Yes, it is possible to get an STD from a vibrator and other sex toys. Many STIs cannot survive outside the body for long, but some are hardy and will remain infectious for long periods of time. However, you should never assume that if you leave it long enough, the infection will disappear.
Continue reading to learn more.
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What is an STD?
A sexually transmitted infection (STD) is an infection that people contract through sexual activity. “Sexual activity” can refer to many things. For most people, it refers to forms of sexual intercourse such as oral sex, anal sex, and vaginal sex. But it can also include other types of unprotected sex, such as foreplay, digital stimulation and – correctly – sharing sex toys.
Most STDs are transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal fluids, and blood. But certain infections, such as HPV and Herpesit can be spread through simple skin-to-skin contact, such as touching an infected person’s genitals and kissing.
Types of sex toys
Sex toys are available in a wide range of shapes, sizes and functions. Popular types of sex toys include dildos, vibrators, butt plugs, portable devices, position pads, restraints such as handcuffs and rope, lanterns, sex dolls, cock rings, and more.
The purpose of sex toys is to help you and your sexual partners enhance your sexual experiences by making them more stimulating, arousing and pleasurable.
But sex toys should also be treated with care. They must be properly maintained and cleaned, because if they are not, they can transmit STDs.
The logistics of how you get an STD from a sex toy are pretty simple.
Let’s say you (a woman) become intimate with a new sexual partner (also a woman), but that partner, unbeknownst to you, has a genital chlamydia infection. Your partner starts using a vibrator and gives it to you and then you use it.
This is how STDs are transmitted when sex toys are used. Contaminated liquids remain on the surface of the toy. These fluids then come into contact with the mucous membranes of the uninfected partner, which allows pathogens to gain access to your body.
(While the example above uses vibrators, the same could apply to any sex toy used by more than one person during sex.)
Any infection you can get through sex, you can get through sharing sex toys. That’s why it’s so important to properly care for and maintain your sex toys.
The importance of material sex toys
The material from which a sex toy is made plays a key role in both safety and the risk of STD transmission. Materials can be divided into two types: porous and non-porous materials.
Non-porous materials
Non-porous materials such as medical grade silicone, glass and stainless steel are considered the safest choices for sex toys. These materials do not absorb bacteria or viruses, making it much easier to clean thoroughly between uses. Using non-porous toys and practicing safer sex practices can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting STDs and help maintain your sexual health.
Porous materials
Conversely, some sex toys made of porous materials such as rubber jelly, some plastics or low-quality silicone can trap bacteria and viruses inside tiny holes in the surface. This makes them more difficult to clean and increases the risk of infections.
How can I use sex toys safely?
Check sex toys regularly for any scratches or breaks in the surface material where germs can live and spread, as this can increase the risk of infection. Penetrating sex toys that are inserted into the vagina or anus pose the greatest risk of transmitting infections, so it’s a good idea to put a condom over the toy so you can just throw it away afterwards. Using condoms will also lubricate sex play, making tearing and therefore infections less likely – this will be especially true for anal play.
You’ll also want to clean your sex toys after each use. Consult 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 any batteries and clean all parts that come into contact with skin or bodily fluids. Make sure you are careful not to get any bacteria or particles in cracks or crevices.
Do not attempt to clean your sex toys in a washing machine or dishwasher – this will destroy them. Also, avoid using harsh chemicals such as alcohol-based cleaners or strong detergents, as these can damage the toy material and irritate sensitive areas.
Worry. I want to get tested at a sexual health clinic
If you are concerned that you may have contracted an STD, call our friendly bookings team for advice and to find a quick appointment at a sexual health clinic near you.
Make an appointment at a sexual health clinic near you today.
This article first appeared on 10/06/2016. Latest update 13/03/2026.
This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Steve Chapman, 29/04/2025.
