Thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns, since 2020 we have seen a 200% increase in sex toy shopping. But, hey, what else was there to do when we were stuck inside our homes all alone or with a partner? Still, we can not help but wonder what that means for the planet. It's not like we can say that most sex toys are environmentally friendly.
Did you know that condoms, sex toys, and lubes create 222.9 million tonnes of waste a year in the UK alone? And this type of trash is an eco-disaster. Condoms do not consist of biodegradable latex, and sex toys are usually made of rubber and plastic. On top of that, battery-operated toys leave a toxic trail of carbon.
Since we have ditched plastic bottles and straws, switched to ethical clothing and beauty brands, why not move on to sustainable sex toys as well? Keep on reading to find out how to make your sex life greener than the grass outside.
Eco-friendly Sex Toys
Nothing can kill the mood more than remembering the current climate crisis during your sexcapades. Hello, eco-anxiety. The hard truth is, your sex toy drawer could probably use more sustainable items.
But don't worry, some companies are already one step ahead of you. They are rethinking sex toys to address plastic pollution problems. So, today you can find biodegradable vibrators, vegan, recyclable sex playthings, and solar-powered toys.
Unfortunately, some sex toy makers put a "biodegradable" label on their packaging, even though their products are not biodegradable. So, you want to look for items with a logo from the Biodegradable Products Institute or Japan BioPlastics Association. By checking for this logo you can make sure you are buying a certified product.
Consider the Materials As Well
Furthermore, it would be best to stay away from adult toys made of toxic plastic materials. Such materials are harmful to the environment and almost impossible to recycle. Moreover, cheap and low-quality materials are porous, which means bacteria and yeast can easily get stuck inside them. So, using them can cause you serious health problems.
Some of those toxic materials include jelly, rubber, elastomer, PVC, TPE/TPR, TPR-silicone, and silicone blends. Even plastic materials that are usually considered safe can sometimes turn out to be dangerous. In 2005, a line of yellow ABS plastic toys had cadmium levels high enough to be regarded as radioactive in Europe.
But, if you really want to switch to Green Sex, you can always ditch the plastic altogether and try sex toys made of other materials.
Glass Sex Toys
For example, toys made of borosilicate glass can be a great option. This type of glass is very difficult to chip, so you don't have to worry about injuring yourself. Moreover, their smooth, hard surface creates a perfect slide even without lube. They are easy to clean and disinfect since you can boil, freeze and put them in a dishwasher.
On top of it all, glass sex toys are beautiful. Like, really beautiful.
Wooden Sex Toys
Sex toys made of wood are not that common but are also a fantastic choice. They look great, and you get a special, natural feel. Also, you don't need to worry about splinters. Quality wooden toys have a finish over them that makes them strong and non-porous.
Metal Sex Toys
By now, you've probably seen toys made of metal materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and titanium. Some makers offer gold and silver toys, as well. They are your best bet if you like your playthings heavy and firm. Moreover, they are easy to clean — just put them in a dishwasher or boil them.
Stone/Ceramic
Ceramic toys are safe as well as strong. However, just to be on the safe side, check for chips and cracks before using them.
How to Make Your Toys Last Longer
If you don't want to go through toys faster than necessary, there are some steps you can take. First, carefully read the instructions provided by the maker. There you should find some tips on how to care for your new plastic sex buddy. Also, find out how long you can use it at a time to avoid overheating.
Next, find a place where you can store the toy when you are not using it. This way, you will stop the dust from entering electronic parts and staining.
In the end, remove the batteries when not in use to prevent them from leaking.
What about recycling?
Before deciding to throw away a broken sex toy, you should try and fix it. There are some tutorials online as well as some companies that do these kinds of repairs.
But if you are set on throwing away your old love toys, things could get a bit sticky (and not the fun kind). Even if you are brave enough to put your toys in a recycling container, you might not have the option. Most companies do not accept sex toys and consider them biohazard materials (with bodily fluids and all). Moreover, adult toys are mostly made of mixed materials, which can make them difficult to recycle.
There are some companies that specialize in dealing with discarded plastic lovers, but they are rare. Still, you can go the extra mile and take the toy apart, separating electronic parts from plastic ones. This way, at least you get to recycle the electronic elements.
Other Ways to Give Your Sex Life a Sustainable Upgrade
Aside from sustainable sex toys, you can check out natural alternatives for condoms. There are companies that make vegan, ethical, cruelty-free, and biodegradable condoms.
Furthermore, you can support the green sex initiative and animal rights by opting for vegan, cruelty-free lubes. Also, we definitely recommend checking out sustainable lingerie as well. This ethical lingerie consists only of organic, biodegradable materials.
Final Thoughts
So, when you think about it, going green in your sex life is not impossible. It just takes a bit of research and label reading. Choose your sex toy makers and materials carefully, and don't be afraid of trying something new, like a wooden dildo (or a golden one!). Anyway, you can do good by yourself and the planet by banging yourself Viola-style.