Whether your vibrator sees nightly use or only comes out once in a blue moon, it’s going to need replacing at some point. The more adventurous might expand their toy collection regularly, while others might still be playing the same toys they got 5 years ago. Whatever group you fall into, we’re going to show you how to spot the signs that your vibrator needs replacing and give you some suggestions for potential upgrades.
Sadly, your vibrator won’t last forever. Even the most well-made vibrator will start to break down after a while. Either the electrical circuits will give up first, or you might start to notice the material has broken down. Both of these signs are potentially dangerous, so every responsible vibrator owner should know what to look out for.
If you’re wondering if it’s time to replace your vibrator, ask yourself the following questions. Don’t hang on to a bad vibrator out of sentimentality. There are so many options out there that you’ll feel silly for putting it off for so long.
A vibrator that doesn’t hold a charge or doesn’t help you reach your destination like it once did is ready for the bin. If changing the batteries or giving it a full charge doesn’t help the situation, you know it’s time to part ways with old faithful. A vibrator that doesn’t vibrate isn’t much help, so don’t hold on to it for sentimental reasons. If you’ve been living with power for a while, we recommend exploring a clitoral stimulator like the Satisfyer.
A common complaint is that a vibrator hasn’t lost power, but it has lost functionality. If you’ve lost the bells and whistles that made your vibrator incredible, don’t compromise. You should absolutely treat yourself to a vibrator that does more than just switch on and off. If it’s been a while since you last went shopping for a vibe, you might be surprised to learn about all the new features available. Look for something with pulsation and escalation vibe patterns as these can really shake up the routine and leave you with some toe-curling sensations. And if you’ve only ever had a classic vibrator, it might be time to explore a rabbit.
All sex toy materials will break down over time. Even with perfect care and attention, even a premium silicone vibrator will break down. Worn down material is not only a buzzkill, but it’s also potentially dangerous to your health. Microscopic cracks in the material can harbour bacteria that are difficult to wash away, even with toy cleaner. If you notice tears, holes or breaks in the material, it’s time for a new sex toy. If you want to shake it up with a new toy that lasts a really long time, you could explore glass sex toys.
A bad smell from your vibrator is a really good reason to buy a new one. This typically means that bacteria is building up and multiplying, so you don’t want to put this sex toy anywhere near your body. Silicone is a safe bet if you want a sex toy that is easy to keep clean. You could also explore smooth ABS plastic toys, although these will have less flexibility. Jelly is one of the worst materials for hygiene, so make sure you keep an eye on your jelly toys and wash them thoroughly.
If you use sex toys with your partner, these should really stay within the confines of each relationship. Even if you practice safe sex and regularly get tested, your sex toy doesn’t. If your ex bought you your sex toy, it might be time to invest in a new vibe. Vibrator shopping can be really fun for new couples as it allows you to explore your kinks in a fun and safe environment. You might be surprised at how broad your new partner’s boundaries are. And all it takes is a suggestion that you go vibrator shopping together.