Toy Care 101: Cleaning & Storage
Proper cleaning isn't just about hygiene — it directly determines how long a product lasts and whether it stays safe to use over time. Here's the complete routine we recommend, broken down by material, plus the mistakes that shorten a product's lifespan the fastest.
Cleaning by material
| Material | How to clean | Frequency | Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical-grade silicone | Warm water + mild, unscented soap; can be boiled briefly for deep sanitizing (non-motorized parts only) | Before and after every use | Alcohol-based cleaners, oil-based lubricants (degrade silicone) |
| ABS plastic | Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap | Before and after every use | Full submersion unless rated waterproof |
| TPE | Warm water + mild soap; dry fully, then dust with cornstarch | After every use | Boiling, direct sunlight, dark fabric storage |
| Glass or stainless steel | Warm water + soap, or boil for full sanitization | Before and after every use | Sudden temperature changes with glass (risk of cracking) |
General routine, step by step
- Clean immediately after each use — don't let residue dry onto the surface, since dried residue is harder to fully remove and can trap bacteria in surface texture.
- Use the right cleaner — mild, unscented soap and warm water is sufficient for almost everything; dedicated toy cleaners are fine but not strictly necessary if you're already using body-safe materials.
- Dry completely with a clean, lint-free cloth or air-dry before storing — moisture trapped in storage is one of the most common causes of material degradation and odor.
- Store each item separately in a breathable pouch or box — never let different materials touch for long periods, as some plastics can react with silicone and cause it to become tacky or degrade.
- Check the surface periodically for cracks, tackiness, or discoloration, which signal it's time to replace the item rather than continuing to use it.
Common mistakes that shorten lifespan
- Storing items together in a single drawer where different materials touch
- Using silicone-based lubricant with silicone products (see our Lubricant 101 guide for the full compatibility breakdown)
- Skipping the drying step and storing while still damp
- Using harsh or scented cleaning products that leave residue
A note on motorized products
For anything with an internal motor, avoid full submersion unless the listing explicitly states a waterproof rating like IPX7. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth instead, paying close attention to any seams or charging ports, which are the most common points where water can get in.
Storage tips
Keep products away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, both of which accelerate material breakdown regardless of type. A dedicated drawer, box, or storage bag not only protects the material but also keeps things discreet if you share a home with others. If you're storing multiple items, breathable individual pouches are worth the small extra cost — they prevent the surface-contact issues mentioned above far better than tossing everything into one bin.
Quick takeaways
- Clean immediately after use, dry fully before storing
- Match the cleaning method to the material — don't assume one approach works for everything
- Store items separately, away from heat and direct sunlight
- Replace anything showing cracks, tackiness, or discoloration rather than continuing to use it