Look, we all love a good time, but if you’re not cleaning your sex toys properly, you’re basically inviting bacteria to a party it definitely wasn’t invited to. And trust me, that’s not the kind of threesome you want. Keeping your toys clean isn’t just about being hygienic — it’s about protecting your body, making your expensive AF toys last longer, and ensuring that your next solo or partnered session doesn’t come with a side of infection.
Sex and relationship expert Alexa Johnston from Just Dildos (yes, that’s a real place, and yes, I am obsessed) puts it best: “Cleaning your sex toys should be as routine as washing your hands. It’s not something to feel weird about — it’s a way to take care of your body and make sure your toys are safe to use.” Amen, Alexa.
When it comes to sex toy hygiene, consistency is key. Always wash your toys right after you use them to prevent bacteria from settling in — letting them sit dirty is an easy way to invite infections. Use gentle, fragrance-free soap or a specialized toy cleaner to avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or alcohol, which can break down materials and irritate your skin. Rinse thoroughly to ensure no “residue” is left behind, especially because any leftover soap (or any other fluids) can cause irritation the next time you use it. After cleaning, let your toys air dry completely on a clean towel to prevent trapped moisture — otherwise you can end up with mold or bacterial growth… and that’s not very sexy!
Once your toy is dry, store it properly by keeping each toy in its own fabric pouch or designated container. This prevents material degradation and keeps everything in top condition. A cool, dry storage space — away from direct sunlight and extreme heat — will help your sex toy last even longer than you want your boyfriend to.
Johnston emphasizes that keeping your toys clean is an act of self-care. Taking proper care of them isn’t just about hygiene — it’s about respecting your body, protecting your investment, and ensuring your toys are always ready for whatever (or whoever) comes next.
How To Effectively Clean Each Type Of Sex Toy
Not all sex toys are created equal, which means they don’t all get cleaned the same way. Here’s the lowdown on how to care for your collection:
How To Clean Silicone Toys (A.K.A. The Gold Standard)
Silicone is non-porous, meaning it doesn’t hold onto bacteria. So to clean one of these toys, you’re going to want to wash it with warm water and unscented soap before and after use. If it’s fully waterproof and doesn’t have electronic parts, you can even boil it for 3–5 minutes or throw it in the dishwasher (top rack, no soap).
Glass & Stainless Steel Toys (For The Fancy Betches)
Easy to clean and aesthetically pleasing — like a high-end kitchen appliance, but, you know, for orgasms. Soap and water work just fine for these kinds of toys but if you want to be extra, you can boil them or pop them in the dishwasher.
Rubber, Jelly & Elastomer Toys (The High-Maintenance Ones)
These materials are porous, meaning they can trap bacteria like crazy. You’ll want to wash these ones gently with warm water and mild soap, and make sure they’re completely dry before storing them.
Battery-Operated & Electronic Toys (Treat Them Like Your iPhone)
You can’t just dunk these in water unless you want a very expensive, very sad mistake. Wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding the battery compartment. You can even use a toy cleaner spray in these cases.
How to Make Your Sex Toys Last Longer
The better you take care of your sex toys, the longer they’ll last. Always make sure to check your toys frequently for any cracks, chips, or wear — especially if they’re made of porous materials or have been in use for a long time. If a toy starts to show signs of damage, it’s best to replace it to avoid any health risks. You can always get a new sex toy, but your genitals? You’re going to want to preserve those.
Choosing the right lube is also super important. Water-based lubes are the safest option for most toys since silicone-based ones can degrade certain materials. And yes, even if a toy is brand new, always wash it before first use to remove any factory residue that might be left behind on the surface. The way you store your sex toys is just as important as cleaning — keeping toys separate in individual pouches or containers prevents material breakdown and ensures they remain in the best possible condition.
Johnston points out that while cleaning sex toys might feel like an extra chore, it’s actually a simple yet essential part of maintaining a healthy sex life. With the right care, your toys can stay safe, functional, and always ready for pleasure.
