How To Clean Sex Toys: Keep Your Toys In Tiptop Shape

You probably don’t think about cleaning your love toys as you bask in the afterglow of a satisfying climax. And while it’s okay to stay for a few minutes in the bed after orgasming, this doesn’t mean it’s okay to neglect your love toys from proper care. With that being said, we will discuss how to clean your sex toys and keep them in tiptop shape.

Why Cleaning Your Sex Toy is Important

Your genitals are sensitive, which is why utmost care is a must. You’re setting up your body for a disaster if you are using an unwashed sex toy, as you’re introducing dirt, secretions, dust, and other harmful debris that shouldn’t be in your private parts. You’ll be at risk for bacterial infections. Not only that, but cleaning your sex toy properly keeps your toy in good condition.

Is Your Sex Toy’s Material Porous Or Nonporous?

When buying yourself or your partner a sex toy, always check the material and see if it’s porous or non-porous. This ensures that you’re getting a sex toy that you can fully clean and is 100% safe to use in the body. Below is the difference between the two terms and the type of material you should look for for a pleasure device.

1Porous Material

Porous toys are made with materials that can’t be sterilized properly. Upon usage, the surface of a porous toy will end up with micro holes; you can’t see it with a naked eye. And once the holes have popped up, the bacteria will start thriving on your love toy. Even if you regularly wash your sex toy, it wouldn’t fully wash off the bacteria.

And you’re probably wondering… “If this is bad for my body, why are porous toys still available?” Well, they’re a lot cheaper compared to non-porous sex toys. Some porous toys also offer flesh-like surfaces that people enjoy playing with but have difficulty washing.

If you were one of the people who bought a porous toy, use a condom when using this kind of toy. Don’t also double-dip; if you’ve inserted a porous dildo in your vagina, just use it in your vagina only.

To save you from the trouble, we suggest ditching that toy and just go for ones with non-porous materials. Below are some of the porous materials commonly used in adult toys.

• Cyberskin
• Jelly Rubber
• Vinyl
• PVC
• Latex
• Elastomer

2Nonporous Material

On the other hand, non-porous toys don’t have micro holes or cracks on their surface. The bacteria will be washed off when you clean the sex toy since there’s no space to stick into. This is why experts recommend only getting sex toys made with non-porous materials. Below are some of the non-porous materials commonly used in pleasure devices.

• ABS plastic
• Crystal and Stone
• Pyrex Glass
• Silicone
• Stainless Steel

Types of Sex Toy Cleaning

The first thing to know when cleaning your sex toys is that they require different cleaning approaches, depending on how you use them, what body part they’re used on, and how often you use them. Below are the general types of cleaning methods for your naughty goodies.

1Quick Cleaning

For this method, spray a bit of sex toy cleaner onto the surface of the toy, wait a few seconds, then wipe it down with a facial tissue or clean towel— make sure that you’re using a tissue that’s thick enough to avoid bits and pieces of the tissue sticking to it.

Another quick cleaning approach involves gently cleaning the toy’s surface with an unscented disinfecting wipe. Afterward, dry it off with a towel or by air drying it.

Quick cleaning is perfect for love toys fresh out of the box or those tucked away in storage for a while. While they’re already clean and sanitized, a quick clean gives them a fresh feel before use. This method is also ideal for motorized toys that aren’t waterproof or splashproof.

Plus, it’s a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch—like when you’re in a motel or out having some “car fun.” It’s the go-to option when you don’t have access to antibacterial soap but still want to keep things nice and hygienic. However, quick cleaning isn’t good for penetrative toys like dildos and G-spot vibrators or those with lots of nubs and ridges like masturbators.

2Surface Cleaning

Start by removing the batteries (or turning off the device). You will then rinse any excess lube, semen, or other organic debris. Next, apply antibacterial soap and scrub every nook and cranny with your hands or a soft brush—unless the toy’s manual advises against cleaning certain areas. Once you’ve given it a thorough scrub, rinse it with water, wipe it with a towel, and let it air dry for a few hours.

Yes, air drying a sex toy might feel like an inconvenience, but according to Searah Deysach, owner of the Chicago-based sex toy shop Early to Bed, in her feature in The New York Times, air drying is highly recommended. It ensures that every part of the toy is fully dry and prevents potential bacteria buildup. So, even though it takes a bit more time, it’s worth it for hygiene.

3Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning goes beyond the usual surface cleaning by disinfecting and thoroughly sanitizing your toy. This is especially important when the toy has come into contact with another person, as it might carry harmful pathogens from active yeast infections or sexually transmitted infections.

