With proper care and maintenance, your favorite sex toys can last for years. The best way to keep your toys looking and performing like new is to keep them clean regularly – ideally before and after each use.

Basic Sex Toy Cleaning Rules

There are two basic ways to clean sex toys. The traditional method involves washing your toy in warm, soapy water, rinsing it off, and then drying it with a clean towel. This method is quick, easy and budget-friendly. But its effectiveness depends completely on your scrubbing ability, which might be hampered by your toy’s shape and material.

The easiest method involves spraying your sex toy with a specialized toy cleaner, rinsing or wiping it off (depending on the directions) and then drying your toy with a clean towel. While you do have to pay extra for the toy cleaners, many of them contain antibacterial agents, deodorizers and other beneficial features to help keep your favorite sex toys in tip-top shape.

Recommended Cleaning Methods for Common Materials
The type of material your sex toy is made from determines the optimal cleaning method. For instance, toys made from soft and flexible materials like TPE or TPR need a mild facial soap. On the other hand, you can use standard dish detergent to clean sex toys made from firm materials like plastic. Non-porous toys collect lint and hair even if they’re just lying around in your nightstand, so you need to use lint-free cloths or towels and keep them in a special storage bag. Carefully check your sex toys’ instructions for any additional cleaning instructions and requirements. The chart below lists the common sex toy materials and how to clean them.
Plastic

Wash with soap & water or spray with a toy cleaner. Dry with a towel.

Latex, PVC & Rubber

Wash with mild soap & water or spray with a toy cleaner. Dry with a lint-free towel.

Jelly

Wash with mild soap & water or spray with a toy cleaner. Dry with a lint-free towel.

TPE and TPR

Wash with mild soap & water or spray with a toy cleaner. Dry with a lint-free towel.

Realistic

Wash with mild soap & water or spray with a toy cleaner. Dry with a lint-free towel.

Silicone

Wash with soap & water or spray with a toy cleaner. Non-vibrating toys can be dipped in boiling water or run through the dishwasher, Dry with a towel.

Glass

Wash with soap & water or spray with a toy cleaner. Non-vibrating toys can be dipped in boiling water or run through the dishwasher, Dry with a towel.

Metal

Wash with soap & water or spray with a toy cleaner. Non-vibrating toys can be dipped in boiling water or run through the dishwasher, Dry with a towel.