How to Clean Your Sex Toys: The Ultimate Safety Guide
Cleaning your sex toys isn't complicated — but it is essential. Proper cleaning extends the life of your toys, protects your health, and ensures every use is as safe as it is pleasurable. Here's everything you need to know.
Why Cleaning Matters
Sex toys come into contact with sensitive mucous membranes and bodily fluids. Without proper cleaning, bacteria can build up on toy surfaces, leading to urinary tract infections, yeast infections, or bacterial vaginosis. For shared toys, thorough cleaning also prevents transmission of STIs between partners.
The Golden Rules
- Clean before AND after every use
- Use the right cleaner for the toy material
- Never use harsh soaps, bleach, or alcohol on silicone toys
- Allow toys to dry completely before storing
- Use a condom on any toy shared between partners or used in multiple body areas
Cleaning by Material
Silicone (non-porous)
Wash with warm water and fragrance-free soap or dedicated toy cleaner. Can be boiled (3–5 min) or run through dishwasher for sanitization between users. Never boil toys with electronic components.
Glass
Dishwasher-safe (top rack) or boilable. The easiest material to fully sterilize. Wash with soap and water for daily cleaning.
Metal
Boilable and dishwasher-safe. Can also be cleaned with soap and water. Compatible with all lubricant types.
TPR / TPE (rubber-like)
Porous — cannot be fully sanitized. Wash with soap and water. Best used with a condom for shared play. Replace when material shows signs of degradation.
ABS Plastic
Non-porous and easy to clean. Wash with soap and water. Can be wiped with isopropyl alcohol for extra sanitization.
Drying and Storage
Pat dry with a clean lint-free cloth. Air dry fully before storage — never put a damp toy in a closed bag or container. Store each toy in its own pouch or compartment. Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
When to Replace Your Toy
Replace when: the silicone is cracked or sticky, there's a persistent odor that doesn't resolve with cleaning, the motor is noticeably weaker, or the toy has been used by multiple people without proper sterilization between uses.
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