Proper care for your adult toys isn't just about hygiene—it's about protecting your health, extending the life of your products, and ensuring safe, pleasurable experiences every time. Whether you own one vibrator or an entire collection, knowing how to clean, store, and maintain your intimate products is essential. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about sex toy care in 2025.
Why Proper Sex Toy Care Matters
Caring for your adult toys properly provides multiple benefits including preventing bacterial infections and health issues, extending the lifespan of your products, maintaining optimal performance and functionality, protecting your investment in quality products, and ensuring safe, hygienic intimate experiences. Neglecting toy care can lead to bacterial growth, material degradation, motor failure, and potential health risks. A few minutes of proper care after each use protects both your health and your investment.
How to Clean Different Sex Toy Materials
Cleaning Silicone Sex Toys
Medical-grade silicone is the most common material in quality sex toys. It's non-porous, body-safe, and relatively easy to clean. Learn more about why silicone is the gold standard in our guide to body-safe sex toy materials.
Basic cleaning: Wash with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap immediately after use. Pay special attention to textured areas, ridges, and seams where bacteria can hide. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
Deep cleaning: For non-motorised silicone toys, you can boil them for 3-5 minutes for complete sterilisation. Alternatively, place them on the top rack of your dishwasher (no detergent). For motorised silicone toys like rechargeable vibrators, stick to soap and water or toy cleaner—never submerge unless they're fully waterproof.
Important: Only use water-based lubricant with silicone toys, as silicone-based lubes can degrade the material over time. Read more about why lubricant matters for toy care and pleasure.
Cleaning Glass and Stainless Steel Toys
Glass and stainless steel are the easiest materials to clean and sterilise.
Basic cleaning: Wash with warm water and soap, or use dedicated toy cleaner. These materials are non-porous and don't harbour bacteria.
Deep cleaning: Boil for 3-5 minutes, place in the dishwasher (top rack), or use a 10% bleach solution (rinse thoroughly afterwards). Glass and steel can withstand high temperatures and harsh cleaning methods.
Storage note: Wrap glass toys in soft cloth to prevent chips or cracks during storage.
Cleaning ABS Plastic and Hard Plastic Toys
ABS plastic is commonly used for vibrator casings and hard components.
Basic cleaning: Wipe down with toy cleaner or mild soap and water. For motorised toys, avoid submerging unless they're waterproof. Use a damp cloth to clean around buttons and charging ports.
Deep cleaning: For waterproof plastic toys, you can submerge in warm soapy water. Non-waterproof toys should be wiped down carefully, keeping water away from electronic components.
Cleaning Porous Materials (If You Must)
Porous materials like TPE, TPR, or jelly rubber cannot be fully sterilised. If you own toys made from these materials, use condoms over them during use and replace them regularly. Clean with soap and water, but understand that bacteria can still harbour in the porous surface.
Better option: Invest in body-safe, non-porous materials like silicone instead. Our body-safe materials guide explains why this matters for your health. Browse our women's and men's collections for quality, body-safe options.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Before First Use
Always clean new toys before first use, even though they come packaged. Manufacturing and packaging processes can leave residue or contaminants. Wash thoroughly with soap and water or toy cleaner, rinse completely, and dry before use. If you're new to sex toys, check out our beginner's guide for more tips.
After Each Use
1. Clean immediately: Don't let bodily fluids dry on your toys. Clean as soon as possible after use.
2. Rinse with warm water: Remove any lubricant or bodily fluids with warm (not hot) water.
3. Apply cleaner: Use mild soap or dedicated toy cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals, antibacterial soaps with triclosan, or anything with fragrance.
4. Scrub gently: Use your hands or a soft cloth to clean all surfaces, paying attention to textured areas, seams, and crevices.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Remove all soap residue, as leftover soap can cause irritation during next use.
6. Dry completely: Pat dry with a clean, lint-free towel or air dry completely before storage. Moisture can promote bacterial growth.
Deep Cleaning Schedule
In addition to cleaning after each use, deep clean your toys monthly (for non-motorised, non-porous toys). This involves boiling, dishwasher sterilisation, or using a 10% bleach solution followed by thorough rinsing.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Products
Dedicated Toy Cleaners
Toy cleaners are formulated specifically for intimate products. They're pH-balanced, body-safe, and effective at removing bacteria without damaging materials. Browse our essentials collection for quality toy cleaners.
