If you’re new to the sex toy game and you’re just exploring different options, sex toys, and experiences, then you should know about the importance of keeping a proper hygiene with all your sex toys.

Even though it might seem logical to wash your sex toys after using them, people often forget to do, which can lead to different types of diseases and uncomfortable sensations.

Others might have misconceptions about the time when you should clean your dildo, so let’s get into why it’s important to clean your dildo and sex toys, what type of problems improper hygiene can cause, and why timing is important when it comes to keeping hygiene.

By the end of this article, we hope to have you create a habit of regularly washing and cleaning your sex toys, to avoid any bacteria or germ buildup.

Why Cleaning Your Dildo is Essential

When you’re using a sex toy, you’re making direct contact between the material of the toy and your intimate areas.

It’s crucial to eliminate any possibilities of bacteria or germs building up, which can cause infections and irritations to your sensitive areas, and trust us, you don’t want that to happen.

Not only are you keeping your health in check, you’re also keeping the dildo functional and working. Not cleaning your dildo can damage the material over time and make it unusable.

Dildos can easily be kept clean by using a condom and washing them thoroughly before and after each use. By doing this, you’re eliminating 99.9% chance of any germs or bacteria building up on your dildo.

Plus, you can pair condoms and homemade dildos, as well as other household items that can be used as dildos, and experiment before buying a high-quality one.

Types of Materials and Their Cleaning Methods

Not every dildo can and should be cleaned the same. It’s important to understand the difference between materials and how to clean your dildo properly.

For silicone dildos, it’s important to wash them with warm water and mild, unscented soap immediately after use. Avoid using any harsh chemicals as they can degrade silicone over time and make the dildo unusable.

If you want to go an extra step, you can also clean them before using them, but most people forget that part in the heat of the moment.

Glass and stainless steel dildos are known for their durability, and they can be sanitized by boiling them in water for about 3 minutes or being cleaned with rubbing alcohol for disinfection.

Jelly rubber and TPE dildos should be cleaned with warm water and mild soap, just like silicone ones, but they must be thoroughly dried.

These materials are porous, so it’s crucial to use a condom to prevent bacteria or germs entering your body.

Which Supplies Do You Need For Cleaning Dildos?

It’s important to have all supplies ready for cleaning because ideally, you’ll want to clean your dildo immediately after using it, and before using it.

Having to look for supplies all around the place or being unable to clean your dildo is likely going to put off the mood and ruin your pleasure,

Firstly, look into specific toy cleaners or soaps designed for sensitive areas. These products are made with softer chemicals that don’t harm the material of the dildo, and they’re gentle on your sensitive areas, meaning you won’t have any problems with them.

Additionally, warm water is an important part in the entire cleaning process. It helps dissolve and rinse away any lubricants or bodily fluids from the dildo.

Pair warm water with a mild, unscented soap or a soap specific for cleaning toys, and you’ll have a perfectly clean toy you can use at any time without a single worry.

Last but not least, a soft, lint-free cloth or towel should be used to dry the dildo after washing it. This ensures that no fibers stick to the surface of the dildo and that it is completely dry before storing it away.

If you don’t dry your dildo properly and store it away, bacteria can build up and damage the toy, which isn’t something you’d like to happen.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

Firstly, you should start by rinsing the dildo with warm water to remove any initial residue. Apply a few drops of mild, unscented soap or toy cleaning soap, gently scrub it with your hands and make sure to cover all the areas of the dildo.

Rinse the dildo again with warm water and wash away all soap, then use a soft, lint-free cloth or towel to pat dry the dildo and ensure no moisture is left behind.

Remove Debris and Fluids

You might wonder why rinsing it with water is such an important part. Why not just slap some soap on it and get to washing it?

The warm water before soap helps loosen up any dried fluids or particles that may have settled on the toy, which prepares it for a more thorough cleaning process -A.K.A. the soap part.

Regular cleaning can extend the lifespan of your dildo, ensuring it remains a reliable and functional part of your sex toy collection

Gentle Soap or Toy Cleaner

Rinse well and dry with a soft cloth to prevent moisture damage. Proper cleaning keeps the dildo hygienic and ready for your next adventure.

