How to Clean Every Type of Adult Toy Correctly: The Complete Hygiene Guide

Buying a high-quality intimate product is an investment in your comfort, confidence and wellbeing. Looking after that investment properly is just as important as choosing the right product in the first place.

Whether you’ve purchased your very first vibrator or you’ve built a carefully curated collection, cleaning your products correctly helps protect your health, extend the lifespan of your toys and ensure every experience is as safe and enjoyable as possible.

One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding intimate products is that a quick rinse under the tap is enough. While this may remove visible residue, it isn’t always sufficient. Different materials require different cleaning methods, and understanding those differences is essential.

This comprehensive guide explains how to clean the most common toy materials, avoid common mistakes and store your products correctly so they remain in excellent condition for years to come.

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Why Cleaning Matters

Intimate products come into direct contact with some of the body’s most delicate tissues.

Without proper cleaning, bodily fluids, lubricants and natural bacteria can remain on the surface of a toy. Over time, this can affect hygiene, shorten the life of the product and make it less pleasant to use.

Regular cleaning helps to:

• Remove bodily fluids and lubricant residue.
• Keep products fresh.
• Protect the surface of the material.
• Maintain product performance.
• Reduce unpleasant odours.
• Extend the life of your toys.
• Give you confidence every time you use them.

Cleaning doesn’t need to be complicated. In most cases, just a few minutes of proper care after each use is enough.

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Before You Start

Before cleaning any intimate product, ask yourself three simple questions:

Is it waterproof?

Not every rechargeable toy is designed to be submerged in water.

Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing.

Products generally fall into one of three categories:

• Splash-resistant
• Water-resistant
• Fully waterproof

Understanding the difference helps prevent accidental damage to motors and charging systems.

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What material is it made from?

Different materials require different care.

The most common include:

• Silicone
• ABS plastic
• Glass
• Stainless steel
• TPE
• TPR
• PVC

Knowing your toy’s material is the first step towards cleaning it correctly.

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Does it contain electronics?

Products with motors, batteries or charging ports should always be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s guidance.

Even waterproof products benefit from gentle cleaning rather than aggressive scrubbing.

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How Often Should You Clean Your Toy?

The answer is simple.

Every single time you use it.

This means:

• Before first use.
• After every use.
• Before sharing with a partner (if the product is designed to be shared and used safely for that purpose).
• Before putting it away for long-term storage.

Cleaning immediately after use prevents lubricant and bodily fluids from drying onto the surface, making maintenance much easier.

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What You’ll Need

The good news is that specialist cleaning products are rarely essential.

For most body-safe materials you’ll only need:

• Warm (not boiling) water
• Mild, fragrance-free soap
• A soft lint-free cloth or towel
• A clean, dry storage bag or pouch

Some people prefer dedicated toy cleaners. These can be convenient, especially while travelling, but they should still be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

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Cleaning Silicone Toys

Silicone is widely regarded as one of the easiest materials to maintain.

Because high-quality silicone is non-porous, it doesn’t trap bacteria in the same way porous materials can.

Avoid harsh household cleaning chemicals, bleach or abrasive cleaning pads, as these may damage the finish.

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Cleaning ABS Plastic Toys

ABS plastic is another non-porous material commonly used in premium products.

Cleaning is very similar to silicone.

Wash using:

• Warm water
• Mild soap
• Soft cloth

Avoid using solvents or alcohol-based cleaners unless specifically recommended by the manufacturer.

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Cleaning Glass Toys

Glass toys made from borosilicate glass are exceptionally easy to clean.

Unlike ordinary household glass, borosilicate glass is designed to withstand significant temperature changes.

For everyday cleaning:

• Wash with warm water and mild soap.
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Dry using a soft towel.

Before every use, inspect the toy carefully.

Never use a glass toy that has chips, cracks or other visible damage.

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Cleaning Stainless Steel Toys

Stainless steel is one of the most durable body-safe materials available.

It can be cleaned with:

• Warm water
• Mild soap
• A soft cloth

After drying, a microfibre cloth can help restore its polished finish.

Avoid steel wool or abrasive scouring pads, which may scratch the surface.

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Cleaning Textured Toys

Products with ridges, grooves or detailed textures require a little more attention.

Take extra time to clean:

• Raised patterns
• Curves
• Flexible joints
• Decorative details

These areas are more likely to retain lubricant or residue if rushed.

Using your fingers and a soft cloth is usually sufficient.

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Waterproof vs Splash-Resistant Toys

Many people assume every rechargeable toy can safely be submerged.

This isn’t always the case.

Fully waterproof toys are designed for complete washing and, where stated by the manufacturer, may also be suitable for bath or shower use.

Splash-resistant toys should only have the surface cleaned carefully.

Never immerse a splash-resistant product unless the manufacturer specifically confirms that it is safe to do so.

Water entering charging ports or battery compartments can permanently damage electronic components.

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Drying Is Just As Important As Washing

Moisture left on a toy during storage can encourage unwanted odours and reduce the lifespan of certain components.

After washing:

• Pat dry with a clean towel.
• Allow the toy to air dry fully if needed.
• Ensure charging ports are dry before charging.
• Never store toys while damp.

Taking an extra few minutes to dry your products properly helps keep them in excellent condition.

