{"id":577,"date":"2026-05-18T10:42:14","date_gmt":"2026-05-18T10:42:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/?p=577"},"modified":"2026-10-12T08:36:17","modified_gmt":"2026-10-12T08:36:17","slug":"how-to-clean-sex-toys","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/guides\/how-to-clean-sex-toys\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Clean and Store Sex Toys | Expert Guide to Toy Care"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"577\" class=\"elementor elementor-577\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a5af900 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"a5af900\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-58a53e4 elementor-toc--minimized-on-tablet elementor-widget elementor-widget-table-of-contents\" data-id=\"58a53e4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;exclude_headings_by_selector&quot;:[],&quot;no_headings_message&quot;:&quot;No headings were found on this page.&quot;,&quot;headings_by_tags&quot;:[&quot;h2&quot;],&quot;marker_view&quot;:&quot;numbers&quot;,&quot;minimize_box&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;minimized_on&quot;:&quot;tablet&quot;,&quot;hierarchical_view&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;min_height&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;min_height_laptop&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;min_height_tablet_extra&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;min_height_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;min_height_mobile_extra&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;min_height_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"table-of-contents.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__header-title\">\n\t\t\t\tIn this guide\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__toggle-button elementor-toc__toggle-button--expand\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"elementor-toc__58a53e4\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open table of contents\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-chevron-down\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__toggle-button elementor-toc__toggle-button--collapse\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"elementor-toc__58a53e4\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-label=\"Close table of contents\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-chevron-up\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-toc__58a53e4\" class=\"elementor-toc__body\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__spinner-container\">\n\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"elementor-toc__spinner eicon-animation-spin e-font-icon-svg e-eicon-loading\" aria-hidden=\"true\" viewBox=\"0 0 1000 1000\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M500 975V858C696 858 858 696 858 500S696 142 500 142 142 304 142 500H25C25 237 238 25 500 25S975 237 975 500 763 975 500 975Z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-93a657b e-con e-atomic-element e-flexbox-base e-default-div e-93a657b-c18f36f \" data-id=\"93a657b\" data-element_type=\"e-flexbox\" data-e-type=\"e-flexbox\" data-interaction-id=\"93a657b\" data-e-type=\"e-flexbox\" data-id=\"93a657b\">\n    \t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d4f0d85 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"d4f0d85\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>After sex, the last thing you want to do is rush to the sink and start cleaning your toys. But good toy care is non-negotiable if you want to avoid infections, keep your toys in tip top condition, and make sure they\u2019re always ready to go the next time you are.<\/p><p>So, give yourself enough time to soak up the post-O glow\u2014just promise us you won\u2019t leave cleaning to tomorrow.<\/p><p>When you know how to clean sex toys properly, it\u2019s easy to fit into your routine. This guide walks you through cleaning, storing, and maintaining your toys safely, from waterproof vibes to more delicate materials.<\/p><p><strong>Care for your pleasure:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/uk\/lubes-and-cleaners\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Shop lubes and cleaners<\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 data-interaction-id=\"0229b46\" class=\"fnt-h4 e-heading-base e-default-h2\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"0229b46\">Sex toy care in a nutshell\u2026<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e6268ac elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e6268ac\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li><strong>Clean after every use.<\/strong> Mild, unscented soap and warm water (or a designated <a href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/lubes-and-cleaners\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">toy cleaner<\/a>) will do the trick for most toys.<\/li><li><strong>Know your materials.<\/strong> Silicone, stainless steel, and glass won\u2019t trap bacteria if cleaned properly. They can also be disinfected, unlike jelly or rubber toys.<\/li><li><strong>Air dry fully before storage.<\/strong> Bacteria and mold both thrive wherever there\u2019s trapped moisture.<\/li><li><strong>Store separately and safely.<\/strong> Keep toys in a cool, dry spot\u2014ideally in individual pouches or cloth bags in a bedside drawer or closet.<\/li><li><strong>Avoid cross-contamination.