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How to Clean & Store Your Sex Toys

How to Clean & Store Your Sex Toys (Step-by-Step Guide)

At Made in Heaven Sex Shop, we believe that proper care and maintenance of your sex toys are not only essential for hygiene but also for maximizing their longevity and ensuring optimal performance. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned user, it’s crucial to understand how to clean and store your sex toys to ensure that they remain safe and effective for future use. This comprehensive step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning and storing your toys.

Why Proper Cleaning & Storage of Sex Toys Matters

Before diving into the how-tos, it’s important to highlight why cleaning and storing your sex toys correctly is necessary. Aside from the basic hygiene benefits, maintaining your toys properly can ensure their longevity, preserve their performance, and prevent any unwanted bacterial growth or infections.

Preventing Infections and Irritations

Sex toys come into contact with sensitive parts of the body, and improper cleaning can lead to bacterial growth, which could cause infections, irritation, or allergic reactions. Therefore, cleaning sex toys after each use is essential to avoid any risks associated with unclean toys.

Longevity of Your Toys

When sex toys are not cared for properly, they can break down, lose their smooth texture, or become ineffective over time. Proper cleaning and storage will not only keep them in top condition but will also help save money in the long run by preventing the need for frequent replacements.

Hygiene Benefits

Regular cleaning also ensures that there’s no buildup of bodily fluids, lubricants, or other residues that might encourage bacterial growth. It’s crucial to follow the right cleaning routine after each use, ensuring that your toys remain hygienic and safe for use.

How to Clean Sex Toys (Step-by-Step)

Proper cleaning is the first step in maintaining your toys. The cleaning process might differ based on the material your toy is made from, but here’s a universal guide on how to clean sex toys properly.

Step 1: Understand the Material

Before cleaning, it’s essential to know what material your sex toy is made from. Different materials require different cleaning methods. Most sex toys are made of silicone, rubber, plastic, or glass, and each requires a different approach for optimal cleaning.

  • Silicone: Can be easily cleaned with soap and warm water or toy-safe cleaner.
  • Glass: Very easy to clean—soap and water work fine. Glass toys are non-porous and can be sterilized.
  • Rubber and Jelly: These are porous materials and require more care, as they can absorb bacteria. Using a toy-safe antibacterial cleaner is essential.
  • Stainless Steel or Metal: These materials can be boiled or wiped clean with alcohol-based solutions.

How to Clean & Store Your Sex Toys

Step 2: Wash After Every Use

Regardless of the material, all sex toys should be cleaned after every use. This is vital to ensure hygiene and prevent the buildup of bacteria or leftover lubricants that may cause irritation.

How to Wash:

  • Soap & Water: The simplest and most effective way to clean non-electronic toys is using warm water and mild, unscented soap. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.
  • Toy Cleaner: You can also use toy-safe antibacterial or antifungal cleaners designed specifically for this purpose. These products are gentle but effective.
  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals, perfumes, or harsh soaps to clean sex toys as they can damage the material or irritate sensitive skin.

Step 3: Disinfection for Extra Hygiene

For extra cleanliness, especially if you’re sharing toys, it’s a good idea to disinfect them. Disinfection helps kill any residual bacteria that regular cleaning may have missed.

How to Disinfect:

  • Antibacterial Wipes: Special antibacterial wipes are available to clean toys. These are perfect for a quick clean after use, especially when you need to clean toys in a hurry.
  • Boiling Water: For non-porous toys like glass or stainless steel, boiling water is a great option for sterilization. Just dip the toy in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
  • Alcohol: Use isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) for disinfecting metal, silicone, and glass toys. Simply wipe down the toy with a clean cloth soaked in alcohol.

Step 4: Thorough Drying

After washing or disinfecting, it’s essential to ensure the toy is completely dry before storing it. Leaving moisture on a toy can encourage the growth of bacteria and mold, especially for porous toys.

How to Dry:

  • Air Drying: Allow the toy to air dry completely before storage. This is the safest method.
  • Towel Drying: If you want to speed up the process, you can use a clean towel or paper towel to gently pat the toy dry. Make sure the towel is lint-free to avoid leaving fibers on your toy.

Step 5: Safe Toy Sterilization

Some materials, especially non-porous ones, can be sterilized to ensure maximum cleanliness. Sterilization is ideal for toys that are shared or for those who want an extra layer of safety.

How to Sterilize:

  • Boiling: Submerge glass or metal toys in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
  • UV Sterilizer: Some sex toy manufacturers offer UV sterilizers that can effectively sanitize toys without the need for boiling water.

Step 6: Lube and Residue Removal

Lubricants, oils, and other substances can leave a sticky residue on your toys. To remove these residues, clean your toys promptly and avoid letting them dry with lube or oil still on them.

Best Products and Tools for Cleaning Sex Toys

Using the right cleaning products will ensure your toys are not only clean but also safe for future use. Here are some recommended products and tools.

