Tuesday, Apr 21, 2009    Text size: 

CalExotics Marketing Director Al Bloom told XBIZ that the Toy Covers, which are the first of their kind to be mass-produced for the sole purpose of toy hygiene, were inspired by conversations with retailers and home party companies.

“[They] have been recommending the use of condoms for years over vibes for many reasons — hygiene, for sharing, and to protect toys from lubricants,” Bloom said. “The problem is most people were using lubricated condoms and most condoms have reservoir tips and never quite fit, and always looked funky on the toys. They weren’t a good fit for the business.”

The Toy Cleaner and Covers, Bloom said, are meant to prolong the life of consumers’ toys by protecting them from lubricant ingredients and other elements that can cause materials in some dildos and vibes to deteriorate from frequent use or use with incompatible products.

“People are confused about what kind of lube to use with which material and that kind of stuff,” Bloom said. “This takes that out of the equation. They can use whatever kind of lube they want when they put a cover on.”

Bloom also said that these covers will allow safe use of toys made of materials that, for some, cause sensitivity and contain questionable ingredients or chemicals, such as phthalates.

“People are concerned about materials used in toys, and though we’re using more safe and pure materials, there are still materials out there [that] people are sensitive to,” Bloom said.

The Toy Covers come in two sizes, standard and small, and fit most vibes and dildos.

Since CalExotics debuted the product in January, Bloom said, several large home party companies have opened discussion about private-labeling the covers with their own brand.

The covers are available as singles or in three-packs, and a matching pink point-of-purchase countertop display also is available. A faux vibrator and matching cover also are included for enhanced visual appeal.

CalExotics released its Antibacterial Toy Cleaner with Aloe Vera to allow consumers to gently and effectively clean their toys after every use. Triclosan is the main germ-killing ingredient, and is effective will most toy materials, including silicone, rubber and latex.

“It’s only natural that satisfied customers would want to share the experience of their favorite toy,” CalExotics Vice President of Sales Jackie White said. “But safe play is a must. These products make that possible — without getting in the way of the sensations that have made CalExotics vibrators a hit!”

For more information, contact Bloom at al@calexotics.com, or visit CalExotics.com.