When using soap, it’s important to make sure it’s free of harsh chemicals to avoid damaging the material of the toy. Usually, soft and unscented soaps, as well as specifically-made toy cleaners, are best to use to clean dildos.

Rub the soap gently on all surfaces and remove dirt and bacteria from the entire toy.

Be thorough, especially if the dildo has detailed textures or curves.

Proper Rinsing Technique

Rinsing doesn’t mean just sliding it through some warm water and calling it a day.

Allow 10 or more seconds on a steady flow of warm water for a clean rinse that reaches every part of the dildo.

This is especially important if you’re using dildos that have intricate or unusual shapes or textures.

Drying Your Dildo

You’ve cleaned your dildo, congrats! But, you’re not finished with it yet.

Don’t even think about storing it away while it’s moist or still has soap on it.

It’s equally important to dry your dildo to avoid any moisture damage.

Gently pat the dildo using a soft, clean towel or cloth, and avoid using any rough or abrasive materials that could damage the surface.

Reach into any grooves or textured areas to make sure it’s completely dry before storing it away.

When Should You Clean Your Dildo?

Ideally, you should aim to clean your dildo before and after each use, but let’s be real, in most cases, you won’t like the idea of cleaning your dildo while you’re horny or getting frisky with your partner.

A general rule is to clean it immediately after using it, following the steps we mentioned above.

If you haven’t used your dildo in a long time, then you should clean it before using it as well, just in case of any bacteria or germs that might be on it.

If you don’t clean your dildo after you use it, bacteria and germs will build up and damage your dildo. Even worse, if you get in the mood and forget you haven’t cleaned your dildo, inserting it in your sensitive areas can damage your body and lead to long-term issues, infections, and irritation.

It’s also recommended (depending on the material of the dildo) to keep it in boiling water for up to 10 minutes, once a month.

This ensures all bacteria on the dildo is dead and that you can use it, even without a condom.

Storing Your Dildo Properly

Proper storage is key to maintaining hygiene and longevity.

Cleaning is important, but storing isn’t something you should disregard.

Once the dildo is completely dry after the cleaning process, it should be stored properly in a clean, breathable cloth bag or in the original packaging it came in.

This way, you’re protecting your dildo from dust, lint, and other potential contaminants.

Avoid storing two dildos or two sex toys together, as different materials can have different reactions when in contact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here’s a list of some common mistakes you should avoid when cleaning your dildo:

• Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners or soaps
• Use proper storage – no plastic bags or non-breathable containers that trap moisture.
• Don’t neglect to clean the dildo immediately after, we know you’re tired, but hygiene isn’t something to neglect.
• Don’t share dildos without thorough cleaning before and after each use.

FAQs on Cleaning Dildos

How often should you clean your dildo for optimal hygiene and longevity?

To maintain the highest level of hygiene, clean the dildo before and after each use. This ensures all residues and bacteria are eliminated.

Is it safe to use regular household cleaners on a dildo, or are specialized cleaners necessary?

No, it’s not advisable to use regular household cleaners as they can damage the material. Specialized toy cleaners are crafted to maintain the dildo’s quality. An alternative is mild, unscented soap that doesn’t have any harsh chemicals or ingredients.

What’s the best way to dry a dildo after cleaning it with soap and water?

It’s best to air-dry the dildo or use a soft, lint-free cloth. Ensure it’s completely dry before storing to prevent mold growth.

Can boiling water be used to sanitize silicone dildos, and how long should I boil it?

Yes, boiling is safe for silicone dildos. Make sure to boil them for 3 minutes to ensure complete sanitization, and avoid boiling them for too long.

Are there any signs you should look for to know it’s time to replace their dildo?

Look for changes in texture, discoloration, or any unusual odor. These signs indicate it may be time for a new one.

Conclusion

It’s important to keep proper hygiene when using your sex toys, to avoid having any bacterial issues or infections later down the line.

Regular and thorough cleaning prevents the buildup of harmful bacteria, germs, and mold, which reduces the risk of irritations and diseases.

Make it a habit to clean your dildo immediately after use, and ideally before each use.

This way, you’ll have a top-notch dildo in a top-notch condition, all while keeping yourself safe and healthy.

Cleaning is especially important when using household items as dildos or using homemade dildos from your own materials.