Item Care Essentials
Preserving Quality and Safety
Cleaning each of your sex toys properly is just as important as cleaning them regularly. If you don’t, you risk eroding a toy’s material, warping its shape, or breaking any battery-operated functions it may have. We recommend always reading and following any care instructions provided by the manufacturer first and foremost.
- You’ll want to find the right soap. Look for a mild, unscented, liquid hand soap. A vagina has a natural pH that keeps its microflora in balance.
- Determine your toy’s water safety rating. If the toy is non-mechanised (such as a solid silicone dildo), or mechanised but rated as being splashproof or waterproof, it’s safe to rinse the toy with water in the sink. If a toy is splashproof, that means it’s safe to get its surface wet. If a toy is waterproof, then it’s safe to submerge it up to a certain depth. A toy’s box or manual will generally indicate whether the toy is waterproof or splashproof. If the toy is not water-safe, it should only be wiped down with a damp paper towel or washcloth—not rinsed or submerged in water. If the toy is battery-operated, remove the batteries before cleaning.
- Rinse the toy with water, or wipe the surface of the toy with a damp paper towel or washcloth to remove any surface debris. Then apply liquid soap directly to the toy and scrub, if you’re washing it in the sink, or wipe it again with a damp cloth and some liquid soap. If the toy has grooves or crevices that trap gunk, use a soft toothbrush you’ve dedicated to this purpose to remove any debris. Then rinse or wipe the toy until it is completely clean, using plain water.
- Place the clean toy on a clean towel and allow it to air-dry. Air-drying is best for most toys to avoid lint getting stuck to the toy and to give it time for any nooks and crannies to fully dry.” Allow battery-operated toys to dry with the battery case open. No matter how you wash your toy, double-check that it’s dry before storing it. Ensuring that your toy is completely dry will lessen the likelihood that any pathogens can cling on.
- Many sex toys come with a fabric pouch, case, or box they can be stored in when not in use, but any sealable pouch or case is fine for a nonporous toy. This will keep your toy dust- and lint-free. Store silicone anal toys in something breathable (not plastic), to cut down on odour. Toys should be stored in a cool, dark, dry place, such as a shelf or drawer. Keep toys out of direct sunlight or anywhere they might get wet, such as the bathroom.
Different materials and how they should be cleaned
- Silicone: Opt for gentle care with silicone. This nonporous material cleans easily with mild liquid soap and warm water. Allow to air dry completely before storage. Avoid wiping down with a cloth to dry, as this may leave debris on the toy. Detachable components should be cleaned separately.
- Metals and Borosilicate Glass: Materials like medical-grade stainless steel, gold, pyrex glass, and certain glass types are nonporous and simple to maintain. A light wash with mild soap and warm water will suffice.
- Leather: Being highly porous, leather demands meticulous cleaning. Wipe with a damp, soapy cloth, paying close attention to stitches and crevices, and allow to air dry.
- Crystal, Stone, and Non-Pyrex Glass: These potentially porous materials need a careful wash with mild soap and water. Avoid boiling water for crystal and non-Pyrex glass due to their heat sensitivity.
- Cyberskin and Vinyl: These porous materials require minimal soap to prevent deterioration. For masturbating sleeves, turn them inside out for thorough cleaning. Post-wash, a light cornstarch dusting may be needed to prevent stickiness; always check the product instructions for confirmation.
- Nylon: Hardy nylon can be machine-washed or hand-washed with a mild detergent. Ensure any motorised parts are removed before washing, and air dry thoroughly.
- Wood: Wood toys, typically sealed with a medical-grade finish, are usually nonporous. Handle them as you would a wooden cutting board, using mild soap and water.
Lastly
- Ensure your toy is thoroughly cleaned before its first use, much like new underwear.
- For your safety and hygiene, we recommend discarding any toy made of plastic, acrylic, or glass if it shows visible cracks and silicone toys with rips or tears. These imperfections not only pose a safety risk but also hinder effective cleaning.
- Always remove batteries or disconnect your toys before cleaning. While many products are waterproof, removing batteries helps prevent corrosion, ensuring the longevity of your toy.