How to Clean Your Sex Toys: A Thorough Guide
Published on Dec 23, 2025
Updated on Dec 23, 2025
We’re about to have a real deep conversation. We know that cleaning your sex toys probably isn't the highlight of your self-care routine. But here's the thing: proper sex toy hygiene isn't just about being neat. It's about protecting your body, preventing infections, and making sure your favorite toys last as long as possible.
Think of it this way: you wouldn't skip washing your hands after touching something questionable, right? The same logic applies to anything that gets intimate with your body. Whether you're using a silicone dildo, a realistic masturbator, or a vibrating butt plug, keeping it clean should be non-negotiable.
The good news? Cleaning sex toys doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. This guide will walk you through everything from quick cleaning methods to proper storage, so you can play confidently and safely every single time.
Summary Table
How to clean…
Waterproof Toys
Water-Resistant Toys
Realistic Material/Masturbators
Non-Insertable Toys
Butt Plugs
Proper Toy Care
User Reviews
FAQ
Quick Reference: How to Clean Different Sex Toy Materials
Not in the mood for a deep dive? This table breaks down the basics of sex toy cleaning by material type. But seriously, read the full sections below, your body will thank you.
Quick Tip: To clean most sex toys, wash them with mild unscented soap and warm water, rinse well, and let them air-dry completely before storing.
Material
Cleaning Method
Special Notes
Silicone (100%)
Soap and water or toy cleaner
Non-porous, highly hygienic, and easy to sanitize.
Hard Plastic/ABS
Soap and water or toy cleaner
Great for motorized toys
TPE/TPR
Gentle soap and water
Porous, consider using condoms
Glass
Soap and water
Avoid sudden temperature changes
Stainless Steel
Soap and water
Extremely durable and hygienic
Jelly/Rubber
Mild soap and water
--
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What You Need to Clean Your Sex Toys
The beauty of washing sex toys is that you probably already have everything you need at home. You don't need fancy equipment or expensive products (though specialized cleaners do exist and can be convenient).
Mild, unscented soap is your best friend. This can include gentle hand soap, dish soap, fragrance-free body wash, or a mild hygienic soap designed for intimate use, as long as it’s unscented. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, strong fragrances, or antibacterial additives, as these can irritate sensitive areas or degrade certain materials over time.
Warm water is essential—lukewarm, not hot. Aim for around 30–40°C (86–104°F), which is warm enough to help break down oils and bodily fluids without stressing the material. This method is suitable for non-porous materials such as 100% silicone, glass, stainless steel, and hard plastic (ABS). Hotter water can damage softer or porous materials like rubber or jelly, while cold water may leave residue behind, especially from oil-based lubricants.
Sex toy cleaners are specifically formulated to clean intimate items without leaving harmful residues. They're convenient, travel-friendly, and designed to be gentle on both your toys and your body. If you're curious about which ones actually work, read our in-depth sex toy cleaner tips guide.
For deeper cleaning, you'll want to:
A soft cloth or dedicated toy cleaning cloth (microfiber works great)
A small brush (like a soft toothbrush) for textured toys
White vinegar diluted with water for extra disinfection (use sparingly)
One thing you should never use? Bleach or harsh chemical cleaners. These can damage your toys, leave dangerous residues, and cause serious irritation. Your intimate areas deserve better.
How to Clean Waterproof Sex Toys
Waterproof sex toys are the easiest to maintain because you can literally take them into the shower with you. If your toy is labeled as waterproof (usually with an IPX7 rating or higher), it's built to be fully submerged without damaging the electronics.
Here's the step-by-step for
cleaning waterproof sex toys:1.Rinse immediately after use with warm water to remove surface fluids and lubricant
2.Apply a small amount of mild soap or sex toy cleaner to the entire surface
3.Gently scrub all areas, paying special attention to textured sections, ridges, and any seams where material meets
4.Rinse thoroughly until all soap is gone—any residue left behind can cause irritation
5.Pat dry with a clean towel or let air dry completely before storing
Popular waterproof Lovense toys include the Lush 4, a powerful internal vibrator perfect for solo or partnered play, and the Gush 2, a flexible penis massager. Both can be cleaned thoroughly without worry.
