Keeping your sex toys clean isn't just about hygiene—it's about protecting your health, extending the life of your products, and ensuring every experience is as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Whether you own a vibrator, dildo, male masturbator, anal toy, or couples toy, proper cleaning is essential. Different materials require different care, and using the wrong cleaning method can damage your toy or reduce its lifespan.

In this complete 2026 guide, we'll show you exactly how to clean your sex toys safely, what products to use, what to avoid, and how to store them correctly so they stay in excellent condition.

Why Cleaning Your Sex Toys Matters

Cleaning your sex toys after every use helps to:

• Remove bodily fluids and lubricant residue.
• Reduce the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mould.
• Prevent unpleasant odours.
• Protect delicate materials from deterioration.
• Extend the life of your favourite toys.
• Keep every experience hygienic and enjoyable.

Even if you're the only person using a toy, regular cleaning is still essential.

How Often Should You Clean Your Sex Toys?

The answer is simple:

Before first use: Always wash a new toy before using it.

After every use: Clean immediately after each session.

Before sharing: If a toy is shared between partners (or used on different parts of the body), clean it thoroughly between uses or use a new condom over the toy.

Never move a toy from anal use to vaginal use without thoroughly cleaning it first.

What You'll Need

For most toys, cleaning is straightforward. You'll generally need:

• Warm water
• Mild, fragrance-free soap
• A soft, lint-free cloth
• A clean towel
• A dedicated sex toy cleaner (optional but recommended)

Avoid harsh household cleaning products unless the manufacturer specifically recommends them.

How to Clean Silicone Sex Toys

Medical-grade silicone is one of the safest and easiest materials to maintain.

Steps

1. Rinse with warm water.
2. Apply a small amount of mild soap or toy cleaner.
3. Gently clean every surface.
4. Rinse thoroughly.
5. Pat dry with a clean towel.
6. Allow the toy to air dry completely before storing.

Silicone toys are durable, but always check the manufacturer's instructions before using high-temperature cleaning methods.

How to Clean Glass & Stainless Steel Toys

Non-porous materials such as borosilicate glass and stainless steel are among the easiest to sanitise.

1. Wash with warm water and mild soap.
2. Rinse thoroughly.
3. Dry completely.

Some non-electronic glass and stainless steel toys can also be sanitised using boiling water if the manufacturer confirms they are suitable for this method.

Never boil toys containing batteries, motors, charging ports, or electronic components.

How to Clean TPE & Realistic Toys

Realistic strokers and sleeves made from TPE or similar materials require extra care.

These materials are softer and more porous than silicone.

After use:

• Rinse with warm water.
• Use only a small amount of gentle soap or toy cleaner.
• Avoid scrubbing aggressively.
• Let the toy dry completely inside and out.
• Dust lightly with renewing powder (if recommended by the manufacturer) to help maintain the material.

Never store realistic toys while they're still damp.

How to Clean Male Masturbators

Male masturbators often have textured internal sleeves that require thorough cleaning.

Follow these steps:

1. Remove the sleeve if it's removable.
2. Rinse the inside with warm water.
3. Use toy cleaner or mild soap.
4. Turn the sleeve inside out if the manufacturer says it's safe to do so.
5. Allow it to air dry completely before reassembling.

Taking the time to dry the sleeve fully helps prevent trapped moisture and unwanted odours.

How to Clean Vibrators

Waterproof vibrators are generally the easiest to clean.

• Wash with warm water and mild soap.
• Avoid soaking toys that are only splash-resistant.
• Dry carefully around charging ports.
• Never charge the toy until it is completely dry.

Always check the toy's waterproof rating before rinsing it under running water.

How to Clean Anal Toys

Anal toys should be cleaned immediately after every use.

Wash them with:

• Warm water
• Mild soap or toy cleaner
• Extra attention to grooves, textures, and bases

Only use anal toys with a flared base for safe use.

If you switch between anal and vaginal use, clean the toy thoroughly first or use a fresh condom over the toy.

Can You Use Soap?

Yes—but choose wisely.

A gentle, fragrance-free soap is generally suitable for most body-safe toys.

Avoid:

• Bleach
• Alcohol-based cleaners
• Acetone
• Abrasive cleaning products
• Strong antibacterial household chemicals

These can damage the toy or irritate sensitive skin.

Can You Boil Sex Toys?

Only certain toys.

Generally suitable:

• Solid silicone (if approved by the manufacturer)
• Stainless steel
• Borosilicate glass (without electronic components)

Never boil:

• Vibrators
• Rechargeable toys
• Battery-operated toys
• Toys containing motors or electronics

When in doubt, follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

Drying Your Toys Properly

Drying is just as important as washing.

After cleaning:

• Pat the toy dry with a clean towel.
• Leave it to air dry completely.
• Ensure no moisture remains in textured areas or sleeves.
• Never store damp toys.

Proper drying helps reduce the risk of mould and unpleasant smells.

How to Store Your Sex Toys

Good storage keeps your toys clean and helps preserve their materials.

Store them:

• In a clean, dry place.
• Away from direct sunlight.
• In individual storage bags or pouches.
• Away from excessive heat.
• Separated from other silicone toys where recommended by the manufacturer.

Keeping toys separate also helps prevent scratches and reduces the chance of material reactions between different products.

Common Cleaning Mistakes

Avoid these common errors:

❌ Not cleaning toys after every use

❌ Storing toys while damp

❌ Using harsh household chemicals

❌ Ignoring the manufacturer's cleaning instructions

❌ Sharing toys without cleaning them

❌ Forgetting to clean charging ports and handles

A few extra minutes of care can significantly extend the life of your toys.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baby wipes?

Baby wipes may remove surface residue but are not a substitute for proper washing.

Can I clean toys in the dishwasher?

Only if the manufacturer explicitly states the toy is dishwasher-safe and it contains no electronic components.

Do I need a dedicated sex toy cleaner?

Not always. Warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap are suitable for many toys. A purpose-made toy cleaner can be a convenient option, especially for quick clean-ups or travel.

How long should I let my toy dry?

Until it is completely dry inside and out. The exact time depends on the toy's material and design.

Final Thoughts

Looking after your sex toys is one of the easiest ways to protect your health, improve hygiene, and get the most from your purchase. By cleaning your toys after every use, drying them thoroughly, and storing them correctly, you can help them stay in excellent condition for years to come.

Whether you're using a vibrator, male masturbator, couples toy, dildo, or anal toy, proper care only takes a few minutes and makes a big difference.

At Variety Pleasure, we're committed to helping Australians enjoy high-quality intimate products with confidence. Explore our range of body-safe toys, lubricants, and toy care essentials to keep your collection clean, comfortable, and ready whenever you are.