How to Clean Sex Toys : A Little Love for Your Toys Goes a Long Way 

Let’s be honest—your sex toys bring you a lot of joy. So why not return the favor ? Whether it’s your first vibe or a full collection of carefully curated pleasure tools, having clean sex toys and adequate storage is essential. Not only does it keep your toys safe and hygienic, but it also helps them last longer—and keeps every intimate moment feeling fresh and worry-free.

Think of it like skincare: you wouldn’t skip cleansing your face, right? Your toys deserve the same TLC. So let’s talk about how to clean sex toys, how often to do it, and why your cleaner matters more than you think.

Spoiler alert: we’ve got one we think you’ll love.

Why Sex Toy Hygiene Is Non-Negotiable

Here's the thing: sex toy maintenance isn’t optional. It's a core part of sexual wellness.

When you clean your toys regularly, you're not just preventing bad smells or gunky build-up—you’re protecting yourself from potential infections, irritation, or harmful bacteria. Toys that aren’t cleaned properly can collect microscopic traces of bodily fluids, lube, sweat, and even dust between uses. That cozy drawer you're storing them in? Yeah, it’s not exactly sterile.

And when you’re using toys on sensitive areas—or sharing them with a partner—cleanliness matters even more. A little extra effort keeps things safe, smooth, and satisfying.

Think of cleaning your toys like brushing your teeth. Necessary, routine, and way easier than dealing with the problems that come from skipping it.

What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Toys?

Short answer? Nothing good.

When sex toys aren’t cleaned properly, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria, yeast, and other microbes you definitely don’t want anywhere near your most intimate areas. This can lead to:

• Irritation or itching
• Infections like UTIs or yeast infections
• Unpleasant odors
• Degradation of toy materials
• Cross-contamination if toys are shared between partners or used for multiple body parts

And let’s not forget: over time, buildup from lube, fluids, or improper storage can break down even high-quality silicone, rubber, or latex. That luxury toy you invested in? It won’t last long if it’s not taken care of.

Moral of the story? Clean your sex toys. Every time.

The good news is that cleaning your toys is actually super simple—especially when you have the right tools (like our natural, gentle-but-effective Clean Sex Toy Cleaner). Let’s walk through exactly how to do it.

How to Clean a Sex Toy  Like a Pro

Cleaning your sex toys doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right steps—and the right cleaner—it becomes a quick, easy part of your aftercare ritual. Here’s your go-to guide for giving your toys the respect they deserve:

Step 1 – Turn Off and Disconnect

Before you clean anything, power it down. If your toy uses batteries, remove them. If it’s rechargeable, unplug it. This isn’t just about safety—it also protects the electronics from water damage.

Step 2 – Rinse with Warm Water

Rinse your toy under warm (not hot) water to remove surface residue. Don’t submerge anything with electronic components unless it’s 100% waterproof. If you're unsure, stick to rinsing the outer areas only.

Step 3 – Use a Specialized Sex Toy Cleaner

Here’s where the magic happens. A proper toy cleaner is key—especially for materials like silicone, rubber, or glass. You want something that’s:

• Gentle
• Free of harsh chemicals
• Designed for intimate use

And that’s exactly what Clean is.

Why We Recommend CLEAN

Our Sex Toy Cleaner is made with natural, skin-safe ingredients that clean without compromise. It features:

• Thuja Occidentalis Hydrosol – A botanical ingredient with natural antibacterial properties
• Polyglucose – A mild plant-based cleanser that lifts away residue
• Jojoba Oil + Glycerin – To condition and protect delicate toy materials
• Distilled Water + Potassium Sorbate – For purity and preservation

It’s safe for silicone, rubber, latex, glass, and other sensitive materials. No sticky residue. No irritation. Just clean toys, ready for your next adventure.

Spray it on, let it sit for a few seconds, and move on to the next step.

Step 4 – Clean Crevices and Curves Gently

Use your hands or a lint-free cloth to gently rub the cleaner over every surface—especially around grooves, seams, or textured areas. This is where bacteria loves to hide.

Take your time. Your future self will thank you.

Step 5 – Rinse, Pat, and Air Dry

Rinse off any leftover product with warm water. Then gently pat the toy dry with a clean towel or cloth. Lay it on a surface and let it air dry completely before putting it away.

Moisture = mold risk. So never skip this step.

How to Clean Different Toy Materials Safely

Not all toys are created equal—and neither are their cleaning needs. Depending on what your toy is made of, the cleaning process might vary slightly. Here’s a breakdown to help you treat each material right and adequately clean your sex toys

Silicone, Rubber, and Latex

These are some of the most common materials used in sex toys. Here’s how to handle them:

• Silicone: Non-porous and durable, silicone toys are easy to clean. Use warm water and your Clean toy cleaner after every use.
• Rubber or Latex: More porous than silicone, which means bacteria can hang around longer. Clean thoroughly and often. Always use a condom over these toys if sharing, and never use oil-based lube (it breaks down latex!).

Bonus tip: If your silicone toy is non-electric, you can boil it for 3–5 minutes to sanitize it. Just make sure it’s 100% silicone with no motors or wires.

Glass and Stainless Steel

These materials are non-porous, super smooth, and ultra-durable. They’re also some of the easiest to clean sex toys.