<\/strong> Washing after every use and regular disinfection protects you from harmful bacteria. Use condoms on shared toys or anal toys for extra peace of mind and faster cleaning.<\/li><li><strong>Choose quality toys over cheaply produced ones.<\/strong> They\u2019ll be better designed, more long-lasting, and easier to clean.<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 data-interaction-id=\"3cfb433\" class=\"fnt-h4 e-heading-base e-default-h2\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"3cfb433\">Why it\u2019s important to clean and store sex toys properly<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4862bd8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4862bd8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Let\u2019s face it, sex toys get sticky with lube and bodily fluids when you use them. If you leave a toy unwashed, it\u2019s going to breed bacteria and attract lint, dust, or even pet hair, which puts your body at risk of irritation and infections.<br \/><br \/>Beyond good hygiene, proper care will keep your toys feeling sensual on your skin, too. Clean, well-maintained toys will last longer, and you\u2019ll be more inclined to use them\u2014since you won\u2019t be put off by any discoloration, marks, or dirty residue.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3d82efe elementor-widget elementor-widget-shortcode\" data-id=\"3d82efe\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"shortcode.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-shortcode\">        <div class=\"lovehoney-product-carousel lovehoney-product-carousel--count-5\" id=\"lhmc-carousel-1\" data-lovehoney-carousel data-product-count=\"5\">\n            <div class=\"swiper lovehoney-product-carousel__swiper\">\n                <div class=\"swiper-wrapper\">\n                                            <div class=\"swiper-slide lovehoney-product-carousel__slide\">\n                                    <article class=\"lovehoney-product\" data-product-sku=\"85066\">\n                            <a class=\"lovehoney-product__image-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/lovehoney-fresh-toy-cleaner-3-4-fl-oz\">                    <img decoding=\"async\"\n                        class=\"lovehoney-product__image\"\n                        src=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/media\/catalog\/product\/l\/h\/lh_toy_cleaner_100ml_wvi.jpg\"\n                        alt=\"Lovehoney Fresh Toy Cleaner 3.4 fl oz\"\n                        loading=\"lazy\"\n                    >\n                <\/a>            \n                            <h3 class=\"lovehoney-product__title\">Lovehoney Fresh Toy Cleaner 3.4 fl oz<\/h3>\n            \n                            <div class=\"lovehoney-product__description\">\n                    Sex toy cleaning spray to keep toys clean and hygienic                <\/div>\n            \n                            <div class=\"lovehoney-product__prices\">\n                                            <span 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src=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/media\/catalog\/product\/m\/a\/magnetic_charging_usb_cable.jpg\"\n                        alt=\"Magnetic charging USB cable\"\n                        loading=\"lazy\"\n                    >\n                <\/a>            \n                            <h3 class=\"lovehoney-product__title\">Magnetic charging USB cable<\/h3>\n            \n                            <div class=\"lovehoney-product__description\">\n                    Compatible with Bond, Tango X, Touch X,  Sync, Nova, Nova 2, Ditto, Moxie, Verge, Chorus, Melt, Gala, Wish, Pivot, Jive, Vector, Wand and Match by We-Vibe                <\/div>\n            \n                            <div class=\"lovehoney-product__prices\">\n                                            <span class=\"lovehoney-product__regular-price\">$18.90<\/span>\n                                    <\/div>\n            \n                            <a class=\"lovehoney-product__button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/magnetic-charging-usb-cable\">Buy now<\/a>\n                    <\/article>\n                                <\/div>\n                                            <div class=\"swiper-slide lovehoney-product-carousel__slide\">\n                                    <article class=\"lovehoney-product\" data-product-sku=\"SNAAFC2\">\n                            <a class=\"lovehoney-product__image-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/usb-micro-cable\">                    <img decoding=\"async\"\n                        class=\"lovehoney-product__image\"\n                        src=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/media\/catalog\/product\/u\/s\/usb_micro_cable.jpg\"\n                        alt=\"USB micro cable\"\n                        loading=\"lazy\"\n                    >\n                <\/a>            \n                            <h3 class=\"lovehoney-product__title\">USB micro cable<\/h3>\n            \n                            <div class=\"lovehoney-product__description\">\n                    Universal compatible to We-Vibe adapter or charging base                <\/div>\n            \n                            <div class=\"lovehoney-product__prices\">\n                                            <span class=\"lovehoney-product__regular-price\">$8<\/span>\n                                    <\/div>\n            \n                            <a class=\"lovehoney-product__button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/usb-micro-cable\">Buy