How to Clean Sex Toys Properly (Because a Quick Rinse Isn't Always Enough)

Buying a sex toy is the fun part.

Cleaning it?

Probably not the reason you added it to your cart.

But knowing how to clean sex toys properly is one of the most important parts of owning them.

Different materials require different care. Electronic toys introduce waterproofing considerations. Anal toys require particular attention to hygiene. And storing a perfectly clean toy while it is still damp can undo some of your good work.

The good news?

Sex toy care doesn't need to be complicated.

Here's what you actually need to know.

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Why Should You Clean Sex Toys After Every Use?

Sex toys come into contact with bodily fluids, lubricant and skin.

Cleaning them according to the manufacturer's instructions helps remove residue and reduce unwanted microbial contamination between uses.

This becomes particularly important when:

A toy is inserted.

A toy is used anally.

The same toy is shared between partners.

A toy is used on different areas of the body.

The product has textured surfaces where residue can accumulate.

Think of cleaning as part of using the toy rather than a separate chore.

Use it.

Clean it.

Dry it.

Store it.

Done.

Step 1: Find Out What Your Toy Is Made From

Before putting anything under the tap, identify the material.

Sex toys can be made from materials including:

Silicone

ABS plastic

Glass

Stainless steel

and various other materials or combinations.

Why does this matter?

Because cleaning methods that are appropriate for one material or construction may not be appropriate for another.

If you still have the packaging or manufacturer instructions, check those first.

When shopping for new products, material information should be one of the specifications you look for.

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Step 2: Check Whether It Is Actually Waterproof

This is especially important for vibrators.

Do not assume:

Rechargeable = waterproof.

And don't assume:

Water resistant = waterproof.

Manufacturers may use descriptions or ratings such as:

Splash resistant

Water resistant

Shower safe

IPX6

IPX7

These can indicate different levels of water exposure.

If a product isn't designed for submersion, putting it into a sink full of water could damage the electronics.

Check the manufacturer's specific instructions before washing an electronic toy.

How to Clean a Vibrator

The correct method depends on its material and waterproofing.

For a waterproof vibrator, follow the manufacturer's recommended cleaning method, which may involve appropriate cleaning with water and a suitable mild cleanser.

For a non-waterproof or splash-resistant vibrator, be considerably more careful around:

Charging ports

Battery compartments

Buttons

Seams

Electronic components

Rather than automatically putting the entire device under running water, follow its specific cleaning directions.

And always switch electronic toys off before cleaning them.

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How to Clean Silicone Sex Toys

Silicone is widely used across intimate wellness products because of its feel and versatility.

But "silicone toy" does not automatically tell you how the entire product should be cleaned.

Why?

Because a silicone vibrator contains electronics.

A solid non-electronic silicone product does not.

Those two products may require different care even though their external material sounds similar.

Always consider both material and construction.

Follow the individual manufacturer's instructions rather than relying on a universal cleaning hack from social media.

How to Clean Bullet Vibrators

Bullets are compact, but small doesn't mean maintenance-free.

Pay particular attention to:

The tip

Buttons

Seams

Charging contacts

Battery compartment where applicable

Textured areas

If the bullet is fully waterproof according to the manufacturer, cleaning may be relatively straightforward.

If it isn't, avoid allowing water into electrical components.

Browse Bullet & Egg Vibrators at Lovva.

How to Clean Rabbit Vibrators

Rabbit vibrators can have more complicated shapes than simple bullets.

That means there are more areas requiring attention.

Look around:

The external arm

Where the arm meets the body

Textured sections

Buttons

Charging areas

Any grooves or seams

Because rabbits are generally insertable products, cleaning thoroughly according to the manufacturer's directions is particularly important.

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How to Clean Anal Toys

Anal toys deserve particular attention to hygiene.

Clean purpose-designed anal toys according to their manufacturer's directions before and after use.

And importantly:

Do not move a toy directly from anal use to vaginal use without appropriate hygiene measures.

Bacteria from the rectal area can be transferred elsewhere.

This applies whether the toy is a butt plug, vibrator, dildo or another insertable product.

Using a new condom over a compatible toy can also be useful in some shared or cross-body contexts, but this doesn't eliminate the need to care for the product correctly.

Browse Butt Plugs at Lovva Australia.

Should You Clean a New Sex Toy Before Using It?

Yes, following its care instructions before first use is a sensible hygiene practice.

A toy may have been manufactured, packaged, stored and handled before reaching you.

You don't need to assume it is contaminated.

But cleaning it according to the manufacturer's instructions before first use is simple.

It also gives you an opportunity to inspect the product.

Check for:

Damage

Cracks

Material defects

Unusual residue

Problems with seams

Charging or battery issues

Get familiar with the product before using it.

Can You Boil Sex Toys?

This is where internet cleaning advice becomes risky.

Do not boil a toy unless its manufacturer explicitly confirms that this cleaning method is suitable.

Electronic vibrators obviously should not simply be dropped into boiling water.

Even with non-electronic products, material and construction matter.

The same applies to dishwashers.

Do not assume that because a material sounds heat resistant, the complete product is dishwasher safe.

Manufacturer instructions win.

Can You Use Alcohol to Clean Sex Toys?

Again, check the product instructions.

Strong cleaning chemicals can potentially damage certain materials or finishes.

Do not randomly apply alcohol, bleach or household disinfectants to intimate products because they "feel cleaner."

A damaged toy is not a cleaner toy.

Follow the cleaning method recommended for the actual material and product.

What About Sex Toy Cleaner?

Purpose-made toy cleaners can provide a convenient option where they are compatible with the product material and manufacturer recommendations.

The key word is compatible.

Do not assume every cleaner is appropriate for every toy.

