Personalised collars & toys
Sex toys are designed for intimate use, so keeping them clean is an important part of looking after both your toys and your personal hygiene. The good news is that cleaning most toys is quick and straightforward once you know what material they are made from.
Whether you use a vibrator, dildo, butt plug, cock ring or another type of intimate toy, a few simple cleaning habits can help keep it fresh, hygienic and ready for next time.
Sex toys can come into contact with natural bodily fluids, lubricants and bacteria during use. If they are not cleaned properly, bacteria can remain on the surface and potentially cause irritation or contribute to infections.
Cleaning your toys after each use is therefore a simple habit worth getting into. It also helps prevent lubricant residue and other build-up from affecting the toy's surface over time.
Before reaching for soap or disinfectant, check the manufacturer's cleaning instructions and identify the toy's material.
Non-porous materials such as silicone, glass and stainless steel are generally easier to clean thoroughly because they do not absorb fluids into their surface.
Some softer or porous materials require more careful cleaning. If you are unsure what your toy is made from, check the product packaging or manufacturer's information before cleaning it.
For many waterproof, non-electronic toys, cleaning is as simple as:
Avoid very hot water unless the manufacturer specifically says it is suitable. Excessive heat can damage some materials and electronic components.
Electronic toys need a little more care.
If the toy is rechargeable or battery powered, check whether it is waterproof before getting it wet. A toy described as splashproof is not necessarily suitable for submerging.
For a non-waterproof vibrator, use a damp cloth or suitable toy cleaner rather than placing the entire toy under running water. Keep charging ports, battery compartments and controls dry unless the manufacturer states otherwise.
If the toy has removable parts, clean each part according to the manufacturer's instructions.
A dedicated sex toy cleaner can be convenient, particularly when you want something quick and easy to use.
However, you do not necessarily need a specialist cleaner for every toy. Mild, unscented soap and warm water are suitable for many washable toys.
Avoid harsh household cleaners, bleach, solvents and heavily fragranced products. These can damage some materials or leave residues that may irritate sensitive skin.
If a toy is shared between partners, cleaning becomes even more important.
Clean the toy thoroughly between users. For toys that are difficult to clean completely, using a fresh condom over the toy between users can provide an additional hygiene barrier.
If a toy is used between different areas of the body, clean it thoroughly before moving it from one area to another.
Small areas are easy to overlook. Pay particular attention to:
Take your time and make sure the toy is completely dry before putting it away.
Cleaning is only half the job. Proper storage helps keep your toys clean between uses.
Store each toy somewhere cool, dry and away from direct sunlight. A dedicated storage pouch or clean container can help protect the toy from dust and contact with other materials.
Avoid storing different silicone toys pressed tightly against each other unless the manufacturer confirms they are compatible. Some materials can react when stored together and become sticky or damaged.
Remove batteries from toys that will not be used for an extended period if recommended by the manufacturer.
The easiest approach is to make cleaning part of your normal routine:
Use → Clean → Rinse → Dry → Store
It only takes a few minutes for most toys, and doing it straight away is usually much easier than dealing with dried lubricant or residue later.
Even well-maintained toys do not last forever. Consider replacing a toy if you notice cracks, splits, peeling, significant changes in texture, exposed wiring or other damage.
Damaged surfaces can be harder to clean properly and may harbour bacteria.
When in doubt, follow the manufacturer's care instructions for that particular toy and material.
A mild, unscented soap is suitable for many washable sex toys. Always check the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations first.
Only if the manufacturer confirms that it is waterproof and suitable for immersion. Waterproof and splashproof are not the same thing.
Ideally, both. Cleaning before use removes anything that may have accumulated during storage, while cleaning afterwards removes lubricant and bodily fluids.
Yes, but clean it thoroughly between users. For toys that are difficult to clean completely, a fresh condom can provide an additional hygiene barrier.
Use a clean, lint-free towel and allow the toy to air dry completely before storing it. Avoid putting a damp toy straight into a storage pouch or container.
Looking after your sex toys does not have to be complicated. Identify the material, follow the manufacturer's instructions, use gentle cleaning products and make sure the toy is completely dry before storing it.
A few minutes of care after each use can help keep your favourite toys clean, fresh and in good condition for longer.