Benefits: Designed for intimate use, won't damage toy materials, often antibacterial, convenient spray or foam formats, and pH-balanced for safety.
Mild Soap and Water
Unscented, mild soap works well for most toys. Choose fragrance-free, dye-free options without harsh chemicals or antibacterial agents (unless specifically recommended for toys).
Good options: Castile soap, gentle hand soap, or baby wash (fragrance-free).
What to Avoid
Never use harsh chemicals or bleach (except for glass/steel deep cleaning), antibacterial soaps with triclosan, scented or dyed soaps, alcohol-based cleaners on silicone, abrasive scrubbers or brushes, or extremely hot water on motorised toys.
Proper Storage for Sex Toys
Why Storage Matters
Proper storage prevents material degradation, keeps toys clean between uses, protects electronic components, prevents damage from contact with other materials, and maintains privacy and discretion. If you're travelling with your toys, read our complete airport security guide for safe transport tips.
Storage Best Practices
Store separately: Keep each toy in its own storage bag or container. Silicone toys touching each other can cause material degradation. Different materials can react with each other, causing damage.
Use breathable storage: Fabric pouches or breathable bags prevent moisture buildup. Avoid sealed plastic bags that trap moisture and promote bacterial growth.
Keep in cool, dry places: Avoid direct sunlight, which can degrade materials. Store away from extreme temperatures. Keep in low-humidity environments to prevent mould.
Protect delicate items: Wrap glass toys in soft cloth to prevent chips or breaks. Store toys with flexible parts carefully to avoid bending or warping.
Maintain privacy: Use lockable storage boxes if needed. Consider discreet storage solutions that don't advertise their contents. Our discreet shopping guide also covers privacy considerations.
Storage Solutions
Individual pouches: Soft fabric bags for each toy, often included with quality products, washable and reusable.
Storage boxes: Dedicated sex toy storage boxes with compartments, lockable options for privacy, and discreet designs.
Drawer organisers: Compartmentalised drawer inserts, keeps toys separated and organised, and works in bedside tables or dressers.
Original packaging: If you have space, original boxes provide excellent protection, though they're not always discreet or space-efficient.
Battery and Charging Care
Rechargeable Toys
Most modern quality toys are rechargeable, like those in our rechargeable collection. Smart sex toys and app-controlled devices require special attention—learn more in our guide to AI and smart sex toy technology.
Charging best practices: Charge fully before first use. Don't leave plugged in continuously after full charge. Recharge before battery completely depletes. Clean charging ports gently with dry cloth. Store with partial charge (40-60%) if not using for extended periods.
Battery lifespan: Rechargeable batteries typically last 2-5 years with proper care. If your toy won't hold a charge, it may be time for replacement.
Battery-Operated Toys
If you have battery-operated toys, remove batteries during storage to prevent corrosion and battery leakage. Replace batteries regularly, even if toy still works. Check battery compartments for corrosion during cleaning.
Maintaining Different Toy Types
Vibrators and Motorised Toys
Keep charging ports clean and dry. Check for loose parts or unusual sounds. Test waterproof seals periodically. Store in moderate temperatures to protect motors. Don't drop or subject to impact. If you're choosing your first vibrator, our top 10 vibrators for beginners guide can help.
Penis Pumps
Clean cylinders thoroughly after each use. Check seals for wear and replace as needed. Inspect valves and pumps for proper function. Store in protective cases to prevent damage. Lubricate moving parts occasionally with appropriate lubricant. For detailed care instructions, see our penis pump safety guide.
Glass and Metal Toys
Inspect for chips, cracks, or sharp edges before each use. Wrap in soft cloth for storage. Avoid dropping or impacting hard surfaces. Can be stored indefinitely with proper care.
Rabbit Vibrators and Dual-Stimulation Toys
Pay extra attention to cleaning between dual motors and textured areas. Store carefully to avoid bending flexible parts. Clean both internal and external components thoroughly.
