How to Clean Sex Toys Safely
Cleaning a sex toy is simple once you know what it is made of—and whether water can reach its motor, battery, or charging port. When in doubt, follow the instructions that came with the toy. The same cleaning method does not suit every material or design.
Start with the toy’s instructions
Check the manual or the maker’s product page for the material, water-resistance rating, and cleaning directions. “Water-resistant” and “waterproof” do not mean the same thing, and a sealed toy may still have parts that need special care. If you can’t confirm that a toy can be submerged, don’t soak it.
Wash your hands first. Turn the toy off and disconnect any cable. Remove batteries only if the instructions say they are removable. Keep charging contacts, seams, buttons, and battery compartments dry unless the maker specifically says they can be washed.
How to clean sex toys in five steps
- Remove residue. If the toy is washable, rinse it with lukewarm water. For a device that cannot be submerged, wipe the surface with a clean, damp cloth instead.
- Use a gentle cleaner. For many washable toys, mild, unscented soap and water are suitable. A cleaner made for sex toys is another option when its label says it suits the toy’s material. Avoid harsh household cleaners, abrasive pads, and fragranced products.
- Reach the details. Clean folds and textured areas gently with a soft cloth. Don’t force water or cleaner into openings, seams, or charging areas.
- Rinse only when allowed. Remove soap or cleaner according to the product directions. If rinsing could expose electrical parts to water, use the maker’s wipe-clean method instead.
- Dry completely. Pat dry with a clean, lint-free towel, then let the toy air-dry before storing it. Moisture can linger around seams and textured surfaces.
Planned Parenthood recommends washing sex toys with mild soap and water after use and before they touch another person’s genitals, while also advising people to check the toy’s own care directions. Read Planned Parenthood’s sex-toy safety guidance.
Care depends on material and design
Washable, nonporous toys
Solid silicone, glass, and stainless-steel toys are generally easier to clean than porous materials. That does not mean every toy made from these materials can be boiled or put in a dishwasher: motors, coatings, joined parts, and other components may not tolerate heat or immersion. Use those methods only when the manufacturer explicitly permits them.
Vibrators and other electronic toys
For battery-powered or rechargeable devices, use the wipe-clean method unless the exact model is confirmed as washable. Keep water away from charging points and controls, and never assume a device is waterproof because it looks sealed. For a related overview of device care, see Olyon’s vibrator charger and care guide.
Porous or mixed materials
Some soft rubber-like materials can hold onto residue even after washing. Cleaning helps, but it may not make a porous toy equivalent to a nonporous one. If the material is unclear, the surface is damaged, or the toy has become sticky or cracked, avoid sharing it and check the maker’s guidance. A condom can add a barrier when a toy is shared; change it between partners and between body areas.
For broader help comparing materials before you buy, see Olyon’s beginner’s guide to choosing a first sex toy. When you’re comparing devices, check the material and cleaning directions on the specific product listing; Olyon’s vibrator collection is one place to start.
When a toy is shared
Clean a toy before it touches another person’s genitals, and use a new condom or barrier between partners if sharing. If a toy moves from the anus to the vagina or mouth, wash it or change the condom first. These steps help reduce the chance of transferring body fluids or germs; they do not replace other safer-sex practices.
SH:24, a UK sexual-health service, also advises checking the toy’s material and keeping water away from battery-operated toys that are not designed to be submerged. See its guide to cleaning sex toys.
Store it dry and separately
Once the toy is fully dry, store it in a clean, dry pouch or container. Keep toys from rubbing against each other, especially if their materials are soft or the manufacturer recommends separate storage. Put the manual somewhere you can find it again.
Quick answers
How often should I clean a sex toy?
Clean it after each use and before another person uses it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions if they give a more specific routine.
Can I use regular soap?
Mild, unscented soap works for many washable toys, but check the care instructions first. Some devices should be wiped clean, and some materials need a different approach.
Can I boil or dishwash a toy?
Only if the manufacturer clearly says that the specific toy can handle it. Never assume a method safe for a non-motorized toy is suitable for a vibrator or a toy with mixed materials.
About the author
Olyon Editorial Team creates practical, research-informed guides to sexual wellness. This article draws on public sexual-health resources and current care guidance; always check the instructions for your specific toy.