This method is also suitable for sex toys that develop an odor that won’t go away with regular washing, which can happen over time due to the buildup of lube, bodily fluids, or bacteria. But even if your toy doesn’t have any noticeable smell or you’re the only one using it, deep cleaning is still a good practice to follow regularly. It ensures that your toy stays in top condition and remains free from any potential buildup of bacteria or residue.

To do this, you’ll start with basic surface cleaning (instructions are in the previous section). After that, you can either do the following processes to fully disinfect your sex toy:

Bleaching

The process involves creating a bleach solution and spraying or submerging the toy. According to The New York Times, the recommended formula is “five tablespoons (⅓ cup) of household bleach per gallon of water.” After spraying or soaking, thoroughly rinse the toy, apply antibacterial soap for a final clean, rinse again, and let it air dry.

Another option comes from the Middlesex London Health Unit, which suggests using a 1:10 (10%) household bleach solution—mixing ¼ cup of bleach with 2 ¼ cups of water. Soak your toy in the mixture for about 10 minutes. Like the previous method, follow up with a good rinse, a soap wash, a final rinse, and then air dry it.

This deep cleaning method is ideal for non-motorized toys. However, it can also work for motorized toys if they are fully waterproof or have a rating of IPX7 or higher—especially if you plan on submerging them. However, one crucial rule: never use direct bleach on a sex toy! Undiluted bleach can break down the toy’s surface, making it more susceptible to damage and bacteria.

Boiling

Non-motorized sex toys made from silicone, stainless steel, or borosilicate glass can be safely boiled for a thorough cleaning. To do this, start by placing a clean washcloth at the bottom of the pot—this acts as a cushion for your toys, preventing them from bumping directly against the pot, which could cause cracks or damage.

After setting the cloth, fill the pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, place your toys in the pot and let them simmer for about 3 minutes.

After boiling, turn off the heat and let your toys sit in the hot water for an additional 5-10 minutes. Once done, gently use tongs to remove the toys from the pot. Set them on a clean surface to cool down and air dry.

Through Dishwasher

If you’re the sole user of a dishwasher, you can also sanitize non-motorized sex toys made of silicone, stainless steel, or borosilicate glass. After cleaning the surface, place the toys on the top rack and run the dishwasher without soap—just hot water.

While this method will eliminate most bacteria, it’s less effective than boiling when killing heat-resistant viruses or fungi.

How to Clean Sex Toys by Material

Looking for cleaning instructions on specific materials? Scroll through this section for a step-by-step guide tailored to each type of sex toy material.

1Silicone and Stainless Steel

For Dildos, Vibrators, Butt Plugs, Prostate Massagers, Nipple Clamps

Non-Motorized Toys: Wash with soap and water, wipe with a towel, and air dry. For deep cleaning, use bleach, boiling, or the dishwasher method.

Motorized Toys: Clean the surface with antibacterial soap and water for splashproof toys—do not submerge. For fully waterproof toys (IPX7 or higher), you can submerge them in water and use bleach for deep cleaning. Avoid boiling or dishwasher cleaning for motorized silicone toys.

2Borosilicate Glass

For Dildos and Butt Plugs

Non-Motorized Toys: For basic surface cleaning, wash with antibacterial soap and water, wipe with a towel, and let air dry. For deep cleaning, you can use methods such as bleach, boiling, or the dishwasher.

If you’re opting for boiling, remember to place a clean washcloth in the pot first to prevent damage from the toys hitting the bottom. Borosilicate glass toys are quite durable, but to avoid cracking from sudden temperature changes, submerge them in warm water before boiling.

Motorized Toys: For waterproof and splashproof toys, rinse off any residue with water and antibacterial soap, then rinse again, wipe with a clean towel, and let air dry for a few minutes. For non-waterproof toys, use a warm, soapy washcloth to clean the surface, rinse with another warm washcloth, and then wipe with a dry towel. Place the toy on a clean surface to air dry.

3Wood

For Dildos and Paddles

Dampen a washcloth with warm water, apply antibacterial soap to the cloth, and then wipe the wooden surface. Let it air dry.

4Cyberskin and Vinyl

For Masturbators, Fleshlights, and Dildos

Non-Motorized Toys: Rinse with warm water or wipe with a washcloth dampened in warm water. If antibacterial soap is needed, add a few drops to the water and gently scrub the toy, as soap can affect the material’s quality. After washing, let the toy air dry.

To maintain the lifelike feel, use a specialized renewing powder. Some resources suggest using cornstarch for maintenance, but always check your toy’s manual to ensure it’s safe. Please note that this material isn’t suitable for deep cleaning.

Motorized Toys: Check the waterproof rating. For non-waterproof toys, wipe with a warm, damp cloth to remove residue. For splashproof toys, rinse with warm water. Toys with IPX7 waterproof or higher can be lightly submerged in warm water for a few seconds. Let it air dry, and use a specialized renewing powder.