PART 2

Caring for TPE, TPR and PVC Products

Not every intimate product is made from silicone, glass or stainless steel. Some products are manufactured from materials such as TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) or PVC.

These materials often feel soft and flexible, but they require a little more care because they are generally more porous than body-safe silicone.

Porous materials can be more difficult to clean thoroughly, as microscopic pores may retain moisture or residue over time.

If you own a product made from one of these materials:

• Wash it immediately after every use.
• Use warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap.
• Dry it completely before storing.
• Store it separately from other toys.
• Replace it if you notice tears, cracking, peeling, stickiness or changes in texture.

Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, as cleaning recommendations may vary.

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How to Sanitise Intimate Products

Cleaning and sanitising are not the same thing.

Cleaning removes visible dirt, lubricant and bodily fluids.

Sanitising is an additional step that may be appropriate for certain non-electronic products, particularly if recommended by the manufacturer.

For products made entirely from non-porous materials such as borosilicate glass or stainless steel, some manufacturers provide specific sanitising instructions.

For vibrating toys or products with electrical components, never attempt to sanitise them using methods intended for non-electronic products unless the manufacturer explicitly states that it is safe to do so.

If you’re unsure, stick with thorough cleaning using warm water and mild soap.

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Cleaning After Anal Use

Products used anally require especially careful cleaning.

After use:

1. Wash the product thoroughly before it comes into contact with any other part of the body.
2. Clean all grooves, seams and textured areas carefully.
3. Dry completely before storing.

Many people choose to dedicate certain products solely to anal play to simplify hygiene and organisation.

Products designed for anal use should always have a flared base to help prevent the product from being drawn further into the body.

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Sharing Toys Safely

Some intimate products are designed for use between partners.

If a toy is shared:

• Clean it thoroughly between users.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding safe use.
• Consider using a new condom over compatible toys where appropriate, particularly if the toy is shared or used on different areas of the body.

Open communication and good hygiene help everyone enjoy a safer and more comfortable experience.

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Removing Lubricant Residue

Lubricants can leave a slippery film behind if they are not cleaned away properly.

Fortunately, removing residue is usually straightforward.

For most products:

• Rinse with warm water.
• Use a small amount of mild soap.
• Gently rub the surface with your hands or a soft cloth.
• Rinse until the surface feels clean.
• Dry completely.

Avoid harsh scrubbing, which may damage the surface finish of some products.

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Storing Your Toys Correctly

Proper storage is often overlooked, but it plays an important role in maintaining your products.

Good storage habits include:

• Keeping toys in individual storage pouches or cases.
• Storing them in a cool, dry place.
• Protecting them from dust.
• Keeping them away from direct sunlight.
• Ensuring they are completely dry before storage.

If your product came with its own storage bag, it’s usually best to continue using it.

Keeping products organised also makes them easier to find and helps prevent accidental damage.

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Travelling with Intimate Products

If you’re travelling, a little preparation goes a long way.

Before packing:

• Clean and dry your products thoroughly.
• Use a protective pouch or case.
• Lock products with a travel lock if they have one to prevent accidental activation.
• Pack charging cables separately so they’re easy to find.

If you’re flying, remember that rechargeable toys generally contain lithium-ion batteries, so check your airline’s guidance on carrying battery-powered devices.

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When Should You Replace a Toy?

Even the highest-quality products won’t last forever.

It’s time to consider replacing a product if you notice:

• Cracks
• Tears
• Peeling
• Deep scratches
• Broken charging ports
• Buttons that no longer work properly
• Waterproof seals that have failed
• Any damage that prevents the toy from being cleaned effectively

If you’re ever unsure, replacing a damaged product is the safest option.

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Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Using harsh household cleaners

Products such as bleach, ammonia or abrasive cleaning sprays are not intended for intimate products and may damage certain materials.

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Putting electronic toys in boiling water

Only products specifically approved by the manufacturer for this type of cleaning should ever be exposed to high temperatures.

Electronic products should never be boiled.

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Forgetting charging ports

Before charging a rechargeable toy, ensure the charging port is completely dry.

Moisture and electricity should never mix.

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Storing toys while damp

This is one of the easiest mistakes to avoid.

Always allow products to dry thoroughly before placing them into storage.

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Ignoring the manufacturer’s instructions

Every product is different.

Whenever possible, follow the cleaning and care guidance supplied with your specific product.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your intimate products isn’t simply a routine task—it’s an important part of caring for your health, protecting your investment and ensuring every experience remains comfortable and enjoyable.

Fortunately, proper maintenance doesn’t require expensive products or complicated techniques. In most cases, warm water, a mild soap and a few minutes of care are all that’s needed.

By understanding your product’s material, following the manufacturer’s instructions and storing your toys correctly, you’ll help them remain in excellent condition for years to come.

At The Red Peach, we’re passionate about helping our customers make informed choices. We believe confidence comes not only from choosing high-quality products but also from knowing how to care for them properly.

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Explore More with The Red Peach

Whether you’re shopping for your first intimate product or expanding your collection, The Red Peach is here to support your journey with carefully selected body-safe products, expert advice and educational resources.

Browse our growing range of premium intimate wellness products and discover how quality, care and confidence go hand in hand.