now<\/a>\n                    <\/article>\n                                <\/div>\n                                            <div class=\"swiper-slide lovehoney-product-carousel__slide\">\n                                    <article class=\"lovehoney-product\" data-product-sku=\"88190\">\n                            <a class=\"lovehoney-product__image-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/couples-calendar\">                    <img decoding=\"async\"\n                        class=\"lovehoney-product__image\"\n                        src=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/media\/catalog\/product\/w\/m\/wmz_advent_calendar_couples_gallery_images_1000x1000_additional.jpg\"\n                        alt=\"We-Vibe Couples Advent Calendar\"\n                        loading=\"lazy\"\n                    >\n                <\/a>            \n                            <h3 class=\"lovehoney-product__title\">We-Vibe Couples Advent Calendar<\/h3>\n            \n                            <div class=\"lovehoney-product__description\">\n                    24 Days of Shared Pleasure                <\/div>\n            \n                            <div class=\"lovehoney-product__prices\">\n                                            <span class=\"lovehoney-product__sale-price\">$219<\/span>\n                                                    <del class=\"lovehoney-product__regular-price lovehoney-product__regular-price--sale\">$608.77<\/del>\n                                                            <\/div>\n            \n                            <a class=\"lovehoney-product__button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/couples-calendar\">Buy now<\/a>\n                    <\/article>\n                                <\/div>\n                                            <div class=\"swiper-slide lovehoney-product-carousel__slide\">\n                                    <article class=\"lovehoney-product\" data-product-sku=\"WZ212SG7\">\n                            <a class=\"lovehoney-product__image-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/womanizer-premium-2?color=169\">                    <img decoding=\"async\"\n                        class=\"lovehoney-product__image\"\n                        src=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/media\/catalog\/product\/c\/a\/category_image_premium_2_raspberry.jpg\"\n                        alt=\"Premium 2 Raspberry\"\n                        loading=\"lazy\"\n                    >\n                <\/a>            \n                            <h3 class=\"lovehoney-product__title\">Premium 2 Raspberry<\/h3>\n            \n                            <div class=\"lovehoney-product__description\">\n                    Advanced Clitoral Stimulator                <\/div>\n            \n                            <div class=\"lovehoney-product__prices\">\n                                            <span class=\"lovehoney-product__regular-price\">$189<\/span>\n                                    <\/div>\n            \n                            <a class=\"lovehoney-product__button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/womanizer-premium-2?color=169\">Buy now<\/a>\n                    <\/article>\n                                <\/div>\n                                    <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"lovehoney-product-carousel__pagination\"><\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 data-interaction-id=\"1b0ee94\" class=\"fnt-h4 e-heading-base e-default-h2\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"1b0ee94\">How often should you clean sex toys?<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3aab239 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3aab239\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>&#8220;Clean your sex toys after each use and allow them to dry completely before storing them away,\u201d<\/strong> recommends sexologist, Dr. Jess O\u2019Reilly. If you clean your toy right away, you won\u2019t be tempted to put the task off and forget about it. And it\u2019ll be much easier to clean up before the fluids dry on&#8230;<br \/><br \/>For toys that are used externally only, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/sex-toys\/vibrators\/bullet-vibrators\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bullet vibrators<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/sex-toys\/vibrators\/wand-massager\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">wands,<\/a> you can wipe these down after use with specially formulated sex toy wipes or baby wipes, followed by a <strong>deep clean once a week.<\/strong> If you use toys for penetration (especially anal play), you\u2019ll need to wash and disinfect them properly after every use.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 data-interaction-id=\"1ca200a\" class=\"fnt-h4 e-heading-base e-default-h2\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"1ca200a\">How to clean sex toys safely<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-724bda6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"724bda6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIt\u2019s actually very easy to clean most sex toys, but there are a couple of useful things to know in advance:\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 data-interaction-id=\"192f485\" class=\"fnt-h5 e-heading-base e-default-h3\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"192f485\">Check the manual<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f21d93e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f21d93e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Every toy is different, so take a minute to read the care instructions. Most sex toys will specify whether they\u2019re <strong>waterproof, splashproof,<\/strong> or <strong>not water-resistant<\/strong> at all.