5Plastics and Rubber (including TPR, TPE, Jelly)

For Dildos, Vibrators, Butt Plugs, Masturbators, and Fleshlights

These materials are porous, meaning they can trap bacteria even with regular cleaning. Because of this, they’re not recommended for long-term use or sharing unless you’re using condoms with them. However, since they’re commonly found in sex toys, some of your favorite pleasure products are likely made from these materials. So, knowing how to clean them properly is important to keep things safe and hygienic.

Non-Motorized Toys: Start by rinsing the toy with cold or room-temperature water. Apply antibacterial soap, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush or a similar brush to remove organic debris and lube residue. Using a brush helps remove all discharge and products, preventing buildup. After scrubbing, rinse the toy thoroughly, dry it with a clean towel, and let it air dry completely before storing.

You cannot deep clean any sex toy that’s made with these materials, as extreme heat and bleach can ruin the toy’s surface.

Motorized Toys: If your toy has a waterproof rating of IPX7 or above, cleaning is easy—just wash it with antibacterial soap and water. You can rinse it under running water or submerge it in a small tub.

For non-waterproof toys, you’ll need to use a damp, soapy cloth to gently wipe off any residue, or opt for a sex toy cleaner. Wipe it with a clean, dry towel, then let your toy air dry for a few minutes.

6Leather

For Restraints, Paddles, and Whips

You can clean the leather straps by gently wiping them with a damp, soapy cloth or using a leather cleaner. It’s important not to soak leather in water as it can damage the material. After cleaning, consider reconditioning your toy with a leather conditioner to maintain its softness and durability.

7Natural & Synthetic Rope Materials (Hemp, Jute, Linen, Cotton, Silk, Bamboo, Nylon, Multifilament Polypropylene)

For BDSM Ropes

If the rope has minimal discharge, lube residue, blood, or dirt, simple air drying should suffice. However, if it has significant organic debris, soak it in soapy water for about 20 minutes, lightly scrub it with your hands, and rinse it a few times. After cleaning, hang the rope in loose coils to air dry.

You can also clean your ropes in a washing machine, but placing them in a pillowcase or laundry mesh bag is crucial to avoid tangling. Be sure to check if the rope material is suitable for machine washing—some ropes, like cotton or nylon, can usually handle it, but others may be too delicate. Check this guide for more information on caring for specific rope materials.

Depending on the rope’s material, you may also need to stretch it while drying or apply oils to condition it and maintain flexibility.

Sex Toy Cleaning Tips

So we’ve tackled the key terms when cleaning sex toys and now, we will get into the tips on how to clean and care for your sex toys. So, with all that being said, let’s get into it.

1Read the user manual for cleaning instructions.

Once you’ve received your sex toy, the first thing you need to do is check the manual. We know you’re excited to play, but knowing how to clean will help you prep the necessary cleaning agents (if needed) and other important deets about the toy (charging, storage, preferred lubricant, etc.) If you received a sex toy without an included manual, you could contact the store you’ve bought the toy.

2Remove the batteries or unplug your sex toys before cleaning.

To avoid damaging your toy and other mishaps, ensure that it is not charged while cleaning it. And even if the toy is labeled “waterproof,” we still recommend taking out the batteries when washing the sex toy to prevent corrosion.

3Make sure to the toy is fully dry before storing it. 

Another crucial aspect of sex toy cleaning is making sure it’s completely dry before storing it. Use a towel or facial tissue to wipe off excess water, but avoid thin or 1-ply tissues since they can leave bits behind on the surface. Afterward, place the toy on a clean surface and let it air dry for a few minutes—or even a few hours if it has a more intricate design. If you want to speed up the process, you can set up an electric fan near the toy.

Storing a toy with any lingering moisture can lead to mold or other issues. So, take the extra time to let it dry properly!

4Consider wrapping your love toys with condoms. 

As we’ve mentioned earlier, if you end up buying a sex toy that’s porous-made (cannot get properly sterilized) and you don’t want to throw it right away, you can still use it. Just make sure to wrap it in a thick condom.

5Store your toys in a satin or velvet pouch. 

After you clean the sex toys, make sure to store them in a satin pouch. It protects your toys from prying eyes and minimizes exposure to dust. Don’t also put the sex toys in one pouch to avoid cross-contamination.

Takeaway

Putting in a little extra effort to clean your sex toys properly not only keeps you and your partner safe from bacteria and infections but also helps extend the lifespan of your toys, ensuring they stay in great condition for longer. And if you’re ever unsure about the material or just want an extra layer of protection, using a condom over the toy is a simple and effective way to keep things hygienic and hassle-free.