Soaking Male Masturbators: Safe With Alcohol?

Alcohol has many uses, from disinfecting surfaces to treating muscle aches. However, it is not suitable for all materials and can be dangerous when absorbed by the skin. So, is it safe to use alcohol to clean male masturbators? Male masturbators are sex toys that require proper maintenance and cleaning to ensure hygiene and prolong their lifespan. While alcohol is a common disinfectant, it is not recommended for cleaning male masturbators due to the risk of material breakdown and skin irritation. Therefore, it is advisable to use other cleaning methods and store the toy properly to maintain hygiene and safety.

Alcohol can damage male masturbators

Alcohol can be damaging to male masturbators and it is recommended that you avoid using it to clean them. Alcohol can break down the material of the masturbator and cause irritation to the skin. The material of male masturbators varies, and so does the way in which they should be cleaned. Porous materials like latex or rubber can harbour bacteria even after cleaning, so it is best to use these with a condom or keep them for solo use.

It is important to clean male masturbators properly to keep things hygienic and extend the life of the toy. This means cleaning them right after use and drying them thoroughly before storing them. Most toys come with a storage case or bag, and if not, you can use a soft, breathable pouch to protect it from dust.

Alcohol is a common and versatile household item with many uses. It can be used as a disinfectant for items like scissors and thermometers, and as a natural astringent to tighten pores and leave skin feeling refreshed. However, it is important to note that alcohol can also damage the protective coating on some items, such as plastic tiles or glasses lenses.

In addition to the potential damage to the masturbator itself, putting alcohol onto the penis or vulva can be harmful. Alcohol can be quickly absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, causing severe complications including seizures, damage to the nervous system, or blindness. It can also cause skin irritation and dryness.

Alcohol can irritate the skin

Alcohol has been linked to several skin conditions and complications, which may be triggered or exacerbated by prolonged and excessive drinking. These skin conditions can affect both the appearance and health of the skin.

One of the most common skin conditions associated with alcohol consumption is rosacea, which causes flushing, irritation, and pimples on the face, particularly the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. Alcohol can increase the risk of developing rosacea and trigger flare-ups in those who already have the condition. This may be due to alcohol-induced flushing, changes in the gut microbiome, and inflammation.

Alcohol can also increase the risk of developing psoriasis, an autoimmune inflammatory condition characterised by patches of thick, scaly plaques on the skin. Psoriasis can also worsen due to heavy drinking, especially in men. Additionally, alcohol can adversely affect the immune system, increasing the risk of infections such as cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that commonly affects the lower legs.

Alcohol abuse and excessive intake can also lead to nutritional deficiencies, resulting in dry skin and reduced skin elasticity. Alcohol is a diuretic, causing dehydration, which further contributes to dry skin. Dehydration can also lead to puffy eyes and a swollen appearance.

In some cases, alcohol can cause allergic or allergy-like reactions, such as urticaria (hives), which manifest as red, itchy skin bumps. These reactions can occur within minutes to hours of drinking alcohol and may be accompanied by low blood pressure, diarrhoea, shortness of breath, and a low heart rate (anaphylaxis).

Furthermore, alcohol increases the risk of skin cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma. This heightened risk is attributed to alcohol suppressing the immune system, impairing nutrition, and generating reactive free radicals that damage DNA.

Therefore, it is evident that alcohol can irritate the skin and lead to various skin conditions and complications. The effects of alcohol on the skin are wide-ranging and can impact both the short and long term.

Proper maintenance of male masturbators

Firstly, it is important to clean your male masturbator after every use. Leaving your toy uncleaned can make it a breeding ground for germs, dust, and even pet hair. To clean it, give it a good rinse with warm water to flush out any lube or fluids. Avoid using hot water, especially if your toy is made of TPE, as it can damage the material.

When drying your toy, consider using drying sticks to absorb moisture from the inside of your toy, or use a toy stand to allow air to circulate and prevent moisture from getting trapped. This is especially useful for toys with internal canals.

If your toy has electric or battery components, ensure that these parts do not come into contact with water. Once dry, reassemble your toy and store it in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid leaving your toy exposed to sunlight or near a hot place, as certain materials do not stay in good condition under direct sunlight and high temperatures.

To maintain the smoothness and freshness of your toy, especially if it is made from soft materials like TPE, use a renewing powder such as Fleshlight Renewing Powder. Cornstarch is also a cheap and effective alternative.

Finally, always check your toy thoroughly for any cracks or tears before and after use. This will help ensure that your toy is safe to use and prevent any potential issues.

Safe storage of male masturbators

It is not advisable to soak male masturbators in alcohol as a means of storage. While alcohol can kill sperm, it is not safe for internal use and should not be used on the penis or vagina. The skin of the penis is sensitive and can be easily damaged by harsh chemicals, which may cause burning and irritation.

Additionally, some types of alcohol, such as methanol and isopropyl alcohol, can be toxic and have adverse effects on the body if absorbed through the skin or ingested. These compounds are meant to be used topically and can cause severe complications, including seizures, damage to the nervous system, or blindness when absorbed into the bloodstream.

Furthermore, hand sanitizer, which often contains alcohol, should not be used as a spermicide. While it may kill sperm on contact, it is not effective for pregnancy prevention as it does not prevent the transmission of STIs. In fact, using hand sanitizer on condoms can increase the risk of breakage, leading to a higher chance of STI transmission.

Instead of using alcohol, it is recommended to clean male masturbators with mild soap and warm water before and after use. This will ensure that any bacteria, bodily fluids, or other contaminants are removed, keeping the device hygienic and safe for storage.

When storing male masturbators, it is important to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. They should be stored in a sealed container or bag to prevent dust or other particles from accumulating on the device. Additionally, it is recommended to wash the device regularly, especially if it is made of porous materials that may be more prone to bacterial growth.

Alternative disinfectants to alcohol

Male masturbators are usually made of porous materials, which can trap bacteria if not cleaned properly. This can lead to infections or irritation. It is important to clean your male masturbator with a disinfectant to kill bacteria, germs, or fungi.

Warm Water and Mild Soap:

• Wash your male masturbator with warm water and a mild, antibacterial soap.
• For plastic and rubber masturbators, use a toothbrush to reach inside and remove any debris.
• Be careful not to use too much soap, as it could break down the material.

Special Sex Toy Disinfectant:

• Use a disinfectant specifically designed for sex toys, ensuring it does not contain alcohol.
• These disinfectants are suitable for all materials and can be found at eroticFeel.

Fleshlight Wash:

• If you own a Fleshlight masturbator, it is recommended to use their brand-specific water-based cleaner.
• After washing the sleeve with warm water, spray it with Fleshlight Wash disinfectant and let it air dry.
• Finish by sprinkling Fleshlight Renewing Powder over the surface to keep the material soft and prevent stickiness.

Satisfyer Cleaner:

Satisfyer also offers its own cleaner for its range of male masturbators.

Dishwasher:

If your male masturbator is non-porous, such as glass or metal, it can be cleaned in the dishwasher.

Frequently asked questions