How to Clean and Maintain Your Intimate Toys

Proper cleaning and maintenance of your intimate toys isn't just about hygiene—though that's certainly the primary concern—it's also about protecting your investment and ensuring your products remain safe for use over their lifespan. Different materials require different care approaches, and understanding these distinctions is essential for every toy owner.

This guide provides comprehensive, material-specific cleaning instructions along with general best practices that apply regardless of what type of toy you own. Whether you're new to intimate products or simply want to verify you're caring for your items correctly, this information will help you maintain your toys in optimal condition.

Why Proper Cleaning Matters

Intimate toys, particularly those used for anal play, require thorough cleaning because they come into contact with bacteria that could cause infections if transferred or allowed to multiply. Even body-safe, non-porous materials need regular cleaning because bacteria, lubricant residue, and body fluids can remain on the surface.

Material-Specific Cleaning Guide

Silicone Toys

Silicone is the most common material for intimate toys, and fortunately, it's also one of the easiest to clean. Being non-porous means bacteria cannot penetrate the surface, making thorough cleaning straightforward.

Standard cleaning:

• Wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue
• Allow to air dry completely before storage

Deep cleaning (for non-motorised silicone toys only):

• Boil in water for 3-5 minutes
• Run through the top rack of a dishwasher (without detergent)
• Wipe with a 10% bleach solution, then rinse thoroughly

Stainless Steel Toys

Stainless steel is the easiest material to sterilise completely. Its smooth, non-porous surface makes it ideal for thorough cleaning.

Standard cleaning:

• Wash with warm water and mild soap
• Dry with a lint-free cloth to prevent water spots

Deep cleaning:

• Boil for 5-10 minutes
• Run through the dishwasher
• Wipe with isopropyl alcohol and rinse

Glass Toys

Borosilicate glass (the type used for quality intimate toys) is non-porous, hypoallergenic, and very easy to clean. It can withstand temperature extremes, making it suitable for thorough sterilisation.

Standard cleaning:

• Wash with warm water and mild soap
• Check carefully for any chips or cracks while cleaning
• Dry with a soft cloth

Deep cleaning:

• Boil for 5 minutes
• Run through the dishwasher
• Wipe with diluted bleach solution and rinse thoroughly

TPE/TPR Toys

Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and thermoplastic rubber (TPR) are softer alternatives to silicone. However, these materials are slightly porous, meaning they require more careful attention and can't be fully sterilised.

Cleaning:

• Wash with warm water and mild, antibacterial soap
• Use a dedicated toy cleaner for best results
• Dry completely—moisture can promote bacterial growth in porous materials
• Do not boil or expose to high heat

Due to their porous nature, TPE/TPR toys should be replaced more frequently than non-porous alternatives. Consider upgrading to silicone, steel, or glass for better hygiene.

Cleaning Motorised and Rechargeable Toys

Toys with motors, batteries, or charging ports require special care to avoid water damage:

• Check the product's water resistance rating (IPX ratings)
• Avoid submerging toys unless they're specifically rated for submersion
• Wipe with a damp cloth rather than running under water
• Keep charging ports and battery compartments dry
• Use specialised toy cleaners that don't require rinsing

About Toy Cleaners

Dedicated toy cleaners are convenient products that can make cleaning easier, particularly for motorised toys that can't be submerged. However, they're not strictly necessary if you're using soap and water properly.

When toy cleaners are useful:

• Quick clean-ups when water isn't convenient
• Motorised toys that can't be submerged
• Travel situations
• No-rinse formulas for convenience

If you use a toy cleaner, ensure it's compatible with your toy's material. Most quality cleaners are safe for all body-safe materials, but always check the label.

Drying and Storage

Proper drying and storage are just as important as cleaning:

Drying

• Allow toys to air dry completely before storage
• Use lint-free cloths for drying—regular towels can leave fibres
• Ensure all crevices and textures are dry

Storage

• Store each toy separately to prevent material reactions
• Use the storage bag or case that came with the toy
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Avoid storing in airtight containers if the toy isn't completely dry

When to Replace Your Toys

Even with proper care, toys don't last forever. Replace your toys if you notice:

• Changes in texture (becoming sticky, tacky, or hard)
• Discolouration that doesn't clean off
• Persistent odours even after thorough cleaning
• Cracks, chips, or tears in the material
• Motor malfunctions or battery issues
• Any degradation in material integrity

Quality toys from reputable manufacturers, when properly maintained, can last for years. However, lower-quality materials or porous products may need more frequent replacement.

Sharing Considerations

If you share toys with partners, additional precautions are warranted:

• Use barrier methods (condoms) on shared toys
• Clean thoroughly between users
• Consider having dedicated toys for each person
• Never share porous toys