• Wash with Clean, rinse, and let air dry.
• You can also boil or place them on the top rack of the dishwasher (no detergent) for a deeper clean.

Just make sure they’re fully cooled before the next use—nobody wants a heat surprise down there.

How Often Should You Clean Your Sex Toys?

Short answer? Every time you use them. Before and after.

We get it—life happens, and sometimes you just want to roll over and bask in the afterglow. But giving your toy a quick clean doesn’t have to kill the mood. In fact, it’s part of aftercare—like brushing your teeth after dessert. Necessary, fast, and totally worth it. Fater and better results? Use a sex toy cleaner.

Here’s the gold standard:

• Before use: Even if your toy looks clean, it can collect dust or lint while in storage. A quick spray with Clean, a wipe, and you’re good to go.
• After use: Always, always clean it thoroughly. Bodily fluids, lube, and bacteria don’t just rinse off with water—your toy needs a proper cleanse to stay safe.

Think of it this way: if your toy’s going in your body, it deserves to be as fresh and clean as possible. Period.

Now let’s talk storage—because clean toys deserve a clean home, too.

Proper Storage = Longer Toy Life

You cleaned your toy—amazing. But where you put it next? That matters, too.

Tossing it into a drawer with old receipts, spare socks, and random cords isn’t the vibe. Storage is just as important as cleaning when it comes to keeping your toys safe, clean, and ready to use.

Here’s how to store your toys like a pro:

Use Storage Bags or Cases

Many toys come with their own storage pouch—and if they don’t, you can easily grab one online or at your local shop. Look for lint-free, breathable bags (like cotton or satin) to protect the toy from dust and bacteria.

Bonus: it also keeps your toy discreet and protected from curious eyes (or paws).

Keep Toys Separated

Different materials can react with each other over time, especially soft plastics and silicone. Store toys individually to prevent melting, warping, or weird textures from forming.

Also, no one wants last night’s lube crusting up two toys at once.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Moisture and heat are the enemy. Keep your toys away from direct sunlight, heaters, or anywhere damp (like bathrooms). A cool, dark drawer is perfect.

If you're storing a toy long-term, give it a fresh clean with Clean before and after to keep it in pristine shape.

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make a few missteps when it comes to toy care. But don’t worry—we’ve got you. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them):

🚫 Using household cleaners
That antibacterial spray under your sink? Yeah, don’t. Most regular cleaning products contain harsh chemicals, alcohols, or fragrances that can irritate your skin and destroy toy materials. Always use a body-safe, non-toxic toy cleaner—like Clean, which was designed specifically for intimate products.

🚫 Not drying your toys completely
Moisture = bacteria’s best friend. After cleaning, always pat your toys dry with a clean towel and let them air dry fully before putting them away.

🚫 Storing toys together without protection
Different materials stored in contact can break down or become sticky over time. Keep them in separate pouches or cases to stay safe (and avoid that awkward unstick moment later).

🚫 Skipping cleaning because “it still looks clean”
Even if there’s no visible residue, bacteria and germs aren’t always obvious. Clean your toys before and after every use—it’s fast, easy, and your body will thank you.

Porous Toys (TPE, Jelly, or Other Soft Plastics)

These toys tend to feel squishy and soft, but they’re more delicate than they seem.

• Clean thoroughly with Clean or a gentle, unscented soap.
• Avoid boiling or soaking, as the material can break down.
• These toys can trap bacteria over time, even with good care. If you notice discoloration, stickiness, or weird smells—it’s time to let go.

Consider using a condom over porous toys to reduce contact and extend their lifespan.

Conclusion: Treat Your Toys Like the VIPs They Are

Your sex toys are more than just objects—they’re tools for pleasure, connection, and self-discovery. They deserve a little care, and your body deserves products that respect its natural balance.

With just a few simple steps—regular cleaning, thoughtful storage, and the right cleaner—you can keep your favorite toys in pristine condition and ready for pleasure at a moment’s notice.

Our Clean Sex Toy Cleaner was made for exactly this.
Gentle. Effective. Natural.
Because intimate moments should feel good in every way—including the part where you clean up after.

So next time you finish a solo session or a spicy night in, take that extra 30 seconds. Spray, rub, rinse, dry, smile. Your future self (and your future orgasms) will thank you.

FAQs: Sex Toy Cleaning 101

1. What’s the best way to clean silicone sex toys?
Use warm water and a gentle, natural toy cleaner like Clean. If the toy is 100% silicone and doesn’t have electronics, you can also boil it for 3–5 minutes for deep sterilization.

2. Can I just use soap and water instead?
Technically yes—but it depends. Mild, unscented soap is okay, but toy cleaners like Clean are designed for intimate use and more effective at removing bacteria without drying out materials or irritating skin.

3. How do I clean toys with motors or non-waterproof parts?
Wipe them down with a damp cloth and spray-on toy cleaner. Never submerge them. Use a clean cloth to gently remove residue, then dry thoroughly.

4. Is it okay to share toys with a partner?
Yes—but only if you clean them thoroughly before and after, or use a condom over the toy during use. This helps prevent the spread of bacteria or STIs.

5. How often should I replace my sex toys?
If you notice cracks, discoloration, strange smells, or texture changes—it’s time. Porous toys tend to wear out faster, while high-quality silicone or glass can last for years with proper care.