How to Clean and Store Your Sex Toys: A Complete Guide to Toy Hygiene

Why Cleaning Your Sex Toys Matters

Proper sex toy hygiene isn’t just about keeping your toys in good condition — it’s essential for your health. Unclean toys can harbor bacteria, mold, and pathogens that can cause infections and irritation. The good news? Cleaning and storing your toys correctly is simple once you know the rules.

This guide covers everything you need to know — from material-specific cleaning methods to smart storage solutions — so your toys stay safe, hygienic, and long-lasting.

How to Clean Your Sex Toys

Step 1: Check the Material First

Different materials require different cleaning approaches. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning. Here’s a quick breakdown by material:

• Medical-grade silicone, stainless steel, borosilicate glass (non-motorized) — can be boiled for 3–5 minutes, run through the dishwasher (top rack, no detergent), or cleaned with a 10% bleach solution for full sterilization
• Medical-grade silicone with a motor — wipe down with warm water and mild soap or a dedicated toy cleaner; never submerge unless rated waterproof
• ABS plastic, acrylic, hard plastic — wipe with warm water and mild soap or toy cleaner; do not boil
• TPR, TPE, jelly rubber, PVC (porous materials) — clean with warm water and toy cleaner after every use; always use a condom with these materials as they cannot be fully sterilized
• Leather, fabric, rope — spot clean only; follow manufacturer instructions carefully

Step 2: Use the Right Cleaner

Always use a dedicated sex toy cleaner or mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid:

• Regular scented soaps — can cause irritation to sensitive skin
• Bleach — too harsh for most toy materials and can cause degradation
• Alcohol-based cleaners — can dry out and crack silicone and rubber materials
• Dishwasher detergent — too abrasive; only use the dishwasher without detergent

Step 3: Clean Thoroughly After Every Use

• Clean your toy before and after every use
• Pay special attention to ridges, textures, and crevices where bacteria can accumulate
• For motorized toys, avoid submerging the charging port unless the toy is rated fully waterproof
• Allow your toy to air dry completely before storing — moisture trapped in storage encourages bacterial growth

How to Store Your Sex Toys

The Golden Rules of Sex Toy Storage

• Store in a cool, dry place — away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can degrade materials over time
• Use individual storage bags or pouches — most quality toys come with a storage bag; if not, use a clean cotton or satin pouch
• Keep toys separate — some materials (especially silicone and rubber) can react with each other when stored in contact, causing degradation
• Avoid airtight plastic bags — these trap moisture and can promote bacterial growth; breathable fabric pouches are far better
• Remove batteries before storing — this prevents corrosion and extends battery life
• Store discreetly — a dedicated toy box or lockable case keeps everything organized and private

Lubricant Compatibility: A Quick Note

Using the wrong lubricant can damage your toys and shorten their lifespan:

• Silicone toys — use water-based lubricant only; silicone-based lubes can break down the surface of silicone toys
• Glass, metal, hard plastic — compatible with all lubricant types
• Porous materials (TPR, jelly) — water-based lubricant recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular soap to clean my sex toys?

Mild, fragrance-free soap is generally fine for most toys. Avoid heavily scented soaps, antibacterial soaps with harsh additives, or anything that could irritate sensitive skin. A dedicated toy cleaner is always the safest choice.

How often should I clean my sex toys?

Before and after every single use — no exceptions. Even if a toy looks clean, bacteria can be present on the surface.

Can I share sex toys with a partner?

Yes, but with precautions. For non-porous toys (silicone, glass, metal), clean thoroughly between uses. For porous toys (TPR, jelly, rubber), always use a fresh condom when sharing — these materials cannot be fully sterilized.

How do I know if my toy needs to be replaced?

Replace your toy if you notice discoloration, a strange smell, sticky or tacky texture, cracks, or peeling. These are signs of material degradation that can harbor bacteria and cause irritation.

The Bottom Line

A little care goes a long way. Clean your toys before and after every use, store them properly in breathable pouches, and always match your cleaning method to the material. Your toys — and your body — will thank you.

Looking for toy cleaners, storage bags, or body-safe lubricants? Browse our accessories collection for everything you need to keep your toys in perfect condition.