When to Replace Your Sex Toys
Signs It's Time for Replacement
Replace your toys if you notice visible cracks, tears, or damage to material, strange odours that don't wash away, discolouration or material degradation, motor failure or inconsistent vibration, battery won't hold charge, or any sharp edges or rough spots.
Typical Lifespan
With proper care, quality silicone toys can last 5-10+ years, rechargeable motors typically last 2-5 years, glass and steel toys can last indefinitely, and porous materials should be replaced every 6-12 months. Learn more about choosing quality products that last.
Safety First
Never use damaged toys. Even small tears in silicone can harbour bacteria. Compromised materials pose health risks. When in doubt, replace it.
Travel Care for Sex Toys
Packing for Travel
Clean thoroughly before packing. Store in individual pouches or cases. Remove batteries or ensure toys are fully off. Pack in checked luggage to avoid awkward security situations. Consider travel-friendly options that are compact and discreet. For comprehensive travel tips, read our airport security guide.
Cleaning While Travelling
Bring travel-size toy cleaner. Use hotel soap if necessary (mild, unscented). Dry thoroughly before repacking. Store separately from clothing to avoid moisture transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Toy Care
How often should I clean my sex toys?
Clean before and after every single use, without exception. Deep clean non-motorised, non-porous toys monthly. Replace cleaning cloths and storage pouches regularly.
Can I use hand sanitiser to clean sex toys?
No. Hand sanitiser contains alcohol and other ingredients that can damage toy materials and irritate intimate areas. Stick to soap and water or dedicated toy cleaner.
How do I clean a waterproof vibrator?
Waterproof vibrators can be fully submerged in warm soapy water. Clean thoroughly, including around buttons and seams. Rinse completely and dry before storage. Check waterproof seals periodically.
Can I share sex toys with my partner?
Yes, but clean thoroughly between uses or use condoms over the toy. For complete safety, each person should have their own toys, especially for penetrative use. If you're considering introducing toys with your partner, read our guide on talking to your partner about sex toys.
What's the best way to store sex toys discreetly?
Use lockable storage boxes, drawer organisers in bedside tables, fabric pouches in regular drawers, or dedicated storage furniture designed for discretion. Our discreet shopping guide has more privacy tips.
Do I need special cleaner or is soap enough?
Mild soap and water works fine for most toys. Dedicated toy cleaners offer convenience and are formulated specifically for intimate use, but aren't strictly necessary if you use appropriate soap.
Creating a Toy Care Routine
After Each Use
Rinse immediately with warm water. Clean with soap or toy cleaner. Rinse thoroughly. Dry completely. Store in individual pouch or container.
Monthly Maintenance
Deep clean non-motorised, non-porous toys. Inspect all toys for damage. Check rechargeable batteries. Wash storage pouches. Organise and declutter collection.
Annual Review
Assess which toys you actually use. Replace damaged or degraded items. Upgrade to better quality if needed. Donate or dispose of unused toys responsibly.
Investing in Quality Means Easier Care
Quality sex toys made from body-safe materials are easier to clean, last longer, and provide better value over time. When you invest in medical-grade silicone, glass, or stainless steel toys, you're investing in products that can be properly sterilised and will serve you well for years. Learn more about what makes materials body-safe.
Browse our collections of women's toys, men's products, and couples' items to find quality, body-safe options that are built to last. Don't forget to stock up on cleaning supplies and storage solutions to keep your collection in perfect condition.
Related Reading
Expand your intimate wellness knowledge with these helpful guides:
- The Beginner's Guide to Sex Toys in Australia
- Safe, Body-Friendly Materials: What to Look for When Buying Adult Toys
- The Science Behind Lube: Why It's More Essential Than You Think
- 5 Ways to Prioritise Intimate Wellness in Your Daily Routine
- Travelling with Adult Toys: Your Complete Airport Security Guide
Final Thoughts on Sex Toy Care
Proper care for your adult toys protects your health, extends product lifespan, and ensures every intimate experience is safe and pleasurable. By following these cleaning, storage, and maintenance guidelines, you're investing in your sexual wellness and getting the most value from your intimate products. Make toy care a non-negotiable part of your intimate routine—your body and your toys will thank you.