Take Care of Your Toys

Read the care instructions first

Check the listed material and water-resistance rating before the first clean. Do not submerge a toy unless its instructions allow it. Boiling, dishwashers, alcohol and harsh cleaners can damage products that are not designed for those methods. Turn off powered toys and disconnect charging cables before cleaning.

Clean before and after use

Follow the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning and rinsing. Pay attention to seams and controls without letting water into unsealed openings. Toy cleaners must be compatible with the product material and used as their label directs. Let the toy dry fully before putting it away.

If sharing a toy or changing body sites, clean it appropriately and change barriers between uses. Porous materials need particular care; cleaning does not make every material suitable for every kind of sharing.

Check lubricant compatibility

Water-based lubricant is a common starting point for toys. Silicone-based formulas can be incompatible with some silicone toys, so follow both labels. Oil-based products can damage latex condoms. Our lubricant guide helps you compare formulas without assuming every product works with every material.

Store and inspect

Store toys clean and dry in a suitable pouch or separate container, away from excess heat and direct sunlight. Keep charging accessories with their intended device. Inspect surfaces, cables and battery compartments. Stop using a product with damaged surfaces, exposed wiring or a leaking battery, and follow the manufacturer’s replacement guidance.

Charging, battery removal and long-term storage requirements differ by device. Check the manual rather than using a charger simply because the connector fits.

Helpful references

For general sexual-health information, see Planned Parenthood’s sex-toy overview. Specific cleaning directions should come from your product’s manufacturer.