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Cleaning Water-Resistant Sex Toys (Handle With Care)
There’s a big difference between waterproof and water-resistant, and mixing them up can damage your toy. Water-resistant IPX4 toys (like Solace Pro) are designed for light water exposure only and should be wiped clean rather than rinsed
Water-resistant IPX6 toys (like Nora) can tolerate more water and be rinsed under running water, but they should never be fully immersed. Submerging them can let water seep into the battery compartment or motor, causing permanent damage.
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Here's how to clean water-resistant toys safely:
1.Dampen a cloth with warm water and mild soap (don't soak it)
2.Wipe down the entire toy carefully, avoiding any charging ports or battery compartments
3.Use a slightly damp cloth with just water to wipe away any soap residue
4.Dry immediately and thoroughly with a clean towel, making sure no moisture remains near openings
5.Let it air dry for at least 15 minutes before storing
For extra cleaning power without water risks, use a sex toy cleaner spray. Spray it on, let it sit for the recommended time (usually 30 seconds to a minute), then wipe clean with a dry cloth. No rinsing needed.
Quick tip: We did not write thoroughly about jelly toys (even though the majority of them are water resistant) because we think that no one should be using these types of toys. Check our Jelly toy guide for more information.
Cleaning Realistic Feel Sex Toys and Masturbators
Realistic feel sex toys and male masturbators require a bit more attention because of their porous materials and intricate internal textures. Products like the Solace Pro and Max 2 are designed to feel incredibly lifelike, and with that comes some extra cleaning.
Cleaning realistic masturbators:
1.Rinse immediately after use with warm (not hot) water, hot water can damage TPE materials
2.Turn the toy inside out if possible to access all internal textures
3.Apply mild soap to your fingers and gently work it through all the internal surfaces
4.Rinse thoroughly until the water runs completely clear
5.Shake out excess water and use a lint-free cloth to pat the interior dry as much as possible
6.Air dry completely, this is crucial for preventing mold and bacterial growth
For toys with complex internal structures that can't be turned inside out, consider using a toy drying stick or propping the toy open so air can circulate through the canal. Some people use a small fan to speed up the drying process.
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Cleaning Non-Insertable Toys (Wands, Panties & More)
External toys like wand massagers, vibrating panties, and other non-insertable items still need regular cleaning, but you can be less intense about it since they're not entering your body.
For deeper cleaning, you'll want to:
Wipe down the head with a damp cloth and mild soap after each use
Pay attention to any grooves or texture where lube might accumulate
Dry thoroughly before storing
Clean the handle less frequently, weekly is usually fine
Wearable vibrators should be cleaned after each use, as they come into contact with intimate areas—even externally. Many of these toys, including Ferri, are designed to be water-resistant or waterproof for easy cleaning.
To keep your toy in good condition:
Clean before and after each use
Use warm water and mild soap, or a sex toy cleaner
Since Ferri is IPX7 waterproof, it can be safely rinsed under running water
Dry thoroughly before recharging or storing
Avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold
Recharge at least once every six months to maintain battery health
External prostate toys like the adjustable prostate massager, Edge 2 fall into a gray area, as they provide both internal and external stimulation. Treat these with the same care you'd give insertable toys.
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Special Considerations for Butt Plugs and Anal Toys
Let's talk about cleaning butt plugs and anal toys. The rules are similar to other toys, but there's extra emphasis on thoroughness because, well... bacteria from anal play should never migrate to vaginal or oral areas.
Toys like the vibrating butt plug or any anal toy should be cleaned with extra care:
1.Rinse immediately under warm water to remove visible matter
2.Soap thoroughly, paying special attention to the base and any ridges
3.Consider using an antibacterial toy cleaner specifically designed for anal toys
4.Rinse until you're absolutely certain all soap is gone
5.Dry completely before storage
Never, ever use the same toy anally and vaginally without thoroughly cleaning it in between. Even trace amounts of bacteria can cause serious infections, so it’s important to disinfect the toy as thoroughly as the material allows—using a suitable cleaner or cleaning method recommended by the manufacturer.
For non-porous anal toys (like silicone, glass, or steel), thorough cleaning between uses is essential—especially if the toy is being shared or used in different areas of the body. Use a high-quality sex toy cleaner or follow the manufacturer's guidance to ensure the toy is properly disinfected.
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How to Properly Store Your Sex Toys
You've cleaned your toys perfectly, now don't ruin all that work with poor storage. Sex toy storage isn't just about organization; it's about maintaining hygiene, protecting your investment, and extending your toys' lifespan.
