How to Clean Sex Toys: The Ultimate Guide to Toy Hygiene

Let's be honest. After an incredible orgasm, the last thing most of us feel like doing is getting up to clean our sex toys. The temptation to pop your favourite vibrator back into the bedside drawer and deal with it tomorrow is real!

Cleaning your sex toys might not be the most exciting part of your intimate life and self-care routine, but it's one of the most important. Whether you enjoy silicone vibrators, glass dildos, crystal pleasure wands or stainless steel toys, knowing how to clean and care for them properly will help protect your intimate health and keep your favourite toys in great condition.

But here's the thing: a little aftercare goes a long way.

Sex toys come into contact with bodily fluids, lubricant and bacteria, so cleaning them properly is an important part of intimate hygiene. It also helps protect the materials, preserve their finish and extend the life of your favourite toys.

And not every sex toy should be cleaned in the same way.

A beautiful glass wand, a soft silicone vibrator and a natural crystal pleasure wand all have different cleaning requirements. Get the method wrong and you could end up damaging your toy, leaving behind residue or compromising its surface.

So, before you reach for the boiling kettle or your bathroom cleaning products, let's get to know what your toys actually need. Our golden rule? Clean your sex toys after every use, dry them thoroughly and store them properly. Here's how to do it.

Why Is It Important to Clean Your Sex Toys?

Just like your towels, underwear and other personal items, sex toys need regular cleaning to maintain good hygiene.

Even when you're the only person using your toys, bodily fluids, lubricant, skin cells and bacteria can accumulate on their surfaces.

Cleaning your toys after every use helps to:

• Remove bodily fluids, lubricant and residue.

• Reduce the transfer of bacteria between body parts and partners.

• Maintain the surface and condition of your toys.

• Prevent unpleasant smells and residue from building up.

• Keep your toys fresh and ready for future use.

If you share toys with a partner, clean them before they are used by another person. Using a new condom on the toy between partners or between different body areas can provide an additional barrier.

Remember, cleaning is an important part of looking after both your intimate health and your toys.

How to Clean Glass Dildos and Glass Sex Toys

Glass toys are a favourite for good reason. They have a beautifully smooth surface, feel wonderfully substantial and can be used for temperature play. Many high-quality glass pleasure toys like our glass dildos and glass pleasure wands are made from annealed borosilicate glass, a durable, non-porous material that is very easy to clean. However, glass toys still need to be handled carefully. Always check the manufacturer's cleaning instructions before attempting to sterilise them.

Everyday cleaning

For everyday cleaning, follow these simple steps:

1. Rinse your glass toy under warm running water.

2. Apply a small amount of mild, fragrance-free soap.

3. Gently wash the entire surface, paying particular attention to ridges, curves and textured areas.

4. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.

5. Dry with a clean, soft towel or allow the toy to air-dry completely.

Cleaning textured glass toys

Glass toys with deep ridges, grooves or intricate designs  like the Onna Awaken Cervix wand need extra attention. Use a clean, soft-bristled brush to gently clean hard-to-reach areas where lubricant or bodily fluids might collect. Make sure the entire toy is thoroughly rinsed and completely dry before storing it.

A little tip: Keep a separate cleaning brush specifically for your intimate accessories. Definitely don't confuse it with your toothbrush!

Important: Always inspect glass toys before use. If you notice chips, cracks or sharp edges, discontinue use.

How to Clean Crystal Sex Toys

Crystal and gemstone pleasure toys require a little extra care. Unlike manufactured glass, natural stones vary in composition, porosity and durability.

Never assume that all crystal toys can be cleaned in the same way.

How to clean crystal pleasure wands

Follow these steps:

1. Wash thoroughly under warm water.

2. Use a soft, damp cloth and mild, fragrance-free soap where appropriate.

3. Gently wipe the entire surface, removing any lubricant or bodily fluid residue.

4. Dry thoroughly with a soft, clean towel. 

5. Store separately in a protective pouch or padded container.

    

    

Crystal toy cleaning: Do's and don'ts

DO:

• Dry your toy thoroughly before storing it.

• Store it in Onna pouch and the Onna protective box.

• Inspect it regularly for cracks, chips or surface damage.