<\/p><ul><li><strong>Waterproof<\/strong> toys can usually be submerged in water for cleaning<\/li><li><strong>Splashproof<\/strong> toys can handle a rinse, but not immersion<\/li><li><strong>Non-water-resistant<\/strong> toys\u2014especially those with charging ports or internal motors\u2014should only be wiped down carefully with a damp cloth or sex toy wipes<\/li><\/ul><p><br \/>If you\u2019re unsure, keep it simple and avoid soaking your toy.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 data-interaction-id=\"9efa748\" class=\"fnt-h5 e-heading-base e-default-h3\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"9efa748\">Remove detachable heads or sleeves<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-969697e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"969697e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Some clitoral suction toys, like the ones from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/womanizer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Womanizer<\/a>, have a removable suction head. You can take this off and rinse it thoroughly with warm water to get rid of any residue.<br \/><br \/>The same goes for male toys with removable inner sleeves; you can often take this out of the case and run water through it, or turn it inside out to rinse thoroughly.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 data-interaction-id=\"7bcad62\" class=\"fnt-h5 e-heading-base e-default-h3\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"7bcad62\">Wash thoroughly<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-57b98ea elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"57b98ea\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>For most toys, <strong>unfragranced soap and warm water<\/strong> are all you need. \u201cManufacturers will often recommend cleaners made for sex toys, but many folks just use water with mild, unscented soap,\u201d says Dr. Jess.<br \/><br \/>For peace of mind, you can use mild antibacterial soaps\u2014but avoid dish soap as it can contain cleaning agents that degrade materials like silicone.<br \/><br \/>If your toy is waterproof, you can submerge it in warm, soapy water and a clean cloth to gently wash it. Then, rinse away any soap before letting your toy dry.<br \/><br \/>For toys that aren\u2019t fully waterproof, use a damp, soapy cloth to wipe down the surface. Rinse your cloth completely and use it to wipe away the soapy residue on your toy. Be careful that there\u2019s no soap left over when you leave the toy to dry.<br \/><br \/>For an easy, no-rinse option, just spritz your toy with a sex toy cleaner like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/lovehoney-fresh-toy-cleaner-8-5-fl-oz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lovehoney Fresh<\/a>, and leave it to dry.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 data-interaction-id=\"1f032cd\" class=\"fnt-h5 e-heading-base e-default-h3\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"1f032cd\">Air dry your toy completely<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1b4cae6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1b4cae6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Avoid deeply unsexy mold growth by letting your toys <strong>air dry completely<\/strong> on a clean towel or rack before storing them. You <strong>can gently pat them down with a paper towel,<\/strong> but avoid rubbing, which can scratch surfaces or introduce lint.<br \/><br \/>\u201cDrying with a paper towel is less like to leave fluffy residue versus a facecloth or regular bath towel,\u201d says Dr. Jess. That\u2019s because paper towels have smooth fibres, while bathroom towels have looped fibres.<br \/><br \/>You might be tempted to speed up the process with a heat source like a hair dryer or radiator but, please, resist! Excessive heat can warp the silicone and damage internal wiring.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 data-interaction-id=\"d4e7c24\" class=\"fnt-h4 e-heading-base e-default-h2\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"d4e7c24\">Should you sterilize sex toys?<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f5379c3 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f5379c3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Yes, every now and then it&#8217;s a good idea to sanitize your toys to reduce germs to a safe level\u2014but you can only do this if your toys are made from nonporous materials. To sanitize nonelectrical, waterproof toys, you <strong>can boil them for three to five minutes.<br \/><\/strong><br \/>If your sex toys have electrical components, carefully prepare a <strong>diluted 10% bleach solution<\/strong> (1 part household bleach to 9 parts water). Wearing gloves, soak a clean cloth in the solution and use it to wipe down your toy. Be sure to wash the toy with soap and water afterwards, as you don\u2019t want bleach near your delicate genital skin.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 data-interaction-id=\"33d2b7b\" class=\"fnt-h5 e-heading-base e-default-h3\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"33d2b7b\">How often should you sterilize sex toys?