The golden rules of storage:
1.Store toys separately to prevent material reactions. Silicone touching silicone is fine, but mixing materials (especially putting TPE near silicone) can cause degradation or melting.
2.Use individual storage bags for each toy. Most quality toys come with their own bags; if not, use clean cloth bags or cases. Avoid plastic bags for long-term storage—they can trap moisture.
3.Keep toys in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV rays can degrade materials over time. A dedicated drawer or lockable box works perfectly.
4.Ensure toys are completely dry before storing. Any moisture can lead to mold or bacterial growth, especially with porous materials.
5.Remove batteries from battery-operated toys if you won't be using them for a while. This prevents corrosion and accidental activation (nothing kills the mood like discovering your vibrator turned itself on in your nightstand at 3 AM).
For those with rechargeable toys, store them with a moderate charge (around 50%) rather than fully charged or completely dead. This helps preserve battery life over time.
Still unsure about how to properly store your toys? Consider checking out our detailed review on using a Primark Shoe Hanger to store your sex toys or our Essential Sex Toy Containers blog.
Quick Tip: Are you a frequent traveler and you’d like to fly with your sex toys? Our easy, no stress flying with sex toys article is the perfect guide for you.
Why Cleaning Your Sex Toys Actually Matters
Not to scare you but, skipping sex toy maintenance isn't just gross, it can genuinely harm your health. Your body's most intimate areas are sensitive, and introducing bacteria, fungi, or other nasties can lead to some seriously uncomfortable situations.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are probably the most common issue from dirty toys. Bacteria love warm, moist environments, and an uncleaned toy is basically a bacteria resort.
But it doesn't stop there. Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis are also real risks. These happen when the natural balance of bacteria in your body gets thrown off, something dirty toys excel at.
If you're sharing toys with a partner (or partners), the stakes get even higher. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can absolutely be transmitted through shared sex toys. Even if you trust your partner completely, bodies carry things we might not know about.
Want to learn more about choosing body-safe materials from the start? Check out our guide on how to choose beginner sex toys.
Understanding Sex Toy Materials: What's Actually Safe?
By now, we know that not all sex toy materials are created equal. Some are body-safe superstars, while others... well, let's just say they're questionable at best. Knowing what your toy is made from is the first step in proper cleaning and care.
Medical-grade silicone is the gold standard. It's non-porous, hypoallergenic, and can withstand high temperatures. At Lovense, we pride ourselves in using high-quality silicone in our toys like the Lush 4 and Gush 2 because it's safe, durable, and easy to clean.
Hard plastic (ABS plastic) is another excellent choice for sex toys. It’s non-porous, body-safe, and commonly used in motorized toys where electronics need extra protection. Many non-wearable or externally controlled toys use ABS for outer casings or internal housing. In contrast, most Lovense wearable toys prioritize soft, body-safe silicone for areas that come into direct contact with the body, combining comfort with safety while keeping electronics securely protected inside.
Glass and stainless steel are the royalty of sex toy materials. Completely non-porous, they’re virtually indestructible and easy to keep clean. Just use warm water and mild soap or a trusted toy cleaner, and always follow the manufacturer's care instructions.
TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) and TPR (thermoplastic rubber) are soft, flexible, and more affordable materials commonly used in sex toys. While they offer a comfortable feel, they are slightly porous, meaning it’s especially important to clean and dry them thoroughly after each use. With proper care, they can be a safe and enjoyable part of your collection.
Looking for body-safe toy recommendations? Browse our collection of sex toys for women and sex toys for men, all made with your safety in mind.
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How Proper Care Extends Your Toy's Lifespan
Quality sex toys aren't cheap, and taking care of them properly means you'll get years of use instead of months. Sex toy maintenance is an investment in your pleasure and your wallet.
Cleaning prevents material breakdown. Bodily fluids, lubricants, and bacteria can all degrade toy materials over time. Regular cleaning removes these corrosive elements before they cause permanent damage.
Proper storage prevents deformation. Toys stored in cramped spaces or under pressure can develop permanent bends or flat spots. This is especially true for realistic materials and soft silicone. Give each toy enough space to maintain its shape.
