Quick answer: Clean your sex toys before and after every use with warm water and a mild unscented soap or a dedicated toy cleaner. Rinse, pat dry with a lint-free cloth, let them air dry completely and store each toy separately in a cool, dry place.
Key takeaways
- Clean before and after every use.
- Check whether your toy is waterproof before rinsing it under the tap.
- Porous materials such as jelly and TPE need extra care and replacing more often.
- Store toys separately, away from heat and sunlight.
What you need
- Warm water
- Mild, unscented soap or a toy cleaner
- A clean, lint-free cloth or towel
- A storage pouch or box for each toy
How to clean a sex toy, step by step
- Switch it off. Remove batteries if it uses them.
- Check the waterproof rating. Waterproof toys (often marked IPX7) can be washed under running water. Splash-proof toys should only be wiped, keeping water away from the charging port.
- Wash. Use warm water and a little mild soap or toy cleaner. Pay attention to ridges and textures.
- Rinse. Remove all soap so it does not irritate sensitive skin.
- Dry. Pat dry, then let it air dry completely before storing it.
Cleaning by material
| Material | How to clean | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Silicone | Warm water and mild soap or toy cleaner | Non-motorised silicone toys can usually be boiled for a few minutes. Check the manufacturer’s advice first. |
| Glass and stainless steel | Warm water and soap | Non-porous and very hygienic. Avoid sudden temperature changes with glass. |
| TPE, TPR and jelly | Warm water and mild soap only | Porous, so dry thoroughly. Replace when sticky, cloudy or smelly. |
| Strokers and sleeves | Rinse the inside with warm water, then air dry | Make sure the inside is completely dry. A light dusting of renewing powder keeps the material soft. |
| Leather and fabric (restraints) | Spot clean with a damp cloth | Do not soak. Let it dry naturally away from heat. |
How to store your toys
- Keep each toy in its own pouch so materials do not react with each other.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Remove batteries from battery toys you are not using.
- Charge rechargeable toys every few months, even if you have not used them.
Toy cleaners we recommend
Our team’s go-to is the JO Refresh anti-bacterial toy cleaner, also available in a larger 207ml bottle. For a quick clean between uses, try the JO misting toy cleaner. For strokers, see our strokers range.
When to replace a toy
Replace a toy if it has cracks, tears, a sticky surface, cloudy patches or a smell that will not wash off. Porous toys usually need replacing sooner than silicone, glass or steel. If you are shopping for a longer-lasting replacement, see our beginner’s buying guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I clean sex toys with regular soap?
Yes, a mild and unscented soap is fine for most toys. Avoid harsh, scented or antibacterial hand soaps, which can irritate skin and damage some materials.
Can I put my sex toy in the dishwasher?
Only non-motorised silicone, glass or stainless steel toys, and only if the manufacturer says it is safe. Never put a toy with a motor or battery in the dishwasher.
How often should I clean my sex toys?
Before and after every use. Cleaning before use removes dust and lint picked up in storage.
Can I use silicone lube with silicone toys?
It is best to avoid it. Silicone lube can damage the surface of silicone toys. Use a water-based lube instead.
Can I boil a vibrator?
No. Never boil a toy that has a motor, battery or charging port. Only solid, non-motorised silicone, glass or stainless steel toys can be boiled, and only if the manufacturer allows it.
How do I clean a stroker or Fleshlight?
Rinse the inside with warm water, gently separate the textures, then let it air dry completely before storing. A light dusting of renewing powder keeps the material soft.
Need help choosing? Call us on 1800 249 569 or visit our Carrum Downs store. Every order ships in discreet, unbranded packaging, with free standard shipping on orders over $100.
