How to Clean and Maintain Male Masturbators: A Complete Guide

You might be wondering, “Is it really that important to clean my toy right after I use it?” The answer is a solid yes! Think of it like this: you wouldn’t leave dirty dishes in the sink for days (or maybe you would, but we’ll let that slide), and your toy is no different. If you don’t clean it properly, bacteria, mold, and other nasty things can build up, which isn’t just gross—it’s unsafe. Proper cleaning means better hygiene and a longer life for your toy. Plus, who wants to use a toy that’s not fresh?

According to Adrienne Santos-Longhurst in a Healthline blog, cleaning and storing sex toys properly is essential to prevent bacteria, viruses, and parasites from accumulating. Without proper maintenance, your toys can become a breeding ground for germs, dust, and even pet hair—none of which you want anywhere near your body. This is why regular cleaning isn’t just a “nice-to-do”—it’s a must.

Cleaning your toy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how to keep it squeaky clean in just four easy steps:

First things first: don’t let your toy sit around after you’ve used it. The quicker you clean it, the easier it’ll be. Grab your toy and give it a good rinse with warm water to flush out any lube or fluids. But be careful—don’t use hot water, especially if your toy is made of TPE, as it can damage the material.

Next, it’s time to get serious about cleaning. You’ve got two main options here:

• Mild, unscented soap : Great for regular cleaning if you don’t have a specialized cleaner.
• Sex toy cleaner : These are specifically designed to be gentle on toys and tough on bacteria.

Whichever you use, make sure to get into every nook and cranny—especially if your toy has a lot of texture or a deep canal. A soft-bristle brush or a toy-cleaning sponge can help get into those hard-to-reach spots.

Pro Tip : If you’re dealing with a particularly textured or ribbed toy, take your time! It might feel tedious, but it’s worth it to avoid missing spots that could become breeding grounds for bacteria.

After scrubbing, rinse thoroughly to ensure there’s no soap or cleaner residue left behind. Then, pat the toy dry with a soft towel. But don’t stop there! The most critical part is letting it air dry completely. If you store it before it’s fully dry, you risk mold growing inside—and nobody wants that.

For toys with internal canals, propping them up in a well-ventilated area or using drying sticks can help get them fully dry. Letting air circulate is key!

If your toy is made of TPE or other soft materials, dusting it with a renewing powder after it’s dry can help keep it soft and prevent stickiness. Some materials can get tacky over time, so powdering them helps keep things smooth. You can buy special toy powders, or if you’re in a pinch, cornstarch works just as well.

Once your toy is clean and dry, you’ve got to store it properly. Throwing it in a drawer won’t cut it! Here are some tips for keeping your toy safe and fresh:

• Make Sure It’s Dry : This can’t be stressed enough. Any moisture left behind is asking for trouble.
• Use a Case or Pouch : Most toys come with a storage case or bag. If not, use a soft, breathable pouch to protect it from dust.
• Keep It Separate : If you own multiple toys, store them separately. As Santos-Longhurst points out, some materials can react and degrade when in contact, especially with softer toys.
• Remove Batteries : If your toy is motorized, always take out the batteries before storing to avoid corrosion.

Not all toys are created equal when it comes to cleaning. As Healthline's blog highlights, the material of your toy determines how you should clean it.

• Porous materials like latex or rubber can harbor bacteria even after cleaning, so it’s best to use these with a condom or keep them for solo use. They should be washed with soap and water, but keep in mind they can still retain some bacteria.
• Non-porous materials like silicone, glass, and stainless steel are much easier to clean. You can even boil them or run them through the dishwasher if they’re not motorized.

Motorized toys, however, need special care. You should remove batteries before cleaning and be sure to keep the motor area dry. Let your toys air-dry completely before putting them away to avoid any lingering moisture.

You don’t need a ton of fancy products to clean your toy, but a few essentials can make the process easier. Here are some top recommendations:

Using a dedicated sex toy cleaner ensures your toy stays safe and bacteria-free. Some popular options are:

• Before and After Anti-Bacterial Cleaner: Gentle but effective on all materials.
• Swiss Navy Toy & Body Cleaner : Works well on a variety of toys and materials.

If your toy is made from soft materials like TPE, a renewing powder keeps it smooth and fresh:

• Fleshlight Renewing Powder : Designed for soft-material toys.
• Cornstarch : A cheap, effective alternative that works just as well.

For toys with internal canals, drying can be a challenge. Consider:

• Drying Sticks : Absorb moisture from inside your toy to speed up drying.
• Toy Stands : Allow air to circulate and prevent moisture from getting trapped.

There are a few cleaning pitfalls to avoid if you want to keep your toys in great shape:

• No Boiling Water or Dishwashers for Motorized Toys: Stick to warm water for anything with electronics.
• No Alcohol or Bleach: These can break down the material and cause irritation.
• Don’t Scrub with Abrasive Brushes: Use soft sponges or soft-bristle brushes to avoid damaging your toy.

Proper male masturbator maintenance isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about extending the life of your toys and making sure every session is just as enjoyable as the first. Taking the time to clean, dry, and store your toys properly can save you from health risks and ensure that your toy stays in great condition.

As Adrienne Santos-Longhurst’s Healthline blog emphasizes, taking good care of your toys protects both you and them. With just a little effort, you’ll be set for years of safe, fun use. So remember: clean it well, store it right, and enjoy your toy with peace of mind.