How to Clean Your Sex Toys

Cleaning your sex toys doesn't need to be complicated. A few simple habits can help keep them hygienic, protect the material and help your favourite toys last longer.

1. Check the Manufacturer's Instructions

Before cleaning your toy, check the manufacturer's instructions. Different materials, finishes and electronic components can have different care requirements.

Some toys can be fully submerged in water, while others are only water-resistant and should never be soaked. Rechargeable toys may also have specific instructions around charging ports and cleaning.

If the manufacturer's instructions differ from general advice, always follow the instructions supplied with your particular product.

2. Know Your Toy's Material

The material your toy is made from affects how it should be cleaned and stored.

Silicone is a popular choice because it is generally easy to clean and, when the product is waterproof, can usually be washed with warm water and mild soap.

ABS plastic is commonly used for the hard outer casing of many vibrators and other electronic toys. It is generally straightforward to clean, but always check whether the particular toy is waterproof before using water around it.

Glass and stainless steel toys can be particularly easy to clean when they are designed for use with water. Again, check the manufacturer's instructions before fully submerging them.

Some toys are made from softer or porous materials that require different care. If you're unsure what your toy is made from, check the product information before cleaning it.

3. Wash Your Toy

For many non-electronic, waterproof toys, warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap are all you need.

Gently wash the entire surface, paying particular attention to textured areas, grooves and any part of the toy that comes into contact with bodily fluids or lubricant.

Rinse thoroughly so there is no soap residue left behind.

A dedicated sex-toy cleaner can also be useful, particularly when you're looking for something quick and convenient. Follow the instructions supplied with the cleaner and your toy.

Avoid harsh household cleaning products, bleach, alcohol-based products or strongly fragranced soaps unless the manufacturer specifically says they are suitable. These can potentially damage the surface of some materials.

4. Waterproof Doesn't Mean Indestructible

It's easy to see "waterproof" on a product and assume you can clean it however you like, but it's still worth checking the manufacturer's instructions.

Waterproof toys are generally designed to tolerate water, but rechargeable toys can still have areas such as charging ports, magnetic connectors or seals that need particular care.

If a toy is only water-resistant, avoid submerging it completely. Instead, clean the surface carefully using the method recommended by the manufacturer.

5. Dry Your Toy Properly

Once you've cleaned your toy, rinse away any remaining soap and allow it to dry completely before putting it away.

You can gently pat it dry with a clean, lint-free towel and then leave it somewhere clean and well ventilated to finish drying.

Pay particular attention to seams, textured areas and around charging connections where moisture can collect.

Don't store a toy while it's still damp. Trapped moisture can create an environment where bacteria or mould can develop.

6. Store Your Toys Safely

Once your toy is completely dry, store it somewhere clean, dry and away from direct sunlight or excessive heat.

A storage pouch or bag can help protect the toy from dust and keep it separate from other products.

It's also worth keeping certain materials from touching each other during storage. Some softer materials can react with one another over time, potentially causing surfaces to become sticky or damaged.

If your toy came with a storage pouch, use it. If it didn't, a clean, breathable storage bag can be a simple alternative.

7. What About Lubricant Residue?

Lubricant can leave a film or residue on some sex toys, particularly if it's been left on the surface for a while.

Cleaning your toy soon after use makes it easier to remove lubricant before it dries.

Water-based lubricant is generally straightforward to wash away with warm water, while some silicone-based or oil-based products may require more careful cleaning depending on the toy's material.

If you're unsure which lubricant is suitable for your toy, check the manufacturer's recommendations.

8. What If You Share Your Sex Toys?

If a sex toy is shared between partners, it's particularly important to clean it thoroughly between uses.

For toys that are suitable for use with condoms, using a new condom over the toy between users can provide an additional barrier and make cleaning between uses easier.

Always use a fresh condom when changing between users or between different areas of the body.

9. When Should You Replace a Sex Toy?

With proper care, many quality sex toys can last a long time. However, no toy lasts forever.

Check your toys regularly and stop using them if you notice:

Cracks, splits or tears
A damaged or deteriorating surface
Unexpected stickiness or changes in texture
Exposed wiring or damaged electronic components
A damaged charging port or connector
Any change that makes the toy feel unsafe or uncomfortable to use

If you're unsure whether a toy is still safe to use, it's better to replace it than take a risk.

A Few Things to Remember

Clean after every use. It only takes a few minutes and makes keeping your toys hygienic much easier.

Check the material. Different materials can have different cleaning and storage requirements.

Don't assume every toy is waterproof. Always check before putting an electronic toy under running water or into a bath.

Let everything dry completely. Don't put a damp toy straight into its storage pouch.

Store toys separately when needed. Some materials can react with each other when stored touching.

Replace damaged toys. If the surface or electronics have deteriorated, it's time for a new one.

The Amoura Edit Note

Taking a couple of minutes to clean and store your toys properly means they'll be ready whenever you are — and your future self will thank you.

Good toy care isn't complicated. Find a cleaning routine that works for you, follow the manufacturer's instructions and make it part of the experience rather than an afterthought.