How often should you clean your sex toys?

Keeping your sex toys clean isn’t just about hygiene. It’s about keeping your body safe and making sure your toys last for longer. Here’s what you need to know about cleaning and storing them properly.

Sex toys should be cleaned after every use to remove any bodily fluids and lubricants that may be on them. You may also want to clean a toy before using it if it hasn’t been stored in something protective such as its packaging or a dust bag.

Why is it important to clean your sex toys?

Not cleaning sex toys allows bacteria to cling to their surfaces. The next time you use them, this can lead to irritation or infection. STIs can also be passed through shared sex toys, so it’s important to either clean them between users or use condoms to reduce any risk of transmission.

What’s best practice when cleaning a sex toy?

Always check the instructions for your specific toy. The safest way to clean it will depend on what it’s made from and how it’s powered.

Most toys can be cleaned using warm water and unperfumed soap. Many sex toy and wellness brands also sell toy cleaners in gels, sprays, foams or wipes. Wipes are ideal for toys that can’t be submerged in water, such as those that are battery operated or mains powered.

After cleaning, dry your toy using a paper towel rather than a fabric towel or cloth, as these can leave behind tiny fibres that may irritate your skin.

How can you keep your sex toys in good condition?

Storing your toys properly helps them last longer. If they’re made of silicone, avoid letting them touch each other in storage as this can damage the material. Keeping them in a dust bag or their original packaging is ideal, and a cool, dry place is best for preventing damage from heat or sunlight.

If your toy uses batteries, remove them when not in use for a long time to prevent corrosion. Keeping your chargers and cleaning products together means you’ll always have what you need to hand.