The Best Ways to Clean Sex Toys

Properly cleaning sex toys is crucial for both safety and hygiene. Without thorough cleaning, toys can harbor bacteria, potentially leading to infections or transmitting STIs. While some bacteria die quickly, others, like hepatitis and scabies, can survive outside the body for extended periods. Cleaning also helps prevent pregnancy risks by removing any lingering sperm on toys used near or inside the vagina. Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions carefully. If the cleaning requirements seem too time-consuming, consider choosing a different toy, like a versatile and easy-to-clean rose toy for women, which is convenient and hygienic.

Below is a guide on cleaning different types of toys, though it doesn’t replace specific manufacturer instructions.

Basic Toy Care Tips:

1. Remove batteries before cleaning.


2. Avoid submerging electrical parts in water; instead, wipe them down with a damp, soapy washcloth using anti-bacterial soap.


3. Store toys in a clean container or pouch in a cool, dry place.

Cleaning Non-Porous Materials: Glass, Stainless Steel, Hard Plastic, and Silicone

• Glass: Clean with soap and water. If made of Pyrex, glass toys can go in the dishwasher, but avoid extreme temperatures.


• Stainless Steel: Use warm soapy water for steel toys attached to electronics, ensuring electrical parts stay dry. For non-electric steel toys, you can boil, soak them in a 10% bleach solution for 10 minutes, or put them in the dishwasher.


• Hard Plastic: Wash with anti-bacterial soap and water, but avoid boiling.


• Silicone: For silicone toys without electronics, boil for 5-10 minutes, place on the dishwasher’s top rack, or clean with warm water and anti-bacterial soap. Avoid boiling silicone vibrators, as this can damage the motor.

Cleaning Porous Materials: Rubber, Vinyl, Cyberskin, Nylon, and Leather

• Rubber: Rubber toys are porous and tricky to sanitize; consider using condoms with them for added safety, especially since some rubber toys may contain phthalates, which can be harmful.


• Cyberskin & Vinyl: Cyberskin toys (often used for realistic dildos) should be cleaned gently with warm water only, then air-dried and lightly powdered with cornstarch to keep them non-sticky.


• Nylon: Nylon toys and harnesses are machine-washable or can be hand-washed with mild anti-bacterial soap.


• Leather: Clean leather toys with a damp cloth and mild soap or a leather cleaner, avoiding soaking. Recondition as needed with leather conditioner, and apply clear nail polish to metal parts to prevent tarnishing.

By following these guidelines and keeping toys clean, you can maintain a safe and enjoyable experience with each use.