How to Clean and Care for Your Intimate Toys: A Complete Maintenance Guide

Your Toys Deserve Good Care — And So Do You

Proper toy care isn't just about keeping your products looking nice. It's a fundamental part of intimate health. A well-maintained toy is a safe toy — free from bacteria, mold, and material degradation that can cause irritation or infection.

The good news: caring for your intimate toys is simple once you know the basics. This guide covers everything you need to know.

Why Cleaning Matters

Intimate toys come into contact with your body's most sensitive areas. Without proper cleaning, bacteria, yeast, and other microorganisms can accumulate on the surface — even on non-porous toys. This can lead to infections, irritation, and discomfort. Cleaning before and after every use is non-negotiable.

Step 1: Know Your Toy's Material

Cleaning method depends on material. Before anything else, identify what your toy is made of:

• Non-porous materials (medical-grade silicone, ABS plastic, borosilicate glass, stainless steel): Can be thoroughly cleaned and, in many cases, sterilized.
• Porous materials (jelly, rubber, PVC, "cyberskin"): Cannot be fully sanitized. If you have toys made from these materials, always use a condom over them and replace them when possible.

Step 2: Choose the Right Cleaning Method

For Non-Motorized Silicone, Glass, and Stainless Steel Toys

These can be sterilized between uses (especially important if sharing between partners):

• Boil in water for 3–5 minutes
• Run through the dishwasher on the top rack (no soap, no heated dry)
• Wipe with a 10% bleach solution, then rinse thoroughly

For Motorized / Electronic Toys (Vibrators, Rechargeable Toys)

Never submerge the charging port or motor housing in water unless the toy is rated fully waterproof. Instead:

• Use a toy cleaner spray or foam specifically designed for intimate products
• Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild, unscented soap
• For waterproof toys, rinse under warm running water with mild soap
• Pat dry with a clean cloth or let air dry completely before storing

For ABS Plastic Toys

Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap, or use a toy cleaner. Do not boil or use bleach solutions on plastic.

Step 3: Use a Toy Cleaner

Dedicated intimate toy cleaners are formulated to be effective against bacteria without damaging toy materials or leaving residue that could irritate your skin. They're a convenient option, especially for travel. Look for alcohol-free, fragrance-free formulas.

Step 4: Dry Thoroughly Before Storing

Moisture is the enemy of toy longevity. Always allow your toy to dry completely before putting it away. Storing a damp toy can promote mold growth, especially in enclosed pouches or cases.

Step 5: Store Properly

How you store your toys matters:

• Store each toy separately to prevent material reactions (some materials can degrade when in contact with each other)
• Use the original packaging, a dedicated toy bag, or a clean cotton pouch
• Keep toys away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures
• Store in a cool, dry place

Many quality toys come with their own storage pouch — use it.

Step 6: Check for Wear and Damage

Before each use, inspect your toy for:

• Cracks, chips, or rough spots (especially on glass or hard plastic)
• Tears or stickiness in silicone (a sign of material degradation)
• Unusual odors
• Charging port damage

If you notice any of these, retire the toy. A damaged toy is not a safe toy.

Battery and Charging Care

• Charge your toy fully before first use
• Don't leave toys charging indefinitely — unplug once fully charged
• If storing for an extended period, charge to about 50% first
• For battery-operated toys, remove batteries when not in use to prevent corrosion

A Note on Lubricant Compatibility

Always use a lubricant that's compatible with your toy's material. Silicone-based lubricants can degrade silicone toys over time. When in doubt, use a water-based lubricant — it's safe with all materials.

Your Toys, Your Health

A little care goes a long way. With proper cleaning and storage, your intimate toys will last longer, perform better, and keep you safe. Browse our collection of toy cleaners and storage solutions to make maintenance effortless.