How To Clean Sex Toys?

Cleaning sex toys is an essential part of maintaining your pleasure products and ensuring they remain safe for use. In this article, you will discover effective and simple ways to clean your sex toys, whether they are made of silicone, glass, or other materials. From gentle soap and warm water to specialized cleaning sprays, you will learn the best techniques to keep your sex toys fresh, hygienic, and ready for your next sensual adventure.

Understanding the Importance of Cleaning Sex Toys

When it comes to your sexual health and pleasure, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is essential. Cleaning your sex toys regularly not only prevents bacterial infections but also helps to maintain the lifespan and efficiency of the toys. Additionally, proper cleaning promotes better sexual health overall. By understanding the importance of cleaning your sex toys, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience every time.

Preventing Bacterial Infections

One of the primary reasons for cleaning sex toys is to prevent bacterial infections. Bacteria can easily accumulate on the surface of toys, especially if they come into contact with bodily fluids.¹ If these bacteria are not properly cleaned off, they can lead to infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or other discomforts. Regular cleaning, particularly before and after each use, reduces the risk of bacterial growth and keeps you healthy.

Maintaining Toy’s Lifespan and Efficiency

Proper cleaning and maintenance of sex toys also play a crucial role in maintaining their lifespan and efficiency. Toys made from high-quality materials can last for years if cared for correctly. Regular cleaning helps to prevent the buildup of dirt, debris, and bacteria, which can degrade the toy’s material over time. By keeping your toys clean, you ensure that they remain functional, safe, and enjoyable for the long term.

Promoting Better Sexual Health

Cleaning your sex toys is not only about preventing infections or maintaining their quality. It is also about promoting better sexual health. Regular cleaning ensures that there is no cross-contamination between different body parts or partners, reducing the risk of transmitting STIs or other diseases. Clean toys provide a clean and safe environment for intimate play, allowing you to focus on pleasure without any worries or concerns.

Knowing your Sex Toy

Before you clean your sex toys, it is important to have a good understanding of what they are made of and any specific cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer. Different materials require different cleaning methods to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Identifying Materials of Sex Toys

Sex toys come in a variety of materials, including silicone, glass, stainless steel, plastic, rubber, jelly, and TPE/TPR. Each material has its own unique properties and requires specific care. For example, silicone toys are non-porous and can generally be cleaned in the dishwasher or with warm water and soap. On the other hand, porous materials like rubber or jelly can trap bacteria and should be cleaned more thoroughly.

Understanding Different Types of Toys

In addition to the various materials, sex toys also come in different types, such as dildos, vibrators, anal toys, or bondage gear. Each type may have its own specific cleaning considerations, depending on its design and features. For example, toys with mechanical components like vibrating or rotating toys require additional attention to clean properly without damaging the mechanisms.

Knowing Manufacturers Cleaning Instructions

Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your sex toys. Some manufacturers provide specific cleaning instructions or recommendations for their products. Following these instructions can help ensure that you clean your toys in a way that maintains their quality and longevity. If no specific instructions are provided, you can still follow general cleaning guidelines that apply to the material of your toy.

Cleaning Silicone, Glass, and Stainless Steel Sex Toys

Silicone, glass, and stainless steel sex toys are generally easier to clean compared to porous materials. Here are some steps you can follow to clean these types of toys effectively:

1. Using Warm Water and Mild Antibacterial Soap: Start by rinsing the toy with warm water to remove any surface debris. Then, apply a mild antibacterial soap suitable for the toy’s material and gently rub the toy to create a lather. Thoroughly clean all areas, paying extra attention to any ridges or textures. Rinse the toy thoroughly with warm water to ensure no soap residue remains.
2. Using Commercial Sex Toy Cleaners: You can also use commercial sex toy cleaners designed specifically for silicone, glass, or stainless steel toys. These cleaners are formulated to be safe for the material and provide effective sanitization. Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s packaging for the best results.
3. Drying and Storing After Cleaning: After cleaning, pat the toy dry with a clean towel or let it air dry completely. Ensure that there is no moisture left on the toy before storing it, as this can lead to bacterial growth. Store your silicone, glass, or stainless steel toys in a clean and dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

Cleaning Porous Sex Toys

Cleaning porous sex toys, such as those made of plastic, rubber, jelly, or TPE/TPR, requires more meticulous attention to ensure thorough sanitization. Follow these steps to clean your porous toys effectively:

1. Cleaning Plastic, Rubber, Jelly, and TPE/TPR Toys: Start by rinsing your toy with warm water to remove any surface debris. Then, use a mild antibacterial soap or specialized sex toy cleaner specifically designed for porous materials. Thoroughly clean all areas, including any crevices or textures, to ensure all bacteria or residues are eliminated. Pay extra attention to areas that come into direct contact with the body.
2. Performing a Patch Test Before Using Harsh Cleaners: If your toy is heavily soiled or requires extra disinfection, you might consider using a stronger cleaner. However, before using any harsh cleaning agents, perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area of the toy. This test ensures that the cleaner does not damage or discolor the material.