• Keep it away from other objects that could scratch or damage it.

• Avoid dropping it on hard surfaces.

DON'T:

• Boil crystal or gemstone toys.

• Put them in the dishwasher.

• Use bleach or harsh chemical cleaners.

• Soak stones that may be porous or water-sensitive.

• Use damaged or cracked crystal toys internally.

A note on energetic crystal cleansing

If you're someone who enjoys the spiritual side of crystals, you might also like moonlight rituals or other traditional crystal-cleansing practices.

These can be personal rituals, but remember that energetic cleansing is not physical hygiene. Your toy still needs appropriate cleaning after every use.

Can you use crystal toys for anal play?

Only use an intimate toy specifically designed for the intended use, with a suitable shape and a secure, flared base to prevent it from becoming stuck.

The material must also be smooth, non-porous and free from damage. Because some natural stones are porous or difficult to clean, they may not be suitable for internal use.

Always clean the toy thoroughly after anal use and never transfer it to vaginal use without washing it first.

How to Clean Silicone Sex Toys and Vibrators

Silicone sex toys and vibrators are among the most popular intimate accessories because they are soft, flexible and generally easy to maintain.

However, cleaning requirements depend on whether your toy is motorised, waterproof or non-motorised.

Before cleaning, always check the manufacturer's instructions.

Step-by-step guide to cleaning silicone toys

1. Switch off your vibrator and disconnect any charging cable.

2. Check whether the toy is fully waterproof or only water-resistant.

3. If waterproof, wash it with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap.

4. Use a soft cloth to gently clean the entire surface.

5. Pay particular attention to seams, buttons and textured areas.

6. Rinse thoroughly if the toy is suitable for rinsing.

7. Pat dry with a clean towel and allow it to air-dry completely.

8. Store in a clean, dry pouch or container.

For toys that aren't waterproof, use a damp, soapy cloth and avoid allowing water to enter the charging port, motor or battery compartment.

Can you boil silicone sex toys?

Some solid, non-motorised silicone toys can be boiled if the manufacturer specifically confirms that they are suitable for this method.

Never boil a vibrator or any toy containing electrical components, batteries or motors.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions rather than assuming that all silicone products can withstand boiling temperatures.

What lubricant should you use with silicone sex toys?

This is an important one! Water-based lubricant is generally the safest choice for silicone toys. Silicone-based lubricant may react with certain silicone toy surfaces and can cause deterioration or damage. Check compatibility with the toy manufacturer before using it. Water-based lubricants are also easy to wash away during your regular cleaning routine.

How to Clean Kegel Balls

Kegel balls are intimate accessories used by some people as part of their pelvic floor awareness and exercise routines. Because these products may be used internally, proper cleaning is particularly important.

The correct cleaning method depends on the material.

How to clean Kegel balls

For Kegel balls, follow the same material-specific cleaning principles.

Pay particular attention to:

• Connecting cords or silicone strings.

• Small openings and drilled holes.

• Seams and joins.

• Removable components.

If your product includes a removable cord, follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding cleaning and replacement.

Always clean your yoni eggs and Kegel balls before and after use.

Important safety note: Internal pelvic floor accessories are not suitable for everyone. If you experience pain, discomfort or difficulty removing an internal product, stop using it and seek appropriate medical advice.

How to Clean Stainless Steel Sex Toys

Stainless steel sex toys are popular for their smooth, luxurious finish and durability.

High-quality, non-porous stainless steel is relatively straightforward to clean and can be compatible with different lubricant types.

Everyday stainless steel toy cleaning

1. Rinse the toy with warm water.

2. Apply mild, fragrance-free soap.

3. Gently wash the entire surface.

4. Rinse thoroughly.

5. Dry and polish using a clean, soft cloth.

For toys with electrical components, avoid submerging the product unless the manufacturer confirms it is fully waterproof.

How to deep clean stainless steel toys

Solid, non-motorised stainless steel toys may be suitable for boiling or other sterilisation methods, depending on their construction and manufacturer's instructions.

Always check the product guidance first, particularly if your toy has attachments, coatings or additional components.

What lubricant can you use with stainless steel toys?

Stainless steel is compatible with water-based, oil and silicone-based lubricants.