<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d020630 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"d020630\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Depending on how often you use your toys, you could <strong>disinfect them once a week or twice a month,<\/strong> on top of regular cleaning.<br \/><br \/>Ideally, <strong>anal sex toys should be sanitized after every use,<\/strong> as you\u2019re more at risk of getting an infection through anal play. It\u2019s also best not to use the same sex toys for both vaginal and anal play, unless you\u2019re going to disinfect them between every use. Even then, it\u2019s a good idea to place a condom over the toy with each use, as this can add another layer of protection and reduce the risk of infection.<br \/><br \/>Finally, be sure to <strong>sanitize any toys you&#8217;re planning to use with a new partner,<\/strong> or multiple partners. For extra peace of mind, use a condom over any shared toys.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 data-interaction-id=\"a853824\" class=\"fnt-h4 e-heading-base e-default-h2\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"a853824\">What you need to know about sex toy materials<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-28fdaef elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"28fdaef\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Different materials call for different cleaning techniques. Here\u2019s a quick guide:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Body-safe silicone:<\/strong> It\u2019s nonporous, so it won\u2019t trap bacteria when cleaned properly. Wash with warm water and mild soap or sterilize it following the instructions above.<\/li><li><strong>Hard plastic (ABS):<\/strong> It\u2019s also nonporous but can get damaged by boiling or harsh solvents. Stick to regular washing with warm water and mild soap.<\/li><li><strong>Stainless steel or borosilicate glass:<\/strong> It\u2019s nonporous and highly durable, making it the easiest material to clean and sterilize. On top of regular washing, boil your toys for three to five minutes, twice a month.<\/li><li><strong>Jelly, rubber, or PVC:<\/strong> These porous materials can trap bacteria and odors. Wash with room temperature water (not hot) and mild soap or sex toy cleaner. These toys can\u2019t be fully sterilized, so use a condom if you\u2019re using them for penetration.<\/li><li><strong>SuperSkin and other \u201crealistic\u201d materials:<\/strong> Found in strokers such as Fleshlight (you might have also heard of Cyberskin or TPE). Skip soap\u2014it can degrade the material. Instead, rinse thoroughly with water, apply a dedicated sex toy cleaner, and dust with renewal powder or cornstarch to maintain the soft, supple texture.<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 data-interaction-id=\"58f9560\" class=\"fnt-h5 e-heading-base e-default-h3\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"58f9560\">Which sex toys can go in the dishwasher?<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fd03739 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"fd03739\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNonporous and non-electrical toys can technically go in the dishwasher, but there are downsides. You can\u2019t use harsh detergents or wash toys alongside dirty plates, plus it\u2019s not that sustainable to run the dishwasher just for one or two toys.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 data-interaction-id=\"5f61863\" class=\"fnt-h4 e-heading-base e-default-h2\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"5f61863\">How to store sex toys properly<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-84186bb elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"84186bb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOnce your toys are beautifully clean, it\u2019s time to store them carefully. Even clean toys can attract dust or end up damaged. Here\u2019s what you need to know:\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 data-interaction-id=\"038b402\" class=\"fnt-h5 e-heading-base e-default-h3\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"038b402\">Store sex toys separately<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5d3b058 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5d3b058\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Cheap rubber and jelly toys can become sticky if you store them together, and even high-quality silicone toys may get damaged if they\u2019re stored with other silicone toys.<br \/><br \/>To avoid a melted mess in your nightstand drawer, it\u2019s best to <strong>store your toys in separate cloth bags.<\/strong> &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">We-Vibe<\/a> and Womanizer products, for example, come with a smooth storage bag, which makes it easy to tuck them away,\u201d says Dr. Jess.<br \/><br \/>A nice satin or cotton bag will also protect your toy from scratches or discoloration.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 data-interaction-id=\"777b953\" class=\"fnt-h5 e-heading-base e-default-h3\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"777b953\">Keep them somewhere cool and dry<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-418354b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"418354b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Once they\u2019re tucked away in their cloth bags, be mindful where you ultimately stash your toys. \u201c<strong>Avoid storing toys in direct sunlight or near heat sources<\/strong> that can degrade materials like silicone [&#8230;] or high moisture areas, like under a sink, where you\u2019re more prone to leaks and mold,\u201d says Dr. Jess.