How to Clean, Dry and Store Sex Toys

Good toy care begins with the instructions for the specific product. Two toys with similar surfaces may have different seams, motors, charging ports or waterproof ratings. Those construction details determine whether a toy can be rinsed, wiped or submerged.

For broader guidance on toy types, materials and safe selection, begin with The Complete Beginner's Guide to Sex Toys: Types, Materials, Safety & How to Choose. Use the routine below only where it agrees with the manufacturer's directions.

Clean Before and After Use

Cleaning a new toy removes dust or residue acquired during packaging and handling. Cleaning after use prevents fluids, lubricant and debris from drying on the surface. If a toy is shared or moved between body openings, clean it and change any barrier before the next use.

Do not wait until the next session if the product can be cleaned immediately. Dried residue is harder to remove from seams and texture.

Read the Product Instructions

Before water touches the toy, confirm:

·        The materials used on the contact surface

·        Whether the toy is waterproof, water-resistant, splash-resistant or not rated for water

·        Whether batteries must be removed

·        Whether a charging cover must be closed

·        Which cleaners are approved

·        Whether the sleeve or attachment can be removed

·        Whether heat, boiling or submersion is prohibited

A Basic Hand Washing Routine

For a non-porous, washable toy whose instructions permit soap and water, use this general routine:

1. Switch the toy off and disconnect it from charging cables.

2. Remove detachable sleeves or attachments if instructed.

3. Use lukewarm water and a small amount of mild, unscented soap.

4. Wash the contact surface, paying attention to seams and texture without forcing water into openings.

5. Rinse away soap residue when rinsing is permitted.

6. Pat with a clean, lint-free towel and allow the toy to air-dry completely.

7. Reassemble only when every component is dry.

Planned Parenthood advises washing compatible toys with mild soap and water after use and before they contact another person's genitals. Product-specific instructions still control when electronics or sensitive materials limit that method.

Cleaning Powered Toys

A powered toy may have a washable exterior without being safe to submerge. Keep battery compartments, control panels, unsealed seams and charging ports away from running or standing water unless the instructions expressly allow immersion.

For a toy that permits surface cleaning only, apply the approved cleaner to a cloth rather than pouring liquid directly onto the product. Wipe again as directed to remove cleaner residue. Never charge a damp toy.

Cleaning Removable Sleeves

Some masturbators and strokers have removable TPE or TPR sleeves. Remove the sleeve carefully, wash it according to its instructions and rinse all channels and folds. Support the material rather than stretching it aggressively.

Drying is especially important because moisture can remain inside a sleeve even when the outer surface feels dry. Allow air to circulate through the entire channel before returning the sleeve to its case. Use renewal powder only if the manufacturer recommends a compatible product.

Toy Cleaner Soap and Disinfectant

A commercial toy cleaner can be convenient, but the label must be compatible with the material and the cleaner must be used as directed. A cleaner is not automatically a sterilizer, and stronger is not automatically safer for skin or materials.

Do not improvise with bleach, alcohol, household disinfectant, abrasive cleanser, essential oils or fragranced wipes unless the product instructions explicitly approve them. Residue can irritate sensitive tissue, while harsh chemicals may damage surfaces, adhesives and coatings.

How to Dry a Toy Completely

·        Pat the surface with a clean, lint-free towel rather than rubbing a soft material.

·        Place the toy on a clean surface with air moving around it.

·        Open removable sleeves so hidden areas can dry.

·        Keep charging contacts uncovered until fully dry.

·        Do not use a hair dryer, radiator or direct sunlight unless specifically permitted.

Do not store a toy while it is damp. Enclosed moisture can contribute to odour, residue and material deterioration.

Sharing Toys More Safely

Shared toys can transfer bodily fluids and some infections. Canadian public-health guidance advises placing condoms on sex toys and changing the condom when a toy is used by a different partner or in a different opening. Cleaning remains necessary, and a barrier does not make every porous or damaged toy suitable for sharing.

Keep porous toys for individual use when they cannot be cleaned reliably. Do not share a toy during an active infection, outbreak or unexplained irritation. Seek advice from a healthcare professional when you have concerns about STI exposure or symptoms.

How to Store Toys

1. Make sure the toy is clean and completely dry.

2. Store it in an individual smooth pouch or container.

3. Keep different soft materials from touching during long-term storage.

4. Protect the toy from dust, pets, direct sunlight, moisture and extreme temperatures.

5. Keep sharp accessories and metal hardware away from soft surfaces.

6. Store charging cables with the correct product without wrapping them tightly around it.

7. Follow battery guidance for products stored for long periods.

When to Replace a Toy

Retire a product if you notice:

·        Cracks, splits or peeling

·        A permanently sticky or rough surface

·        Rust, chips or sharp edges

·        Swelling, leakage or overheating near a battery

·        Damage to the charging cable or port

·        A persistent odour or residue that proper cleaning does not remove

·        A motor or control that behaves unpredictably

A Simple Care Habit

Keep the instructions, clean promptly, dry thoroughly and store each toy separately. This routine protects both the product and the conditions in which it will be used next.

Return to The Complete Beginner's Guide to Sex Toys: Types, Materials, Safety & How to Choose for the complete introduction to toy types, materials and safe selection.

Source: Government of Canada booklet on sexually transmitted infections

Source: Planned Parenthood information on cleaning and barriers for sex toys