Spring Clean Your Toy Box: Tips for Proper Sex Toy Care and Maintenance

Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to refresh and rejuvenate…and that includes your sex toy collection! Whether you use adult toys for self-care, intimacy, or wellness, keeping them clean, safe, and well-maintained is essential for longevity, hygiene, and overall enjoyment. Regular maintenance can also ensure that your sex toys continue to perform at their best, giving you peace of mind and helping you make the most out of your investment (we all know that’s important!). Let’s look closer at properly caring for your adult toys, from cleaning and storage to ensuring they remain in top condition for future use!

Clean Your Toys After Every Use

The first and most crucial step in proper toy maintenance is ensuring they’re cleaned thoroughly after each use AND before. Sometimes, when we leave our toys out after we’re done and they’re clean, they can still collect bacteria and hair and become dirty by the time we’re ready to play again.

Cleaning Tips:

• Material Matters: Different materials require different cleaning methods. For example, silicone toys can be safely cleaned with warm water and mild soap, while toys made of porous materials like TPE need extra care to avoid bacteria buildup. Thankfully, Peepshow Toys only sells nonporous, body-safe sex toys, so you don’t need to worry about getting sex toys that are difficult to clean here!
• Mild Soap and Warm Water: For most sex toy materials, washing them with warm water and mild, unscented soap is fine. Avoid harsh and fragrant soaps, as they can degrade the material over time and cause sensitivities to the body if not properly washed off. If your toy is waterproof, don’t hesitate to submerge it completely in water while cleaning.
• Toy Wipes: Toy wipes are a convenient option for quick, on-the-go cleaning. They are specially made to remove bacteria and are easy to use, especially if you’re traveling!
• Sex Toy Cleaner: If you want to be extra cautious, use a toy cleaner specifically designed to kill bacteria and ensure cleanliness. These products are gentle on the material and keep your toy free from germs.

Dry Your Toys Thoroughly

Once cleaned, it’s essential to dry your toys thoroughly before storing them. Moisture leads to growth of mold and mildew (ick), which can degrade the material and affect the toy's hygiene.

• Air Dry: After washing your toy, let it air dry thoroughly. Place it on a clean towel, which is usually sufficient. If the toy is small, use a lint-free cloth to pat it dry. If you have a stroker or a masturbator, make sure to remove it from the canister (if applicable) and allow it to dry entirely before putting it back together.
• Avoid Direct Heat: Never use a direct heat source (like a hairdryer) to dry your toys, as it can warp the material or affect the function. Allow them to dry naturally at room temperature so they’re ready to go when you are!

Proper Storage Is Key

Proper sex toy storage is another critical element of maintaining your toys’ lifespan. Storing them in a clean, safe, and dry place helps prevent damage and keeps them ready for play!

Storage Tips:

• Separate Storage: It’s best to store sex toys separately to avoid potential chemical reactions between different materials. For example, storing silicone toys in direct contact with other materials like rubber can lead to deterioration, but storing silicone against silicone is just fine in the long term.
• Use a Toy Bag or Pouch: You can always use a soft, dust-proof sex toy pouch or bag. Keeping toys in a protective bag helps prevent dust, dirt, or debris from accumulating on them.
• Avoid Sunlight and Heat: Store your toys in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Extreme temperatures can affect the material and cause warping or cracking.
• Keep It Clean: Always store your toys in a clean environment. Regularly clean the storage space to ensure no harmful particles are transferred to your toys.

Inspect Your Sex Toys Regularly

Regularly inspecting your sex toys for any signs of wear and tear is crucial for longevity and safety. Look out for cracks, tears, or any discoloration that may signal that a toy is no longer safe to use! Thankfully, the toy will last a long time if you purchase body-safe materials.

What to Check For:

• Cracks or Tears: Wear and tear can cause small cracks or splits in some materials over time. If you notice any, it’s important to stop using the adult toy, as this can harbor bacteria or cause the toy to malfunction.
• Battery Compartment: For battery-operated toys, check the battery compartment for signs of corrosion or leakage. Remove batteries if the toy will be stored for an extended period.
• Power Functionality: If your toys are USB rechargeable, check the functionality to ensure everything works. If the toy is rechargeable, make sure the charging port is clean and does not have dirt or debris inside.

Deep Clean Every Few Months

Even with regular cleaning after each use, it’s a good idea to give your sex toys a deeper clean every few months. This helps to remove any lingering bacteria or dirt that might build up over time on the toy.

Deep Cleaning Methods:

• Boiling Water: Some non-porous, non-electronic adult toys (like silicone, glass, or stainless steel) can be sanitized by boiling them in water for a few minutes. Just be sure to check the manual to confirm this is safe for your specific toy.
• Dishwasher Safe: If your toy is labeled dishwasher-safe, you can run it through the dishwasher for a deep clean. Place it on the top rack and avoid using harsh detergents.
• UV Sterilizers: UV sterilizers are a high-tech option for sanitizing toys. These devices use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and germs, offering a quick and efficient cleaning option if you want to REALLY get in there!

Be Mindful of Lubricants

Lubricants can enhance the use of your toys and the sensations during play, but they also impact their lifespan if misused. Some lubricants, especially those that are very oil-based, can break down certain materials, including silicone. Always check the compatibility of the lube you choose with your sex toy and opt for water-based lubes for most silicone adult toys.

Spring Cleaning is in Session!

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up your home; it’s also the perfect opportunity to give your sex toy box some attention. You can ensure your toys stay in great condition, perform well, and remain safe for years to come if you keep them clean between play. Once they’re all ready, take a peek and see what NEW toys you may need to add. It’s not only the perfect time to clean but also an incredible time to refresh some of your favorites and try new sensations!

Have fun with your Spring cleaning adventure!