Using the right lubricants matters too. Silicone lube can degrade silicone toys (stick to water-based lubes for silicone toys). Oil-based lubes can break down latex and some plastics. Check compatibility before use, and always clean lube residue off completely.
Want to make sure you're following all best practices? Check out our complete do's and don'ts guide for using sex toys and also our thorough post on how to care for your sex toys properly.
Curious about how these care habits translate into real-world satisfaction? You’re not alone — thousands of Lovense users follow these guides to keep their toys performing like new, and their experiences speak for themselves.
Discreet and Fun
It's my favorite toy. The magnet helps it stay in place, no matter what you're doing, you can dance or do a cartwheel. The vibration feels so good, it makes me go crazy.
Vanandjuani
Next Level Edging
The two buckle straps really allow for a custom fit… combining adjustable oscillations and vibrations, it can absolutely bring your edging experience to the next level!
willyumx
Comfortable Wearable Design
No, you really don’t need underwear. Took this toy to the park. Hubby had the remote. Three hours of teasing and not a single complaint (from me, at least)
anissa_miller1
Soft Yet Powerful
When I use Max 2, I love how the soft texture feels against me, the way the vibrations build, the intensity I can control, and that little vacuum pull that makes everything so much better.
Timo
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This wand is perfect! I use it for clit stimulation and sensitive areas like my nipples, the vibrations are...
Vanandjuani
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This stroker is beyond amazing! I love how the sleeve feels, it is soft and natural. The fact that it syncs with videos and games takes the experience to a whole new level!
Eva Borisova
Red Flags: When to Throw a Toy Away
Even with perfect care, sex toys don't last forever. Knowing when to retire a toy is crucial for your health and safety. Here are the red flags that mean it's time to say goodbye:
Visible damage is an automatic disqualification. Tears, cracks, chips, or holes in your toy create spaces where bacteria can hide and multiply.
Persistent odors that don't go away after thorough cleaning indicate bacterial colonization deep in the material.
Material changes are your toy telling you it's breaking down. This includes troublesome sticky surfaces, discoloration, rough surfaces, cloudy appearance on clear toys and more.
Motor or electronic failures in vibrators mean it's time for retirement. Exposed wires, inconsistent vibrations, or toys that won't turn off properly are safety hazards.
After sharing with a partner who has an STI, even when protection is used, some people choose to replace toys as an added precaution against potential cross-contamination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Toy Cleaning
How often should I clean my sex toys?
It’s best to clean your sex toys both before and after every use. Regular cleaning helps prevent bacteria buildup and keeps your toys hygienic and ready for next time.
Can normal soap clean sex toys?
Warm water with a mild, fragrance-free soap can work occasionally, but a sex toy cleaner is a better choice. Toy-specific cleaners are designed to be gentle on materials while effectively removing bodily fluids and residue.
What’s the best way to store sex toys after cleaning?
Once your toy is completely dry, store it in a clean, dry space. A storage pouch or dedicated drawer helps protect it from dust and prevents contact with other toys or objects that could cause damage.
Do all sex toy cleansers work safely with all toy materials?
Not always. Not all cleaners work on all materials. For example, frequent use of alcohol-based products may affect some materials, including silicone, if used frequently. Always check that the cleaner is compatible with your toy’s material.
What’s the best way to dry sex toys after washing?
Air-drying or using a soft, lint-free cloth works best. Microfiber cloths are especially helpful because they’re gentle and don’t leave fibers behind.
How long should I leave a sex toy cleaner on the toy?
Most cleaners only need a short contact time—usually around 30 to 60 seconds—before rinsing. Always follow the instructions provided with the cleaner for best results.
Final Thoughts: Clean Toys, Better Pleasure
Here's the sitch: cleaning your sex toys isn't optional. It's a fundamental part of using them safely and responsibly. Yes, it takes a few extra minutes, but those minutes protect you from infections, extend your toys' lifespan, and ensure every session is as pleasurable as it should be.
Your body deserves safe, clean pleasure. Taking these simple steps ensures you can explore, experiment, and enjoy without worry. And honestly? There's something satisfying about having a collection of well-maintained toys ready whenever the mood strikes.
Clean toys, happy body, better sex. It really is that simple.If you’d like more information about cleaning and caring for your toys, check out our extended guide, When Does My Toy Need Extra Cleaning?
Looking for body-safe toys that are easy to clean and come with reliable support?
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