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Toy Cleaning

How to Clean Sex Toys Safely

A Complete Toy Care Guide by Fable & Femme

Cleaning your sex toys properly is essential for intimate health, toy longevity, and a better pleasure experience. Whether you’re using a vibrator, dildo, or external toy, knowing how to clean and store sex toys correctly helps prevent bacteria build-up and protects your body.

This expert-approved, no-shame guide explains how to clean sex toys safely, what products to use, and how to care for different toy materials - all in one place.

Why cleaning sex toys matters

Sex toys come into close contact with intimate areas, which means proper cleaning is essential to avoid irritation, infection, or bacteria transfer.

Regular sex toy cleaning helps to:

  • Prevent bacteria and yeast build-up
  • Reduce the risk of infections
  • Keep sex toys hygienic and safe
  • Extend the lifespan of your toys

Cleaning your toys is part of aftercare and self-care - not an optional extra.

Know your sex toy material before cleaning

Different sex toy materials require different cleaning methods. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Silicone sex toys

Silicone is non-porous and body-safe.
Clean silicone toys with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap or a dedicated sex toy cleaner.

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Glass or stainless steel sex toys

These non-porous materials are highly hygienic.
Wash with warm soapy water or boil for 3-5 minutes if there are no mechanical or electronic parts.

ABS plastic sex toys

ABS plastic toys should be wiped clean with a damp cloth and gentle cleanser.
Do not submerge unless the toy is clearly labelled as fully waterproof.

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Jelly, rubber, or TPE sex toys

These porous materials can trap bacteria.
Clean gently after every use and use condoms when sharing or for internal play.

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What soap should you use to clean sex toys?

Avoid antibacterial soaps, alcohol-based cleaners, bleach, or heavily scented products.

The best option is:

  • Mild, fragrance-free soap
  • A pH-balanced sex toy cleaner

Harsh cleaners can damage toy materials and irritate sensitive skin.

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How to wash sex toys safely

Follow these simple steps to clean sex toys properly:

  1. Use warm (not hot) water
  2. Apply a gentle soap or toy cleaner
  3. Clean all surfaces, seams, and textures
  4. Rinse thoroughly to remove residue
  5. Pat dry or air dry completely

For non-waterproof sex toys, wipe clean with a damp cloth instead of submerging.

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Drying and storing sex toys correctly

Always allow sex toys to dry completely before storage.

Best storage practices:

  • Store toys separately to avoid material reactions
  • Use a breathable pouch or fabric bag
  • Keep away from heat, sunlight, and humidity
  • Avoid storing toys in bathrooms

Proper sex toy storage helps keep toys hygienic and long-lasting.

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Should you clean sex toys before and after use?

Yes - always.

Even if a toy looks clean, it may collect dust or bacteria during storage. Rinse toys before use and clean them again after every session.

This simple habit significantly reduces health risks.

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Extra sex toy care tips

  • Use condoms on sex toys when sharing
  • Inspect toys regularly for cracks or changes
  • Replace toys that show signs of damage
  • When in doubt, wash again
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A clean sex toy supports intimate health

Caring for your sex toys is an act of respect - for your body, your pleasure, and your wellbeing.

Clean toys feel better, last longer, and allow you to enjoy pleasure with confidence.

The Fable & Femme Clean Collection

Premium sex toy cleaners, storage pouches, and aftercare essentials designed to make intimate care effortless and elegant.

Thoughtful pleasure always, and unapologetically yours, 

Fable & Femme