How to Clean and Store Your Sex Toys for Longevity

Quick Answer

Clean your sex toys before and after every use with warm water and a gentle toy cleaner, then dry them completely and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and other toys. For porous materials like ULTRASKYN, pay extra attention to cleaning and storage to prevent bacteria buildup.

You've invested in quality toys, so it makes sense to keep them in top shape. Proper cleaning and storage not only protect your health but also extend the life of your favorite items. Whether you have a simple stroker or a more complex machine, a few simple habits can make a big difference.

This guide walks you through the essential steps for cleaning and storing your toys, with practical advice for different materials and types. Follow these steps to keep your collection hygienic and ready for action.

Know Your Material

Before you clean anything, identify what your toy is made of. Silicone, glass, and metal are non-porous and can be washed with soap and water or boiled (if silicone). Porous materials like TPE, ULTRASKYN, and rubber require more careful handling because they can harbor bacteria in microscopic pores.

Check the product instructions or packaging for specific care guidance. If you're unsure, a gentle toy cleaner designed for adult toys is a safe bet for most materials. For porous toys, be extra diligent about cleaning and drying thoroughly.

• Always check the material before choosing a cleaning method.
• When in doubt, use a mild toy cleaner and warm water.

Use the Right Cleaner

Not all soaps are toy-safe. Harsh soaps, alcohol, or peroxide can degrade materials over time. Invest in a dedicated toy cleaner that's formulated to be gentle yet effective. For example, a water-based glide like Sasha Grey - Love Spit - Personal Glide can double as a lubricant but isn't a cleaner—so keep them separate.

For a quick clean, you can use mild, unscented soap and warm water. Avoid antibacterial soaps that may contain chemicals that can break down silicone or other materials.

• Use a toy cleaner specifically designed for adult toys.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances that can damage materials.

Clean After Every Use

Make it a habit to clean your toys immediately after use. This prevents bodily fluids, lubricants, and debris from drying and becoming harder to remove. It also reduces the risk of bacterial growth.

For toys with motors or electronics, avoid submerging them in water. Instead, wipe them down with a damp cloth and toy cleaner. For non-motorized toys, you can rinse them under warm running water.

• Clean toys right after use to keep them hygienic.
• Never submerge motorized toys in water.

Dry Thoroughly

Moisture is the enemy of toy longevity. After cleaning, pat your toys dry with a clean, lint-free cloth or let them air dry on a clean towel. Make sure they are completely dry before storing to prevent mold and mildew.

For porous toys, drying is even more critical. Consider placing them in a well-ventilated area to dry fully. Avoid using paper towels that can leave fibers behind.

• Dry toys completely before storage.
• Use a lint-free cloth or air dry on a clean surface.

Store Properly

How you store your toys affects their lifespan. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and material breakdown. Avoid storing different materials together, especially silicone and porous materials, as they can react and damage each other.

Use individual pouches or containers to keep toys separate and dust-free. For toys with intricate parts, like a modular machine, disassemble and store components properly to avoid stress on joints and motors.

• Store toys separately to prevent material reactions.
• Keep them away from heat and sunlight.

Step-by-Step Care Routine

1. Gather Your Supplies: Get a toy cleaner, warm water, a clean towel, and a storage pouch or container. Having supplies ready makes cleaning a habit.
2. Rinse and Wash: Rinse non-motorized toys under warm water, apply toy cleaner, and wash thoroughly. For motorized toys, wipe with a damp cloth and cleaner. Don't forget to clean the nooks and crannies.
3. Dry Completely: Pat dry with a lint-free cloth or air dry on a clean towel. Ensure no moisture remains, especially in textured areas. Moisture left behind can cause mold and damage.
4. Store Separately: Place each toy in its own pouch or container, away from direct sunlight and other toys. Separate storage prevents material reactions and dust buildup.

Products That Make Care Easier

• Sasha Grey - Love Spit - Personal Glide: This water-based glide is formulated to look and act exactly like the real thing. 4 fl. oz. bottle. Using a compatible water-based lubricant reduces friction and makes cleaning easier, as it rinses off more simply than silicone-based lubes.
• Signature Strokers - Girls of Social Media - @layna.me - ULTRASKYN Pocket Pussy: Handcrafted in lifelike ULTRASKYN, @layna.me's Signature Stroker features a tight, textured interior that warms to the touch and feels just like the real thing. Porous ULTRASKYN material requires thorough cleaning and complete drying to maintain hygiene and extend its life, so proper care is essential.
• Fort Troff - Gunner System - 3-In-1 Modular Fuck Machine: Fort Troff's Gunner System is an impeccably designed 3-in-1 modular Fuck Machine for everybody, from beginners to extremely advanced players. Two vibrating and rotating heads can be used mounted to the full machine base, with the handheld turbo torque gun, or solo with the included handle. The base is adjustable to fuck you in any position you want. Once it's filled with water, sand, or the heavy material of your... For complex toys like this, disassembly and careful cleaning of each component are necessary to prevent damage and ensure longevity.

With these simple steps, you can keep your sex toys clean, safe, and ready for years of enjoyment. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions, and when in doubt, opt for a gentle cleaner and proper storage. Your future self will thank you.