How to clean sex toys (and store them properly)

A clean toy is a toy you can grab again tonight without a second thought. It takes a couple of minutes, and it keeps your ass, your cock and your toys in good shape. Clean toys before the first use, after every use and before sharing.

The basic routine

• Rinse off lube and everything else with warm water.
• Wash with mild, unscented soap or a toy cleaner, getting into the ridges, veins and seams.
• Rinse well, so no soap is left behind.
• Pat dry with a clean, lint-free towel, then let it air-dry completely before you put it away.

By material

• Silicone: non-porous, so warm water and mild soap are all it needs.
• Glass: warm water and soap. Avoid sudden temperature changes, and check for chips or cracks before every use.
• Stainless steel and aluminium: soap and warm water, then dry fully so there are no water marks.
• Jelly and TPE: porous, so they can hold on to bacteria. Wash gently, dry thoroughly and put a condom on them if you share.

Vibrators and electric toys

• Check the waterproof rating first. Fully waterproof toys can go under the tap; splash-proof ones should only be wiped.
• Wipe with a damp, soapy cloth, then a clean damp cloth, and keep water away from charging ports.
• Take out any batteries before cleaning, and let the toy dry before you charge it.

Strokers and masturbators

Rinse the sleeve inside and out with warm water straight after use, and turn it inside out if it’s designed to. Let it air-dry fully before you store it. A light dusting of cornstarch keeps TPE sleeves soft and stops them getting tacky.

Storing your toys

• Keep toys out of direct sunlight and away from heat.
• Give each toy its own pouch or space, so different materials don’t touch; some can react with each other.
• Keep them dust-free and private in a toy storage bag.

Tip: Match your lube to your toys: water-based lube is safe with every material and the easiest to wash off. Silicone lube can damage silicone toys.