Why You Should Clean Your Sex Toys Immediately After Use
(And What to Use for Every Type of Toy)
Let’s be real: sex toys can be a big part of a satisfying, healthy sex life—but if you’re not cleaning them properly (and immediately) after use, you could be exposing yourself to bacteria, infection, and even long-term damage to your favorite toys.
In this blog, we’ll explain exactly why cleaning your sex toys right after use is necessary or your health and pleasure, how to clean different types of materials, and which Wicked Sensual Care toy cleaner products are the best for each scenario—whether you’re using a foaming toy cleaner, a spray, or the convenient Toy Cleaner Refill Pouch.
Spoiler: soap and water isn’t always enough.
Why Clean Your Sex Toys After Every Use?
It might seem obvious, but a surprising number of people delay cleaning their toys—sometimes for days. That’s not just a little gross—it can be harmful.
1. Bacteria Build-Up Happens Fast
After sex or solo play, your toys are exposed to:
- Bodily fluids (like vaginal fluid, semen, and saliva)
- Lube (which can trap bacteria)
- Skin cells
- Potential fecal matter (especially with anal toys)
Even after one use, bacteria can start multiplying quickly. If left on the toy, these microbes can reintroduce harmful bacteria into your body during your next session—leading to infections like bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, UTIs, and anal irritation.
2. Some Toys Are Porous—Which Means Germs Stay Longer
Toys made of jelly, rubber, elastomer, or PVC are porous. That means they can trap bacteria even after rinsing with water or wiping with a towel.
Cleaning immediately helps reduce how deep bacteria can sink into the surface—and using the right toy cleaner makes a big difference.
3. Clean Toys = Longer-Lasting Toys
Sex toys are an investment. Whether you’re using a luxury vibrator, a silicone dildo, or a couple’s vibe, regular cleaning preserves the material and protects the motor from lube and fluid build-up.
A high-quality anti-bacterial toy foaming cleaner like Foam ‘n Fresh cleans gently without damaging delicate toy surfaces or leaving residue.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid harsh household soaps that contain sulfates, perfumes, or alcohol. They can dry out or damage silicone and other materials.
Soap and Water vs. Toy Cleaner: What’s Better?
A common search term is: “toy cleaner vs. soap and water.” Here’s the deal:
✅ Soap and Water:
- Works in a pinch
- Needs thorough rinsing
- Can dry out materials or leave residue if not properly washed off
✅ Toy Cleaner:
- Formulated to kill bacteria without damaging your toy
- Quick-drying
- pH-balanced and gentle on skin and materials
Using a dedicated Wicked toy cleaner is safer, easier, and better for your toys.
How to Clean Different Types of Sex Toys
Different materials require different care. Let’s break it down:
🟣 Silicone Toys
(non-porous, body-safe, most common)
- How to clean: Use a foaming toy cleaner like Foam ‘n Fresh or simply® Foam & Fresh, rinse, and wipe down with a clean cloth. You can also boil them (if non-vibrating).
- Products to use:
- simply® Foam & Fresh
- Cleene Antibacterial Toy Spray
🔵 ABS Plastic, Glass, or Metal
(non-porous, easy to sanitize)
- How to clean: Use a spray like simply® Cleene for a fast, effective clean. Rinse with water and pat dry or air dry.
- Products to use:
- simply® Cleene Spray
- Toy Cleaner Refill Pouch (refill your bottle)
🌿 These materials don’t retain bacteria but still need to be cleaned promptly after use.
🔴 TPR, PVC, or Jelly Toys
(porous, require thorough cleaning)
- How to clean: These materials can trap bacteria, so wash with a foaming antibacterial toy cleaner, rinse, and let fully air dry.
- Products to use:
- Foam ‘n Fresh
- Cleene Antibacterial Toy Spray (follow with water rinse)
🚫 Important: These toys are harder to sanitize and should not be shared unless covered with a condom.
⚫ Vibrating or Motorized Toys
(electronic, require care)
- How to clean: Never submerge. Instead, spray Cleene onto a cloth, rinse carefully, and wipe clean, avoiding battery ports or buttons.
- Products to use:
- Cleene 4 oz Spray
- Refill Pouch for long-term use
🪫 Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to remove batteries or fully power off before cleaning. Never clean a toy while plugged in.
Featured Products for Every Routine
🧴 simply® Cleene Antibacterial Toy Spray
- Quick, alcohol-free spray
- Kills bacteria, safe for all toys
- Fast-drying
🧼 simply® Foam & Fresh
- Foaming pump bottle
- Gentle on silicone and skin
- No harsh chemicals
🛍️ Toy Cleaner Refill Pouch
- Refill your existing spray or foam bottle
- Eco-friendly and cost-effective
- Great for heavy toy users or couples
When Should You Clean Toys?
Right. After. Use. Always.
Even if you’re tired. Even if it’s "just for a second." Waiting allows bacteria to dry and settle into the toy’s surface. It also makes cleanup harder later.
💡 Bonus Tip: Keep a bottle of Foam ‘n Fresh and a soft towel next to your sink. It only takes 30 seconds!
FAQs About Cleaning Sex Toys
Can I use baby wipes or makeup wipes?
No. These often contain oils, alcohol, or fragrances that can damage toys and irritate your skin.
What if I share my toys?
Use condoms on toys during shared use and always clean with an antibacterial toy cleaner afterward.
Can I clean my toys in the dishwasher?
Only if they are 100% silicone with no electronic parts. Even then, hand cleaning with a foaming cleaner is safer and gentler.
Respect Your Pleasure—Clean Your Toys
Keeping your toys clean isn’t just about hygiene. It’s about respecting your body, your pleasure, and your investment. A high-quality adult toy cleaner like simply® Cleene or Foam ‘n Fresh makes it easy, safe, and fast.
So the next time you finish a solo session or partner play, don’t toss your toy on the nightstand. Show it some love—with the right cleaner.
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