Cleaning our sex toys is important. But how do we navigate different materials?

During play, we risk bacteria buildup and need to ensure our toys are properly cleaned for play.

So many people throw their toys into the box after masturbation, creating a pool of germs and bacteria that can ultimately harm your body. Whether you’re one of these people or not, here’s your nudge to start cleaning!

1.) Don’t forget to rinse!

Sex toys really do take a beating, and I’m not just referring to their use in the bedroom. I’m talking about the dog hair from your chihuahua, Loki. How about the dust, grime, dirt, and other dastardly things that remain on your floor, bed, and in your sex toy storage?

ALWAYS make sure you wash your toys BEFORE and AFTER use. You might think they are clean from your last romp and rinse the day before, but take a closer look. I bet you’re pulling your hair off some parts of your favorite toy. They are also easily able to harness germs and bacteria even if they appear clean! When you are cleaning, rinse with warm water and a mild soap or your favorite toy cleaner. Any material can be cleaned in this way, but make sure you pay attention to whether or not the sex toy is waterproof. Toys that are IPX6 and lower can only be rinsed but must not be submerged. If your toy is IPX7 or above, it can be submerged.

Looking to travel with your sex toys? There are a few more things to consider! Take a look at our guide.

2.) What’s in your toy?

Make sure you know what your toy is made of. Some cleaners can break down the material of your dildo or vibrators. If you are unsure – look up the manufacturers! An easy way to clean your sex toys from across the board is with soap (or sex toy cleaner) and a good hand massage under some warm water.

Is your toy porous? Leather, nylon, jellies, rubber, and vinyl are all examples of toys that are considered porous. The toys made with those materials collect bacteria more easily. Be sure to wash them! This can be very dangerous for you and your sex partner if not taken care of correctly.

Some lubes can also break down these toys – I suggest a water-based lubrication when dealing with most toy materials.

Non-porous toys consist of materials like glass and silicone. Most sex toy cleaners will work (as well as warm water and soap). Make sure you remove any batteries or keep the electronic parts of any toys away from water if they are not waterproof. Only gently wipe them!

3.) Storage

After you are done playing with yourself and washing your toy, make sure you don’t toss it across the room and leave. Storing your sex toys is just as important as playing with them. I would strongly recommend wrapping them in a clean cloth or getting an anti-lint dust bag. Try to avoid putting them in plastic bags, plastic sacks, or any sort of Tupperware. These materials can leak chemicals and harm your toys.