Cleaning & Caring for Your Sex Toys

A well-cared-for toy is safer, lasts longer, and simply feels better to use. The good news is that cleaning and storing your toys properly takes about a minute and a few simple rules. Here’s how to do it right, including the differences that actually matter between materials.

Cleaning: the basics that cover most toys

Clean every toy before and after each use — mild, unscented soap and warm water is the workhorse method.

“Most toys that are not waterproof can be washed under running water very carefully, making sure you don’t get the battery compartment area wet.”— The Sex & Pleasure Book, Good Vibrations

So: if a toy is waterproof (check the box), rinse it fully under the tap. If it’s not, rinse the business end carefully while keeping the battery compartment and charging port bone dry, or wipe it down with a soapy cloth and then a clean damp one. Rinse all soap off — residue can irritate — and let it air-dry completely before storing. A dedicated toy cleaner is a convenient extra, but honest mild soap and water is genuinely fine for most things.

Where material matters

How deep a clean a toy needs comes down to what it’s made of — the difference between non-porous and porous materials (the whole story is in our materials guide):

Silicone, glass, stainless steel, ABS (non-porous): easy. Soap and water does it. Body-safe silicone, glass and steel can also be sterilised — boiled or, if non-motorised, run through the dishwasher — if you want a deeper clean or share between partners.
TPE/TPR, jelly, PVC (porous): these have microscopic pores that can harbour bacteria and can’t be fully sterilised. Wash gently, dry thoroughly, and consider a condom over them — especially if sharing.
One rule for everyone: use a fresh condom or a thorough clean when moving a toy between partners, or between anal and vaginal use.

Lube & storage

Match your lube to your toy: never use silicone lube on silicone toys (it can degrade the surface) — water-based is the safe default, as our lube guide explains. And store toys clean, fully dry, and apart from one another in a cool, dark place; a storage bag or case keeps them from touching (some materials react with each other), keeps dust off, and keeps everything discreet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clean a sex toy?

Mild unscented soap and warm water, before and after each use. Rinse waterproof toys fully; for non-waterproof ones, clean the business end carefully while keeping the battery/charging area dry, or wipe with a soapy then a clean damp cloth. Rinse off all soap and air-dry.

Can you boil or sterilise sex toys?

Non-porous, non-motorised silicone, glass, and stainless steel can be sterilised by boiling (and some by dishwasher). Anything with a motor or battery cannot — wash those by hand. Porous materials like TPE and jelly can’t be fully sterilised at all.

What lube is safe with my toy?

Water-based lube is safe with every material and the sensible default. Avoid silicone lube on silicone toys, as it can damage the surface. See our lube guide for the full compatibility picture.

How should I store sex toys?

Clean, completely dry, and separated from each other in a cool, dark place — a storage bag or case is ideal, since some materials react when they touch. It also keeps dust off and keeps things private.

Beginner-friendly picks

Where to go next

Her First Vibrator Kit — a great starting point
All Bundles & Kits — curated sets for every occasion
More from Learn · Buying Guides

This article is general educational information, not medical advice. Everyone's body is different — if you have pain, a health condition, or specific concerns, please talk to a qualified healthcare provider.

Browse