How to Clean Sex Toys?

The Only Guide You’ll Ever Need

No one wants a dirty sex toy; we all know that. If you’ve just bought your first vibrator or you’ve got a drawer full of LELO, Satisfyer or Tenga toys, cleaning them properly is a must. It’s not only about hygiene. It’s about keeping your toys safe to use, making them last longer and making sure they feel just as good every time.

This blog post will show you step by step how to clean sex toys such as vibrators, dildos, anal toys, pocket pussies and more. There’s no complicated stuff here, simply clear advice you can follow right away.

Why Is It Important to Clean Your Sex Toys?

Sex toys touch the most private parts of your body. If you don’t clean them properly, a few problems can happen:

• Infections such as Bacteria, yeast, and viruses can stick to your toy and get back into your body.

• Bad smells. Toys that aren’t cleaned can start to smell.

• The toy is damaged. This occurs when materials deteriorate more quickly due to improper cleaning methods or no cleaning at all.

• Shorter toy life. A good toy should last for years if you properly look after it.

Porous and Non-Porous Sex Toys 

How you clean your toy depends a lot on what it’s made of.

• Non-porous toys are made from materials like medical-grade silicone, glass, stainless steel, or ABS plastic. Because they don't absorb liquids, they are safer, simpler to clean, and, with the right maintenance, can last for many years.

• Porous toys are made from materials like jelly, rubber, cyberskin or cheaper TPE. They have tiny holes in them that can hold bacteria and fluids. Some germs can remain even after a good cleaning. These toys can also wear out faster, start smelling bad or become sticky.

If you’re using porous toys, always clean them carefully after each use, allow them to dry really well and use a condom over them, especially if you’re sharing with a partner. If you want the safest and easiest option, stick with non-porous toys like silicone vibrators, glass dildos or stainless steel plugs.

Right Ways to Clean Different Types of Sex Toys

Every different toy needs a somewhat different cleaning method. Let us take you through them:

How to Clean a Vibrator

Vibrators often have motors inside, so you can’t always dunk them in water.

Steps to follow:

1. You need to check if it’s waterproof. Look at the packaging or the brand’s website (many LELO and Satisfyer vibrators are waterproof).

2. If the toy is waterproof, you can wash the whole thing with warm water and soap. You can also use a toy cleaner.

3. If it’s not waterproof, use a damp cloth and soap with a toy cleaner to wipe it. But you have to carefully avoid getting water near charging ports or batteries.

4. Dry it with a clean and soft towel.

How to Clean a Dildo

Dildos are usually simple to clean since many don’t have motors.

• Silicone, glass or stainless steel: Wash with warm water and soap. If they don’t have any electrical parts, you can even boil them in water for 3 to 5 minutes for a really good clean.

• Rubber or jelly dildos: These are porous, so bacteria can stay inside. Wash thoroughly every time and think about using a condom on them.

How to Clean a Pocket Pussy (Masturbator)

Pocket pussies like Tenga or Clone A Willy are soft and often textured inside, so they need special care.

Steps to follow:

1. If possible, turn it inside out.

2. Wash your toys immediately after use with warm water.

3. Use soap or a proper adult toy cleaner to clean better.

4. Allow it to air dry well because moisture loves to cause mould.

5. Once dry, sprinkle it with renewal powder or plain cornstarch to keep the texture smooth and prevent stickiness.

How to Clean Anal Toys

Anal toys need extra care because of the bacteria involved.

• Wash with hot water and soap before and after every use.

• Use a safe adult toy cleaner for extra protection.

• Dry completely before storing.

• If the toy is made of porous material, use a condom on it for safety.

How to Clean Silicone Sex Toys

Silicone is one of the safest materials because it’s non-porous and body-safe.

• Wash with soap and warm water.

• For a really good clean, boil for a few minutes only if there’s no motor inside.

• Avoid silicone-based lubricants, as they can damage the toy.

The Best Cleaning Products to Use

Not every cleaner is safe, so let’s talk about what works and what doesn’t.

Safe to use:

• Mild and unscented soap

• Warm water

• Specialised adult toy cleaner (brands like Pjur, Wetstuff, and LELO make good ones)

Avoid these:

• Bleach

• Vinegar

• Alcohol wipes

• Harsh household cleaners (they can damage your toys and irritate your skin)

How to Dry and Store Your Toys

Washing is only one part of the job. Proper drying and storage matter too. 

• Dry your toys completely using a soft towel or let them air-dry. You should never store a toy while it’s damp.

• Keep toys in their own pouches or containers. Many brands, like Womanizer and LifeStyles, include storage bags. Separate storage helps protect toys.

• Silicone toys can attract lint and dust. So you need to keep the dust away.  A pouch keeps them clean.

• Store all your toys in a cool and dry place. Your toys must avoid sunlight and damp areas.

Common Problems And Easy Fixes

My vibrator smells weird even after washing.

It was probably stored while still damp. Wash it again, dry properly and spray with toy cleaner.

Can I just use normal cleaning spray?

No. Most household cleaners are too harsh. So stick to soap or toy cleaner.

My pocket pussy feels sticky now.

That happens over time. You need to wash, dry and then dust with renewal powder or cornstarch.

Do I have to clean it every time I use it?

Yes. It’s like eating off the same plate; you wouldn’t use it again without washing it.

Quick FAQs

Q: Can I share sex toys with my partner?
A: Yes, but always use a condom over the toy to avoid spreading bacteria or STIs.

Q: How often should I replace my sex toys?
A: Non-porous toys like silicone, glass or steel can last for years. Porous toys (rubber, jelly, cyberskin) should be replaced more often.

Q: What’s the easiest way to clean when I’m travelling?
A: Carry a small adult toy cleaner spray and a clean towel.

Cleaning your toys isn’t extra work; it’s part of taking care of yourself. 

If you’re using a high-end LELO vibrator, a Tenga pocket pussy, or a simple silicone dildo, proper cleaning means safer play, longer life for your toys and much better pleasure.

So don’t skip it. Wash, dry, store and repeat. 

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