Yes, it is possible to contract a sexually transmitted disease from a vibrator and other sex toys. Many sexually transmitted diseases cannot survive outside the body for long, but some are persistent and remain contagious for long periods of time. However, you should never assume that the infection will go away if you leave it on long enough.
Read on to find out more.
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What is an STI?
A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection that people get through sexual activity. “Sexual activity” can refer to many things. For most people, the term refers to forms of sexual intercourse such as oral sex, anal sex, and vaginal sex. But it can also include other types of unprotected sexual contact, like foreplay, digital stimulation, and — that’s right — sharing sex toys.
Most sexually transmitted diseases are transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal secretions and blood. But some infections, like HPV And Herpescan be transmitted through simple skin-to-skin contact, such as touching an infected person’s genitals and kissing.
Types of sex toys
Sex toys come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and functions. Popular types of sex toys include vibrators, dildos, butt plugs, wearable devices, posture pillows, restraints like handcuffs and ropes, fleshlights, sex dolls, cock rings, and more.
The purpose of sex toys is to help you and your sexual partners improve your sexual experiences by making them more stimulating, arousing and pleasurable.
But sex toys also need to be treated with care. They need to be properly maintained and cleaned because if not, they can transmit sexually transmitted diseases.
The logistics of getting a sexually transmitted infection from a sex toy are pretty simple.
Let’s say you (a woman) are having sex with a new sexual partner (also a woman), but unbeknownst to you, that partner has a genital chlamydia infection. Your partner starts using a vibrator, gives it to you, and then you use it.
This is how sexually transmitted diseases are transmitted when using sex toys. Infected liquids remain on the surface of the toy. These fluids then come into contact with the mucous membranes of the uninfected partner, allowing the pathogens to enter your body.
(While the example above uses vibrators, the same could also be applied to any sex toy used by more than one person during sex.)
Any infection you can get from sex, you can also get from sharing sex toys. That’s why it’s so important to properly care for and care for your sex toys.
The Importance of Sex Toy Materials
The material from which a sex toy is made plays a crucial role in both safety and the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted diseases. Materials can be divided into two types: porous and non-porous materials.
Non-porous materials
Non-porous materials like medical-grade silicone, glass, and stainless steel are considered the safest options for sex toys. These materials do not absorb bacteria or viruses, making them much easier and more thorough to clean between uses. Using nonporous toys and following safe sex practices can significantly reduce the risk of sexually transmitted disease transmission and help maintain your sexual health.
Porous materials
In contrast, certain sex toys made from porous materials such as rubber, certain plastics, or low-quality silicone can trap bacteria and viruses in tiny holes in the surface. This makes cleaning more difficult and increases the risk of infection.
How can I use sex toys safely?
Regularly check sex toys for scratches or breaks in the surface material that could harbor and spread germs, as this can increase the risk of infection. Penetrative sex toys that are inserted into the vagina or anus pose the greatest risk of transmitting infections. It is therefore advisable to put a condom over the toy so that you can easily dispose of it afterwards. Using condoms also makes the sex toy more lubricated, making it less likely to break and thus become infected – this is especially true for anal play.
You also want to clean your sex toys after each use. Check the instructions that came with your toy, but mild soap and warm water should be enough to clean most items.
If the entire toy cannot be submerged in water, remove all batteries and clean any parts that come into contact with skin or body fluids. Be sure to be thorough so that no bacteria or particles are left behind in cracks or crevices.
Do not try to clean your sex toys in the washing machine or dishwasher – this will damage them. Additionally, avoid using harsh chemicals such as alcohol-based cleaners or strong cleaners, as these can damage the toy’s material and irritate sensitive areas.
I’m worried. I would like to get tested at a sexual health clinic
If you are worried you may have caught an STD, call our friendly booking team for advice and to quickly book an appointment at a sexual health clinic near you.
Make an appointment at a sexual health clinic near you today.
This article first appeared on June 10, 2016. Last updated March 13, 2026.
This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Steve Chapman, April 29, 2025.