Check both sets of instructions.

And remember that buying a specialised cleaner doesn't mean you can skip drying or appropriate storage.

Cleaning is only one part of toy care.

Drying Is More Important Than People Think

You've cleaned your toy.

Great.

Don't immediately throw it into a closed drawer while it is still wet.

Allow it to dry thoroughly according to its care instructions.

Moisture trapped around seams, storage containers or charging areas is something you generally want to avoid.

Make sure charging ports and connectors are dry before charging the device, following the manufacturer's directions.

Clean.

Dry.

Then store.

How Should You Store Sex Toys?

Your bedside drawer might be convenient.

But consider what else is in there.

Dust.

Cosmetics.

Coins.

Jewellery.

Hair products.

Other toys.

Instead, store cleaned and fully dried toys somewhere protected.

Individual storage pouches or containers can help keep products separated.

This is particularly useful when you own toys made from different materials.

Also keep electronic products away from excessive heat and follow manufacturer recommendations for battery storage.

Can You Store Different Sex Toys Together?

Separating toys can be a sensible precaution.

Some materials may interact when left in prolonged contact, and individual storage also helps keep products cleaner and protected from damage.

If a product came with a storage pouch, use it.

Otherwise, consider separate clean storage solutions.

Your vibrator doesn't need a luxury apartment.

It just deserves something better than being buried underneath loose jewellery and old phone chargers.

Don't Forget the Charger

Your toy may be spotless.

Its charging cable?

Possibly living on the floor.

Keep charging accessories clean and dry too.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning charging contacts.

Never connect a charger while the product or charging area is wet.

How Often Should You Inspect Your Sex Toys?

Take a quick look whenever you clean them.

You don't need a microscope.

Look for:

Cracks

Tears

Surface deterioration

Discolouration that concerns you

Exposed components

Damaged charging areas

Broken seals

Unexpected changes in texture

Battery problems

If a toy becomes damaged in a way that compromises its surface, operation or ability to be cleaned appropriately, consider replacing it.

When Should You Replace a Sex Toy?

There is no universal expiration date for every toy.

Replacement depends on factors such as:

Material

Construction

Frequency of use

Storage

Battery condition

Physical wear

Manufacturer guidance

Rather than deciding that every vibrator automatically expires after a particular number of months, inspect it regularly.

If something is visibly deteriorating or malfunctioning, don't ignore it.

Cleaning Toys When Sharing With a Partner

Sharing introduces additional hygiene considerations.

If a toy is being used between partners or moved between body areas, barrier methods such as a new condom over a compatible toy can reduce direct contact in appropriate situations.

Change barriers between people or body areas.

And still clean the product according to manufacturer instructions afterwards.

Communication about toy hygiene might not sound particularly romantic.

Neither does discovering halfway through that nobody cleaned the vibrator.

Does Lubricant Affect Cleaning?

It can.

Lubricant compatibility matters both during use and when caring for your toy.

Water-based lubricant is compatible with many toy materials, but always check individual product recommendations.

Lovva carries EasyGlide Sensitive Water Based Personal Lubricant 150ml as one option.

After use, remove lubricant residue according to the toy's cleaning instructions rather than allowing it to remain on the surface during storage.

The 5-Step Sex Toy Cleaning Routine

If you remember nothing else from this article, remember:

1. CHECK
Identify the material and waterproof rating.

2. CLEAN
Follow the manufacturer's recommended method.

3. INSPECT
Check for damage while cleaning.

4. DRY
Allow the product to dry completely.

5. STORE
Keep it protected and appropriately separated.

Five steps.

That's it.

Buying Sex Toys From a Sex Store in Australia

Toy care actually begins before you buy anything.

When shopping from a sex store in Australia, look for products that provide clear information about:

Materials

Waterproofing

Charging

Care

Dimensions

Manufacturer

Intended use

The more you know about what you're purchasing, the easier it becomes to look after it correctly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How should I clean a vibrator?

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific vibrator. Cleaning depends on the material and waterproofing. Never submerge an electronic vibrator unless its manufacturer states that it is suitable for submersion.

Should sex toys be cleaned after every use?

Cleaning according to the manufacturer's directions after use is a good hygiene practice, particularly for insertable toys and products that come into contact with bodily fluids or lubricant.

Can I wash my vibrator with soap and water?

It depends on the vibrator's material and waterproofing. Follow its specific cleaning instructions rather than assuming every electronic vibrator can be placed under running water.

Can you boil silicone sex toys?

Do not boil a sex toy unless the manufacturer specifically states that the complete product is suitable for that cleaning method. Never boil an electronic vibrator.

Should I clean a brand-new sex toy?

Cleaning a new toy according to its manufacturer's instructions before first use is a sensible hygiene step.

How should sex toys be stored?

Clean and fully dry toys before storing them somewhere protected from dirt, moisture, excessive heat and potential damage. Individual storage can also help keep different products separated.

Where can I buy sex toys in Australia?

Lovva offers vibrators, anal toys, couples products, lubricants and other intimate wellness products online in Australia.

Explore Sex Toys at Lovva Australia.

Conclusion

Knowing how to clean sex toys isn't complicated once you stop treating every toy as though it is made from the same thing.

Check the material.

Check the waterproof rating.

Follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions.

Pay attention to seams and textured areas.

Let everything dry.

Then store it somewhere clean.

And if your toy becomes damaged, deteriorated or difficult to clean properly, don't keep using it simply because the motor still works.

Five minutes of care after use can make owning intimate wellness products considerably easier.

Your future self will appreciate opening the drawer and finding a toy that is clean, dry and actually ready to use.

Explore Lovva Sex Store Australia or browse Vibrators at Lovva Australia.