Properly maintaining your sex toys is crucial for your health and pleasurable experience. In this practical guide from Blissentry, we'll share step-by-step instructions on how to care for your sex toys, from daily cleaning to deep disinfection, keeping them hygienic, safe, and extending their lifespan. Whether you're a new user or a seasoned pro, you can easily master these simple steps to make every experience safer and more comfortable.
Please follow the instructions and suggestions below to prevent bacterial or fungal growth, reduce the risk of infection, and make your sex life safer and healthier.
1. Why must sex toys be thoroughly cleaned?
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,sex toys must be thoroughly cleaned because they come into contact with bodily fluids and mucous membranes during use. Improper cleaning, especially in moist environments, can lead to the rapid proliferation of bacteria and fungi, potentially causing problems such as yeast infections, vaginal itching, and urinary tract infections. Sharing sex toys further increases the risk of infection. Professional organizations recommend thorough cleaning and disinfection before and after each use, and using condoms when necessary to reduce risk. Furthermore, incorrect cleaning methods can damage materials, especially soft materials such as TPE/TPR, which are more prone to becoming sticky, hardened, and even more susceptible to bacterial growth when exposed to alcohol, high temperatures, or strong detergents. Therefore, choosing the correct cleaning method is not only crucial for hygiene and health but can also extend the lifespan of sex toys.
2. Cleaning Methods
I. Non-vibrating Toys
1.Cleaning methods for silicone, glass, and stainless steel materials:
- Warm water + soap-free
- Toy-specific cleaning spray
- Boiling for 3–5 minutes (once a week or before and after use)
- Steam sterilizer for approximately 10 minutes
- Wiping with 70% isopropyl alcohol, do not soak for extended periods.
- Dishwasher (Safety Placement on Top Tier)
Note:
- Silicone is not suitable for cleaning with disinfectants containing bleach or strong degreasing detergents.
- Do not rinse glass with cold water immediately after boiling.
- Stainless steel is not suitable for cleaning with strong acid solutions, as it will corrode.
2. Cleaning methods for ABS plastic materials:
- Warm water + soap-free.
- Toy-specific cleaning spray.
- Wiping with 70% isopropyl alcohol, do not soak for extended periods.
Note: ABS materials cannot be boiled or sterilized with high-temperature steam.
3. Cleaning methods for soft plastics such as TPE/TPR:
TPE/TPR and soft plastics are porous and very sensitive.Do not use harsh cleaning agents (such as alcohol or bleach) for cleaning, as long-term use may affect reproductive health.
- Use warm water + fragrance-free, mildly acidic liquid soap/alcohol-free toy cleaner/fragrance-free soap, gently rubbing the creases and crevices with your hands.
- Wipe crevices with a wet wipe; do not rinse with water.
- Use a toy-specific disinfectant spray (alcohol-free).
- Use a 0.05% chlorhexidine antibacterial solution; spray the surface and allow to air dry.
4. Cleaning Methods for High-Porosity Materials such as Sponges, Soft Rubber:
These materials absorb moisture and can harbor bacteria deep inside.Dr. Carter recommends using them as single-use items and discarding them after each use.
II. vibrating Toys
1. Cleaning Methods for Silicone, Glass, and Stainless Steel Materials:
- Warm water + unscented soap (do not let water enter the charging port)
- Wipe the outer surface with a damp cloth (avoid power connections)
- Toy-specific cleaning spray
- Quick wipe with 70% alcohol (do not soak)
- Steam the "outer surface" for 30-60 seconds with clean water boiled for 2-3 minutes.Only steam sterilization, no contact with water.
Note: Do not
- Completely immerse in water
- Boil
- Use a steam sterilizer
- Use a dishwasher
2. Cleaning Methods for Waterproof Materials:
If your vibrator is marked with:
- IPX7: It can withstand brief immersion in water.
- IPX8: It can withstand prolonged immersion in water.
Cleaning method:
- Warm water + unscented soap.
- Brief soaking.Cleaning spray.
Note: Do not boil or put in the dishwasher.
3. Cleaning methods for TPE/TPR materials:
- Wash with warm water and a soap-free detergent/non-irritating toy cleaner.
- Use antibacterial spray/antibacterial solution containing chlorhexidin.
3. Geneal Tips
-
Clean Before and After Use.Even when toys are stored away, dust and bacteria can accumulate on the surface.A quick rinse with mild soap before use can reduce unnecessary contact.
- Air Dry.After washing:Gently pat dry with a towel or let the toy air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Finally, store it in a clean, dry container or bag.
- Shared Toys = Must Disinfect.Whether it's a casual partner or a long-term partner, always disinfect sex toys before use.Sexually transmitted infections may have no symptoms, and proper cleaning methods can eliminate unnecessary risks.
