Saying good-bye to a favorite sex toy is super difficult for lots of reasons. Not only does a sex toy become a valued part of your intimate routine, but you come to count on it as a reliable, effective way to experience pleasure. Plus, you worry that its replacement won’t be anywhere near as awesome.

Even the best things don’t last forever, though, so it’s essential to replace your vibrators and other sex toys on time. Otherwise, you could be jeopardizing your safety and sexual health. Here are some signs it’s time to retire your current toy and upgrade your vibrator to something new.

1.      The motor isn’t what it used to be.

It can happen to even the best vibrators. When they’re brand new, their motors are so robust and powerful. Then after a while, you could swear that yours doesn’t have the same oomph that it used to. It’s probably not your imagination.

When it becomes clear that your vibrator’s motor is losing its intensity, that’s a sign that it’s on its way out. While it’s not dangerous to use a vibrator with a weak motor, you’re running the risk of it quitting on you at the most inconvenient possible time. It’s probably been a while since it really got you off the way it used to, anyway.

2.      Your toy looks discolored.

Many people assume that the vibrant hues their favorite toys come in are pretty but ultimately insignificant. For that reason, they ignore it if a favorite toy’s color starts fading or growing dull over time.

Keep in mind that if the material of your toy is fading visually, it might be deteriorating in other ways, too. Dullness or discoloration is a sign that your toy is losing its integrity. That means it could be developing microscopic cracks, pockmarks, or fissures that can harbor harmful bacteria, which means it’s definitely time to upgrade your vibrator.

3.      The shape seems off.

Shape is, of course, fundamental when it comes to how good a sex toy can make you feel. Whether or not your toy is holding its form can also tell you whether it’s still everything it should be, as well. If your toy seems to be shape-shifting lately, pay attention.

Some toy materials – like jelly rubber, to name just one example – can warp or change. This can happen if they get too hot or if they’re exposed to a chemical that doesn’t agree with them. (This can happen when you use an incompatible type of lube, to name just one possible scenario.) Toys that are losing their shape should no longer be considered safe to use, so upgrade your vibe as soon as possible.

4.      You notice visible cracks or damage.

There’s no such thing as too safe or too clean when it comes to your genitals. That’s exactly why keeping your vibrator spic and span at all times is such a big deal. However, you should also continually monitor your toys for signs of damage or integrity loss.

Know that it’s not normal for vibrators to develop cracks, pits, openings, or similar issues as they age. Not only can those little imperfections harbor nasty bacteria that could cause an infection, but it’s all too easy for a fold of sensitive skin to get caught. Again, your sexual health is too important to risk, so always replace damaged toys promptly.

5.      You’re just plain ready for something new.

It’s normal for your tastes and preferences to change over time, so don’t feel guilty if you’ve noticed this happening with your trusty vibrator. Many people enter the wide, wonderful world of vibrator-assisted pleasure with something inexpensive, basic, and limited. As they learn more about their body and the types of sensations they enjoy, they start craving something a little more sophisticated.

You don’t have to have a “good” reason to want to replace your old vibrator with something more powerful or versatile. Remember, this is your pleasure we’re talking about. Your choice in vibrators should be all about you and what feels good to your body.

Make your next replacement vibrator a proper upgrade.

Regardless of the reason you’re replacing your vibrator, this is an excellent opportunity to trade up. A luxury vibrator from a top manufacturer like FemmeFunn will be made of better materials and hold up much better over time. This means you can switch from replacing your vibrators to building a toy collection you can grow with over time.

Plus, if it’s been a while since your last toy purchase, you owe it to yourself to check out some of the phenomenal options out there on the market these days. Today’s toys feature fantastic shapes, innovative designs, and fascinating features that help you take your pleasure sessions to new levels. Start exploring the possibilities today! You’ll be glad you did.