References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Yes, STIs can potentially be transferred through shared sex toys if they are used without cleaning or covering between partners. The risk comes from infected body fluids remaining on the toy’s surface. Proper cleaning, using condoms on toys and not sharing without barriers eliminate most risk.
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STIs That Can Transfer Via Toys
| STI | Risk |
|---|---|
| Chlamydia | Possible from shared uncleaned toys |
| Gonorrhoea | Possible |
| Herpes | Possible if active lesions contacted |
| Trichomoniasis | Possible |
| HPV | Possible through surface contact |
| HIV | Very low — virus dies quickly on surfaces |
| BV | Bacterial transfer possible between partners |
How to Reduce Risk
- Use a new condom on shared toys between partners
- Clean toys thoroughly between uses (warm water and soap or toy cleaner)
- Don’t share toys between vaginal and anal use without cleaning
- Consider each partner having their own toy
Cleaning Guide
- Non-porous (silicone, metal, glass) — wash with soap and water; can be boiled
- Porous (rubber, jelly) — harder to fully clean; use condoms
- Battery/electric — wipe with damp cloth and toy cleaner
Read more: Avoiding STIs | Female-to-female transmission | Condom and lube guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get HIV from a sex toy?
Extremely unlikely — HIV dies quickly outside the body.
Is soap and water enough to clean toys?
For non-porous materials, usually yes.
Should I use condoms on sex toys?
Yes if sharing, and always when switching between body sites.
Related reading
- Can You Catch an STI From a Toilet Seat?
- Can You Get Chlamydia From Kissing?
- Can You Get Herpes From a Toilet Seat?
- Can You Get Herpes From Kissing?
- Can You Get an STI if You're Both Virgins?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
