We get it: in the heat of passion, cleaning your sex toys is probably not the first thing on your mind. But trust us, it's a crucial step you shouldn't skip. Inadequate cleaning can lead to nasty bacterial infections or other health problems. You want to avoid that, of course!
Luckily, we at Erotiekvoordeel.nl are here for you. With our years of experience we know exactly how to keep your toys in top condition. And we're happy to share that knowledge with you.
The importance of cleaning your sex toys
Hygiene is essential when using sex toys. Whether you're having a quick solo session or playing with a partner, your toys should be cleaned properly after each use. This is especially true for anal toys because they can contain harmful bacteria.
Not cleaning your toys properly can lead to infections or irritations. So take this step seriously and avoid discomfort.
Always remove the batteries
Before you start cleaning, remove the batteries from your vibrating toys. Even if they are waterproof, it is better to be careful. Batteries can corrode and cause damage if they come in contact with water....
Cleaning non-porous sex toys
Keeping your non-porous sex toys clean is a piece of cake. Toys made of silicone, stainless steel and glass are designed to last, safe for your body and won't retain bacteria if you wash them immediately after use.
Silicone, stainless steel and glass toys
For these toys, you can use warm water and a mild, unscented soap, such as our best-selling mild foaming sex toy cleaner. Be sure to rinse well, as soap residue can cause irritation.
If your toy is waterproof and not electric, you can even boil it out for a few minutes for deep cleaning. Let it air dry before storing it.
Warm water and mild soap
Warm water and mild soap are your best friends when it comes to cleaning non-porous sex toys. They effectively remove body fluids or lubricants without damaging the material.
Avoid using harsh detergents containing alcohol, as they can damage the toy over time. Use gentle, unscented options to keep your toys in top condition.
Cleaning porous sex toys
TPR, rubber and latex sex toys are porous, which means they need a little more love and care than non-porous toys. These materials can be a little trickier to clean and maintain, but with proper care, you can enjoy them for a long time.
Understanding porous materials
Porous materials such as TPR, rubber, latex and PVC have tiny holes that can harbor bacteria, even after cleaning. Therefore, it is very important to clean these toys properly, especially if you share them with your partner.
You may choose to use a condom with porous toys because it provides an extra layer of protection. And if the toy starts to smell or look discolored, it's time to throw it away. Better safe than sorry
The right way to dry and store sex toys
After you clean your sex toys, it is crucial to let them air dry completely before storing them. Damp toys can develop mold and bacteria, which is the last thing you want.
Store your toys in a cool, dry place once they are dry. Consider a special bag or storage container, keep them away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This way they will last longer and be ready for action.
Tips for disinfecting your sex toys
Sometimes just washing with soap and water isn't enough. If you share toys with a partner or just want an extra level of hygiene, we recommend disinfecting your toys.
Antibacterial soap and warm water
The best method for cleaning sex toys.
This is one of the most effective ways to clean any type of toy or material. Whether it is the outside or the inside (for male masturbators), this approach makes cleaning structured toys even more thorough.
Step-by-step approach:
- Use a damp, soap-soaked cloth:
This allows you to precisely control how much soapy water you use and where it ends up. This is especially useful for toys with a non-waterproof battery. - Check for waterproofness:
Immerse your toys in water only if they are explicitly marked as waterproof or submersible. If in doubt, avoid full immersion to avoid damage. - Choose the right soap:
Our experts recommend an unscented antibacterial soap. Check the label to make sure it is suitable for use on sex toys.
This method will keep your toys hygienic and ensure they last a long time, without risk of damage!
Step-by-step guide: how to clean a masturbator
For realistic toys made of materials such as Cyberskin™️, UR3 (UltraRealistic 3.0), Fanta Flesh or Futurotic, proper care is essential to keep them in top condition. Follow these steps for thorough and safe cleaning:
1. Disassemble the masturbator
If your masturbator consists of multiple parts, disassemble it. Usually this means removing the sleeve from the casing.
2. Rinse with warm water
Rinse the sleeve and other loose parts under warm (not hot!) water to remove surface dirt and liquids.
3. Apply detergent
- Foam cleaner: Shake the bottle well and generously apply foam to both the inside and outside of the sleeve.
- Cleaning spray: Hold the spray bottle a few inches from the toy and apply an even coat.
