How to Clean and Store Sex Toys: A Practical Care Guide
Taking care of your sex toys doesn’t need to be complicated. A consistent cleaning, drying and storage routine helps keep them ready for their next use. The starting point is always the same: check the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular toy.
Know your material first
Different materials need different care. Non-porous materials, including 100% silicone, stainless steel, hard plastic and suitable glass, are easier to keep clean because they don’t absorb germs in the same way porous materials can.
Silicone blends, jelly rubber, TPE and TPR may be porous. Washing these materials does not necessarily remove germs held within them. A condom can provide an additional barrier, but it does not replace cleaning.
Don’t assume that every soft toy is silicone, or that every silicone-labelled blend has the same properties. Check the product’s material information.
Clean after every use
Follow the cleaning method supplied with your toy. Where soap-and-water cleaning is permitted, use warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap, then rinse thoroughly.
Pay attention to seams, grooves and textured areas where residue can collect. Avoid harsh household cleaners, and don’t assume that a toy cleaner sterilizes a product.
Waterproof and splash-proof are not interchangeable
Before putting a toy under running water or submerging it, check its water-resistance instructions. A motor, charging port or battery compartment can change how it should be cleaned.
If immersion is not explicitly permitted, do not submerge it. Follow the manufacturer’s surface-cleaning directions instead. Boiling and dishwasher cleaning should never be treated as universal methods.
Let it dry completely
After cleaning, allow the toy to air-dry, or gently pat it dry with a clean towel where appropriate. Make sure it is completely dry before putting it away.
Store each toy separately
Keep toys in individual, suitable bags or containers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Separate storage helps keep them clean and avoids direct contact between materials that may react with one another.
There is no need for a blanket ban on plastic storage containers. Use storage recommended for the particular material, rather than assuming every bag or box is suitable.
Check your lubricant
Water-based lubricant is a straightforward starting choice for compatibility with sex toys. Silicone-based lubricants can damage some silicone toys, so check the toy manufacturer’s guidance before combining them. Don’t assume a hybrid lubricant is compatible simply because it contains water.
From MAYL Wear: Explore Swiss Navy’s water-based lubricant, and always check compatibility with your particular toy.
When sharing, change the barrier
Use a new condom when a toy moves between people, and when moving from anal use to vaginal or oral use. Clean the toy as directed as well.
A final habit worth keeping
Before use, check the toy’s condition. If you notice damage or deterioration, stop and consult the manufacturer rather than trying to cover up or repair the problem yourself.
The simplest routine is the one you can repeat: check the instructions, clean appropriately, dry fully and store separately.
You can also visit our sex toy care instructions page. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance for your specific toy.
Further reading: Explore Planned Parenthood’s guides to sex toys and materials, toy care (in Spanish) and condom use, alongside Sexual Health Oxfordshire’s advice on lubricants.
