Caring For Your Toys

How to Clean and Care for Sex Toys: A Complete Guide by Material

Proper sex toy care is essential for maintaining hygiene, extending product life, and protecting your body. Different materials require different cleaning methods, and not all sex toys are created equal. This guide breaks down the best ways to clean and care for sex toys based on their material—whether you're using silicone, glass, metal, or more.

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🔹 Silicone Sex Toys

Medical-grade silicone is nonporous and body-safe, but not all silicone is created equal.

• How to clean: Use warm water and mild soap or a damp, soapy washcloth.

• Deep cleaning: Non-motorized silicone toys can be boiled for 3–5 minutes for disinfection.

• Tip: Always remove and clean detachable parts separately.

✅ Safe for: Boiling (non-motorized only), external and internal use
❌ Avoid: Harsh cleaners or abrasive materials

🔹 Metal & Pyrex (Borosilicate) Glass Toys

Materials like stainless steel, gold, and borosilicate glass (Pyrex) are nonporous and very durable.

• How to clean: Wash with warm water and mild soap.

• Disinfection: Non-motorized, waterproof toys can be boiled for 3–4 minutes.

• Bonus: These materials can also be warmed or chilled for temperature play.

✅ Safe for: Boiling, temperature play
❌ Avoid: Dropping glass toys (even if they’re strong)

🔹 Crystal, Stone, and Non-Pyrex Glass Toys

These materials are typically porous and delicate.

• How to clean: Wash gently with warm water and mild soap.

• Avoid: Boiling or exposing to high heat, which may cause cracking or damage.

✅ Safe for: Gentle cleaning only
❌ Avoid: Boiling, dishwashers, or extreme temperature changes

🔹 Wooden Sex Toys

Often coated with a medical-grade sealant to make them body-safe and nonporous.

• How to clean: Use mild soap and warm water or a soapy washcloth.

• Tip: Treat like you would a wooden cutting board.

✅ Safe for: Mild soap and water
❌ Avoid: Soaking or boiling

🔹 Cyberskin & Vinyl Toys

These soft materials are porous and require extra care.

• How to clean: Use a small amount of mild soap and warm water.

• Maintenance: After drying, apply cornstarch to keep the surface smooth and prevent stickiness.

• Tip: Turn sleeves inside out to clean thoroughly.

✅ Safe for: Light cleaning, external use
❌ Avoid: Excessive soap, boiling, or harsh scrubbing

🔹 TPR, TPE, Jelly Rubber & Other Plastics

Thermoplastic rubber (TPR), elastomer (TPE), and jelly rubber are commonly used but porous.

• How to clean: Use warm water and mild soap.

• Deep cleaning: Use a toothbrush to get into crevices.

• Dry completely before storage to avoid bacterial growth.

✅ Safe for: Quick hand washes
❌ Avoid: High heat, prolonged soaking, silicone lubricants

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is soft and flexible but may contain phthalates, which are potentially harmful.

• How to clean: Wash gently with mild soap and warm water.

• Note: Consider switching to non-toxic, phthalate-free alternatives when possible.

✅ Safe for: Surface cleaning
❌ Avoid: Boiling, abrasive cleaners

🔹 Nylon Sex Products

Often used for harnesses, impact toys, or wearable gear.

• How to clean: Machine wash (non-motorized) or hand wash with mild detergent and warm water.

• Drying: Hang to air dry completely.

✅ Safe for: Washing machines (check labels first)
❌ Avoid: Fabric softeners or bleach

🔹 Leather Sex Products

Leather is highly porous and needs delicate care.

• How to clean: Wipe with a damp, soapy cloth and let air dry completely.

• Don’t forget: Clean stitching and seams thoroughly.

✅ Safe for: Gentle wipe-downs
❌ Avoid: Soaking, heat drying, or direct sunlight

✅ Quick Sex Toy Care Tips (All Materials)

• Always dry toys completely before storing.

• Store in clean, lint-free bags or containers.

• Don’t share porous toys without a condom.

• Always check manufacturer instructions for specific cleaning guidelines.