How to clean dildos properly – keeping your sex toy hygienic and safe

Dildos are among the classic sex toys and are used regularly by many people. To ensure they remain hygienic, comfortable and long-lasting, proper cleaning is particularly important. Otherwise, residues of bodily fluids, lubricant or dust can build up on the surface and, in the long term, compromise hygiene, the material and the user experience.

Cleaning a dildo is usually straightforward – but the material it’s made of is crucial. This is because care and cleaning routines can differ significantly depending on the surface and texture.

Why cleaning dildos is important

Dildos come into direct contact with sensitive areas of the body. That’s why thorough cleaning isn’t just a matter of cleanliness, but also of health and durability.

Regular cleaning helps to:

• reduce bacteria and germs

• prevent unpleasant odours

• prevent damage to the material

• extend the toy’s lifespan

• ensure hygienic use

Cleaning is particularly important:

• after every use

• when shared

• or after prolonged storage

Cleaning dildos properly: the basics

Most dildos can be easily cleaned using simple methods.

Suitable options include:

• warm water

• mild, unscented soap

• or a specialised toy cleaner

The following applies:

• clean thoroughly, but handle gently

• remove all residues completely

• then allow to dry completely

Harsh cleaning products, alcohol or abrasive sponges should be avoided, as they can damage the surface.

Cleaning dildos by material

Not every dildo is cleaned in the same way. The material plays a crucial role in ensuring proper care.

Cleaning silicone dildos

Silicone is one of the most popular materials used for dildos. It is considered hygienic, durable and particularly easy to care for.

Properties:

• non-porous

• smooth and skin-friendly

• easy to clean

Suitable for cleaning:

• warm water

• mild soap

• toy cleaner

Important:

Silicone dildos should be stored separately from other silicone products, as material reactions are possible.

Cleaning glass dildos

Glass dildos are particularly hygienic and robust. The smooth surface does not absorb odours or residues.

Properties:

• very hygienic

• durable

• often heat-resistant

Cleaning:

• warm water

• soap or toy cleaner

• thorough rinsing

Many glass dildos can even be boiled or sterilised – depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.

Cleaning stainless steel dildos

Stainless steel dildos are also very hygienic and particularly durable.

Features:

• non-porous

• very robust

• easy to clean

Cleaning:

• warm water

• mild soap

• thoroughly dry

Here too – depending on the product – thermal cleaning is possible.

Cleaning TPE and jelly dildos

Dildos made of TPE or jelly are often particularly soft, but require more care.

Properties:

• partially porous

• more delicate than silicone or glass

• more prone to odour build-up

Cleaning:

• clean particularly thoroughly with water and mild soap

• allow to dry completely

• store carefully

These materials should be checked regularly for changes such as discolouration or sticky surfaces.

Can dildos be boiled?

Whether a dildo can be boiled depends very much on the material it is made of.

Suitable:

• Glass

• Stainless steel

Not suitable:

• Silicone (varies depending on quality)

• TPE / Jelly

• Dildos with electronic components or made from a combination of materials

It is always important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as not every material is heat-resistant.

Common mistakes when cleaning dildos

Small mistakes are often made during cleaning which can compromise hygiene or damage the material.

Typical mistakes include:

• using the wrong or harsh cleaning products

• incomplete drying

• storing whilst damp

• mixing up materials

• cleaning too infrequently

In the long term, these mistakes can lead to odours, material damage or hygiene issues.

Care and proper storage

After cleaning, the dildo should be left to dry completely before being put away.

We recommend:

• storing it in a dry, clean place

• keeping it separate from other toys

• protecting it from dust and direct sunlight

Careful storage is particularly important for softer materials to prevent deformation or changes to the material.

When should a dildo be replaced?

Even with good care, every sex toy has a limited lifespan.

Replacement is advisable if:

• cracks or damage to the material occur

• the surface becomes sticky

• unpleasant odours persist

• discolouration is visible

• the material changes

In such cases, a new toy is recommended for hygiene reasons.

FAQ – Cleaning dildos

How do you clean a dildo properly?

With warm water, mild soap or a toy cleaner. Then leave it to dry completely.

Can you clean dildos with soap?

Yes, as long as it is mild, unscented soap.

Can glass or stainless steel dildos be boiled?

Yes, many glass or stainless steel models are heat-resistant and can be sterilised.

How do you dry a dildo properly?

Wipe it dry with a clean cloth and then leave it to air-dry completely.

How often should you clean a dildo?

Ideally, after every use.