Cleaning your sex toys: how to do it right, how to do it often

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This really should go without saying, but if you’re using a sex toy, you better clean that puppy for next time.

Sex is different for everybody. Some of us like butt stuff. Some of us like bondage. Some of us discover the wonders of doggy style and never look back (literally). However, there’s one thing I think all us deviants can agree on – clean up is an absolute must.

This universal philosophy also applies to our time with sex toys, no matter the product of choice. Even if you don’t *ahem* finish, clean up is still a necessary practice to avoid any unwanted health and cleanliness concerns. That’s why we’re running through how to clean right, and how to clean often, with some fantastic options from our friends at Lovehoney.

Cleaning sex toys: the basics

Sex toy cleaning is actually pretty easy as long as you’ve got the techniques down pat – and the right products alongside you.

Start by taking out any batteries or electronics from the toy. Make sure the battery compartment is tightly closed afterwards, as you don’t want any liquid getting in there. Then, rinse the toy under warm water and give it a spray all around with a sex toy cleaner.

The Lovehoney Fresh Sex Toy Cleaner is a solid option and comes in a discreet bottle, so there’s no need to hide it from your roommates. It’s got an easy-to-use nozzle and the water-based solution leaves no overpowering scent.

For an ultra-convenient option, Lovehoney Sex Toy and Body Wipes can fit easily into your bedside drawer or a travel pack – and since they’re not a liquid, you can take these on a holiday too. The pack itself is resealable, and the wipes are also 100% biodegradable.

If you’re feeling premium, the Lelo Spray is another classy, quality option with sprays for days. Once the toy is sprayed, let it be for around 30 seconds, then proceed to wipe away at the tricky zones (ridges and nodules) to avoid any buildup.

Take your time to ensure all the key spots have had adequate attention. Finish with another warm rinse and use your towel for a thorough dry. Make sure the toy is completely dry before storing it away. This will prevent any dust or bacteria from building up. And there you have it! Just like new.

Cleaning realistic-feel toys

Cleaning up any realistic-feel sex toys, aka, the ones with grooves and lifelike textures, requires one extra product. And trust us, it’s a must own if you want the toy to stay smooth, soft, and pleasurable. That product is the THRUST Lifelike Sex Toy Renewer Powder.

This powder will extend the life of your sex toy tenfold, so for $10 it’s essentially a no-brainer. Simply sprinkle the fast-acting, non-toxic formula onto the surface of your toy after cleaning to maintain its soft, realistic feel. Sprinkle-wise, less is more. Perfect for pocket pussies and the like.

Once again, there’s no odour to fret about. If you’re cleaning out a Fleshlight, we’d recommend the Fleshlight Sex Toy Care Kit. It comes with the cleaner spray, lubricant, and renewing powder, and that’s everything you’ll ever need.

Cleaning a Sqweel

If you haven’t heard of the Sqweel, the name should give you an idea of its outcome. The oral sex stimulater is amongst Lovehoneys finest products, “out to impress your clitoris in every way possible”. However, that pleasure comes at a cost; 10 spinning, silicone tongues. Here’s how to clean the unorthodox device.

First up, if you’ve got the secondary model, remove the top cap and side panel. Once they’re off, take the tongue wheel and submerge it in warm, soapy water. If you’re not looking to take any chances, follow this up with the trust Sex Toy Spray Cleaner. Then, once you’re sure all those bodily fluids are gone, rinse the wheel with clean water and put it aside.

Now it’s time to clean the case. Focus especially on the areas the tongues sit on and take extra care not to let any water get into the battery compartment. Use soapy water, then rinse with clean water. Use a towel to thoroughly dry both the wheel and case, then you’re all set.

How often should I clean my sex toys?

If in doubt, repeat the mantra – before and after use, before and after use. I understand that this is a little tedious, but if you want to avoid bacteria and any nasty health issues, there’s really no other option.

Cleaning sex toys will also ensure that their performance is as good as it can be, and their lifespan is extended, so there’s no reason not to look after them.