How Should You Dispose of Sex Toys?

Why is it important to properly dispose of sex toys?

To begin with, let’s talk about the not-so-eco-friendly side of sex toys. Sadly, these pleasure products aren’t exactly biodegradable, and while other toys are a few environmentally-friendly options, they’re about as elusive as a unicorn in the wild.

Recycling your old sex toys isn’t just a green move; it’s also a wise choice for users who care about their environmental impact. The sex toy industry is booming, with a constant demand for new and shiny products. By recycling your old favorites, you’re helping reduce landfill, which translates to less waste and a happier planet. So, remember, when it comes to sex toys, it’s not just about pleasure – it’s also about making the world a little happier, one recycled toy at a time.

So, before you casually chuck them in your regular trash, consider giving them a second chance through recycling. Various sex toy recycling programs, like the eco-warriors at the Natural Love Company or your trusty local recycling center, are here to rescue your old toys from becoming toy waste. If you’re intrigued, check out the official Natural Love Company website to support their mission.

Finally, let’s address the health factor. Sex toys can turn into stealthy bacteria hideaways if you’re not careful, and if you don’t bid them farewell properly, you might unintentionally spread more than just good vibes. So, before you send those toys off into the sunset, make sure to sterilize them thoroughly. Wrap them in a plastic bag and drop them at your local recycling center or at a program that’s on the lookout for pre-loved toys.

How to Dispose of Sex Toys?

1. Recycling

Let’s be real, sex toys aren’t the most straightforward things to part ways with. But here’s a little secret: many pleasure products are actually recyclable! Making your sex toys into recycling heroes is not only good for the environment; it’s also a great way to declutter your home.

So, why should you consider recycling sex toys? Well, for starters, it’s the eco-conscious thing to do. A lot of vibrators are made from plastic or silicone material, which can stubbornly hang around in landfills for centuries. By giving them a second chance through recycling, you are reducing waste. And get this, recycled sex toys can even find new life as things like park benches or other outdoor equipment!

Now, let’s talk about the “how.” Step one: check if your local recycling program has a program for small electrical items. If they do, you’re in luck: your sex toys can be thrown in with your old smartphones and gadgets. If not, you should look for a specialized sex toy recycling program. These folks are experts in breaking down your toys into their main categories, like plastic or silicone, and sending them off for recycling. Some of them are even generous and offer perks like discounts on new toys as a small thank-you for attempting to recycle your old friends.

Take those batteries out before throwing your sex toys in the recycling bin or sending them to a specialized program. Batteries (as shown in the image above) should have their own farewell party because they can leak a variety of harmful substances into the environment. Oh, and if your toy is still in good condition, consider giving it to a friend or donating it to a sex-positive organization. After all, sharing is caring!

2. Repairing

So you’ve spent on a high-quality sex toy, but it’s acting up – what now? Before you decide to toss it in the trash or send it to the recycling center, here’s a better idea: how about giving it some TLC and fixing it up? Not only is this a budget-friendly move, but it’s also a high-five to Mother Earth for reducing electronic waste.

First, play detective and try to identify the issue. Is the vibrator motor taking an unscheduled nap? Did the battery decide to retire early? Or is it just a minor mechanical hiccup? Once you’ve pinpointed the culprit, it’s troubleshooting time. You can look through the manual, just like the user guide for the magic wand in the image below, to see if it has fixes for any of these issues.

If the thought of DIY repair leaves you feeling jittery, consider waving the white flag and reaching out to the manufacturer. Many companies offer repair services, and some even throw in warranties for good measure. Pop onto the manufacturer’s website or drop a line to their customer service.

But if you’re the adventurous type and want to go the DIY route, make sure you’ve got the right tools and are on friendly terms with the manufacturer’s instructions. Some fixes might require special parts or tools, so do a bit of homework before diving in. And remember, there’s no shame in asking for a helping hand if you’re not feeling like the DIY guru of the century. Happy fixing!

