking the time to awaken the body through touch, breathing, and imagination allows you to be physically and mentally ready for pleasure. This exploration phase is often overlooked but is key to a high-quality experience.

For couples, this preparation also involves talking. Communication is a natural extension of foreplay: expressing your desires and curiosities—as well as your boundaries—creates a vital atmosphere of trust. A sex toy then becomes more than just an object; it’s a tool for connection that strengthens intimacy rather than replacing it. By taking the time to talk and sync up, the experience becomes more mindful, respectful, and ultimately more satisfying for everyone involved.

Ignoring the Instructions

Every toy has its own specific features, from vibration modes to maintenance requirements. Ignoring the manual can lead to improper use or premature wear and tear. A few minutes of reading is all it takes to get the most out of your toy.

Sharing Toys Without Protection

Even between partners, sharing a sex toy without precautions can raise hygiene concerns. Thorough cleaning and disinfection between uses help minimize risks and allow you to enjoy the experience with peace of mind.

Neglecting Battery Maintenance

Finally, don't forget technical upkeep. Overcharging batteries or leaving old batteries inside a toy for too long can ruin its performance. Following the manufacturer’s charging cycles and recommendations ensures your toy stays in peak condition for the long term.

The Bottom Line

Making mistakes with sex toys is common, especially during your first forays into exploration. By prioritizing safe materials, rigorous hygiene, and listening to your body, intimate toys become true partners in your wellness journey.

Choose a body-safe sex toy that fits your desires from our male and female collections, apply these essential tips, and feel free to contact our team for personalized recommendations. Let’s make every moment one of pure, confident pleasure.