Let’s get real: your pleasure toys are your trusted companions, bringing you endless joy, toe-curling bliss and those deliciously breathless moments. But just like any beloved treasure, they need a little TLC to stay in top form.
Cleaning your sex toys isn’t just about keeping them looking good, it’s about ensuring they’re safe, hygienic and ready to give you your next mind-blowing adventure.
Why Proper Cleaning Matters
Your body deserves only the best and that means keeping your sex toys squeaky clean. Unwashed toys can harbour bacteria, yeast and other unwelcome guests that could lead to infections or irritation. And let’s be honest, nothing kills the mood like a UTI or an unexpected rash.
The golden rule? Clean your toys before and after every use. It’s a small habit that makes a huge difference, ensuring every encounter is safe, hygienic and as blissful as it should be.
But here’s something not everyone thinks about—bodily fluids can affect the lifespan of your toys. Vaginal fluids, semen and even lubricants can break down materials over time, especially if left uncleaned.
Silicone toys, for instance, are durable but can become sticky if exposed to oils or certain lubes. Jelly rubber and porous materials absorb fluids, making them harder to clean thoroughly, which is why using a condom over these toys can help extend their life and keep things ultra-hygienic.
What You Should (And Shouldn’t) Use To Clean Your Toys
Not all soaps and cleaners are created equal. Some contain harsh chemicals that could cause skin sensitivities or even degrade the delicate materials of your favourite toys. Here’s what to use and what to avoid:
Safe Cleaning Options:
- Warm Water & Fragrance-Free Soap: The simplest, safest method for most toys. Choose a mild, antibacterial soap that won’t leave residue or cause irritation.
- Toy-Specific Cleaners: Brands like Doc Johnson and Swiss Navy offer cleansers designed specifically for adult toys, ensuring they’re safe for both your body and your pleasure products.
- Alcohol-Free Wipes: Perfect for quick clean-ups when you don’t have time for a full wash.
What To Avoid:
- Household Cleaners: Many contain chemicals like bleach and ammonia, which can damage your toys and cause burning sensations on sensitive skin.
- Scented Soaps: Fragrances can be irritating, especially for those with sensitive skin.
- Hand Sanitisers: These can dry out materials like silicone, making them brittle over time.
- Alcohol-Based Wipes: While they might seem like a quick fix, they don’t necessarily kill all bacteria. Alcohol can dehydrate bacteria and viruses, temporarily halting their spread, but it doesn’t always eliminate them entirely. Plus, regular use of alcohol-based cleaners can dry out silicone, leading to cracks that harbour bacteria. That’s why toy-safe antibacterial sprays or warm, soapy water remain the best choices for thorough cleaning.
How To Clean Different Materials
- Silicone, Glass & Stainless Steel: Wash with warm water and unscented soap. If they’re non-motorised, you can even boil them for 5 minutes for a deep clean.
- Jelly Rubber, TPE & PVC: These materials are porous, meaning bacteria can hide inside tiny gaps. Use warm water and mild soap, but be extra diligent with cleaning. Using a condom over these toys can also help keep things extra safe.
- Waterproof Toys: Check the label! If your toy is fully waterproof, you can submerge it for a thorough wash.
- Non-Waterproof Toys: Stick to antibacterial wipes or damp cloth with anti-bacterial sprays – water and electrics don’t mix well!
The Do’s & Don’ts of Sharing Toys
Thinking of sharing the love? Hold that thought! For hygiene reasons, it’s best not to share sex toys unless they are properly cleaned between uses. Even then, using a condom over shared toys is the safest way to avoid the transfer of bacteria or infections.
Better yet, why not treat your partner or bestie to their very own pleasure product? Sharing may be caring, but when it comes to intimate toys, having your own is always best.
Proper Storage for Long-Lasting Pleasure
Your sex toys deserve a cosy, clean home! Storing them properly helps maintain their longevity and keeps them ready for whenever the mood strikes. Here’s how to do it right:
- Keep Them Dry: Always dry your toys thoroughly after cleaning them before putting them away to prevent bacteria or mould growth.
- Use A Storage Bag: Soft, breathable pouches (often included with high-end toys) keep them clean and dust-free.
- Avoid Plastic-on-Plastic Contact: Silicone toys can react when stored together, potentially damaging their surfaces. This reaction is due to chemical softeners that can cause bonding, leading to a sticky or melted texture over time. - give each toy its own space!
Love Your Toys and They’ll Love You Back!
Cleaning your pleasure products isn’t just about hygiene; it’s about respecting your body, enhancing your experience and making sure your toys are always ready for action. A little care goes a long way in keeping both you and your collection in tip-top shape.
Now that you know how to keep your toys fresh and fabulous, go ahead, enjoy every sensation, every vibration and every oh-so-delicious moment of pleasure. Because you (and your toys) deserve it!
Keep the source of your pleasure clean, safe and ready for your next erotic adventure! Have a question? We’re listening.
