Toy Cleaners

You should clean and disinfect sex toys after every use—without exception. A toy cleaner effectively removes bacteria, fungi, and bodily fluids without damaging the toy’s material. Here you’ll find cleaning sprays, wipes, and disinfectants specially formulated for sex toys made of all materials: silicone, ABS plastic, glass, metal, and rubber. Also check out the storage systems for hygienic storage after cleaning, and the intimate care section for personal hygiene products.

What is a toy cleaner?

A toy cleaner — also known as a sex toy cleaner — is a cleaning product specially formulated for sex toys. The difference from regular soap or cleaning products lies in its composition: a toy cleaner is pH-neutral, alcohol-free, or contains a controlled amount of alcohol, and is formulated not to damage the toy’s material. Regular cleaning products, dish soap, and disinfectant sprays can make silicone dull, cause rubber to crack, or damage the coating of ABS plastic with regular use. A dildo cleaner or vibrator cleaner are synonyms for the same product—a toy cleaner is universally suitable for all types of toys.

Why is proper cleaning of sex toys important?

Sex toys come into contact with mucous membranes and bodily fluids. Bacteria, fungi, and viruses can remain on the surface and come into contact with the skin or mucous membranes again during subsequent use—even during solo use. Bacteria multiply rapidly on organic material and are already present in problematic concentrations on the surface after 24 hours without cleaning. When used with multiple partners, hygienic cleaning between uses is necessary for safe sex. Proper cleaning also extends the toy’s lifespan: residues corrode the material over time.

Types and Varieties

Sex Toy Cleaning Spray

The most common form: a spray applied directly to the toy, left to sit for a moment, and then rinsed off or wiped away. Quick and easy. Suitable for all water-resistant toys. Brands: EasyGlide Toy Cleaner, pjur med Clean, Orgie Toy Cleaner. Use: spray generously onto the surface, let sit for 30 seconds, rinse with lukewarm water.

Toy wipes

Pre-moistened wipes for quick cleaning without water. Ideal for toys that aren’t waterproof or for on-the-go use. Use as a quick fix or to supplement regular cleaning with spray—not a substitute for thorough cleaning. Disposable and hygienically packaged individually.

Toy disinfectants

Stronger formulas that disinfect as well as clean. Contain a controlled amount of alcohol or other disinfecting components. Suitable for toys used in BDSM or other activities where the risk of cross-contamination is higher. Check compatibility with your toy’s material — some disinfectants aren’t suitable for all materials.

How do you clean sex toys correctly based on material?

Silicone toys

Silicone is a non-porous material and easy to clean. Spray on toy cleaner, let it sit, and rinse with lukewarm water. Water-resistant silicone toys can also be rinsed under the tap. Non-electric silicone toys without a motor are sometimes even boil-safe or dishwasher-safe (top rack)—always check the product description.

ABS plastic toys

ABS is also non-porous. Clean with toy cleaner spray and a damp cloth. Avoid submerging if the toy contains electronics. Do not use harsh cleaning agents — ABS can discolor or scratch when exposed to high concentrations of alcohol.

Glass and metal toys

Glass and stainless steel are completely non-porous and easy to sterilize. Washable under the tap with toy cleaner, boilable, or dishwasher-safe. The most hygienic toy materials. Always check if the glass is borosilicate glass—this type is shock-resistant and heat-resistant.

Rubber, latex, and TPE/TPR toys

Porous materials that can trap bacteria in their pores—even after cleaning. Cleaning with toy cleaner reduces the bacterial count but does not fully sterilize. Always use a condom with porous toys for maximum hygiene, especially when using them with multiple partners.

What should you look for when buying?

Choose a toy cleaner that is explicitly suitable for all toy materials—not all cleaning sprays are universal. Check if the product is alcohol-free if you have sensitive mucous membranes or if the toy is made of a sensitive material. Opt for a large bottle if you clean frequently—it’s more economical per use. Store the cleaning spray at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

Frequently Asked Questions About Toy Cleaners

How often should you clean a sex toy?

After every use, before first use, and before use after prolonged storage. Bacteria grow quickly on organic material — waiting to clean not only makes cleaning more difficult but is also unhygienic. Also clean before use if the toy has been sitting in the drawer for a while.

Can I use regular soap for sex toys?

Mild soap and lukewarm water is better than no cleaning at all, but it’s not ideal. Soap can leave residues in the material’s structure and, with porous materials, penetrate deeper than a specialized cleaner. A toy cleaner is specifically formulated for the purpose and is safer for the material with regular use.

Can I put a sex toy in the dishwasher?

Only non-electric toys made of silicone, glass, or stainless steel are dishwasher-safe. Do not use dishwasher detergent—the heat from the dishwasher is sufficient for sterilization. Use the top rack and a low-temperature setting. Electronics, charging units, and toys made of ABS, rubber, or TPE should not be placed in the dishwasher.

Is a toy cleaner safe for all materials?

Most toy cleaners are formulated for common toy materials: silicone, ABS, glass, and metal. Always check the product description before using on less common materials such as leather, rubber, or latex—some cleaning sprays are not suitable for these materials. Use a special leather cleaner for leather and a latex care product for latex.