How to Clean and Care for Every Type of Sex Toy (So They Last for Years)

a small silicone toys is being washed by two female hands in a small bowl filled with water

How to Clean and Care for Every Type of Sex Toy (So They Last for Years)

Good toy hygiene isn’t just about cleanliness — it’s about protecting your body and making sure your investment lasts. Different materials require different care. Here’s the practical, no-nonsense guide you actually need.

Quick Reference by Material

Platinum-Cured Silicone (non-motorized)

  • Daily clean: Warm water + mild unscented soap.
  • Deep clean: Boil for 3–5 minutes, run through the dishwasher (top rack, no detergent), or soak in a 10% bleach solution then rinse extremely well.
  • These are the easiest toys to keep truly sterile.

Motorized Silicone Toys (vibrating plugs, app-controlled strokers, etc.)

  • Never boil or put in the dishwasher.
  • Clean with warm water + mild soap or a dedicated toy cleaner. Pat dry thoroughly, especially around charging ports.

TPE / TPR (most realistic strokers) These are porous, so they can never be fully sterilized.

  • Wash immediately after use with warm water + mild soap or toy cleaner.
  • Shake out any internal textures and let air dry completely.
  • Many guys use a condom over the stroker for easier cleanup and extra peace of mind.
  • Replace every 6–18 months with regular use.

Borosilicate Glass & Stainless Steel Extremely forgiving.

  • Boil, dishwasher, 10% bleach soak, or simple soap and water all work.
  • Always inspect glass for chips or cracks before use.

Storage Best Practices

  • Dry toys completely before storing in dedicated toy storage.
  • Keep each toy in its own breathable cotton or silk pouch.
  • Store in a cool, dry, dark place.
  • Avoid letting different silicone toys touch each other for long periods (they can slowly react).
  • Never store porous TPE toys touching other toys.

When It’s Time to Retire a Toy

  • Cracks, splits, or stickiness that won’t wash off
  • Strong chemical smell that won’t go away
  • Degraded texture or discoloration
  • Any signs of mold or persistent odor (especially in TPE strokers)

Pro move: Keep a small bottle of toy cleaner and a pack of toy wipes next to your nightstand. The easier it is to clean, the more likely you’ll actually do it.

Want to make cleaning effortless? Shop our body-safe lubricants and recommended toy cleaners →

A little care goes a long way toward years of safe, pleasurable play.