How To Clean Sex Toys

When you clean sex toys regularly, you protect your body and make your toys last longer. Clean toys feel better and work better. You avoid bad smells.

By chenyuqiJun 27, 2025

Why Clean Sex Toys

When you skip cleaning your sex toys, you put your health at risk. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can stay on the surface of toys after use. These germs can cause infections, such as yeast infections, urinary tract infections, or even sexually transmitted infections.

If you share toys with a partner, the risk of spreading germs increases. Some materials, like jelly or Cyberskin, have tiny pores that trap bacteria more easily. Even if you use condoms with your toys, germs can still transfer if you do not clean them properly.

Always wash your hands before and after handling sex toys. This simple step helps prevent the spread of germs.

When you clean sex toys regularly, you protect your body and make your toys last longer. Clean toys feel better and work better. You avoid bad smells, sticky residue, and damage to the material. Regular cleaning also keeps your toys looking new and safe to use every time.

Related reading: How to Dispose of Sex Toys

Here are some key benefits of cleaning your sex toys:

lower your risk of infection.
Keep your toys in good shape for longer.
Enjoy a safer and more comfortable experience.
Avoid embarrassing odors or stains.

If you want your toys to last, make cleaning a habit. Most toys only need a quick wash with warm water and mild soap. Some toys, like those made of silicone or glass, can handle deeper cleaning methods.

Cleaning Methods For Different Materials

Different sex toys need different cleaning methods. The material of your toy decides how you should clean it. Using the right method helps you stay safe and keeps your toys in good shape.

Silicone

Silicone toys such as G-spot vibrators are non-porous and easy to clean. You can wash them with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. For a deeper clean, you can boil pure silicone toys for 3-5 minutes. Some silicone toys can go in the dishwasher (top rack, no soap), but always check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Never use silicone-based lube with silicone toys. It can damage the surface.

Glass

Glass toys are also non-porous. You can wash them with soap and water. You can boil them for a few minutes or put them in the dishwasher. Make sure the glass is borosilicate (shatter-resistant) before boiling.

Metal

Metal toys are strong and non-porous. You can clean them with soap and water. You can also boil them or use a 10% bleach solution (rinse well after). Dry them completely to prevent rust.

Hard Plastic

Hard plastic toys are less porous than jelly or Cyberskin, but you should not boil them. Wash them with warm water and mild soap. You can use a toy cleaner if you want. Avoid soaking them for a long time.

Porous Materials (Jelly, TPE, Cyberskin)

Porous toys can trap bacteria. Wash them with warm water and mild soap. Do not boil or put them in the dishwasher. Pat them dry with a clean towel. For Cyberskin or similar materials, dust the toy with cornstarch or a special restorative powder after drying. This keeps the surface soft and prevents stickiness. Porous toys are harder to clean. Use a condom over them for extra safety.

Motorized or Battery-Operated Toys

You should never submerge motorized toys in water. Instead, use a damp cloth with mild soap to wipe the surface. Take out the batteries before cleaning. Make sure no water gets into the battery compartment. Dry the toy with a clean towel.

How to Clean Sex Toys

Basic Steps

You can keep your sex toys safe and fresh by following a few easy steps. Start by washing your hands before you touch any toy. This helps stop germs from spreading.

Rinse the Toy. Hold your toy under warm running water. Make sure you cover all surfaces.
Apply Soap. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap or a special toy cleaner. Gently rub the soap over the toy for at least 20 seconds.
Scrub Gently. Use your hands or a soft cloth. Pay extra attention to any grooves or textured areas.
Rinse Again. Wash away all the soap with warm water. Check that no soap remains.
Dry the Toy. Pat the toy dry with a clean towel. You can also let it air dry on a clean surface. Always make sure your toy is completely dry before you put it away. This helps prevent mold and bacteria.

Deep Cleaning

Sometimes, you need to deep clean sex toys, especially after sharing or if you have been sick. Deep cleaning gives extra protection against germs.

Boiling: For non-motorized silicone, glass, or metal toys, place them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes. Let them cool before handling.

Dishwasher: Some toys can go on the top rack of your dishwasher. Do not use soap or detergent. Only use this method if the toy’s instructions say it is safe.

Bleach Solution: Mix one part bleach with nine parts water. Soak non-porous toys for 10 minutes. Rinse very well with water. Dry completely.

UV Sanitizer: Place your toy in a UV sanitizer if you have one. Follow the device instructions for best results.

Never boil or soak toys with motors or batteries. Use a damp cloth and mild soap for these.

Dos and Don’ts

You can keep your toys in top shape by following these simple rules.

Do’s:

Clean sex toys before and after every use.
Do use mild, fragrance-free soap or a trusted toy cleaner.
Dry toys fully before storing them.
Do check the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Do use a condom on porous toys for extra safety.

Don’ts:

Don’t use scented soaps, alcohol, or harsh chemicals.
Don’t soak motorized or battery-powered toys.
Don’t store toys while they are still damp.
Don’t ignore small cracks or tears in the toy’s surface.
Don’t share toys without cleaning them first.

Storage and Maintenance

After you wash your sex toys, you need to dry them the right way. Use a clean towel to pat the toy dry. Make sure you reach every part, especially if the toy has grooves or textures. You can also let the toy air dry by placing it on a clean surface. Avoid using paper towels because they can leave lint behind. If you put toys away while they are still damp, you risk mold or bacterial growth.

Always double-check that your toy is completely dry before storing it. Moisture can damage the material and shorten the toy’s lifespan.

Proper storage keeps your toys clean and ready for use. Store each toy in its own storage bag or container. This prevents dust, lint, and germs from collecting on the surface. You can use the pouch that came with your toy or buy a soft, lint-free bag. Keep toys made from different materials separate to avoid chemical reactions. Place your toys in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Here are some easy storage ideas: Use fabric pouches or zippered bags. Store toys in a dedicated box or drawer. Keep motorized toys with batteries removed.

You should clean sex toys before and after every use. This habit keeps you safe and your toys in good condition. If a toy has not been used for a while, wash it again before using it. Deep clean your toys after sharing or if you notice any residue or odor. Regular cleaning helps you avoid health risks and enjoy your toys for longer.