Cleaning sex toys sounds like it should be simple. It mostly is, with one complication: different materials require different approaches, and using the wrong method can damage the toy, degrade its material, or — worst — leave it less hygienic than before you started.
This guide covers everything you need to know, organized by material.
The Foundation: Why Material Determines Method
Some toy materials are non-porous — they have no microscopic channels where bacteria, mold, or debris can lodge. Platinum silicone, borosilicate glass, and stainless steel fall into this category. These materials can be thoroughly cleaned and, in many cases, sterilized.
Other materials are porous — they have microscopic channels that trap biological material regardless of how thoroughly you clean the surface. Many budget toys (jelly, rubber, “cyberskin,” “realistic” materials) are porous. These cannot be sterilized and should be used with a condom if you choose to use them at all.
The method you use should match the material.
Cleaning by Material
Platinum-Cured Silicone (No Electronics)
Method: Boil in water for 3 minutes, or run through the top rack of the dishwasher without detergent (heat + water sterilizes; soap leaves residue in porous surfaces).
Why this works: Platinum silicone can withstand temperatures above 200°C / 392°F without degrading. The heat kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi completely.
What not to do: Don’t use silicone-based lubricant — it degrades the silicone surface over time, making it tacky and porous. Stick to water-based lube.
Examples: Lelo Sona 2, Dame Eva 2, njoy Pure Wand (silicone version).
Platinum-Cured Silicone (With Electronics / Motor)
Method: Wash with mild soap and warm water, avoiding submersion of any charging ports or motors not rated for water. For thorough cleaning, use a toy cleaner spray (typically isopropyl alcohol-based).
Why not boiling: Electronics don’t survive boiling. Check your specific toy’s waterproofing rating (IPX7 = submersible, IPX4 = splash-resistant) before any water cleaning.
Examples: Lovense Lush 3, We-Vibe Chorus, Womanizer Premium 2.
ABS Plastic
Method: Soap and warm water, or toy cleaner spray. ABS is non-porous and easy to clean.
What not to do: Avoid acetone or alcohol-based cleaners directly on ABS — they can cloud the finish over time. Toy cleaner spray is formulated to be safe.
Borosilicate Glass
Method: Boil for 3 minutes, dishwasher (top rack), or soap and warm water. Glass is non-porous and sterilizable.
What to check first: Inspect the glass for chips or cracks before each use. A damaged glass toy should be discarded — surface integrity is essential.
Temperature play note: Glass holds temperature well. Warm in a bowl of warm water or cool in the refrigerator (never freezer). Never use rapid temperature change — thermal shock can crack glass.
Stainless Steel
Method: Boil for 3 minutes, dishwasher, or isopropyl alcohol wipe. Steel is the most durable and hygienic material available.
Lubricant compatibility: Compatible with water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based lubricants — the only material for which this is true across the board.
Porous Materials (Jelly, Rubber, Cyberskin, TPE/TPR)
Method: Soap and warm water removes surface debris. That’s the limit.
The honest reality: Porous materials cannot be sterilized regardless of what you use. Bacteria survive inside the pores. If you use these toys (we’d recommend against internal use), use them with a condom every time and replace them when they show signs of degradation (tackiness, discoloration, smell).
Toy Cleaner Sprays: Are They Worth It?
Commercial toy cleaner sprays (System JO Toy Cleaner, Überlube Toy Cleaner, etc.) are convenient and formulated to be safe for all non-porous toy materials. They’re not magic — they don’t sterilize porous materials — but they’re a practical option for between-use cleaning of motorized toys you can’t boil.
They’re pH-balanced to avoid irritation if traces remain on the toy, which is an advantage over household cleaners.
What Not to Use
Bleach: Too harsh for most toy materials; degrades silicone. Not recommended.
Hydrogen peroxide: Also harsh; can degrade silicone surfaces over time.
Baby wipes / antibacterial wipes: These often contain ingredients that aren’t safe for use on sex toy materials. Not recommended.
Dishwasher detergent: The detergent leaves residue even after rinsing; hot water alone is what sterilizes. Run the dishwasher without detergent.
Storage
After cleaning and drying completely:
- Store platinum silicone toys away from other silicone toys (different silicone formulations can react and become tacky when stored in contact)
- Individual cotton or silk pouches keep toys clean between uses
- Avoid storing in airtight bags, which can trap moisture and encourage bacterial growth
- Glass and steel can be stored in their original boxes if the packaging was quality — they protect against chips and scratches
Clean toys are safe toys. The five minutes of cleaning after each use is the most practical sexual wellness habit you can build.