How to Clean Sex Toys: The Complete Care Guide by Material

By AdultShopSexToys Team • May 21, 2026 • Tips & Care

Cleaning your toys properly extends their life and protects your health. Here's exactly how to clean every type of material — silicone, glass, TPE, ABS plastic, and more.

Why Cleaning Your Toys MattersA sex toy that is not properly cleaned can harbor bacteria, yeast, and even mold. This is especially important for anal toys or any toy shared between partners. The good news: cleaning is straightforward once you understand the material.The most important concept: non-porous vs. porous. Non-porous materials (silicone, glass, stainless steel, ABS plastic) do not absorb bacteria or fluids — they can be fully sanitized. Porous materials (TPE, rubber, jelly) absorb and retain bacteria even after cleaning — always use them with a condom.How to Clean 100% Silicone ToysSilicone is non-porous and the easiest to sanitize. You have several options:Boiling (best for non-motorized toys): Submerge in boiling water for 3 minutes. This kills everything. Do not boil toys with electronic motors or batteries.Dishwasher (non-motorized only): Top rack, no detergent, no heat-dry. Sanitize setting if available.Soap and water: Use unscented, mild soap. Scrub gently, rinse thoroughly, air dry. This is sufficient for regular cleaning.Toy cleaner spray: Convenient but not necessary for silicone. Follow label directions.Do not use antibacterial soap — it can leave residue that irritates sensitive tissue. Do not use bleach on silicone (it degrades the surface over time).How to Clean ABS Hard Plastic ToysABS plastic is non-porous but cannot be boiled (it will warp or melt). Use:Mild soap and warm water — wipe gently with a damp clothToy cleaner sprayIsopropyl alcohol wipe for extra sanitizing (let dry completely before use)How to Clean Glass and Stainless Steel ToysBoth are non-porous and extremely easy to sanitize. Glass and stainless can be:Boiled (3 minutes for glass, no problem for stainless)Washed in the dishwasher (top rack, no heat-dry)Cleaned with soap and waterWiped with isopropyl alcoholCheck glass toys for chips or cracks before each use — a damaged glass toy should be discarded.How to Clean TPE/TPR and Rubber ToysThese porous materials cannot be fully...