How to clean and store a sex toy
We talk a lot about choosing a sex toy, the sensations it creates and how to use it. But there is one step that is much less glamorous and still essential: cleaning your sex toy.
Do not worry, there is no need to turn your bathroom into a laboratory. A few simple habits are usually enough to care for your toys, protect their materials and find them clean the next time the mood strikes.
The SoPigalle rule is simple: clean it, let it dry completely and store it carefully.
Here is how.
Why should you clean a sex toy after every use?
A sex toy comes into contact with skin, mucous membranes, bodily fluids and sometimes lubricant.
Cleaning it after use removes residue and leaves the surface clean for the next time. It is also a good way to care for the toy’s material and mechanism.
Ideally, get into the habit of cleaning your sex toy:
- before its first use;
- after every use;
- after a long period without use if you are unsure about how it was stored;
- when moving from one person to another.
It usually only takes a few minutes.
How do you clean a sex toy properly?
First of all, check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Not every sex toy can be cleaned in the same way. Some can be fully immersed in water, while others should only be wiped clean on the surface.
1. Check whether it is waterproof
This is the first thing to check before putting your toy under the tap.
A fully waterproof sex toy can generally be rinsed more easily. A model that is only splash-resistant, however, should not be immersed.
If in doubt, be cautious: use a clean, slightly damp cloth and follow the instructions supplied with the product.
Charging ports, battery compartments and electronic components deserve particular care.
Cleaning a sex toy with water and soap
For many water-washable sex toys, warm water and a mild, non-aggressive soap are sufficient.
Keep it simple:
- Switch the sex toy off completely.
- Unplug it if it is charging.
- Rinse the washable part with warm water.
- Apply a small amount of mild soap.
- Clean the entire surface carefully.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove residue.
- Dry completely before storing it.
Avoid highly fragranced, abrasive or harsh products, which can damage some surfaces or leave unwanted residue.
Can you use a special sex toy cleaner?
Yes. Sex toy cleaners can be a practical solution, especially when you want to clean your toy quickly.
Simply follow the instructions on the cleaner.
A cleaner does not always replace proper washing when the manufacturer recommends cleaning with water.
If you regularly use several intimate accessories, keeping a dedicated cleaner nearby can quickly become one of those small habits you adopt without even thinking about it.
How do you clean a silicone sex toy?
Silicone is widely used for sex toys, particularly because of its soft, pleasant feel.
For a water-compatible silicone toy, generally choose:
- warm water;
- a mild soap;
- or a cleaner suitable for sex toys.
Rinse carefully and let it dry completely.
Remember that not every product described as “silicone” necessarily has exactly the same composition. The manufacturer’s recommendations therefore remain the priority.
And while we are talking about silicone, remember lubricant too. With a silicone sex toy, a water-based lubricant is generally the simplest choice unless the manufacturer specifies another compatibility.
What about glass, metal or ABS sex toys?
Rigid non-porous materials such as glass, certain metals and ABS are generally easy to care for.
But once again, everything depends on the product’s construction.
A fully mechanical sex toy obviously does not have the same constraints as a vibrator containing a motor, battery and charging port.
So never boil or immerse a sex toy simply because its main material appears able to withstand it. Its internal components may not tolerate that treatment.
The manufacturer’s instructions are always your best reference.
How should you dry a sex toy?
Drying is almost as important as cleaning.
After rinsing your sex toy, gently pat it dry with a clean, lint-free cloth.
Then let it finish drying in the open air.
Before storing it, check in particular:
- grooves;
- areas around buttons;
- joins between different materials;
- any caps;
- the charging port.
The goal is simple: do not seal a still-damp sex toy inside a pouch or box.
How should you store a sex toy properly?
Once it is clean and completely dry, it is time to put it away.
And no, throwing it into the back of a drawer with three USB cables, a pair of scissors and your old sunglasses may not be the best strategy.
Your sex toy will appreciate a little more care.
Use an individual storage pouch
If your sex toy comes with a storage pouch, use it.
Otherwise, choose a small clean pouch or a suitable box.
This helps prevent:
- dust accumulation;
- friction against other objects;
- prolonged contact between different materials;
- minor storage damage.
Ideally, store each sex toy separately.
Where should you store sex toys?
Choose a place that is:
- clean;
- dry;
- kept at a reasonable temperature;
- away from direct sunlight;
- away from heat sources.
A bedside table, a dedicated drawer or a discreet box can all work perfectly well.
The bathroom may seem logical, but its high humidity does not always make it the best place to store electronic devices for long periods.
Should you remove the batteries?
If your sex toy uses removable batteries and you do not plan to use it for a long time, removing the batteries can be a sensible precaution.
For rechargeable models, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on the battery and charging.
Also avoid putting a sex toy away while it is still connected to its charging cable.
Can you share a sex toy?
Yes, provided you adapt your hygiene habits.
When a sex toy is shared between people, clean it carefully between each use.
Depending on the type of toy and how it is used, putting a fresh condom over it can also be a practical option. Change it between people or when moving from one body area to another when necessary.
Shared pleasure deserves its own little care ritual too.
When should you replace a sex toy?
Even a well-cared-for sex toy deserves a quick inspection from time to time.
Check its general condition before use.
Look out for:
- a cracked surface;
- material that becomes sticky or starts to deteriorate;
- unusual deformation;
- a damaged cable;
- a damaged charging port;
- abnormal operation.
If the product appears damaged or you have any doubt about its safety, stop using it and consult the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Mistakes to avoid when caring for sex toys
A few habits are particularly easy to avoid.
Not checking waterproofing
Waterproof and splash-resistant do not necessarily mean the same thing.
Using harsh household products
Bleach, abrasives and household cleaners are not automatically suitable for intimate accessories.
Storing a sex toy while it is still damp
Wait until it is completely dry.
Keeping all sex toys together
Individual storage protects surfaces better and makes hygiene easier.
Ignoring the instructions
Two sex toys that look similar can have different care instructions.
FAQ: cleaning and storing a sex toy
Should you clean a sex toy before first use?
Yes, it is a good habit. Clean your sex toy before its first use according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, then let it dry completely.
Should you clean a sex toy after every use?
Yes. Cleaning after each use removes residue and means you find a clean toy the next time you use it.
Can every sex toy be immersed in water?
No. Only products whose manufacturer confirms the appropriate level of waterproofing should be immersed. Some sex toys are only splash-resistant.
What soap should you use to clean a sex toy?
When the material and manufacturer allow it, choose a mild, lightly fragranced or fragrance-free soap that rinses away easily. You can also choose a cleaner specifically designed for sex toys.
How should you store a sex toy after cleaning?
Wait until it is completely dry, then ideally place it in an individual pouch or box in a dry place away from heat and sunlight.
Can alcohol be used to disinfect a sex toy?
Not systematically. Alcohol may not be suitable for some materials or coatings. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations rather than applying one universal disinfection method.
The little SoPigalle ritual
Taking care of your sex toy is ultimately part of the experience.
After pleasure: a few minutes of cleaning, complete drying and back into its pouch.
That is all.
And when desire returns, you know exactly where to find it: clean, neatly stored and ready for your next moment.
SoPigalle tip: when buying a new sex toy, also look at how it should be cleaned and its waterproof rating. A model that is easy to care for is often much more pleasant to use every day.
Also in Le Journal SoPigalle: Which sex toy should you choose as a beginner?
Discover too: The SoPigalle sex toy selection
