How to Clean Sex Toys: A Material-by-Material Guide for Vancouver

You just brought home a new toy, and maybe you're wondering: how do I keep this clean without damaging it? It's one of the most common questions I hear, and it matters more than you might think. Proper cleaning extends the life of your products, protects your body, and keeps everything feeling good as new. The trick is knowing how to clean sex toys based on what they're actually made of—because silicone needs different care than glass, and TPE is a whole other story.

Whether you're in a Yaletown condo or a Kitsilano apartment, taking a few minutes after each use makes all the difference. Let's break it down by material so you know exactly what to do.

Silicone: The Workhorse Material

Silicone is non-porous, body-safe, and incredibly durable—which is why it's the most popular material out there. For everyday silicone toy cleaning, warm water and mild unscented soap work perfectly. Lather, rinse thoroughly, and pat dry with a clean towel.

If you want a deeper clean (say, before sharing a toy with a partner or after it's been sitting unused for a while), you have options. Boil 100% silicone toys without motors for 3-5 minutes, or run them through the top rack of your dishwasher without detergent. For motorized silicone toys, stick to soap and water or use a toy cleaner spray formulated for body-safe materials.

One caution: never use silicone-based lube with silicone toys. It can degrade the surface over time. Water-based is your friend here.

Glass and Stainless Steel: Easy and Elegant

Glass and metal toys are non-porous, hypoallergenic, and ridiculously easy to clean. Soap and water work beautifully, but you can also boil them or pop them in the dishwasher if they have no electrical components.

These materials are nearly indestructible, but do inspect glass toys for chips or cracks before each use. A damaged glass toy isn't safe to use. Store them in padded pouches or their original boxes to prevent scratches or breaks—especially important if you're in a smaller downtown Vancouver space where things get jostled around.

TPE, TPR, and Jelly: Handle with Extra Care

TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) and TPR (thermoplastic rubber) are softer, more affordable materials, but they're porous. That means they can harbour bacteria even after washing. You can't boil them or use harsh cleaners without risking damage.

Wash TPE and jelly toys with warm water and mild soap immediately after use, then let them air-dry completely. Always use a condom over porous toys if you're sharing them. And here's the honest truth: these materials don't last as long as silicone or glass. If a toy starts to feel sticky, smell off, or show discolouration, it's time to replace it.

How to Store Sex Toys the Right Way

Cleaning is only half the equation—how you store sex toys matters just as much. Here's what works:

• Keep toys in individual pouches or cases to prevent materials from touching (silicone and certain rubbers can react with each other)
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight—heat and UV can degrade materials over time
• Remove batteries from motorized toys before storing to prevent corrosion
• Avoid tossing everything into one drawer—cross-contamination is real, and dust happens
• If you live in a humid Vancouver climate (hello, rainy season), make sure toys are bone-dry before putting them away to prevent mildew
• Label storage bags if you have several toys—it saves you from guessing later

When to Replace Your Toys

Even with perfect care, nothing lasts forever. Replace a toy if you notice any cracks, tears, sticky residue, or persistent odour that won't wash away. Motorized toys that no longer hold a charge or make strange noises should be retired, too. For porous materials like TPE or jelly, consider replacing every 6-12 months depending on frequency of use.

If you're unsure whether something is still safe, trust your instincts. Your body deserves products that are in excellent condition.

Discreet Delivery Across Vancouver

Whether you're refreshing your collection or picking up a dedicated toy cleaner spray and storage pouch, Heaven Boutique in Vancouver offers discreet 1-2 hour delivery to your door—anywhere from Gastown to Mount Pleasant, West End to Commercial Drive. Everything arrives in plain packaging, and you never have to wonder if your routine is covered. We make it easy to care for what you love.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use antibacterial soap to clean sex toys?
Avoid antibacterial soaps with strong fragrances or triclosan—they can irritate sensitive skin. Mild, unscented soap is gentler and just as effective.

Do I really need a toy cleaner spray, or is soap enough?
Soap and water work great for most toys. Toy cleaner sprays are convenient for quick cleanups or travel, but they're not required if you're washing thoroughly at home.

Can I store all my toys together in one box?
Not recommended. Different materials can react with each other, and dust or lint can transfer. Individual pouches or cases keep everything in better shape.

How often should I deep-clean my toys?
A thorough wash after every use is standard. Deep cleaning (boiling, dishwasher) is great once a month or before sharing with a partner, depending on the material.