Use your hands or a clean cloth to spread the cleaner evenly, especially in textured areas and hard-to-reach spots.
4. Use a soft toothbrush
For deeper grooves or complex textures, use a new soft toothbrush. This will allow you to thoroughly clean all hard-to-reach areas.
5. Let the cleaner soak in
Let the cleaner soak in for the recommended time. This ensures that all residue is effectively broken down.
6. Rinse thoroughly
Rinse all parts again with warm water to remove all traces of the cleaner. Make sure that no residue is left behind as this can cause irritation.
7. Allow to dry completely
- Shake excess water off the sleeve.
- Pat dry with a clean, lint-free towel.
- Allow the sleeve to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Make sure the inside is completely dry by opening it, for example.
8. Apply powder
When the toy is completely dry, dust it lightly with cornstarch or a special cleaning powder for CyberSkin™️ toys. This helps maintain the soft, lifelike texture. Do not use baby or talcum powder, as this can damage the material.
9. Repair the masturbator
Once all parts are dry, reassemble the masturbator. Check that all parts fit properly and are firmly attached.
Additional tips:
- Cooking or dishwasher: Solid silicone toys can be boiled for 5-10 minutes or cleaned in the dishwasher.
- No heat for vibrating toys: Do not use heat or dishwasher for silicone toys with vibrating or electrical parts, as this can cause permanent damage.
This careful cleaning will keep your masturbator hygienic, safe and in top shape! 😊
Common mistakes when cleaning sex toys
Cleaning sex toys seems simple, but mistakes are often made that can shorten the life of the toy or cause irritation. Here are the two most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Not cleaning often enough:
One of the biggest mistakes is not cleaning the toy after every use. This is essential to remove bacteria, body fluids and lube residue. Never skip this step, no matter how the toy was used. - Using the wrong cleaning products:
Many people choose harsh soaps or aggressive alcohol-based cleaners. These can damage the material of your toys and cause irritation. Instead, choose mild, unscented cleaners that are safe for both your toys and your body.
By following these simple guidelines, your toys will stay clean, safe and in perfect condition! 😊
Choosing the right cleaning products for your toys
How do you choose the perfect sex toy cleaner?
Finding the right cleaner for your sex toys doesn't have to be difficult at all. Here are a few options to choose from:
- Gentle, unscented soap: A simple and effective choice that won't damage the material of your toys.
- Special sex toy cleaners: These are designed to clean thoroughly and are often suitable for different materiale
A few additional notes on materials
If you have toys made of realistic materials such as CyberSkin, UR3 (UltraRealistic 3.0), Fanta Flesh, or Futurotic, it is important to clean them with care. Follow these steps to keep the material soft and lifelike:
- Clean thoroughly: Use one of the previously mentioned methods, such as warm water and a mild, unscented soap, or a specially made cleaner.
- Dry gently: Pat the toy dry with a clean, lint-free cloth. Make sure it is completely dry before proceeding.
- Protect the material: Lightly dust the toy with cornstarch or a cleaning powder specifically designed for CyberSkin and similar materials. This helps maintain the soft, skin-like texture.
⚠️ Do not use baby or talcum powder! These products can corrode and damage the material.
Beware of silicone toys:
- Solid silicone toys can be boiled out for 5-10 minutes or cleaned in the dishwasher (only if they do not contain electrical parts).
- Vibrating silicone toys or toys made from a silicone blend should not be put in the dishwasher or boiled, as this can cause irreparable damage.
When in doubt, use a condom!
Not sure if you can clean a toy properly, or are you sharing the toy with a partner? Then use a condom for extra protection. Be sure to use latex-friendly lubricants if you use a latex condom.
We hope you found this guide to maintaining and cleaning your toys helpful! If you have any more questions that you think haven't been answered here, be sure to contact us so we can help you!
Sources:
- International Journal of Sexual Health, Volume 29, Issue 3, April 2017, Pages 273-277 https://doi.org/10.1080/19317611.2017.1307301
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases Journal, Volume 48, Issue, 4, April 2021, Page 207 https://doi.org/10.1097
- The Journal of Sexual Medicine, Volume 15, Issue 1, January 2018, Page A1, https://doi.org/10.1016/S1743-6095(17)31856-8