3. Reselling

So, you’re ready to part ways with your favorite vibrator? Before throwing it in the garbage, consider reselling it! Many people are unaware that used sex toys have a market. Just like with clothing, shoes, and other personal items, there are people looking for a bargain on gently used toys. Plus, reselling your vibrator is a great way to be environmentally conscious and keep them out of landfills.

One pro tip for reselling your toys is to clean them thoroughly. Use a dedicated cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning. Now, it would be easier to sell sterilized toys than dirty ones, wouldn’t it? Once your toy is clean and ready to go, you can sell it on websites like Co-Ed Lingerie or discreetly through friends or co-workers. Another option is to donate your toys to companies that recycle the materials. For example, some companies have a process for breaking down the material of the toy and recycling it into new products.

4. Throwing Your Sex Toys Away

Let’s face it, sometimes you just need to break up with your sex toys. Whether you’re upgrading to a newer model or just need to make some space in your box, throwing away your vibrators can be a tricky process. But fear not, we’ve got some tips to help you dispose of them properly.

First things first, you need to figure out if your sex toys are recyclable or not. Most vibrators are made of body-safe materials like silicone, skin-safe rubber, or plastic, which can be recycled. However, recycling sex toys is more complicated than simply throwing them in your curbside recycling bin. You’ll need to do some research to find a sex toys-accepting recycling program or facility.

If your vibrators are not recyclable, then it’s time to take out the trash bags. But before you throw them out, consider the impact that your sex toys will have on the environment. Many sex toys contain batteries or any electrical parts that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly.

When it comes to disposing of your adult toys, it’s important to know that you’re dealing with intimate items that have been in contact with your body. To avoid any awkward encounters, wrap your sex toys in a plastic bag or wrap them in newspaper before putting them in the trash. And if you’re concerned about privacy, consider breaking your sex toys into smaller pieces before disposing of them.

How Can I Know Whether My Sexual Toy Is Recyclable?

Let’s face it: not all sex toys are environmentally friendly, and some are made with more easily recyclable materials than others.. If you’re wondering whether your toy is recyclable, the first thing you do is to check the packaging or manual that came with your toy. If it says that the toy is made from environmentally friendly materials or is designed to be recycled, then you’re in luck! However, if there’s no information on the packaging or manual, you’ll need to do a bit of detective work.

One way to determine if your toy is recyclable is to look at the materials it’s made from. Toys made from borosilicate glass, for example, are often recyclable. Furthermore, rechargeable batteries are frequently recyclable, so if your toy has a rechargeable battery, it may also be recyclable. But if your toy is made from materials like silicone or rubber, it may not be recyclable.

If you’re unsure whether it’s recyclable or not, the best thing is to contact your local recycling facility. They’ll be able to tell you whether your toy can be recycled or not, and if it can, they’ll provide you with instructions on how to do so. You can also check if your old vibrator can be recycled by shipping it to a sex toy recycling company.

Where Can I Get Replacement Sex Toys?

Physical Stores

You can always go to a physical sex shop if you’re feeling adventurous and want to see the toys up close and personal. These stores have knowledgeable employees and allow you to see and touch the product before purchasing it.

Online Retailers

If you’re not comfortable with walk-in stores or they are not available in your area, online shopping is the way to go. There are plenty of online retailers that sell sex toys, from big names like Amazon to specialized websites like Lovehoney. Just remember to check the reviews before making a purchase. You don’t want to end up with a toy that’s too loud or doesn’t do the job. And don’t forget to check for sales and discounts, free shipping, and discreet box packaging. Who doesn’t love a good deal on a new vibrator?

Whatever store you choose to purchase your new sex toy from, remember to properly dispose of your old one. If you don’t have a reference on what toy to buy as a replacement, here are all the best male sex toys and best female sex toys we ranked and tested. Happy shopping!

Thanks for reading my guide on How Should You Dispose of Sex Toys!