Its smooth surface can also make cleaning easier, provided the toy is washed thoroughly after use.

How to Clean Sex Toys After Anal Play

Cleaning sex toys after anal use deserves extra attention.

The rectal area contains bacteria that should not be transferred to the vagina or other parts of the body.

If you use a toy for anal play, follow these hygiene guidelines:

• Wash the toy thoroughly immediately after use.

• Remove all visible bodily fluids and lubricant.

• Use warm water and mild soap if the material permits.

• Pay attention to grooves, seams and textured surfaces.

• Use a suitable cleaning brush for difficult-to-reach areas.

• Dry the toy completely before storing it.

• Never move a toy from anal to vaginal use without thoroughly washing it or changing its condom.

Never move a toy directly from anal to vaginal use without thoroughly washing it first or changing the condom.

If you're sharing toys with a partner, use a new condom for each person and change it between different body areas.

Also, any toy designed for anal insertion should have a wide, flared base or another suitable retrieval feature. This is an important safety consideration, not just a cleaning issue.

How to Store Your Sex Toys Properly

You've washed them, rinsed them and dried them. Now what?

Proper storage is the final step in looking after your intimate accessories. Putting a damp toy straight back into a drawer isn't ideal. Moisture, dust and contact with other materials can all affect the condition of your toys.

A few simple habits make a difference:

• Allow toys to dry completely before putting them away.

• Store glass and crystal toys in padded protective containers.

• Keep individual toys in separate pouches where possible.

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

• Keep them away from excessive heat.

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for battery and charging storage.

• Keep intimate accessories somewhere private and out of children's reach.

Some materials can react when stored in direct contact with other toys, so keeping individual toys separate is a good habit.

How Often Should You Clean Your Sex Toys?

The simplest answer is after every use.

Even if you are using a toy by yourself, washing it after every session helps remove lubricant, bodily fluids and residue before they accumulate.

You should also clean your toys:

• Before their first use.

• Before sharing them with a partner.

• Before moving between different body areas.

• After anal play.

• After prolonged storage and before using them again.

Always allow your toys to dry completely before putting them away.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Sex Toys

Can I use regular soap to clean my sex toys?

Yes. Mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water are suitable for many non-porous sex toys.

Avoid harsh detergents, abrasive cleaners, bleach and heavily fragranced products. Always check the manufacturer's instructions, particularly for natural stones and toys with electrical components.

Can I use antibacterial wipes on my vibrator?

Some wipes are specifically designed for sex toys, but they should only be used if they are compatible with the toy's material.

A proper wash with mild soap and water is generally preferable when the toy is waterproof.

Can I put my sex toys in the dishwasher?

It is best not to unless the manufacturer specifically confirms that the product is dishwasher-safe. Heat, detergents and water pressure can damage certain materials, coatings and electrical components.

Can I boil my sex toys to sterilise them?

Some solid, non-motorised toys made from suitable materials can withstand boiling, but this is not appropriate for every toy. Never boil crystal or natural gemstone toys, motorised vibrators, battery-operated toys or products without manufacturer approval.

What is the best way to clean a silicone vibrator?

For a fully waterproof silicone vibrator, use warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Rinse thoroughly, dry with a clean towel and allow it to air-dry before storing.

For non-waterproof vibrators, use a damp, soapy cloth and keep water away from electrical components.

How do I know when it's time to replace a sex toy?

Replace your toy if you notice cracks, chips, tears, sticky or deteriorating surfaces, damaged coatings or exposed electrical components.

Damaged surfaces can become difficult to clean properly and may cause irritation or injury.

Final Thoughts: Make Sex Toy Cleaning Part of Your Self-Care Routine

Looking after your intimate accessories doesn't need to be complicated or time-consuming.

Whether you enjoy glass pleasure wands, silicone vibrators, crystal accessories, yoni eggs or stainless steel toys, the most important thing is understanding the material and following the correct cleaning instructions.

A few minutes of cleaning after each use can help maintain your toys, support good intimate hygiene and make your next experience that little bit more enjoyable.

Remember: clean after every use, dry thoroughly and store safely.

Your intimate wellness routine deserves the same care and attention as every other part of your self-care.