Special Care for Battery Operated or Rechargeable Toys

Battery-operated or rechargeable toys require special care during cleaning to prevent damage and ensure their longevity. Here are some guidelines to follow:

1. Disconnecting and Removing Batteries Before Cleaning: It is important to disconnect and remove batteries before cleaning any toy with mechanical components. This prevents water damage or accidental activation during the cleaning process.
2. Avoiding Submerging These Toys in Water: Battery-operated or rechargeable toys should never be submerged in water or come into direct contact with liquids. Instead, use a damp cloth or wipe to clean the surface of the toy. Be cautious not to allow water or moisture to enter the battery compartment.
3. Using a Damp Cloth for Cleaning: Gently wipe the toy’s surface with a damp cloth soaked in warm water and mild soap. Pay attention to any textured areas or crevices where bacteria may accumulate. Once cleaned, wipe the toy dry with a clean cloth or towel. Allow it to air dry completely before reassembling or storing.

Maintaining Sex Toys with Mechanical Components

Sex toys with mechanical components, such as vibrating or rotating toys, require extra care when cleaning. Follow these steps to maintain these toys and prevent damage:

1. Cleaning Vibrating and Rotating Toys: Start by removing any detachable parts, such as sleeves or attachments, that can be cleaned separately. Clean these parts following the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer. To clean the main body of the toy, use a damp cloth or a specialized toy cleaner suitable for the material. Be cautious not to immerse the mechanical components in water or expose them to excessive moisture.
2. Safety Precautions to Avoid Damage to Mechanisms: When cleaning toys with mechanical components, avoid using harsh cleaners or excessive force, as these can damage the delicate mechanisms. Be gentle and use mild soap or specialized toy cleaners as recommended by the manufacturer. Take care not to submerge the toy’s motor or charging components in water.

Hygiene and Cleaning for Anal Toys

Anal toys require thorough cleaning to prevent any bacteria transfer and ensure your safety. Here are some important steps to follow:

1. Thorough Cleaning to Avoid Bacteria Transfer: Anal toys should be cleaned more meticulously due to the potential for bacteria transfer. Start by rinsing the toy with warm water to remove any visible debris. Then, use a mild antibacterial soap or specialized anal toy cleaner to clean the toy thoroughly. Pay close attention to any ridges or textures, as bacteria can easily hide in these areas.
2. Special Cleaning Tips for Anal Plugs and Beads: For anal plugs and beads, it is crucial to clean between each bead or the base of the plug, as these areas come into direct contact with the body. After cleaning, rinse the toy thoroughly with warm water to ensure all soap residues are removed. Pat the toy dry and store it properly to avoid any contamination.

Sanitizing your Sex Toys

In addition to regular cleaning, periodically sanitizing your sex toys is recommended to eliminate any lingering bacteria. Here are some methods to consider:

1. Boiling the Toys if Safe: Non-vibrating, non-electric toys made from materials like silicone, glass, or stainless steel can typically be boiled to sanitize them effectively. Fill a pot with enough water to fully submerge the toy and bring it to a boil. Let the toy boil for a few minutes, and then carefully remove it using tongs or a heat-resistant glove. Allow the toy to cool and dry completely before storing.
2. Using Commercial Sanitizers Dedicated for Sex Toys: There are commercial sanitizers available specifically formulated for sex toys. These sanitizers are designed to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens effectively. Follow the instructions provided by the sanitizer’s manufacturer to ensure proper use and effectiveness.

Proper Storage after Cleaning

After thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing your sex toys, it is crucial to store them properly to avoid dust, debris, or microbial contamination. Here are some storage tips to keep in mind:

1. Avoiding Dust and Microbes from Accumulating: Store your clean and dry toys in a clean and closed storage container. Avoid leaving them exposed or in contact with other objects that may introduce dust or microbes. Consider using storage cases or pouches specifically designed for sex toys.
2. Keeping Toys Separated: If you have multiple toys, it is essential to keep them separated during storage. This prevents any potential reaction or damage that might occur if different materials come into contact with each other. You can use individual storage bags or compartments within a larger storage container to keep each toy separate.
3. Using Toy Storage Bags: Toy storage bags made from breathable materials, such as cotton or satin, are ideal for storing sex toys. These bags help to protect your toys from dust and debris while allowing any remaining moisture to evaporate. Avoid using plastic bags or airtight containers, as they can promote bacterial growth.

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Sex Toys

While cleaning your sex toys, it is important to avoid some common mistakes. By being mindful of the following points, you can ensure the effectiveness and longevity of your toys:

1. Avoid Use of Harsh Chemicals: Harsh cleaning products, such as bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol, can damage the material of your toys and cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Stick to mild antibacterial soap or specialized sex toy cleaners approved for your toy’s material.
2. Failing to Rinse Toys Thoroughly: Ensure that you rinse your toys thoroughly after cleaning to remove any soap residue. Soap residues can cause discomfort or irritation when the toy comes into contact with your body. Be especially diligent when cleaning textured or porous toys, as soap can easily get trapped in these areas.
3. Not Allowing Toys to Dry Completely Before Storage: It is essential to let your toys dry completely before storing them. Any remaining moisture can promote bacterial growth or cause mold and mildew to develop. Always ensure that your toys are completely dry, particularly in areas that may be harder to reach or dry naturally, before storing them.

By following these guidelines and taking the time to clean and maintain your sex toys properly, you can enjoy a safe, hygienic, and pleasurable experience every time. Regular cleaning not only prevents bacterial infections but also helps prolong the lifespan of your toys, ensuring many enjoyable moments to come. Prioritize your sexual health and well-being by incorporating proper cleaning practices into your routine and reap the benefits of enhanced and worry-free intimacy.

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) ↩︎