Cleaning sex toys should be as routine as brushing your teeth. Whether you use them daily, weekly, or occasionally, keeping them fresh and hygienic is crucial for both safety and pleasure. But what’s the best way to clean silicone sex toys? How often should you wash them? And what’s the safest sex toy cleaner to use?
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how to clean a sex toy properly, why it’s important, and how to make it part of your self-care routine.
Why cleaning sex toys Is essential for your health.
Sex toys come into direct contact with intimate areas, making them a breeding ground for bacteria, bodily fluids, and other germs. Without proper cleaning, they can lead to:
-
Bacterial and yeast infections: Unclean toys can harbor bacteria and fungi, increasing the risk of bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and UTIs.
-
Shortened toy lifespan: Residue buildup can damage materials, causing them to degrade faster. Regular cleaning extends the life of your favorite toys.
-
No mood-killing interruptions: Nothing ruins a moment like realizing your toy isn’t fresh. Keep it clean and ready for instant pleasure.
-
Better sensation, better pleasure: A clean toy means no dried residue or lingering odors—just smooth, body-safe pleasure every time.
-
Hygiene = self-care: Taking care of your toys is an act of self-care and wellness. Your body deserves the best!
How often should you clean your sex toys?
If you’re wondering how often to clean sex toys, the answer is every time you use them—both before and after.
Before use: To remove dust, lint, or bacteria that may have settled on the toy while stored.
After use: To wash away bodily fluids, lubricants, and bacteria that can lead to infections.
💡Bonus tip: If you share toys with a partner or switch between different body areas (e.g., vaginal to anal use), always clean in between, or use a condom for extra protection.
What to clean sex toys with – choosing the right method.
Not all cleaning methods are safe for every material. Here’s how to properly clean sex toys based on their material:
Best way to clean silicone sex toys.
Silicone is non-porous, body-safe, and durable, making it one of the easiest materials to clean. Since it doesn’t absorb bacteria or fluids, a proper wash ensures it stays hygienic and long-lasting.
-
Basic cleaning: Wash with warm water and a mild soap or a water-based sex toy cleaner like Vibe Wash.
-
Deep cleaning: If your silicone toy is fully waterproof and non-electronic, you can boil it for 5 minutes or place it on the top rack of the dishwasher (no detergent) for a more thorough cleaning. Deep cleaning is recommended if the toys are being shared between partners or have come into contact with an active bacterial infection or STI.
Why use a specially formulated cleaner?
Generic hand soaps can contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, and sulfates that can degrade silicone over time and cause irritation to sensitive skin. A gentle, pH-balanced, antibacterial sex toy cleaner is safer for your toys and your body.
How to clean non-silicone sex toys (glass, metal & more).
Not all sex toys are made from silicone—materials like glass, stainless steel, ABS plastic, and porous options like rubber or jelly require different cleaning methods.
-
Glass & stainless steel: Non-porous and easy to sterilize. Wash with warm water and mild soap or a sex toy cleaner. If there are no electrical components, boil for 5–10 minutes or use a UV sanitizer.
-
ABS plastic: While non-porous, cracks and scratches can trap bacteria. Wash with warm water and a sex toy cleaner, avoiding harsh scrubbing.
-
Rubber, jelly, or cyberskin: These porous materials can retain bacteria even after cleaning. Wash gently with warm water and a pH-balanced cleanser. Using a condom over the toy can help maintain hygiene and extend its lifespan.
If a porous toy can’t be fully sanitized, consider replacing it regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.
Cleaning anal toys – extra steps for safety.
Because anal toys come into contact with higher levels of bacteria, they require extra attention when cleaning to ensure safe butt play. Be sure to wash immediately after use with an antibacterial sex toy cleaner.
But it’s not just about bacteria—many people worry about odor when it comes to cleaning anal toys like butt plugs. This is completely normal, and the right cleaner can help prevent lingering smells.
Look for natural deodorizing ingredients like Persimmon extract, which helps neutralize odors while also offering antibacterial protection. This keeps your toys looking AND smelling fresh.
💡 Pro tip: If you're using the same toy vaginally and anally, always clean thoroughly between uses to prevent bacterial transfer. Better yet, use a condom over the toy if switching between areas.
Best practices for cleaning vibrators and battery-powered toys.
Not all toys can be submerged in water, so be extra cautious with electronic vibrators.
-
Some waterproof vibrators can be run underwater or gently submerged. If not, use a damp cloth with warm water to wipe clean.
-
A foaming sex toy will lather up for an effective clean without too much splish-splash.
-
Avoid getting water near the battery compartment or charging port. That’s why we love vibes designed with tiny, pin-prick-sized charging holes 😉.
-
Pat dry with a clean towel and leave to air-dry completely before storing in a dust-free place.
3 ways to make cleaning sex toys a habit.
We get it—cleaning sex toys might not be the most exciting part of pleasure. But reframing it as a self-care ritual can help make it second nature.
-
Incorporate cleaning into your routine: Treat it like your skincare routine, flossing, or the “everything shower.”
-
Use an easy, fuss-free cleaner: A foaming sex toy cleaner like Vibe Wash makes cleaning quick, effective, and enjoyable.
-
Keep your cleaner in the bathroom: If it’s within reach, you’re more likely to use it regularly.
The best sex toy cleaner for safe & effective cleaning.
While DIY sex toy cleaner methods like soap and water work, a purpose-made cleaner is the safest choice. Vibe Wash is a water-based, body-safe sex toy cleaner formulated with natural persimmon extract, known for its antibacterial and deodorizing properties. Free from soap, parabens, and alcohol, it gently cleans without damaging delicate materials. Safe for all toy types, including silicone, rubber, and latex, it keeps your pleasure essentials fresh and ready for play.
Final thoughts – clean toys, better play.
Keeping your sex toys clean isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about comfort, longevity, and better pleasure experiences. By incorporating regular cleaning habits into your routine and using the best sex toy cleaner, you can enjoy your toys worry-free for years to come.
Make cleaning as natural as your daily self-care routine. Your body will thank you!
