In recent years, the market for pre-owned sex toys has grown significantly. With rising awareness about sustainability, budget-friendly options, and circular economy practices, many people are now comfortable buying and selling gently used vibrators, dildos, masturbators, and other adult products. However, hygiene, safety, and material quality are critical when dealing with second-hand sex toys. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know before purchasing or listing a used sex toy.
Why People Buy Used Sex Toys
- Significant cost savings – premium sex toys often retail for $100–$300, but used ones can be found for 50–80% less.
- Eco-friendly choice – reusing sex toys reduces plastic waste and demand for new production.
- Access to discontinued or rare models that are no longer manufactured.
- Trying high-end brands (LELO, Womanizer, We-Vibe, etc.) at a fraction of the original price.
What Types of Sex Toys Can Safely Be Resold?
100% non-porous materials only Safe to resell after proper sanitization:
- Medical-grade silicone
- Borosilicate glass
- ABS hard plastic
- Stainless steel or aluminum
Never buy or sell porous materials used These materials cannot be fully disinfected:
- TPR/TPE
- Jelly rubber
- PVC
- Realistic “skin-like” materials
- Elastomers Even with boiling or bleaching, bacteria and viruses can remain trapped in microscopic pores.
How to Thoroughly Clean and Sanitize a Used Sex Toy
- Wash with mild soap and warm water
- For silicone, glass, and metal toys:
- Boil for 8–10 minutes, or
- Run through dishwasher (top rack, no detergent), or
- Use 10% bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) for 10 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly and air dry
- Store in a clean, dust-free pouch or container
Red Flags When Buying Used Sex Toys
- Strong lingering odors (indicates porous material or poor cleaning)
- Discoloration, cloudiness, or sticky surface
- Cracks, scratches, or melted spots
- Seller refuses to provide clear photos of all angles
- Price too good to be true for a high-end brand
Best Platforms for Buying and Selling Used Sex Toys
Popular trusted communities and marketplaces:
- Reddit communities (r/UsedSexToys, r/SexToysBuySellTrade)
- Dedicated resale sites (SexToyCollective, ToySwap, etc.)
- Facebook groups focused on adult toy resale
- Some users sell via Depop, Mercari, or eBay (check platform rules)
Tips for Sellers – How to Get Top Dollar for Your Used Sex Toy
- Be transparent: list exact material, age, and usage history
- Include multiple high-resolution photos (clean toy, no bodily fluids visible)
- Show proof of sanitization (photo of boiling, bleach bath, etc.)
- Include original box, charger, and storage pouch when possible
- Price competitively – typically 40–70% of retail depending on condition
- Offer bundle deals for multiple toys
Health and Legal Considerations
- Bodily fluid-transmitted infections (HPV, herpes, bacterial vaginosis, etc.) can potentially survive on porous toys
- Always use a new condom on shared or used insertable toys if you’re concerned
- Some regions have laws about reselling adult products – check local regulations
Final Thoughts
Buying and sustainability while enjoying premium sex toys at lower prices. By sticking to non-porous materials, demanding proof of proper sanitization, and being honest as a seller, the second-hand sex toy market can be safe and rewarding for everyone involved.
Happy (and safe) shopping!
