How to Clean & Care for Your Toys (The Right Way)

Let's talk about the part nobody puts in the marketing photos: cleaning your toys properly.

It's not glamorous, but it's one of the most important things you can do — for hygiene, for safety, and honestly, for how long your favourites actually last.

Why it actually matters

Body-safe materials are porous on a microscopic level, which means bacteria can build up over time if a toy isn't cleaned properly between uses. A quick rinse under the tap isn't enough. Done right, cleaning takes less than a minute — it's just about building the habit.

The basics: cleaning silicone toys

1. Rinse under warm (not hot) water immediately after use.
2. Use a small amount of mild, unscented soap or a dedicated toy cleaner — avoid anything heavily fragranced, which can irritate sensitive skin.
3. Gently work the cleanser over the entire surface, paying attention to any textured or ridged areas where residue can hide.
4. Rinse thoroughly until no soap remains.
5. Pat dry with a clean, lint-free towel and allow to air dry fully before storing.

A few things worth knowing

Check if it's waterproof first. Not every toy can be fully submerged — some are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. Always check the product description before rinsing under running water.

Skip the harsh stuff. Alcohol-based cleaners, antibacterial soaps with strong chemicals, and abrasive sponges can degrade silicone over time. A dedicated, alcohol-free toy cleaner or simple unscented soap is all you need.

Clean before and after use, not just after — especially if a toy has been stored for a while since its last use.

Storage matters more than people think

Once your toy is fully dry, store it somewhere clean and dust-free — a soft pouch or dedicated drawer works well. Avoid storing silicone toys touching each other or other silicone items, as the material can react and degrade over time. If your toy came with a storage pouch, that's exactly what it's there for.

How often should you actually do this?

Before first use, and after every single use after that. It sounds like a lot, but once it's part of your routine, it adds seconds, not minutes.

Looking for something new to add to the routine? Browse our bestsellers.