How to Clean Sex Toys the Right Way (By Material + Storage Tips)

I get asked about toy care more than almost anything else. People know they should clean their toys, but they're not always sure how—or whether the same method works for everything. The short answer: it doesn't. Silicone, glass, TPE, and metal all need slightly different approaches. Here's how to clean sex toys properly, keep them stored safely, and know when it's time to retire something.

Why Cleaning by Material Matters

Not all toys are created equal. Some materials are non-porous (silicone, glass, stainless steel) and can be fully sterilized. Others—like TPE, TPR, and jelly—are porous, meaning they can harbour bacteria even after washing. Using the wrong cleaner or method can damage the surface, shorten the toy's lifespan, or worse, create an environment for irritation.

Knowing your material helps you clean smarter, not harder. Check the packaging or product page if you're unsure what you're working with.

How to Clean Sex Toys by Material

Silicone: The gold standard. Wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap after every use. For deeper cleaning, boil non-motorized silicone toys for 3–5 minutes or run them through the dishwasher (top rack, no detergent). Avoid silicone-based lubricants—they can degrade the surface over time. A dedicated toy cleaner spray works beautifully for quick refreshes between uses.

Glass and stainless steel: These are fully non-porous and nearly indestructible. Wash with soap and water, or boil for sterilization. Glass can go in the dishwasher. Both materials are lube-compatible with everything. Just inspect glass toys regularly for chips or cracks—if you find any, retire them immediately.

TPE and TPR (thermoplastic elastomer/rubber): Softer and more affordable, but porous. Wash thoroughly with warm water and mild soap after every use. Pat dry completely before storing. You can't fully sterilize these materials, so always use a condom if sharing. Replace TPE toys every 6–12 months, or sooner if they start to feel sticky or smell odd.

Jelly and PVC: I'll be honest—these are the least body-safe options. They're porous, often contain phthalates, and degrade quickly. If you have jelly toys, always use a condom and replace them frequently. Better yet, consider upgrading to silicone when you're ready.

ABS plastic (hard plastic): Non-porous and easy to clean. Soap and water work perfectly. These are often used for vibrator casings and handle components.

Smart Storage Do's and Don'ts

How you store your toys matters as much as how you clean them. Here's what works—and what to avoid:

• Do store toys separately—silicone can react with other materials (especially jelly or TPR) and cause melting or degradation.
• Do use individual pouches, zip-top bags, or the original packaging. Cloth pouches are breathable and ideal for silicone.
• Don't toss everything into one drawer. Contact between different materials = chemistry you don't want.
• Do keep toys in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV can break down materials over time.
• Don't store toys while still damp. Moisture can encourage bacterial growth, especially in porous materials.
• Do remove batteries from vibrators if you won't use them for a while. This prevents corrosion and extends motor life.
• Don't store rechargeable toys at 0% or 100% battery for long periods—around 50% is ideal for lithium-ion health.

When to Replace Your Toys

Even well-cared-for toys don't last forever. Here's when it's time to retire something:

Silicone, glass, metal: These can last years—even a decade—if maintained properly. Replace silicone if it becomes sticky, tacky, or develops a film that won't wash off. Toss glass if it chips or cracks. Metal is nearly eternal unless it rusts (rare with stainless steel).

TPE/TPR: Replace every 6–12 months, or sooner if the material smells funky, feels overly sticky, or starts to break down. Porous materials have a shorter safe lifespan.

Motorized toys: If the motor becomes noticeably weaker, makes strange noises, or won't hold a charge, it's time. For rechargeable vibes, battery performance typically peaks in the first 2–3 years.

Any toy: If it smells off, has visible mold, shows discoloration, or causes irritation, stop using it immediately. Your body will tell you when something's not right.

Toy Care in Toronto: Local Delivery, Expert Advice

Keeping your collection clean and well-organized doesn't have to be complicated. A little routine care—washing after use, drying thoroughly, storing separately—goes a long way. And when you're ready to add something new (or upgrade from an older material), Heaven Boutique Toronto offers discreet 1–2 hour local delivery across West Toronto, The Junction, and Etobicoke, 3pm–11pm daily for $18. We're here to help you build a collection that's safe, body-positive, and built to last.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use hand sanitizer to clean my toys?
Not recommended. Hand sanitizer can leave a residue and doesn't remove body fluids or lubricant effectively. Stick with soap and water or a dedicated toy cleaner spray.

How do I clean a vibrator that's not waterproof?
Use a damp cloth with mild soap to wipe down the surface, avoiding the battery compartment or charging port. Finish with a toy cleaner spray and a dry cloth.

Is it safe to store silicone toys together?
Yes—100% pure silicone won't react with itself. But if one toy is silicone and another is TPR or a blend, keep them separated to prevent material breakdown.

Do I really need toy cleaner spray, or is soap enough?
Soap and water work great for most materials. Toy cleaner spray is a convenient option for quick cleaning or for toys that can't be fully submerged, but it's not essential if you're washing properly.