Q&A: Overheating Vibrator

Dear Sh! I bought a vibrator a few months ago. Over the past few weeks the battery compartment has become extremely hot and takes a long time to cool down even after I have removed the three AA batteries.

I don't use it a lot but would like it put right. Also, when I flew on holiday and it was in my band-baggage, the batteries had run themselves down. They were not switched on. Perhaps you can help?

Why does my vibrator feel hot?

Hi there,

Thanks for getting in touch!

We advise customers to remove batteries before storing their vibrators. Even when switched off, the batteries can form a contact with the circuit inside the battery compartment. (This goes for any mechanical battery-operated appliance of course, not just vibrators.)

Leaving batteries inside a vibe can drain power and also contribute to overheating.

It's possible that, whilst in transit in your baggage, the vibrator buttons have been pressed and caused the toy to switch on, running down the batteries. In any event, it's wise to travel with batteries stored separately from toys.

Are you using the right type of batteries?

We advise using non-alkaline, (zinc-carbon) low-power batteries for some vibrators. These batteries are best suited for cheaper toys, as their small motors are liable to overheat when used with alkaline/high-powered batteries (e.g. Duracell etc).

To check which kind of batteries you need for your toy, we recommend checking which batteries are recommended as 'Perfect Partners.'

If it says Panasonic, we recommend using non-alkaline (zinc-carbon) batteries only.
If it says Duracell, the motor is stronger and can take higher-powered batteries.
Alternatively, you could opt for Sexy Batteries. These batteries are specifically designed for sex toys. Sexy Batteries offer extra power but are gentle on the motors.