Cleaning your toys is the single easiest way to keep them safe and make them last. The routine takes a minute, and it is the same basic idea for almost every toy: wash, rinse, dry, store.
The everyday routine
- Clean right after use. Residue is easier to remove before it dries.
- Wash with warm water and a mild, unscented soap, or a dedicated toy cleaner. Pay attention to ridges, seams and buttons.
- Rinse thoroughly so no soap is left behind.
- Dry completely with a lint-free cloth or let it air dry before putting it away.
Always check whether a toy with a motor is waterproof or only splashproof. Splashproof toys should be wiped with a damp, soapy cloth and never held under running water near the charging port.
Cleaning by material
Silicone
Soap and water is enough for daily cleaning. Silicone toys without motors can be sterilized by boiling for a few minutes. Never boil a toy that has a motor or battery inside.
Glass
Wash with soap and warm water. If you boil glass, place it in cool water first and heat it gradually, then let it cool slowly, because sudden temperature changes can crack it. Inspect for chips before each use.
Stainless steel
Soap and water, or boiling. Steel is the easiest material to keep clean.
ABS plastic
Soap and water. Avoid boiling, since heat can warp hard plastic.
TPE, TPR and other soft porous materials
Use only warm water and a very mild soap, rinse well and let the toy dry completely, inside and out. Some strokers come apart for cleaning. A light dusting of renewing powder (if the manufacturer recommends it) helps keep the surface from getting sticky.
What never to use
- Bleach, harsh disinfectants or rubbing alcohol on silicone and soft materials. They can damage the surface and irritate skin.
- Scented or antibacterial hand soaps with strong additives on toys used internally.
- The dishwasher, unless the manufacturer specifically says the toy is dishwasher-safe.
Charging and battery care
- Make sure the toy and charging port are completely dry before charging.
- Use the cable that came with the toy.
- Remove batteries from battery-powered toys if you will not use them for a while, to prevent corrosion.
- Many rechargeable toys keep their battery healthier if you top them up every few months, even when not in use.
How to store toys
- Keep them separate. Soft materials can react with each other when they touch for long periods. A cloth pouch for each toy is ideal.
- Somewhere cool, dry and dark. Heat and sunlight can break down materials over time.
- Lock travel modes if your toy has one, so it does not switch on in a bag.
When to replace a toy
Replace any toy that has cracks, tears, a sticky or cloudy surface, or a smell that does not wash out. For porous toys, replacing them more often is simply good hygiene.
Looking for something new? Browse vibrators or our beginner-friendly picks.
