Cleaning your toys properly isn't just about hygiene, it's about making them last. A few extra minutes after every session keeps materials safe, prevents bacteria build-up, and protects your investment for the long run. Before you dive in, if you're still building your collection, our beginner's guide to sex toys is a great place to start.
Quick Answer
Clean non-porous toys (silicone, glass, stainless steel) with warm water and mild soap or a dedicated toy cleaner after every use. Porous toys (rubber, jelly, TPE) need the same treatment plus extra care, since they can trap bacteria over time. Always dry toys completely before storing them.
1. Cleaning Different Types of Sex Toys
Non-porous Toys (e.g., silicone, glass)
- Rinse under warm running water immediately after use.
- Wash with a mild, unscented soap or a dedicated toy cleaner for a deeper clean.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, then air-dry or pat dry with a clean towel.
Porous Toys (e.g., rubber, jelly)
- Clean thoroughly after every single use, porous materials can harbour bacteria in tiny surface pores.
- Use a toy cleaner rather than regular soap where possible, and rinse well.
- Consider using a condom over porous toys during play to make future clean-up easier, learn more in our male masturbator care guide.
Vibrators and Electronic Toys
- Never fully submerge a toy unless it's labelled waterproof.
- Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding the battery compartment or charging port.
- Let it dry completely with the compartment open before storing.
Keep It Clean!
2. Cleaning Routine: Ensuring the Purity of Pleasure
After Every Use
Clean your toy as soon as possible after play, don't let residue sit and dry. This is the single most effective habit for keeping toys hygienic and long-lasting.
Before Transitioning Between Anal and Vaginal Use
Always wash a toy thoroughly, or switch to a fresh one, before moving it from anal to vaginal play. This simple step prevents bacteria transfer and keeps things safe.
Periodic Maintenance (Even During Periods of Inactivity)
Toys that sit unused for a while still deserve a clean before their next outing, dust and residue can build up even in storage.
3. Proper Storage: Safeguarding Your Pleasure
Store Toys in Separate Pouches
Keep each toy in its own pouch or box to avoid material transfer and cross-contamination, our full guide to storing your toys covers this in detail.
Keep Your Sex Toys in a Cool, Dry Place Away From Direct Sunlight
Heat and UV exposure can degrade materials over time, a drawer or cupboard away from windows is ideal.
Avoid Placing Toys Together That May Have Adverse Reactions
Some materials react badly when left touching, silicone-on-silicone contact, for instance, can cause surfaces to degrade. Store different materials separately, more on which combinations to avoid in our toy storage guide.
Investing a little time in post-play hygiene isn't a chore, it's part of the experience. A clean, well-stored toy performs better, lasts longer, and keeps every session worry-free.
Cleaning Cheat Sheet by Material
| Material | How to Clean | Water Safe? |
|---|---|---|
| Silicone | Warm water + mild soap, or toy cleaner | Yes |
| Glass | Warm water + soap, can be boiled briefly | Yes |
| Stainless steel | Warm water + soap, can be boiled briefly | Yes |
| Rubber / Jelly | Toy cleaner recommended, condom use suggested | Yes |
| TPE / Cyberskin | Mild soap, no soaking | Limited |
| Motorised / Electronic | Damp cloth only, avoid ports and seams | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
+ Can I use regular soap on my toys?
Mild, unscented soap is fine for most non-porous materials, but a dedicated toy cleaner is gentler and won't leave residue that could irritate sensitive skin.
+ Can I boil my toys to sterilise them?
Only 100% silicone, glass, or stainless steel toys with no electronic parts can be briefly boiled. Never boil a toy with a motor or battery.
+ How do I clean a vibrator without damaging it?
Wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding seams, buttons, and any charging port. Dry completely before storing.
+ Do I need to clean a toy before first use?
Yes, always wash a brand-new toy before its first use, even straight out of the packaging, to remove any manufacturing residue.
+ How often should I deep clean toys I don't use often?
Give stored toys a quick clean every few months, even without use, dust and residue can accumulate and materials can degrade in storage.
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