Your sex toy can be your best friend, but only if you treat it right. One of the biggest beginner mistakes? Skipping cleaning… or cleaning the wrong way. Dirty toys can cause irritation, infections or break down over time.
Whether you just bought your first vibe or you’re adding to your collection, here’s exactly how to clean your sex toys safely, without damaging them or shortening their lifespan.
🧼 Why Cleaning Your Toys Matters
Sex toys come in contact with some of your most sensitive areas. Without proper cleaning, they can harbor bacteria, lube residue or body fluids, even if they look clean.
Cleaning your toys is about health, safety and longevity. The better you care for them, the longer they’ll last (and the more fun you’ll have).
✅ How to Clean Most Toys
Most high-quality, non-porous toys (like silicone, ABS plastic, stainless steel, or borosilicate glass) can be cleaned like this:
- Rinse with warm water immediately after use.
- Wash with mild, unscented soap or a sex toy cleanser.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.
- Pat dry with a clean towel or let air dry completely.
- Store in a clean, dry bag or container, not just loose in a drawer.
Note: Waterproof toys can be safely submerged. If it’s “splashproof” or “not waterproof,” keep water away from any charging ports or seams.
🚫 What NOT to Do
- ❌ Don’t use bleach, alcohol, or harsh cleaners, they can damage materials.
- ❌ Don’t boil or soak anything with batteries or electrical parts.
- ❌ Don’t put silicone toys in the dishwasher unless the brand explicitly says you can.
- ❌ Don’t share toys without cleaning between users, especially if they’re not used with a condom.
🧴 What About Porous Toys?
Some toys (especially older or cheaper ones) are made from porous materials like TPE, jelly rubber, or cyberskin. These can absorb fluids and bacteria and no amount of cleaning will fully sanitize them.
What to do:
- Use a condom over the toy if sharing or using internally
- Clean thoroughly after every use
- Consider replacing porous toys with non-porous, body-safe alternatives over time
🔌 How to Clean Toys with Motors or Cords
For vibrating or rechargeable toys:
- Don’t submerge them unless they’re marked waterproof
- Instead, use a damp cloth with mild soap, wipe gently, then dry
- Clean around buttons, seams, and charging ports with a cotton swab if needed
🧽 Optional: Toy Cleaner Spray
Dedicated toy cleansers are easy to use and designed to be gentle on materials. They’re great for quick cleans or when you don’t have access to a sink. Just spray, wipe, and go, but always rinse or wipe off residue.
🧼 Final Thoughts
Treat your sex toys like the intimate tools they are, with care, respect and regular cleaning. A clean toy is a happy toy… and a happy you. 🧼
Want to see our favorite body-safe cleaners and storage bags? Stay tuned, our “Essential Toy Care Kit” guide is coming soon.
Toy Talk HQ 
Leave a comment