You invested in your pleasure — so it only makes sense to take care of your toys properly. Good toy care doesn’t just help extend the life of your favorite products; it also helps protect your body from irritation, bacteria buildup, and damaged materials.

Whether you’re brand new to toys or have a nightstand full of favorites, these simple care tips will keep everything cleaner, safer, and working like new.

Why Do I Need a Special Toy Cleaner?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that regular soap and water are enough for toy care. While soap works great for your hands, it’s not always the best choice for intimate products.

Many soaps leave behind residue that can disrupt your natural pH balance. Over time, this may contribute to irritation, dryness, or even infections. Some soaps can also slowly break down silicone and other toy materials, shortening your toy’s lifespan and compromising its texture and safety.

Toy cleaners are specifically designed to clean intimate products without leaving harmful residue behind. They’re gentle on your body and formulated to protect the integrity of your toys.

Always Clean Before and After Use

This is the golden rule of toy care.

Cleaning before use removes dust, lint, oils, or bacteria that may have collected during storage. Cleaning after use prevents buildup and keeps your toy fresh and ready for next time.

For best results:

• Use a high-quality toy cleaner
• Rinse thoroughly when applicable
• Allow toys to air dry completely before storing

Choose the Right Lubricant

Not all lubes work with all toy materials.

Silicone Toys + Silicone Lube = Bad Combination

Using silicone lubricant with silicone toys can damage the toy’s surface over time, causing breakdown, tackiness, or deterioration.

For most toys, water-based lubricant is the safest and most versatile option.

Some non-porous materials — like glass or stainless steel — can safely be used with silicone-based lubricants. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific product.

Store Toys Properly

How you store your toys matters more than most people realize.

Toys should always be stored:

• In a cool, dry place
• Inside a storage pouch or toy box
• Away from dust, lint, oils, and direct sunlight

One important tip many people don’t know: don’t let different toy materials touch each other during storage. Certain materials can chemically react when pressed together, leading to melting, discoloration, or surface damage.

Keeping toys separated helps preserve their finish and texture.

Remove Batteries When Not in Use

If your toy uses removable batteries, take them out when the toy isn’t being used regularly.

This helps:

• Prevent battery corrosion
• Extend battery life
• Protect the internal components of your toy

A few extra seconds now can save your favorite toy later.

Can you Boil Toys to Disinfect Them?

Some toys can absolutely be disinfected using boiling water or even the dishwasher — but only certain types.

Typically, non-vibrating silicone, glass, and stainless steel toys are safe for high-heat sanitizing.

However:

• Never boil toys with motors or batteries
• Avoid dishwashers unless the manufacturer specifically says it’s safe
• Always check care instructions first

When Should You Replace a Toy?

Even with perfect care, toys don’t last forever.

You should replace your toy if you notice:

• Cracks or tears
• Peeling or sticky textures
• Discoloration
• Unusual odors
• Weakening motors or charging issues

Damaged toys can trap bacteria and become unsafe to use.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your toys doesn’t have to be complicated. A little maintenance goes a long way toward protecting your investment, your pleasure, and your body.

Clean them properly. Store them safely. Use the right lubricant. And treat your favorites with the same care they give you.