Charging and battery safety

Most modern vibrators are rechargeable, and for good reason: no batteries to buy, longer sessions and less waste. Like phones and electric toothbrushes, they use a small lithium-ion battery, and a few simple habits keep it safe and healthy. This guide also covers toys that run on AAA and coin-cell batteries.

How is your toy powered?

Every product page lists how a toy is powered:

Our guide to rechargeable vs battery helps you decide which suits you.

Charging safely, step by step

1. Use the supplied cable. It is designed for your toy's contacts and charging current.
2. Plug into a standard USB port or plug. A laptop, or a reputable USB wall plug, is ideal. Avoid cheap, unbranded chargers and very high-power "fast" chargers unless your instructions say they are suitable.
3. Make sure the toy is clean and completely dry before connecting it, especially around the contacts. Never charge a wet toy.
4. Charge on a hard, cool surface, not on a bed, sofa or under a pillow where heat can build up.
5. Unplug when full. Many toys charge fully in an hour or two and show a light when finished. There is no need to leave them plugged in overnight.

How do you look after a lithium-ion battery?

Lithium-ion batteries are light and long-lasting, and these habits help them stay that way:

• Avoid heat. Do not charge or store toys on radiators, in direct sunlight or in a hot car.
• Do not let it sit flat for months. Top it up every couple of months if you are not using it.
• Store part-charged. For longer breaks, around half charge is ideal.
• Do not use a damaged toy. If the casing is cracked, swollen or the toy becomes unusually hot while charging, stop using it and contact us.

Battery capacity naturally reduces a little over time, as with any rechargeable device. If you notice a sharp drop, our returns page explains how we can help.

How does magnetic charging work?

Magnetic chargers click onto small metal contacts on the toy. Because there is no open port, the toy can be fully sealed, which is one reason many magnetic-charging toys are waterproof. Keep the contacts clean by wiping them gently with a dry cloth, and make sure they are dry before charging.

AAA and coin-cell toys

Battery-powered toys are simple and dependable. To keep them working well:

• Use good-quality batteries and replace them when the vibration feels weaker.
• Remove batteries if you will not use the toy for a while, as old batteries can leak.
• Keep the battery cap tightly closed, especially when cleaning, as the join is where water could get in.
• Recycle used batteries at a battery collection point. Many supermarkets have one.

Coin-cell batteries are small and can be dangerous if swallowed, so always keep spare and used coin cells well out of reach of children and pets.

How do you dispose of a rechargeable toy?

When a rechargeable toy reaches the end of its life, do not put it in household rubbish. Toys with built-in batteries count as small electrical items and can be recycled at household waste and recycling centres, or at many retailers that offer electrical recycling. Recycle Your Electricals has a UK recycling locator to find your nearest point.

Can you fly with a rechargeable vibrator?

Lithium-ion batteries have specific rules for flights. Our guide to travelling with a vibrator covers hand luggage, travel locks and where to check the current rules.