How to Clean Sex Toys: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Dildos

Let’s be honest—when we’re buying a new sex toy, cleaning and maintenance probably aren’t the first things on our minds. But taking good care of your toys is just as important as enjoying them. Whether you’re using a silicone dildo, a stunning glass piece, or one of those fancy vibrating models, knowing how to clean sex toys is crucial for keeping things hygienic, safe, and long-lasting.

In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about dildo care and keeping your favorite toys in top shape. Ready to get started? Let’s break it down!

You might be wondering, “Is it really that important to clean my toys after every use?” The answer is a big yes! Regular cleaning not only keeps bacteria at bay but also helps your dildos last longer. And trust me, the last thing you want is to reach for your favorite toy, only to realize it hasn’t been cleaned properly. We’ve all been there!

One insightful blog from Healthline written by Adrienne Santos-Longhurst and reviewed by Jennifer Litner, PhD, LMFT, CST, emphasizes the importance of cleaning sex toys to prevent the risk of infections or exposure to bacteria, viruses, and even parasites. Using unclean toys is compared to eating a dirty mint from the bottom of your bag—not exactly appealing, right? This kind of contamination can lead to health risks, so a good cleaning routine is key to staying safe and extending the life of your toys.

So, let’s jump into the specifics of how to clean dildos based on their materials.

Silicone dildos are super popular for a reason—they’re body-safe, non-porous, and pretty low-maintenance when it comes to cleaning. Here’s how to keep them fresh and clean:

1. Warm Water and Soap
   The easiest method? Just wash your silicone dildo with warm water and a mild, unscented soap. Be sure to give it a good rinse and pay extra attention to any grooves or textures.

2. Boil for a Deep Clean
   If you want to take your cleaning game up a notch, you can actually boil your silicone dildo for 3 to 5 minutes to sterilize it. Just make sure it’s 100% silicone with no electronic parts before you toss it in a pot!

3. Toy Cleaner Option
   If you prefer something quick and easy, you can use a toy cleaner. Just spritz, wipe, and rinse—done!

Glass and metal dildos are not only beautiful to look at, but they’re also some of the easiest to clean. Because they’re non-porous, they don’t trap bacteria as easily.

1. Soap and Water
   Warm water and soap are your best friends here. Just wash them like you would a glass dish and you’re good to go.

2. Boil or Dishwasher Safe
   Yes, you read that right—many glass and metal dildos are dishwasher-safe! Pop them on the top rack (no detergent needed), or boil them for 3 to 5 minutes for a deeper clean.

3. Check for Damage
   For glass dildos, it’s a good idea to check for cracks or chips before and after cleaning. Even though they’re made of durable, body-safe glass, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Let’s be honest— porous materials like jelly, rubber, or TPE need a bit more attention when it comes to cleaning. These materials can harbor bacteria more easily, so you’ll need to be thorough.

1. Warm Water and Soap
   Stick to the basics here—wash with warm water and mild soap, but avoid soaking. Just give them a thorough scrub and rinse.

2. Use a Condom
   If you’re using toys made of porous materials, consider using a condom on them during play. It adds an extra layer of protection, especially if you’re sharing toys or switching between different types of play.

3. Don’t Boil!
   Unlike silicone or glass, you can’t boil these toys. The heat could damage the material, so stick to gentle hand washing instead.

The blog I mentioned earlier stresses that porous toys like jelly or rubber should be used carefully due to their ability to harbor bacteria. Using a condom with these toys can be a simple way to keep things safe, especially if you’re sharing or switching between different uses.

Got a vibrating dildo or one with some electronic flair? You’ll need to be a bit more careful when cleaning these, but it’s still pretty straightforward.

1. Wipe with a Damp Cloth
   For the main body of the toy, use a damp cloth with warm water and mild soap. Just be careful not to let any water get into the electrical parts or charging ports.

2. Use a Toy Cleaner
   If you want a faster option, use a toy cleaner spray. It’s perfect for a quick wipe-down without risking any water damage.

3. Avoid Submerging
   Even if your toy is labeled waterproof, don’t submerge it completely during cleaning. A damp cloth or toy cleaner will do the job without risking damage to the internal components.

Now that you know how to clean dildos , let’s talk about drying and storage. Because, let’s face it, the last thing you want is mold or bacteria ruining your fun.

The blog I referenced earlier also points out that proper storage is just as important as cleaning. Using lint-free fabric bags or containers prevents your toys from collecting dust, lint, or pet hair. Plus, if you have battery-operated toys, it’s a good idea to remove the batteries when not in use to avoid corrosion. Soft toys should also be stored separately to prevent them from melting together—no one wants a sticky toy surprise!

1. Air Dry or Pat Dry
   After cleaning, let your dildo air dry on a clean towel, or pat it dry with a lint-free cloth. Make sure it’s fully dry before storing to avoid trapping moisture.

2. Store in a Cool, Dry Place
   Keep your toys in a cool, dry place—away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. If your dildo came with a storage pouch or case, use it! It keeps dust and dirt away.

3. Don’t Store Toys Together
   If you’ve got a collection, don’t just toss them all in the same drawer. Some materials can react with each other and cause damage, so keep your toys separated, especially if they’re made of different materials.

Here are a few more tips to help you take the best care of your dildos:

• Inspect Regularly : Check your toys for any cracks, tears, or damage before and after each use.
• Lube Up Right : For silicone toys, stick with water-based lubricants. Silicone-based lubes can break down the material over time.
• Clean After Every Use : This one’s obvious, but it’s worth repeating—always clean your toys after every use!

Taking the time to properly clean and care for your sex toys might not be the most exciting part of your routine, but it’s definitely one of the most important. Knowing how to clean sex toys —from your silicone and glass pieces to your high-tech vibrators—helps keep your play safe, hygienic, and ready to go whenever the mood strikes.

The outside blog sums it up perfectly: maintaining hygiene through cleaning and proper storage not only keeps you safe but also ensures your toys stay in top condition for the long haul. Whether it’s using condoms on porous toys, removing batteries for storage, or making sure everything is thoroughly cleaned, these steps are key to a healthy and fun experience.

So, whether you’re scrubbing down after a solo session or a fun night with a partner, remember that proper dildo care ensures your toys last longer and feel better each time. And let’s be honest, nothing beats reaching for your favorite toy knowing it’s clean and ready for action.

Happy cleaning!