Buying guide
How to clean and store sex toys
Good toy care has three parts: clean it, let it dry and give it a proper place in the drawer. None takes much effort once you know the routine, and your next session starts with everything ready to go.
The one thing to avoid is treating every toy to the same wash. A waterproof vibrator, a soft sleeve and a full-size wand can need very different care. Here is how to make the tidy-up easy.
Start with the parts that need cleaning
Switch the toy off and unplug it. Remove sleeves, caps or attachments that are designed to come apart, then follow the cleaning directions for each piece.
Wash away lubricant and residue before they dry onto the surface. Pay attention to texture, the edges of removable heads and the joins around buttons. A smooth-looking toy can still have a few little hiding places.
Clean before and after use. After a long stay in the drawer, a fresh clean also clears away any dust or lint that has arrived since last time.
Three toys, three routines
| Toy | Cleaning approach | Before it goes away |
|---|---|---|
| Lovense Lush 2 | Warm water and mild soap or a suitable toy cleaner | Dry thoroughly |
| TENGA Flip Hole | Open the body and wash with cool or tepid running water; use only mild or neutral soap | Air dry open, then close for storage |
| Lovense Max 2 sleeve | Warm water; no soap on the inner sleeve | Dry the sleeve completely before storage |
Keep soap away from the Max 2 sleeve, even if you use it for your other toys. Warm water is all this sleeve needs.
For wands that need to stay dry, follow the surface-cleaning method in their instructions. Our waterproof and water-resistant guide explains the different water limits of three Le Wand models.
Using a toy cleaner? Let it do its job
A toy cleaner is convenient, but it still has directions. Some need time on the surface before wiping or rinsing, and a spray bottle is not permission to soak an electronic toy.
Wet Stuff Clean 235g is a spray sanitiser for compatible toys and hard surfaces. Its routine is to wash and rinse the surface first, apply the spray undiluted, leave it for three minutes, then wipe away the excess. Rinse or wipe adequately with water before the toy touches your body.
Use it on toys whose care instructions allow that washing routine. Do not soak toys in the sanitiser or apply it directly to skin.
Keep household disinfectants, abrasive scourers and improvised cleaning mixtures out of the routine. TENGA, for example, excludes alcohol and other cleaners from its reusable sleeve-care instructions.
Dry on the inside, too
A dry exterior does not mean a sleeve is ready to close. Let air reach the internal texture and any removable pieces before reassembly. The TENGA Flip design opens up for exactly this reason.
Use a clean towel to remove surface water where appropriate, then allow the toy to air dry. Keep chargers disconnected until the toy and contacts are completely dry. Skip the hairdryer, radiator and sunny windowsill.
If you use Fleshlight Renewing Powder, apply it only after the sleeve is fully dry. It restores the sleeve's surface feel; it does not clean the toy or replace drying.
Give favourites their own space
A pouch, original case or simple separate compartment makes a good home. Store everything clean and dry, away from direct sunlight and heat.
Keep each cable with its toy, loosely coiled rather than tightly wrapped around the body. Give glass pieces enough protection to prevent knocks, and keep soft toys from being squashed under heavier items. Individual storage also makes it much easier to find the one you want.
A practical little kit is enough: the right cleaner, a clean cloth, the toy's storage bag and its own charging cable. No elaborate bathroom takeover required.
Sharing a toy: fresh cover, fresh start
Use separate toys when a product is intended for one person. For a toy suitable for sharing, use a new condom for each partner and when changing between body openings. Clean the toy between uses and follow its normal care routine afterwards.
Match the condom and lubricant to the toy. A fresh cover is useful; it does not repair a damaged surface or make an uncleanable toy easy to clean.
Know when a wash is not enough
Replace a toy with a torn sleeve, cracked surface or damaged coating. Do not keep using a mouldy TENGA sleeve; its porous material cannot be completely sanitised.
For a powered toy with a damaged casing, charging port or cable, stop using it and contact us for help with the next step. The rechargeable care guide covers charging and cable care.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wash sex toys with soap and water?
Many allow mild soap and water, including Lovense Lush 2. Some do not: the Max 2 inner sleeve should be cleaned with warm water without soap. Use the method for your exact toy.
How often should I clean a sex toy?
Before and after use, and between people or body openings when sharing an appropriate toy. Clean removable parts separately where the instructions allow.
Can I put a vibrator in the dishwasher or boil it?
Do not use those methods for rechargeable vibrators unless the exact product expressly supports them. We-Vibe and Lovense instructions exclude boiling; heat can damage the battery and motor.
How long does a masturbator sleeve take to dry?
There is no single drying time. Shape, texture and airflow all make a difference. Leave the sleeve open or on its drying stand until it is completely dry inside before closing or storing it.
Can I put a toy away while it is damp?
Let it dry first. Moisture trapped inside a sleeve or case can encourage mould. Open removable parts for airflow and put everything away only once dry.
Do I need renewing powder for every soft toy?
No. Use a care powder only when it is recommended for that material. Fleshlight Renewing Powder is made for Fleshlight sleeve care, not as an all-purpose cleaning product.
