Getting into a good cleaning and storage routine is one of the best things you can do for your toys — and for yourself. Here's everything you need to know.
Why Cleaning Matters
Sex toys come into contact with sensitive areas, so keeping them clean is essential — not just for hygiene, but for peace of mind. Without proper cleaning, bacteria and residue can build up even on toys that look perfectly clean.
How Often Should You Clean?
The good news? Keeping it simple works just fine. Clean your toys:
- Before first use
- After every use
- Before sharing or switching between body areas
Consistency matters far more than using fancy specialty products.
Cleaning By Material
Different materials have different needs — here's a quick guide:
Non-porous toys (silicone, glass, stainless steel)
The easiest to clean and the most hygienic. Wash with warm water and mild soap or a dedicated toy cleaner after every use. Want to go the extra mile? Non-motorized silicone, glass, and steel toys can be:
- Boiled for 3–5 minutes
- Run through the dishwasher on the top rack (no detergent needed)
ABS Plastic
Wash with warm water and mild soap or toy cleaner. Skip boiling and the dishwasher — heat can warp and damage plastic over time.
Porous materials (TPE/TPR, rubber, jelly)
These can't be fully sanitized, so they need extra attention. Wash thoroughly with warm water and toy cleaner, and always use a condom over them for safer play. If you notice any wear, discoloration, or unusual odor, it's time to replace them.
Rechargeable & motorized toys
Always check your toy's waterproof rating before cleaning:
| Rating | Cleaning Method |
|---|---|
| Fully waterproof | Safe to rinse under running water |
| Splash-proof | Use a damp cloth or toy cleaner spray |
| Not water resistant | Wipe with a barely damp cloth only |
Always clean carefully around the charging port and dry thoroughly before recharging. When in doubt, a damp cloth with gentle soap is always a safe option.
Drying & Storage
Drying
Don't rush this step! After cleaning, lay toys on a clean towel and allow them to air dry completely before storing. Storing them even slightly damp can encourage bacteria growth and undo all your hard work.
Storage
How you store your toys matters just as much as how you clean them. A few simple rules:
- Store each toy separately in its own cloth or fabric pouch to prevent materials from touching and reacting with each other
- Keep them somewhere cool and dry — heat and humidity are not your toys' friends
- Avoid direct sunlight which can degrade materials over time
- Keep silicone toys apart — some silicone materials can fuse or degrade when stored in prolonged contact
When To Replace Your Toys
Even well-cared-for toys don't last forever. Time to retire a toy if you notice:
- Cracks, chips, or changes in texture
- Discoloration or odors that won't wash out
- Damaged charging ports or inconsistent motor function
- Any stickiness or tackiness on the surface
When in doubt, replacing a toy is always the safer — and more enjoyable — choice.
Up Next
- What Are Body-Safe Sex Toy Materials? (And Why They Matter) — The one thing worth knowing before you buy anything
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Best Sex Toys for First-Time Users — Not sure where to start? We've done the shortlisting for you
- Beginner's Guide to Sex Toys: Everything You Need to Know — The complete starting point for your pleasure journey
- How to Choose the Right Sex Toy for Your Body — Because the best toy is always the one that's right for you