How to Clean and Store Your Gay Sex Toys Safely

Why Cleaning Your Sex Toys Is More Important Than You Think

Let’s get this out of the way — if you’re not cleaning your toys properly, you’re risking way more than just a funky smell. Dirty toys can harbor bacteria, STIs, yeast, and other unwanted guests. Whether you’re into prostate massagers, dildos, cock rings, or fleshlights, taking care of your gear is part of taking care of your pleasure (and your partners).

Different Materials, Different Rules

Not all toys are created equal. Materials matter — here’s how to treat them right:

• Silicone: Non-porous, body-safe, and easy to sanitize. Just avoid silicone lube with it.
• Glass: Gorgeous and durable. Use any lube, clean with warm soapy water or boil if unpainted.
• Stainless Steel: Heavy, sexy, and fully sterilizable. A good choice for advanced players.
• Jelly/Rubber/TPR: Porous and harder to sanitize. Use condoms over them or upgrade to better materials.

How to Clean Your Toys After Use

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Immediately rinse the toy with warm water (especially if used anally).
2. Use mild, unscented soap or a toy-safe cleanser. Lather thoroughly.
3. Rinse again until all soap is gone. Don’t forget crevices or texture grooves.
4. Dry with a clean towel or let air dry on a lint-free surface.

Can You Boil It?

Yes — if it’s 100% silicone, glass (without paint), or stainless steel. Boil for 3–5 minutes, then cool before storing. Don’t boil toys with motors — unless you enjoy shopping for replacements.

Cleaning Toys With Motors

For vibrators, bullets, or plug-in toys, never submerge. Instead:

• Use a damp cloth with soap
• Wipe down the shaft and handle
• Be gentle around seams and buttons

Some are waterproof — check the manual. If in doubt, wipe instead of dunk.

Storage: Where Your Toys Sleep Matters

Don’t just toss them in a drawer. Here’s why:

• Silicone toys can degrade if touching other silicone items
• Dust and lint can cling to sticky surfaces
• Moisture can create bacteria heaven

Instead, store toys in:

• Individual toy bags (often included)
• Clean cloth pouches
• Dedicated toy drawers or containers with airflow

Extra Tips for Anal Toys

Because ass play deserves extra care. Always:

• Clean before and after use
• Use condoms on porous or shared toys
• Avoid switching between partners without re-cleaning

And if you’re into prostate play, don’t miss our guide on prostate massage and health tips here.

What About Sharing Toys?

Sharing can be hot — but only if done safely. Always use condoms or sterilize between partners. Never share porous toys unless wrapped. And have the convo: “Want to use mine or should we grab a fresh one?” That’s how you combine dirty fun with clean play.

Traveling With Your Toys

Yes, TSA has seen it all. Keep your toys in a discreet pouch, and remove batteries if necessary. Want next-level discretion? Use cases designed for sex gear. They protect your toys and your dignity.

Using Toy Cleaners vs. Soap

Antibacterial soap works great. But toy-specific cleaners are formulated for sensitive materials and often contain pH-balancing ingredients. They’re a worthy investment — especially for toys that go inside you.

When to Retire a Toy

If it’s cracking, discolored, sticky, or just “off,” it’s time to say goodbye. That $20 dildo won’t feel so cheap if it gives you a rash. Upgrade when needed. Your body’s worth it.

Want Better Toys? Start With Better Matches

Looking for guys who care about hygiene, communication, and real fun? GaysNear is where clean toys and even cleaner connections begin. Meet men near you who know their way around pleasure — and safety.

Check Out Related Topics

Interested in combining toy play with kink? See our full guide on how to feel confident in fetish spaces — it’s a must-read for adventurous bottoms, power switches, and curious tops alike.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong lube: Silicone lube on silicone toys can cause breakdown over time.
• Storing toys wet: Always dry completely before storing to avoid mold and bacteria.
• Skipping toy cleaning after masturbation: Even solo use creates bacteria buildup.
• Using harsh cleaners: Bleach and alcohol can damage materials and irritate your body.

Cleaning Toys After Anal Play (The Right Way)

If a toy’s been inside your ass, it deserves extra care. Use gloves if needed. Pre-rinse with water, then scrub with soap or cleaner. Consider soaking in warm water with antibacterial soap. And definitely don’t switch from ass to mouth without deep cleaning.

Anal Douche + Toys: Safe Pairing?

Douche properly before using anal toys, but don’t overdo it. Too much douching can irritate your lining. Clean externally and wait at least 30 minutes after douching before using toys — especially larger plugs or prostate massagers.

Storing Toys Discreetly at Home

If you live with roommates or family, opt for:

• Lockable toy chests or boxes
• Hidden zipper pouches in drawers
• Storage inside gym bags (bonus: easy to grab!)

Privacy matters — but so does hygiene. Avoid wrapping toys in plastic bags or old socks (ew).

Keep Your Pleasure Gear Fresh

Set a monthly “toy day” — inspect, wash, reorganize. Add a reminder to replace items like lube, batteries, and condoms. A clean kit = a confident play session.

Need Help Exploring New Kinks?

If you’re ready to expand your toy kit or your comfort zone, read our article on prostate massage techniques — and see how internal play meets external confidence.

Post-Play Rituals

After a steamy session, take 5–10 minutes to clean toys, hydrate, and wipe down your space. This isn’t just hygiene — it’s aftercare. Whether solo or partnered, ending play with intention makes future sessions better. Plus, you’ll never have to deal with crusty toys the next morning.

Cleaning Couple’s Toys

Love using toys with your boo? Keep it sexy and safe. Clean between rounds, especially with anal or oral transitions. Label each person’s toys if needed, and agree on your sanitation rules. Shared pleasure deserves shared responsibility.

Quickfire Do’s and Don’ts

• ✔ Do use warm water and toy-safe soap
• ✔ Do store toys in separate bags or compartments
• ❌ Don’t share without cleaning between uses
• ❌ Don’t use cracked or sticky toys

Stay Safe, Stay Curious

Your sex toys are extensions of your desire — and they deserve care. Whether it’s a silicone plug, vibrating ring, or that wild new harness, cleaning is part of the ritual. Treat your gear with respect, and it’ll treat your body just as well.

Looking to Meet Men Who Get It?

GaysNear is where sex-positive, smart, and safety-minded gay men connect. Flirt, play, and explore with locals who care about clean fun and respectful kink.