How to Clean Sex Toys: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

How to clean sex toys, in short: wash the toy right after you use it with warm water and a mild, unscented soap, rinse it well, pat it dry with a clean towel and let it air dry completely before you store or charge it. Toys with removable sleeves come apart for cleaning, stainless steel plugs simply rinse clean, and rechargeable toys need dry charging points before they go back on the cable. Always check whether your toy is waterproof before you hold it under the tap.

Below you will find a step-by-step routine, how to handle each type of toy we sell, what to avoid and how to store everything once it is clean.

Why cleaning your toys matters

A clean toy simply feels nicer to use. Washing removes lube, body fluids and dust, keeps the surface smooth and helps the toy last longer. It also means your toy is ready the moment you want it, instead of needing a rinse first.

The good news: cleaning takes about two minutes, and you only need things you already have at home.

What you need

• Warm water. Comfortable to the touch, never boiling.
• A mild soap. Unscented and gentle, like a simple hand soap.
• A clean, lint-free towel. For patting the toy dry.
• A pouch or box. For storing the toy once it is completely dry.

How to clean sex toys, step by step

Step 1: Switch it off

Turn the toy off and unplug it if it was charging. Never wash a toy while it is connected to a cable.

Step 2: Check if it is waterproof

Look at the product page or the instruction manual. A waterproof toy can go under the tap. A toy that is not should be wiped with a damp, soapy cloth instead, keeping water away from buttons and charging points.

Step 3: Wash with warm water and mild soap

Lather the soap in your hands and work it over the whole surface, including ridges, petals and any openings where lube can collect.

Step 4: Rinse thoroughly

Rinse until no soap is left. Soap residue can feel slippery or irritating next time.

Step 5: Pat dry

Use a clean towel to remove most of the water. Pay attention to seams and the area around the charging contacts.

Step 6: Air dry completely

Leave the toy on a clean towel until it is fully dry. Only then put it away or connect it to the charger.

How to clean each type of toy

Suction toys and rose toys

Suction toys have an opening where lube can gather. Rinse the opening well under running water if the toy is waterproof, then shake out excess water and let it dry with the opening facing down. Rose toys charge magnetically, so the contacts must be dry before the cable goes back on. If you have lost the original cable, our USB Magnetic Rose Toy Charger is a replacement for the Rose Sucking Vibrator, the Rose Tongue Vibrator and the Rose Toy Extendo.

Male toys with removable sleeves

The Warrior Automatic Male Masturbator and the Dakota Automatic Sucking Vibrating Male Toy both have a removable sleeve for quick, easy cleaning. Take the sleeve out, wash it inside and out with warm water and mild soap, and let it dry fully before you put it back. Keep the motor unit away from running water and wipe it with a damp cloth. For more on these toys, read our automatic male masturbator guide.

Stainless steel anal plugs

Our Rainbow Heart Anal Plug (Set of 3) and Purple Heart Anal Plug are stainless steel, which their pages describe as smooth, body-safe and easy to clean. Wash them with warm water and mild soap, pay attention to the area around the jeweled base and dry them before storing.

Waterproof vibrators and wands

Toys marked waterproof on their pages, like the Magic Premium Wand, are easy to wash under the tap. Even so, follow the instruction manual on how much water the toy can take, and never leave a toy soaking.

Dildos

Silicone and jelly dildos wash the same way: warm water, mild soap, a good rinse. If your dildo has a suction cup base, clean the cup too, so it keeps a good grip next time.

Charging after cleaning

Water and charging do not mix. Before you connect any rechargeable toy, make sure it is completely dry, especially around the charging point. Magnetic cables snap straight onto the contacts, so a single drop of water left there can get in the way. Our rose toy charger guide covers this in detail.

Common cleaning mistakes to avoid

• Boiling or dishwashing a toy with a motor. Heat and pressure can damage electronics and seals.
• Using harsh products. Alcohol, bleach and strong cleaners can dry out or damage silicone.
• Soaking a toy. Even waterproof toys do not need to sit in water.
• Storing it damp. Moisture trapped in a pouch is the opposite of clean.
• Forgetting the openings. Sleeves and suction openings collect lube and need a proper rinse.

Lube and cleaning

Water-based lube rinses off easily with warm water and soap, which makes cleanup simple. It is also the right partner for silicone toys. If you use lube with a toy, plan a slightly longer rinse for openings and textured areas.

Cleaning your toys when you travel

Away from home, the routine stays the same, it just needs a little planning. Pack a small bottle of mild soap and a clean cloth in your toiletry bag, along with the toy's pouch and cable. Wash the toy in the hotel sink after use, pat it dry and leave it on a towel overnight before you pack it again.

If you are short on time, wrap the clean toy in a dry cloth for the trip home and give it a full wash and dry as soon as you unpack. Never zip a damp toy into a bag for hours.

How to store clean toys

• One pouch per toy. Toys made of different materials should not touch in storage.
• Keep the cable with it. You will always know where it is.
• Somewhere cool and dry. Away from direct sunlight and heat.
• Out of sight if you prefer. See the best place to hide your sex toys for ideas.

How to clean sex toys FAQ

What is the best way to clean a sex toy?

Warm water and a mild, unscented soap, a thorough rinse and a complete air dry. Check first whether your toy is waterproof.

How often should I clean my toys?

After every use. A quick wash right away is easier than cleaning a toy that has sat for days.

Can I put a toy in the dishwasher or boil it?

Not a toy with a motor or a battery. Heat can damage the electronics.

How do I clean a male toy with a sleeve?

Remove the sleeve, wash it inside and out, rinse and let it dry fully. Wipe the motor unit with a damp cloth.

Can I charge my toy right after washing it?

Only when it is completely dry, including the charging contacts.

How should I store my toys after cleaning?

Dry, in a separate pouch for each toy, with the charging cable, in a cool and dry place.