Sex toys can be a fun way to explore intimacy and enhance sexual wellness, but they also require proper hygiene to ensure safety. Using these products without adequate cleaning can lead to infections, skin irritation, or the spread of bacteria. Many people are unsure about the best practices for cleaning different materials or how often they should be sanitised. Proper maintenance varies depending on the material type (silicone, glass, metal, or plastic) and whether the toy is waterproof or battery-operated. Failing to clean them correctly can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, yeast infections, or other health issues. Understanding the safest cleaning practices is essential for anyone incorporating these items into their sexual wellness routine. So, we turned to an expert to understand how to go about it. What are the safest and most effective ways to clean sex toys made of different materials like silicone, glass, or metal? Dr Gaana Sreenivas, obstetrician and gynaecologist at Bone and Birth Clinic and Rainbow Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, tells indianexpress.com, “The safest method depends largely on the toy’s material. For non-porous materials such as silicone, glass, or stainless steel, washing the toy with mild, unscented soap and warm water is usually sufficient. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Toys without electrical components can also be boiled for a few minutes or cleaned with a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution for deeper sanitisation.” Porous materials, on the other hand, are harder to disinfect completely, so using a condom over them is advisable. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, as improper cleaning can damage the surface and make it more prone to bacterial growth, the expert notes. How often should sex toys be cleaned, and are there situations where more frequent cleaning is necessary? Sex toys should be cleaned both before and after each use. “Pre-use cleaning helps remove dust or any residual particles, while post-use cleaning ensures removal of bodily fluids and lubricants that can harbour bacteria,” states Dr Sreenivas. If a toy is being shared between partners or used for both vaginal and anal play, he says, it should be thoroughly cleaned or covered with a new condom between uses to prevent cross-contamination. “Regular cleaning is non-negotiable, but in cases of recurrent infections or sensitive skin, extra caution and more frequent cleaning may be advisable.” Are there common mistakes people make when cleaning their toys that could increase the risk of infections or other health issues? Dr Sreenivas reveals that a few common mistakes include using harsh cleaning agents, such as bleach, scented soaps, or alcohol-based sanitisers, at high concentrations, which can irritate sensitive genital tissues or damage the toy’s material. “Another frequent error is not allowing the toy to dry completely before storing it, which can encourage bacterial or fungal growth. Storing toys together without proper protection can also lead to material degradation and contamination. It’s essential to clean gently but thoroughly, dry completely, and store each toy in a clean, dry pouch or case,” concludes Dr Sreenivas. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
