Looking after your toys isn't just about longevity — it's about your health. Proper cleaning prevents bacteria, protects sensitive skin, and keeps every toy performing like new. Here's everything you need to know, whatever you own.
Why care matters
Sex toys come into contact with the most sensitive parts of your body. Cleaning them correctly prevents the buildup of bacteria and yeast, avoids irritation and infection, and dramatically extends the life of your toys. It takes two minutes and it's the most important habit you can build.
Know your materials
The right cleaning method depends entirely on what a toy is made of. Materials fall into two groups.
Non-porous (the gold standard)
These don't absorb fluids or bacteria and are the safest, easiest to clean, and longest-lasting:
- Body-safe silicone — soft, versatile, and used in most quality toys.
- Borosilicate glass — smooth, temperature-friendly, and beautiful. See our glass & crystal collection.
- Stainless steel — weighty, hygienic, and virtually indestructible.
- ABS plastic — the hard, smooth plastic used for many bullets and vibrator casings.
Porous (needs extra care)
Materials like TPE, TPR, and jelly are softer and often more affordable, but they have microscopic pores that can trap bacteria. They can't be fully sterilised, so clean them thoroughly, consider using a condom over them, and replace them more often.
How to clean, by type
- Silicone, glass, steel, ABS (non-motorised): Wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap or a dedicated toy cleaner. Non-motorised 100% silicone, glass and steel toys can often be boiled or run through the dishwasher (top rack, no detergent) to sterilise — check the manufacturer's guidance.
- Motorised or rechargeable toys: Never submerge unless the toy is explicitly waterproof. For splashproof toys, wipe down with a damp cloth and toy cleaner, keeping the charging port dry.
- Waterproof toys: Rinse under running water with soap or cleaner — just confirm the waterproof rating first.
Always let toys air-dry completely on a clean towel before storing.
Lubricant compatibility (important)
The wrong lube can permanently damage a toy:
- Water-based lube is safe with everything. When in doubt, use it.
- Silicone lube can degrade silicone toys — avoid pairing the two. It's fine with glass and steel.
- Oil-based lube can break down many materials and latex — best avoided with most toys.
Storing your toys
Store toys clean, dry, and separately — silicone toys can react with each other if left touching for long periods. A cloth bag or a lined box keeps them dust-free and protected. Remove batteries from battery-operated toys during long storage.
When to replace a toy
Retire any toy that's cracked, sticky, torn, changed smell, or has a damaged surface — especially porous ones. A compromised surface can no longer be cleaned safely.
Care made simple
Stick to body-safe, non-porous materials and cleaning is effortless. Explore easy-care favourites in our dildos and realistic dildos collections, or see what's popular in best sellers — all shipped discreetly with private billing.