Sex toys are a fun addition to both solo and couple play. But poor cleaning and storage can damage your toy or introduce bacteria to sensitive areas.
If the care instructions are long gone with the packaging, don’t worry. Here are 7 simple tips to keep your sex toys clean, safe, and performing at their best.
1. Remove Batteries Before Cleaning Your Sex Toy
If your sex toy uses removable batteries, always take them out before cleaning. Water can seep into the device and cause corrosion or damage from battery chemicals and while electric play may be a kink for some, this isn’t the way to try it.
Store batteries in a cool, dry place and only insert them again once your sex toy is completely dry and ready for its next round.
2. Rinse Your Sex Toys Under Warm Running Water
For proper sex toy hygiene, rinse your toys with running or lukewarm water before and after use. Regular washing helps remove residue and keeps your sex toys clean, safe, and lasting longer.
Avoid boiling motorised or vibrating toys, as heat can damage internal components or cause discoloration over time.
Note: For toys made with materials like faux fur tail butt plugs or leather, avoid rinsing them under running water. These materials are more delicate and can be damaged by soaking.
Instead, spot clean gently with a damp cloth and mild soap, taking care not to saturate the material. For toys with fur or tails, you can use a soft-bristle brush to gently fluff and restore the texture after cleaning or extended use.
For a quick refresh between washes, a light mist of a fabric-safe antibacterial spray can help keep the material fresh.
3. Use Mild Soap When Washing Sex Toys
It might be tempting to use heavily scented soaps, but they can leave residues that may irritate sensitive skin and your genitals.
Instead, clean your toy with a mild, unscented soap or even your regular body wash. Gentle cleansers effectively remove bacteria without leaving irritating residue or damaging the material.
4. Use a Sex Toy Cleaner for Extra Hygiene
For an extra layer of protection, you can use a dedicated sex toy cleaner made with body-safe antibacterial ingredients that won’t disrupt your body’s pH balance.
Products like Sliquid Sex Toy Cleaner are specially formulated to clean intimate toys safely, helping keep your toys hygienic and ready for your next play session.
5. Dry Your Toys Completely Before Storage
After washing, gently pat your sex toy dry with a clean towel and allow it to air dry completely. Keeping your toy fully dry helps prevent moisture buildup and bacteria. It’s also best to avoid leaving toys under direct sunlight, as prolonged heat can damage materials like silicone, ABS plastic, resin, and rubber.
When storing your toys, give each one its own space. Keeping them in separate pouches or wrapped in a clean cloth helps prevent silicone toys from reacting or sticking to other silicone or rubber materials over time.
And, ensure to avoid sealed plastic bags or airtight containers, as they can trap moisture and encourage bacteria growth.
6. Avoid Overcharging or Leaving Your Sex Toys Uncharged for Too Long
Leaving your vibrator plugged in overnight or for extended periods can gradually reduce battery performance, so it’s best to unplug it once fully charged.
On the flip side, if your toy is rechargeable, try to charge it every few months. Leaving rechargeable vibrators uncharged for long periods (such as over six months) can weaken the battery and shorten the lifespan of your toy.
7. Avoid Using Silicone Lube With Silicone Sex Toys
If your toy is made from silicone, it’s best to avoid using silicone-based lubricants. Silicone lubes can interact with the surface of silicone toys over time, causing the material to degrade or become sticky.
Instead, opt for a water-based lubricant or hybrid lubricant, which is compatible with silicone toys and easier to wash off after use. This helps keep your toys in good condition while ensuring a smoother, safer play experience.
Your pleasure deserves proper care. Keeping your sex toys clean, dry, and well stored helps protect your body and ensures your toys stay in top shape for many sessions to come. Clean toys, safe play, and better pleasure all around.
Ready to start your pleasure journey? Take our Sex Toy Quiz to find your perfect toy match and discover what works best for your body.
