How to Clean Sex Toys: A Quick and Easy Guide

How to clean sex toys properly 

Let’s break down how to clean sex toys the right way—quick, simple, and no-nonsense.

Check the material 

Before you grab the soap, look at what your toy is made of. This affects how you clean it:

• Silicone, glass, stainless steel, ABS plastic – Non-porous, easy to clean, and won’t hold bacteria if washed properly.
• Jelly, TPE, rubber, cyberskin – Porous materials that trap bacteria even after cleaning. More fragile, so extra care is needed.

 If you’re unsure, check the packaging or the manufacturer’s website.

Waterproof or not? 

Waterproof toys can be fully submerged, but “water-resistant” doesn’t mean the same thing. If your toy isn’t waterproof, keep water away from battery compartments and charging ports.

• Fully waterproof - Wash under running water or soak briefly in warm, soapy water.
• Not waterproof - Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding any electrical parts.

Use the right cleaning method

Now that you know what you’re working with, here’s how to clean it properly.

How to clean sex toys made from non-porous materials

Non-porous materials (silicone, glass, metal, ABS plastic) are the easiest to clean and the safest for long-term use.

• Everyday cleaning: Wash with mild, unscented soap and warm water, then rinse thoroughly.
• Deeper clean: For waterproof toys, boil for 3-5 minutes (if no motors), or use a toy cleaner. Some toys are dishwasher-safe—check the label first.
• Silicone-based lube? Wash with a bit of extra friction (your hands, not a sponge) and mild soap to remove residue.
• Dry properly: Air dry or use a lint-free cloth to prevent bacteria growth.

How to clean sex toys made from porous materials

Porous materials (jelly, TPE, rubber, cyberskin) can’t be fully disinfected because they absorb bacteria, so extra caution is needed.

Wash immediately after use with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water.

Never soak or boil—it can break down the material.

Use a dedicated toy cleaner if possible, as it’s gentler than soap.

Oil-based lube? It can cling to porous materials, so a longer wash time is needed.

Air dry completely before storing. Moisture encourages bacteria.

Use condoms over these toys to extend their lifespan and reduce bacteria exposure.

What to avoid

Certain cleaning methods will do more harm than good:

• No bleach or alcohol – These break down materials and can cause skin irritation.
• No scented soaps or harsh detergents – They leave behind residues that aren’t body-safe.
• No towels that shed lint – Microfibres and lint can stick to silicone and cyber-skin.

Storage and keeping toys clean between uses

A clean toy doesn’t stay clean if it’s stored badly.

• Let it dry completely before putting it away—damp toys = bacteria breeding ground.
• Store separately – Some materials react badly when touching each other (especially jelly or silicone).
• Use breathable storage bags – Avoid airtight containers, as trapped moisture encourages bacteria growth.
• Step 7: How often should you clean your toys?
• Before and after every use – Always.
• Deep clean once a month – Especially if using the toy regularly.
• If sharing with a partner – Wash before switching, or use a condom over the toy.

Final thoughts on how to clean sex toys

With the right routine, your sex toys will last longer, stay safe to use, and always be ready when you need them. 

At Forbidden Fruit, we’re the experts in adult sex toys for him and for her, so if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our friendly team today. Plus, if you’ve enjoyed our deep dive into how to clean sex toys, be sure to keep updated on our blog.