5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Biird Silicone Products

Quick Answer

To keep your Biird silicone products in top condition, avoid harsh soaps, boiling water, and abrasive scrubbing. Stick to mild soap and warm water, and always dry thoroughly before storing.

Cleaning your silicone toys is essential for hygiene and longevity, but many people unknowingly damage their products with well-intentioned care. Here are five common mistakes to avoid when cleaning your Biird silicone items.

Whether you own a Gii Glow or a Lumii, understanding the right way to clean can make a big difference. Let's bust these myths and set the record straight.

Mistake 1: Using Boiling Water to Sterilize

Some people think boiling silicone is the best way to sanitize it. However, high heat can degrade the material, causing it to become sticky or misshapen. This is especially risky for vibrators with electronic components.

Instead, use warm water and a mild, unscented soap. This is sufficient for everyday cleaning and won't harm the silicone.

For a deeper clean, you can use a specialized toy cleaner, but avoid boiling or dishwashers.

• Always check the care instructions for your specific product.

Mistake 2: Using Harsh Chemicals or Alcohol

Harsh chemicals like bleach, alcohol, or acetone can break down silicone over time, causing it to lose its smooth texture and become less hygienic. These substances are not necessary for proper cleaning.

Stick to mild soap and water or a dedicated toy cleaner. This is gentle on the material and still effective at removing bacteria.

Remember, silicone is porous on a microscopic level, so harsh chemicals can get trapped and cause irritation later.

• Avoid any cleaning products with fragrance or dyes.

Mistake 3: Scrubbing with Abrasive Sponges

Using abrasive sponges or brushes can create micro-tears on the surface of your silicone toy. These tiny scratches can harbor bacteria and make the toy less smooth over time.

Instead, use a soft cloth or your hands with mild soap. Gently massage the surface to remove any residue.

For textured toys like the Regii plugs, pay extra attention to the ridges but still use a gentle touch.

• A soft, lint-free cloth is your best friend for cleaning.

Mistake 4: Submerging Non-Waterproof Toys

Not all toys are fully waterproof. Submerging a non-waterproof vibrator can damage the motor and electronics, leading to malfunction or even safety hazards.

Check the product specifications before cleaning. For toys that are not waterproof, use a damp cloth with mild soap and avoid running water.

For example, the Lumii is fully waterproof, but not all products are. Always verify before getting them wet.

• If you're unsure, use a damp cloth instead of submerging.

Mistake 5: Storing While Still Damp

Storing your silicone toys while they are still damp can lead to mold or mildew growth, which is a health risk and can ruin the toy.

After cleaning, pat the toy dry with a clean towel and let it air dry completely before storing it in a cool, dry place.

For toys with a storage pouch, like the Lumii, make sure the toy is completely dry before placing it inside to avoid trapping moisture.

• Air drying is the safest way to ensure no moisture is trapped.

Cleaning Verdicts

• Boiling water: Verdict: Myth. Boiling can damage silicone and electronics. Use warm water and mild soap instead.
• Harsh chemicals: Verdict: Myth. They break down silicone over time. Stick to gentle, toy-safe cleaners.
• Abrasive scrubbing: Verdict: Myth. It creates micro-tears and harbors bacteria. Use a soft cloth and gentle hands.

Product Care Facts

• Lumii: Fully waterproof and crafted out of ultra-soft silicone. You can confidently rinse this toy under running water, making cleaning easier and more thorough.
• Regii: Made out of smooth, body-safe silicone. Smooth silicone is non-porous and easy to clean, but you should still avoid harsh chemicals to preserve its texture.

By avoiding these common cleaning mistakes, you can keep your Biird silicone products in excellent condition for years. Remember to always check the care instructions for your specific toy and when in doubt, opt for gentle cleaning methods.