Learning how to clean sex toys is the single most important habit for anyone who owns intimate products. Bacteria, yeast, and body fluids build up on the surface after every use, and skipping a proper wash can lead to irritation and infection.

According to Healthline’s medically reviewed guide, unwashed toys can harbor bacteria such as E. coli and staph — which makes regular cleaning essential, not optional. The right approach depends entirely on the toy’s material, and the wrong method can damage the surface or leave residue behind.

Non-porous materials — medical-grade silicone, borosilicate glass, and stainless steel — are the easiest to sanitize because their surfaces do not trap bacteria. Wash them with warm water and a mild, unscented soap after every use.

For everyday convenience — especially with motorized toys that cannot be submerged — a dedicated toy cleaner spray works beautifully: mist, wait 30 seconds, and rinse. If you want to understand what makes these materials the safest choice, our guide to sex toy materials covers it in detail.

Porous materials like TPE, PVC, and rubber need extra care because their micro-textured surfaces can trap bacteria even after washing. Always clean them with warm water and an antibacterial toy cleaner — soap alone may not reach into the surface pores.

For TPE strokers and similar toys, dust on a little renewal powder after drying to keep the surface smooth and prevent stickiness. If a porous toy stays tacky even after powdering, it may be time to replace it.

To clean sex toys with a motor, the golden rule is to keep water away from the motor and charging port entirely — most cannot be fully submerged, even many labeled water-resistant.

A quality toy cleaner is formulated for intimate products — free of the harsh chemicals, fragrances, and alcohol that degrade surfaces or irritate sensitive skin. Sprays are quick for everyday use; foaming formulas cling to textured toys for a deeper clean; renewal powders keep porous toys smooth.

Every order ships in a plain brown box. A dedicated cleaner keeps the whole routine to under two minutes.

Knowing how to clean sex toys is only half the equation — how you store them matters just as much for keeping the surface safe.

Pairing the right lubricant helps too: always use a water-based lubricant with silicone toys, since silicone lube can bond to and ruin a silicone surface.