How to Clean and Store Sex Toys

For a lot of people, toys are now standard fare when it comes to sexual exploration and personal encounters. Even though sex toys are a lot of fun, we need to take care of them so that they don't pose any health risks to us. These beautiful devices can enhance our sexual encounters in exciting and novel ways.

You can't realize that sex toys, if not adequately cleaned, might carry STIs. How to clean and store sex toys properly, how to use them with a partner, and why it's essential to be tested for STIs regularly are all topics covered in this article.

Reasons Why Your Sex Toys Need Regular Cleaning

Caring for one's sex objects is an act of self-care. It's making an effort to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a balanced sexual life, whether that's with another person or with oneself.

Even if it seems obvious, we all need a reminder now and then. When engaging in vaginal or vulvar stimulation, always utilize clean toys.

Contaminants, including bacteria and viruses, can quickly settle into sex toys. Yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and urinary tract infections are all but inevitable when you place unclean toys near your sensitive areas. Vaginal flora and an average pH level are both supported by regular toy cleaning, just as they are by peeing after sex.

Taking good care of your gear is essential for more than just your health; it also extends the life of your sex toys.

Should I Clean My Sexual Toys Regularly?

Make sure to clean them after each use. Feel free to take as much time as you need to compose yourself before dragging your blissed-out body to the washbasin; there's no rush. Also, clean any new toys thoroughly before playing with them.


If you like to masturbate before bed, it could be tempting to keep your vibrator beneath your pillow as you sleep. Stop doing this immediately! Get all of your gear cleaned up before you hit the hay.

If you still have trouble remembering to clean them after each use, you can always clean them before you use them again.

Cleaning Your Toys

The materials used to make toys dictate the best way to clean them.

A few key ways to classify sex toys are by substance (porous vs. nonporous), motorization (motorized vs. non-motorized), and other features.

The following materials are commonly used to create porous toys: elastomer, jelly rubber, cyberskin, nylon, neoprene, vinyl, and hard plastic. Bacteria thrive in these materials and are also not very easy to clean. A washcloth or soapy, warm water solution works best.

Glass, pyrex, silicone, stainless steel, and even some stones and crystals can be used to make nonporous sex toys.

Warm soap

Just use warm soap and a washcloth to clean any motorized toy that isn't waterproof. Avoid getting them wet. A mild soap and warm water solution can be used to thoroughly clean waterproof motorized toys in the sink.

To clean toys made of heat-resistant glass or 100% silicone, use soap and water. For cleanliness purposes, boil them for 10 minutes or place them on the top rack of the dishwasher if they aren't motorized.

Alcohol-based cleaner

An alcohol-based cleaner can be used to clean glass toys. Again, before use, wipe them down to remove any potential irritation. Oh no!

To clean stainless-steel toys, boil them, wash them in the dishwasher, or use half bleach and water. Once again, to prevent irritation, rinse them well before using bleach.

The presence of motors renders any toy unsuitable for the dishwasher, regardless of its material composition.

Nonporous stone

A dildo or wand made of crystal or stone might be a stunning toy option. However, the grade of the materials varies substantially. You should choose a nonporous stone and always refer to the manufacturer for cleaning recommendations because some rocks are porous and others aren't.

Specialized UV-C light

A specialized UV-C light for cleaning sex toys is available for purchase. This disinfecting light uses UV radiation, which kills 99.9 percent of microorganisms.

If your dishwasher has a sanitizing mode, use it to wash your toys that way.

You can use an unscented hand or dish soap, a mild antibacterial soap, or both to get the job done. It is essential to verify that your soap does not contain any allergies.

Also, several stores sell specialized cleaners for sex toys. In the comfort of your bed, you can use most of these with a cloth. There will be no more embarrassing trips to the restroom trying to juggle multiple dildos if you live with housemates. No problem with that at all!

Heat of the Moment Tips

We advise using lube, but select the appropriate kind for your device. Use a water-based lubricant to prolong the life of your silicone toy and prevent it from breaking down.

To prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), wash your hands thoroughly after using the toy. Additionally, a condom can be used with them.

Because germs can thrive in porous materials, disinfecting porous toys is more challenging. Always wear a condom when using them, whether you're alone or with a companion.

Use different toys for the vagina and the anus, or at least wash your hands well before touching the two orifices.

Effective Storage Strategies

Put each toy in its designated container to keep germs from floating around and accidental cross-contamination at bay. Instead of letting your toys rub against one another, which could harm them, try using a clean cotton sock.

Because dampness fosters the growth of germs, dry your toys thoroughly before putting them away.

Make sure to charge your rechargeable motorized toys before allowing their batteries to die completely. This way, you won't have to worry about your vibrator dying on you and your battery dying on the device. Removing the batteries from your toy before storing it can also extend the life of your batteries and keep the motor in good working order.

When looking for new sex toys

Quality is crucial when buying sex toys. Make sure to check reviews before purchasing new toys online. When you do this, you can be sure you're getting a high-quality toy.

Choose anal toys made of a material that can be quickly boiled or washed in the dishwasher to keep them clean.

Soft jelly and other porous toys are perfect for bacterial growth. Avoid these products at all costs.

Conclusion

When we use sex toys in the bedroom and explore our sexuality, it can be a satisfying and enjoyable experience. But taking good care of our toys is the most excellent way to maintain our sexual health. Follow the procedures above for a safe, fun sexual experience and to lower the risk of STDs.