A quality sex toy is an investment. Body-safe silicone, a good motor, solid finishing — it costs something. But with the right care a toy easily lasts five to ten years. Without care a toy can become unusable or even unsafe within months.
This guide explains how to clean, store and keep your toys in top condition — without unnecessary products or exaggeration.
What's on a Used Toy?
After use, a toy contains body fluids, possible lubricant residue and bacteria. Body-safe materials (silicone, borosilicate glass, medical steel) are non-porous — bacteria can't nest in them, only on the surface. That's exactly why you choose body-safe: it's safely cleanable.
Porous materials (rubber, jelly, 'cyberskin' without further specification) have microscopic pores where bacteria can lodge. They're virtually never truly clean — reason to avoid them or discard them after use.
The Basics: Clean Before AND After Every Use
Before use: rinse briefly, especially if the toy has been stored a while — dust, a pet hair or a bit of fluff is normal.
After use: clean immediately, not 'tomorrow'. Body fluids that dry are harder to remove and can cause odor.
Option 1: Dedicated Toy Cleaner
A cleaner like the AIA Natural Toy Cleaner is tuned for body-safe materials: pH-friendly, free of aggressive substances that could irritate mucous membranes if residue remains, dries quickly. Spray, let work briefly, rinse, dry.
Option 2: Mild Soapy Water
Lukewarm water with a mild, fragrance- and color-free soap works too — provided the toy is fully waterproof (IPX7). Rinse thoroughly — soap residue irritates mucous membranes.
What NOT to Do
- Not under boiling water (motors, glue, batteries)
- Not in the dishwasher (too hot, too aggressive)
- Not with alcohol or bleach (degrades silicone)
- Not with scented soap with essential oils (can irritate mucous membranes)
Special Cases
Non-waterproof toys: Don't rinse under the tap. Use a spray cleaner and wipe with a damp cloth. Keep electronics dry.
Glass and steel: May go through the dishwasher or hot water. Robust and hyper-hygienic.
Toys you share: Use a condom on the toy, or clean thoroughly between partners (ideally also by brief boiling for 100% waterproof silicone toys).
Toys used anally AND vaginally: Clean very thoroughly, or keep toys separated per use. Bacteria from the rectum don't belong in the vagina.
Storage: Not Just in a Drawer
Store dry. Moist toys can develop odor and in extreme cases mold. Let dry completely before storage.
Dust-free. In a cotton bag, original packaging or dedicated storage tin. Dust is an irritant to mucous membranes.
Separate from other silicone. Two silicone toys touching long-term can react at contact points — a 'melted' appearance. Wrap separately or store apart.
Separate from sharp objects. A pair of scissors or nail file in the same drawer is a recipe for a cut in your toy.
Lubricant: Choose the Right One for Your Material
Water-based lubricant is universally safe with all materials. Silicone lubricant can degrade silicone toys over time. Oil degrades latex (condoms) and is often suboptimal for internal use.
Read our complete lubricant guide for details, or browse our lubricant and oil collection.
Lifespan and When to Replace
A body-safe silicone toy with good care lasts 5-10 years. Signs to replace:
- Cracks, damage or areas where the surface changes
- Odor that doesn't go away after cleaning
- Motor problems not fixed by charging
- Doubt about body-safety after a drop or hard impact
Don't wait until it really goes wrong — a damaged toy is a hygiene risk.
FAQ
Do I need to use a dedicated cleaner?
Not strictly necessary, but easier and gentler on mucous membranes than soap. A bottle lasts a long time.
Can I share my toy with a partner?
Yes, provided well cleaned between partners or with a condom on the toy.
Is it bad if I forget to clean once?
Once isn't a disaster; repeatedly is. Bacteria multiply.
Conclusion
Good toy care isn't work — it's a minute after use and a few rules for storage. With body-safe silicone, a suitable cleaner, and attention to compatible lubricant, you keep your investment in top condition for years.
Choose deliberately: the AIA Natural Toy Cleaner for cleaning, and check our full collection for new or replacement toys.
Sources:
1. Koeslag-Kreunen, M. G. M., et al. (2018). Phthalates in sex toys. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
2. World Health Organization (2012). Lubricant guidance. WHO/RHR/12.33.
