Pleasure & Knowledge: Tips, Guides & Expert Advice

Why Cleaning Your Sex Toys Matters More Than You Think

Let’s be real — cleaning your sex toys isn’t the most exciting part of owning them. But skipping it (or doing it wrong) can lead to anything from a funky smell to a full-blown bacterial infection.

Here’s the deal: dirty toys can cause UTIs, yeast infections, and skin irritation. And if you share toys with a partner, you’re also sharing bacteria and potential infections.

The good news? Proper cleaning takes less than 2 minutes and keeps your toys — and your body — in great shape. This guide covers everything you need to know, no matter what material your toy is made of.

Quick Answer: How to Clean Sex Toys in 4 Simple Steps

If you're in a hurry, here's the short version:

1. Unplug or remove batteries if your toy is electronic.

2. Rinse with warm water to remove surface residue.

3. Wash with mild, fragrance-free soap or a dedicated toy cleaner. Pay extra attention to ridges and textured areas.

4. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely with a clean, lint-free cloth or air dry.

Important: This method works for non-porous, waterproof toys (silicone, glass, metal, ABS plastic). Porous materials like TPE or jelly require extra care — keep reading to learn why.

Why Proper Hygiene Is Non-Negotiable

Sex toys come into direct contact with your body’s most sensitive areas. Without regular cleaning, they can collect:

• Bacteria (E. coli, staph, etc.)

• Yeast and fungi

• Old lubricant and body fluids

• Dust, lint, and skin cells

A 2017 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine tested 21 used sex toys and found bacterial growth on almost every single one. Proper cleaning dramatically reduces these risks.

Bottom line: Clean toys = happy body. It’s really that simple.

Material Matters: What Is Your Toy Made Of?

Not all sex toys are created equal — especially when it comes to cleaning. The material determines how you should clean it, what products you can use, and how long it will last.

Two Main Categories: Non-Porous vs. Porous

 

Non-Porous Materials

Silicone, glass, stainless steel, ABS plastic.

These are the gold standard for sex toys. Because they have no pores, bacteria can't get trapped inside. They're easy to clean and can even be sterilized.

Cleaning method:

• Soap and warm water, or toy cleaner

• Boil for 3-5 minutes (silicone, glass, metal only — check manufacturer first)

• Top-rack dishwasher (no detergent, high heat setting)

Warning on silicone: Cheap toys often claim to be silicone but aren't. Real silicone is slightly matte, not sticky, and passes the "lint test" (it shouldn't attract dust like jelly rubber does).

Porous Materials

TPE, TPR, jelly, PVC, Cyberskin, UR3.

These materials are softer and often cheaper — but they're porous, meaning microscopic holes trap bacteria. You can never fully sterilize them.

Cleaning method:

• Wash immediately after each use with warm water and toy cleaner — be thorough.

• Do NOT boil or put in dishwasher.

• Always use a condom with porous toys for better protection.

• Replace these toys every 6–12 months (or sooner if they develop odor or discoloration).

.

How to Clean Different Types of Sex Toys

Silicone, Glass, Metal & ABS Plastic (Non-Porous)

Routine cleaning:

1. Rinse with warm water.

2. Wash with mild, fragrance-free soap or toy cleaner.

3. Rinse thoroughly.

4. Dry with a clean towel or air dry.

Deep cleaning / sterilization (every 2–4 weeks, or after sharing):

• Boiling: Submerge in boiling water for 3–5 minutes (silicone, glass, or metal only — no electronics).

• Dishwasher: Place on the top rack, run on a high-temperature cycle with no detergent.

• 10% bleach solution: Mix 1 part bleach with 9 parts water. Wipe or soak for 5–10 minutes, then rinse EXTREMELY thoroughly.

• 70% isopropyl alcohol: Wipe down, then rinse well.

Note: Always check your toy's manual before using these sterilization methods — or contact the manufacturer if you're unsure.

TPE / TPR / Jelly (Porous Materials)

These require extra care because you can't fully sanitize them.

Cleaning steps:

1. Wash immediately after each use with warm water and toy cleaner.

2. Pay extra attention to crevices and textured areas.

3. Rinse completely.

4. Pat dry with a lint-free cloth — do NOT rub aggressively.

5. Let air dry completely before storing.

What NOT to do:

• ❌ Never boil or use the dishwasher

• ❌ Don't share porous toys without a condom

• ❌ Don't store them touching other materials (they can melt)

Lifespan: Replace every 6–12 months, or immediately if you notice:

• Persistent odor (even after cleaning)

• Discoloration

• Sticky or tacky texture

• Visible tears or damage

How to Clean a Vibrator (Waterproof vs. Non-Waterproof)

Waterproof Vibrators

Most modern vibrators are fully waterproof. Check the packaging or manual to confirm.

Steps:

1. Remove batteries or unplug from charging cable.

2. Close any charging port covers tightly.

3. Follow the standard cleaning method: warm water + soap or toy cleaner.

4. Pay attention to the seam where the silicone meets the handle.

5. Rinse, dry, and store.

Non-Waterproof or "Splashproof" Vibrators

These can't be submerged. Water inside will ruin the motor.

Steps:

1. Remove batteries immediately.

2. DO NOT run under water.

3. Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth.

4. Use an antibacterial toy wipe or spray (spray onto a cloth, not directly on the toy).

5. Let air dry completely before re-inserting batteries.

How to Clean a Male Masturbator (Pocket Pussy / Stroker)

Male masturbators are often made of porous TPE and require special attention.

Cleaning steps:

1. Rinse immediately after use with cool or lukewarm water (hot water can damage the material).

2. Flip the sleeve inside out if possible.

3. Apply toy cleaner or mild soap and gently work it into all surfaces.

4. Rinse thoroughly.

5. Dry completely — this is critical. Leave it inside-out until fully dry.

6. Once dry, dust with renewal powder (cornstarch-based, fragrance-free) to prevent stickiness.

Storage:

• Store inside-out or with a drying rod inserted.

• Never store folded or crumpled — it can permanently deform.

Read more →