<br \/><br \/>You might have a dedicated box that goes under the bed or in your wardrobe\u2014perfect! So long as your toys aren\u2019t at risk of getting crushed by other heavy objects, like shoes or hair-styling tools, you\u2019re golden.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 data-interaction-id=\"b9e5ebc\" class=\"fnt-h5 e-heading-base e-default-h3\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"b9e5ebc\">Find an organization system that works for you<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9c5e9de elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"9c5e9de\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>You might want your toys to be hidden away somewhere discreet, especially if you have children at home or roommates. But if they\u2019re too discreet, i.e. locked away on a high shelf, you might never bother to fetch them down. And that would be a tragedy.<br \/><br \/>Find somewhere that\u2019s easy to get to in the heat of the moment, such as the top drawer of your dresser or a chest at the end of the bed. That way, you\u2019re more inclined to pick up your toys and make the most of what they\u2019ve got to offer.<br \/><br \/>\u201cOrganizationally, you likely want to store your toys based on usage with your go-tos easily accessible,\u201d says Dr. Jess. So, if you\u2019ve got a trusty wand that never fails to get you there, keep that near the top along with your lubes and toy-safe wipes.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 data-interaction-id=\"d7bc416\" class=\"fnt-h4 e-heading-base e-default-h2\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"d7bc416\">More sex toy care tips<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a4739e0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a4739e0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li><strong>Use water-based when you play<\/strong> as it won\u2019t degrade silicone toys (unlike silicone lube).<\/li><li><strong>Remove disposable batteries before storage<\/strong> to prevent leaking or corrosion.<\/li><li><strong>Avoid wrapping <a href=\"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/us\/all-products\/chargers-replacement-parts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">charging cables<\/a> tightly<\/strong> around your toys. It can damage the surface of your toy and may even cause the cables to become frayed.<\/li><li><strong>Keep toys in their original case or a soft zip pouch when you travel<\/strong> as this will help prevent scratches or marks.<\/li><li><strong>Replace your toy<\/strong> if the surface becomes sticky, discolored, or develops cracks.<\/li><li><strong>Charge toys fully before storing for long periods<\/strong> and unplug once charged to protect the battery life.<\/li><li><strong>Avoid surface wipes designed for household cleaning<\/strong> as these contain harsh cleaning agents. Baby wipes are okay for a temporary clean but be sure to follow up with soap and water before you play next.<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 data-interaction-id=\"c78a778\" class=\"fnt-h4 e-heading-base e-default-h2\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-id=\"c78a778\">Choosing sex toys that are easy to care for<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b28f234 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b28f234\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Keeping your sex toys clean and storing them properly will help ensure they have a long life. You can also avoid some issues by choosing your toys carefully.<br \/><br \/><strong>Look for waterproof designs with magnetic charging points, as these will be much easier to wash regularly.<\/strong> Nonporous materials like body-safe silicone, stainless steel, and borosilicate glass are also much more hygienic, since bacteria won\u2019t stay trapped in the surface of the toy after thorough cleaning, and you can easily disinfect them.<br \/><br \/>Remember that cheap toys may end up costing you more in the long run, particularly if they\u2019re made from porous plastics. Trusted brands like We-Vibe and Womanizer use top quality materials and do extensive user testing to make sure your toys (and your Os) keep giving. They even come with cute little storage bags to keep your favorite toys safe.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how to clean, dry and store your sex toys safely with expert toy care tips designed to help maintain hygiene, protect materials and keep your toys in the best condition for longer.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":125,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-577","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/577","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=577"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/577\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/125"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=577"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=577"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.we-vibe.com\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=577"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}