Toy-Safe Cleaners

Look for antibacterial or antifungal toy cleaners that are gentle on materials but tough on bacteria. Always avoid using soap or detergent with strong fragrances or harsh chemicals.

Antibacterial Wipes

Antibacterial wipes are perfect for quick cleanups after use, especially when you’re in a rush. These wipes are typically designed to disinfect and kill germs without harming the toy material.

Sterilization Tools

UV sterilizers or toy sterilization boxes are becoming more popular for cleaning and disinfecting toys, especially those made of glass or metal. These tools use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and germs.

How to Store Sex Toys Properly

Proper storage is just as important as cleaning your toys. Storing your sex toys correctly can prevent damage, preserve their integrity, and ensure they stay hygienic.

Choosing the Right Storage Option

Store your toys in a cool, dry, and clean environment. You can use storage pouches, boxes, or cases designed specifically for sex toys. These options protect your toys from dust, dirt, and damage.

  • Pouches: Soft, non-porous pouches are a great storage solution, especially for smaller toys.
  • Storage Boxes: For larger toys or those that require extra protection, consider a sturdy box or case.

How to Clean & Store Your Sex Toys

Avoid Storing Toys in Damp Areas

Avoid storing your sex toys in damp areas such as bathrooms. High humidity levels can encourage the growth of mold and bacteria on your toys, which can be harmful to both the toys and your health.

Keep Toys Separate to Avoid Cross-Contamination

Different materials can react with each other, which may degrade the toys or cause cross-contamination. It’s always a good idea to store each toy separately in its own pouch or case to prevent this from happening.

Temperature Considerations

Store your toys away from extreme temperatures. Excessive heat or cold can cause materials to break down. A temperature-controlled, dry space is ideal for keeping toys in top condition.

Storing Lubricants and Accessories

Store lubricants, charging cables, or other accessories separately from your toys. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent leaks or degradation.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Toys

Regular care and maintenance will go a long way in keeping your toys safe and functional. Here are some additional tips to help maintain your sex toys.

Regular Inspections

Regularly inspect your toys for any damage, wear, or signs of degradation. If a toy becomes damaged or develops cracks, it may be time to replace it to avoid safety hazards.

How Often to Clean Your Toys

It’s essential to clean your toys after every use, especially if you switch between different types of play or use the toys with multiple people. A regular cleaning routine will keep your toys safe and ready for your next session.

Proper Care for Rechargeable Toys

Rechargeable toys, such as vibrators and other electronic devices, require additional care. Ensure the charging ports and cables are dry before charging, and avoid getting the electronics wet while cleaning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning & Storing Sex Toys

There are a few common mistakes people often make when cleaning and storing their toys. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

Using Harsh Chemicals

Avoid using harsh soaps, perfumes, or chemicals when cleaning your toys. These can damage the materials and cause skin irritation.

Not Cleaning Thoroughly

Skipping the cleaning process or not cleaning your toys thoroughly can leave behind harmful bacteria, which could lead to infections.

Incorrect Storage Conditions

Storing your toys improperly, such as leaving them in damp or humid areas, can lead to mold, mildew, or material degradation. Always store toys in a dry, cool place.

Final Thought

By following these steps on how to clean and store your sex toys properly, you’ll not only keep them in great condition but also ensure your own health and safety. At Made in Heaven Sex Shop, we emphasize the importance of hygiene and proper maintenance for all your toys, helping you get the most out of your purchase. Follow the steps in this guide, and your toys will be as good as new, ready for your next session.

Take the time to care for your toys, and they will reward you with long-lasting performance and enjoyment.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Soap to Clean My Sex Toy?

Yes, mild, unscented soap can be used to clean most sex toys. However, it’s best to use a toy-safe cleaner for the best results.

How Do I Clean a Vibrator?

Vibrators should be cleaned with warm water and mild soap or toy cleaner. Be sure not to submerge the electronic parts in water.

Is it Safe to Share Sex Toys?

It’s safe to share sex toys if you clean and disinfect them thoroughly between uses. It’s also a good idea to use a condom on the toy if multiple people will be using it.

How Can I Remove Stubborn Lube Residue from My Toys?

Use a specialized toy cleaner or alcohol to remove stubborn lube or oil residue. You may also use soap and warm water for a deeper clean.

Can I Sterilize My Toys in Boiling Water?

Yes — if your toy is made of non-porous materials like 100% silicone, borosilicate glass, or stainless steel, you can sterilize it by placing it in boiling water for 3–5 minutes.
Just make sure:

  • The toy does not have a motor or electronic components.

  • It’s made from pure, body-safe materials (some silicone blends may not be boil-safe).

  • You let it cool completely before handling.

Looking to spice things up with your partner? Don’t miss our list of the Top 10 Must-Have Couples Sex Toys in 2025 to take your intimacy to the next level.

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