Why Proper Cleaning is Non-Negotiable
Keeping your toys clean isn't just about hygiene: it's about your health and safety.
Health & Safety
Bacteria, yeast, and other organisms can survive on improperly cleaned toys and cause infections.
Extends Lifespan
Proper care prevents material degradation, keeping your investment safe and functional longer.
Better Experience
Clean toys feel better, function better, and allow you to relax fully during use.
Cleaning by Material Type
Different materials require different cleaning methods for optimal care.
Silicone Toys
Basic Cleaning (After Each Use):
- Rinse with warm water immediately after use
- Apply mild, unscented antibacterial soap
- Gently scrub all surfaces including textured areas
- Rinse thoroughly - soap residue can cause irritation
- Pat dry with lint-free towel or air dry completely
Deep Cleaning (Weekly or Before Sharing):
- Boiling: Non-motorized silicone can be boiled for 3-5 minutes (fully submerged)
- Dishwasher: Top rack, no detergent, non-motorized only
- 10% Bleach Solution: 1 part bleach to 9 parts water, soak 10 minutes, rinse extensively
Warning: Never boil or dishwasher toys with motors, batteries, or electrical components!
Glass & Metal Toys
Basic Cleaning:
Wash with warm water and antibacterial soap. These materials are non-porous and very easy to clean.
Deep Cleaning Options:
- Boiling: Safe for glass and metal (3-5 minutes)
- Dishwasher: Top rack, safe for both materials
- Alcohol wipe: 70% isopropyl alcohol for quick sanitization
- Bleach solution: 10% bleach solution (1:9 ratio)
Benefit: Glass and metal are the easiest materials to fully sterilise, making them ideal for sharing between partners.
Hard Plastic (ABS) Toys
Cleaning Method:
- Wash with warm water and mild soap
- Use toy cleaner spray for quick cleaning
- Wipe with 70% alcohol for sanitization
- For motorized toys: use damp cloth around buttons/seams
Never: Don't boil or put plastic toys in the dishwasher - heat can warp the material.
Motorized/Electric Toys
Waterproof Motorized Toys:
- Can be fully submerged and washed under running water
- Use warm water and antibacterial soap
- Ensure charging port cover is closed before washing
- Dry thoroughly before storing
Splash-Proof Motorized Toys:
- Use damp cloth with soap - avoid electrical components
- Don't submerge or hold under running water
- Use toy cleaner spray for convenience
- Pat dry immediately
Check Manual: Always verify waterproof rating before submerging any motorized toy.
DIY Cleaning vs. Commercial Toy Cleaners
Understanding the pros and cons of each method helps you make the best choice.
DIY: Soap & Water
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Always available
- Works well for most materials
- Effective when done properly
Cons:
- Requires thorough rinsing
- Not as convenient
- Soap residue if not rinsed well
Best for: Budget-conscious users, basic cleaning after each use
Commercial Toy Cleaners
Pros:
- pH-balanced for intimate use
- Quick and convenient (spray & wipe)
- No residue
- Often include antibacterial agents
- Travel-friendly
Cons:
- More expensive over time
- Need to repurchase regularly
Best for: Quick cleanups, travel, convenience-seekers, those with sensitive skin
Our Recommendation
Use both! Keep commercial toy cleaner for quick wipes before and during use, and do thorough soap-and-water cleaning after. This gives you convenience plus deep cleaning.
Proper Storage: Protecting Your Investment
How you store your toys is just as important as how you clean them.
Essential Storage Rules
- 1.Store separately: Silicone toys can react with each other if they touch. Use individual bags or pouches.
- 2.Completely dry: Never store damp toys - moisture breeds bacteria and mold.
- 3.Cool, dry place: Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources, and humid environments.
- 4.Remove batteries: For long-term storage, remove batteries to prevent corrosion.
- 5.Dust-free: Use storage bags/cases to keep toys clean between uses.
Storage Options
Individual Satin/Silk Bags
Breathable, protects from dust, prevents toys from touching. Often included with toys.
Lockable Storage Cases
Discreet, secure, organised. Great for shared living situations or travel.
Dedicated Drawer
Private, accessible. Use drawer organizers and individual bags for each toy.
UV Sanitizer Boxes
Clean and store simultaneously. Premium option that uses UV-C light to kill bacteria.
Storage DON'Ts
- Don't store in plastic bags (traps moisture)
- Don't let silicone toys touch each other
- Don't store in direct sunlight or near heat
- Don't leave batteries in toys long-term
- Don't store without cleaning first
Ongoing Maintenance & When to Replace
Regular care and knowing when to replace toys ensures safety and longevity.
Battery Care
- Use quality batteries from known brands
- Replace all batteries at once (don't mix old/new)
- Remove if not using for 2+ weeks
- Check for corrosion periodically
- Store batteries separately from toys
Rechargeable Care
- Charge fully before first use
- Don't leave plugged in for days after full charge
- Recharge every 2-3 months even if unused
- Keep charging port clean and dry
- Use manufacturer's cable when possible
Regular Inspections
- Check for tears, cracks, or discoloration
- Inspect seams for separation
- Test motors periodically
- Look for strange odors
- Verify waterproof seals are intact
When to Replace Your Toy
Material Issues
- Tears or cracks: Any break in the material allows bacteria inside
- Discoloration: Unusual color changes indicate material degradation
- Tackiness or stickiness: Silicone breaking down
- Strange odors: Sign of material decay or bacterial growth
Functional Issues
- Motor weakening significantly: Much less powerful than when new
- Waterproof seal failure: Water getting into electronics
- Buttons not responding: Difficult to turn on/off or change settings
- Can't get fully clean: Staining or residue that won't wash away
Safety First: When in doubt, replace it. Your health is worth more than the cost of a toy. Never use a toy that looks, feels, or smells questionable.
Travel Care Tips
Taking your toys on the road? Here's how to keep them clean and discreet.
Before You Go
- Clean toys thoroughly and ensure completely dry
- Remove batteries from battery-powered toys
- Fully charge rechargeable toys
- Place in individual storage bags
- Pack toy cleaner for on-the-go cleaning
- Use lockable travel case for security
Airport Security & Air Travel
- Toys are legal in carry-on and checked bags
- Keep in original packaging if possible (shows not modified)
- Remove batteries or lock/turn off to prevent accidental activation
- Be prepared for possible bag inspection (it happens)
- Use discrete storage cases
- Check destination country laws for international travel