Wondering how to clean a silicone toy, whether a vibrator can go under the tap, or how to care for a soft-touch sleeve? Start with two details: the material and the manufacturer's washing instructions. A toy's outer surface does not tell you whether its motor, charging port or seams can get wet.
This guide covers everyday care, not sterilisation. Always follow the instructions supplied with your particular toy and cleaning product. If those instructions are missing or unclear, ask the manufacturer before soaking, heating or using a chemical cleaner.
Before you start: check the whole toy
- Identify the material from the packaging or product instructions, rather than guessing from its feel.
- Switch the toy off and disconnect it from its charger. Remove batteries if the instructions require it.
- Check whether the whole toy is waterproof, merely splash-resistant, or wipe-clean only. Do not assume that a washable surface means an immersible toy.
- Look for cracks, splits, peeling coatings or damaged seals. Stop using a damaged toy and ask the manufacturer about replacement.
Silicone toys
For a silicone toy whose instructions permit washing, gently clean the surface with lukewarm water and a mild, unperfumed soap, or a toy cleaner approved for that model. Pay attention to ridges and textured areas without scrubbing harshly. Rinse off soap or cleaner as directed, then dry thoroughly.
A silicone outer layer does not make an electric toy suitable for boiling. Do not boil, put in a dishwasher or use strong disinfectants unless the manufacturer explicitly provides that method for the complete toy.
Glass toys
Check glass carefully for chips or cracks before handling and washing. For an intact toy approved for washing, use lukewarm water and a mild soap or compatible cleaner, then rinse and dry with care. Avoid sudden changes between hot and cold water, and do not assume every glass toy is heat-treated or suitable for boiling. Set it down somewhere stable while it dries.
Stainless steel toys
For a solid stainless steel toy, use the washing method specified by its maker. Where permitted, gently wash with lukewarm water and mild soap, rinse and dry thoroughly. Pay attention to joins and removable parts. A metal finish is not proof that an item is solid stainless steel: plated, coated and powered products may need different care. Only use heat if the manufacturer specifically allows it.
ABS and other hard plastic toys
Clean hard plastic surfaces gently using the method in the toy's instructions. If washing is permitted, use lukewarm water and mild soap or a compatible cleaner; otherwise use the recommended damp-cloth method. Keep moisture away from openings that are not sealed. Avoid abrasive pads and do not use boiling water or a dishwasher unless explicitly instructed.
TPE, TPR, elastomer and other soft-touch materials
Soft, flexible materials and proprietary skin-like finishes need model-specific care. Do not treat them as interchangeable with silicone. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for washing, rinsing and drying, including any guidance for removable sleeves or internal channels. Do not turn a sleeve inside out unless its instructions allow it.
Let every accessible area dry completely before storage. Only apply a renewing powder if the manufacturer recommends one, and use the specified type. Do not improvise with household powders. If the surface becomes sticky, splits or retains an unusual smell after the recommended cleaning routine, stop using it and ask the manufacturer for advice.
Powered, mixed-material and non-waterproof toys
The most delicate component determines how you clean the whole item. For a wipe-clean model, use a soft cloth prepared as directed and keep liquid away from battery compartments, controls and charging connections. Remove attachments only where designed to detach. Do not submerge a toy unless the manufacturer's instructions explicitly permit it, and do not reconnect a charger until the toy and its connections are fully dry.
Choosing a toy cleaner
A dedicated cleaner can be a convenient part of your routine, but check compatibility with your toy first. Unihorn Toy Cleaner and Skins Cleanse Toy Cleaner are options to explore. Follow the current label for application, contact time and whether to rinse or wipe off. Do not assume a quick spray sterilises a toy or makes every material suitable for sharing.
Lubricant choice is part of care, too
Check the toy manufacturer's lubricant recommendations before use. If they recommend a water-based formula, explore Unihorn Water-Slide or Skins Aqua. Check each lubricant's label as well. Do not assume silicone-based, hybrid or oil-based lubricants are compatible with every toy or barrier product. Lubricant is not a cleaning product: remove residue using the toy's recommended routine.
Dry, store and keep care simple
Clean after use and check the toy before its next use. Let it dry completely in a clean place, then store it separately in a clean pouch or container recommended by its maker. Keep it away from dust, direct sunlight and heat, and avoid storing damp toys in sealed bags.
The simplest routine is the one you can repeat: check the instructions, clean gently, dry fully and store thoughtfully. For care essentials and your next compatible lubricant, browse Lubes & Sexual Health.
