How to Clean and Store Sex Toys (Material-by-Material Guide)
A simple, safe routine for cleaning and storing every type of sex toy — silicone, TPE, and more — plus what to avoid so your toys last and stay hygienic.
By Mia Bennett,
Founder & Editor-in-Chief
Published June 14, 2026 · How we choose
At a glance
| # | Product | Rating | Price | Highlight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Medium Vaginal Dilators for Pelvic Floor Therapy & Vaginismus Pain Relief – FDA-Cleared Silicone Set with 100+ Tutorials, Support Group & Doctor Access | 4.6★ | $89.99 | Highly rated — 4.6★ from 1,516 customer reviews | Check price |
| 2 |  Kegel Exercise System - Pelvic Floor Exercises - Set of 6 Premium Silicone Kegel Exercise Weights & Control with Training Kit for Women: Beginners & Advanced | 4.3★ | $49.99 | Highly rated — 4.3★ from 5,960 customer reviews | Check price |
| 3 |  Pelvic Floor Muscle Trainer for Women, Electrical Pelvic Floor Exercise Device & Stimulator with Probe and Pads, Kegel Exerciser for Bladder Control, Stress Urge Mixed Urinary Continence Support | 5.0★ | $189.99 | Strong 5.0★ average rating | Check price |
| 4 |  Geiserailie 6 Pcs Pelvic Floor Exercise Trainer Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening Weights 6 Different Weights Tightening Strengthen Bladder Training Kit for Women Beginners Advanced | 4.9★ | $32.99 | Strong 4.9★ average rating | Check price |
Cleaning your toys properly keeps them safe to use and makes them last for years. The good news: it’s quick and simple once you know the rules for each material.
The 30-second basic routine
For most body-safe toys, after every use:
- Rinse with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap (or a dedicated toy cleaner).
- Pay attention to seams, textures, and around buttons/charging ports.
- Rinse thoroughly so no soap residue remains.
- Air-dry completely on a clean towel before storing.
Always clean a toy before first use and before and after sharing.
Cleaning by material
Silicone, glass, stainless steel (non-porous)
The easiest to keep hygienic. Warm water + mild soap is plenty. Fully waterproof, non-motorized 100% silicone/glass/steel toys can often be boiled or washed on the top rack of a dishwasher (no detergent) — but never boil anything with a motor or battery.
TPE / TPR (porous)
Realistic and affordable, but porous, so they can’t be fully sterilized. Clean gently with warm water and mild soap, dry thoroughly, and consider a condom for easy cleanup or when sharing. Replace them sooner than silicone.
Motorized / rechargeable toys
Most are splash-proof, not submersible unless labeled fully waterproof. Wipe with a damp, soapy cloth, avoid getting water in the charging port, and never submerge unless the maker says it’s safe.
What to avoid
- Harsh cleaners — alcohol, bleach, or antibacterial hand soaps can damage materials and irritate skin.
- Silicone lube on silicone toys — it can degrade the surface over time.
- Storing toys touching each other — different materials (especially TPE) can react and become sticky or melt. Store them separately.
- Heat and sunlight — keep toys somewhere cool and dark.
Storage tips
- Let toys dry completely first — trapped moisture breeds bacteria.
- Use individual cloth bags, the original box, or a dedicated storage case.
- Keep them in a cool, dry, dark place.
- Remove batteries from battery-operated toys for long-term storage.
Helpful accessories
A dedicated toy cleaner and proper storage make the routine effortless. See related wellness picks below.
FAQ
How often should I replace a toy? Non-porous silicone/glass/steel can last years with care. Porous TPE should be replaced sooner, especially if the surface changes texture, smell, or color.
Do I really need a special toy cleaner? No — warm water and mild, unscented soap work for most toys. A toy cleaner is just a convenient extra.
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