Are you storing your toys properly? 

First, make sure the toys are properly cleaned and DRY

Storing a wet toy can lead to mildew growth, and that’s definitely something you want to avoid. Start by thoroughly washing and disinfecting your toys, making this your first priority after use. Next, let them air dry completely—skip the towel, as it can leave behind lint and fuzz that may damage the surface. Once your toy is dry, it’s time to consider its material.

Knowing the material of your toy is crucial because it directly affects how you should store it. Each toy typically comes with a care guide that outlines proper cleaning and storage methods. If you don’t have the guide, you can usually find material information on the product’s webpage or packaging. I recommend learning about the toy’s material before purchasing it, as certain materials can be harmful or difficult to care for.

If you’re guilty of just tossing your toys into a bedside drawer (or any drawer), it’s time to stop. Many toys come with handy dust bags—those little cloth pouches that are easy to overlook but incredibly useful. Don’t throw them out; use them! These bags help keep your toys clean by protecting them from dust, dirt, pet hair, and bacteria. If you have pets like I do—my Shepherd sheds like crazy—you’ll understand why this step is important. And remember, always wash your toys both before and after each use to ensure they stay safe and hygienic.

If you don’t have a cloth bag, a simple piece of cloth will work just fine. While it’s a budget-friendly option, cloth bags aren’t expensive, and honestly, if you’re already investing in quality toys, spending a few extra dollars to protect them is well worth it.

avoid storing in plastic bags or containers

Storing toys improperly can be incredibly dangerous because harmful chemicals can leak into them, and those chemicals will eventually end up in your body. This risk is especially high with porous materials like jelly toys, which absorb chemicals more easily.

If you want a safer, more secure option, consider lockable storage boxes. These boxes range in price from $20 to $200+ and come with various features to suit different needs. You can choose from a range of sizes, lock mechanisms, and compartment designs, allowing you to store multiple toys neatly and safely. Plus, if discretion matters to you, these boxes are a great choice—they look like regular lock boxes, so no one will suspect your “dirty little secret.” As a bonus, many of these boxes include an antibacterial lining, providing extra protection for your toys.

Do not store them together unless they are glass, metal, or wood, or Silicone

TPE, rubber, and jelly toys can melt when they come into contact with each other, ruining the toys and making them unsafe to use. To prevent this, I usually store them in the bags they come with, but you can also wrap them in cloth. In some cases, I keep the original boxes and store the toys in them until they get their own proper bags.

When it comes to vibrators, always remove the batteries after use. Leaving them in can cause corrosion, which will not only damage the toy but also kill the batteries. I didn’t realize this until recently, and it explains why some of my cheaper toys stopped working.

Check your toys after use and before storing them.

They do break down over time, and it’s crucial to inspect them regularly for any signs of wear or degradation. Materials can crack or split, charging port covers on waterproof vibrators can come loose, and other issues can arise. Your safety is in your hands, so it’s essential to make sure everything is functioning properly before use.

As for my own storage habits, I don’t personally use the lock box method, but I make sure each toy gets its own bag. If it doesn’t come with a bag, I store it in the original box to keep everything separate and organized. I also prefer storing my toys in a cloth drawer instead of a plastic one, as the latter can trap moisture and cause issues with the materials over time.

Proper storage and maintenance ensure that your toys last longer, remain safe to use, and continue to provide enjoyment. By taking a few simple steps, you can protect your investment, keep your toys in great condition, and always have them ready for safe, fun use.