Cleaning Sex Toys Used with Silicone-Based Lubricants

Cleaning sex toys is an important part of our hygiene but it can also increase the longevity of the toy itself. Toys come in various different materials and cleaning them requires different instructions and cleaning solutions. And when you’ve doused your toy in a silicone-based lubricant, you may need to do some extra scrubbing to make sure your toy is squeaky clean and lube-free. 

Silicone-based lubes can be tough to clean. The main reason for this is because they don’t dissolve in water, meaning they require special care so they don’t leave any residue on your toy. Residue buildup can cause material compatibility issues and wear down your toy at a more rapid pace. 

We’ll explain how to clean silicone lube from a sex toy and the best way to clean certain materials. 

Why Silicone-Based Lubes Are Harder to Clean

Silicone-based lubricants have water-resistant properties which make them great for shower sex and also ensure long-lasting lubrication. However, when it comes to cleaning, extra cleaning must be done. 

If you don’t remove silicone lube from a toy, it can leave a sticky film and make them feel greasy. This can lead to residue build-up which will ultimately introduce bacteria and ruin the sex toy. Over time, silicone-based lubes degrade silicone toys. 

Best Cleaning Methods for Removing Silicone-Based Lubricants

The best way to remove silicone-based lube depends on the sex toy material. You always want to make sure you are utilizing a material-safe cleaning method. 

For non-porous materials—like glass, metal, or ABS plastic—the best cleaning method for removing silicone-based lube includes mild soap and warm water, isopropyl alcohol, and a specialized toy cleaner. 

How to clean:

• Apply mild soap and rub thoroughly with warm water.
• Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth to break down the residue.
• Wipe with isopropyl alcohol or a body-safe disinfectant for extra cleaning.

When cleaning silicone toys, the best way to clean the toy is fragrance-free dish soap, a white vinegar and water solution, and boiling water (but only if it’s 100% silicone). 

How to clean:

• Wash with warm, soapy water while scrubbing gently.
• If residue remains, soak the toy in a 50/50 vinegar-water solution for 5-10 minutes.
• Boil for 3-5 minutes (if the toy is non-electronic) to remove any remaining residue.

If your toy is textured or ridged, the best cleaner is a soft bristle brush with mild soap and a hydrogen peroxide soak. 

How to clean:

• Scrub grooves with a soft brush or cotton swab.
• Use hydrogen peroxide to break down any stubborn residue.
• Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

After cleaning any material of toy, always make sure it is thoroughly dried afterward before storing. 

What to Avoid When Cleaning Silicone-Based Lube Residue

How to clean silicone lube includes avoiding certain ingredients and practices. 

• Stay away from oil-based or harsh chemical cleaners. These can react with toy materials and cause degradation. 

• Avoid using alcohol on soft silicone toys as it can cause degradation. 
• Don’t use rough scrubbing pads, as they can damage the toy’s finish. 

Preventing Silicone Lube Buildup in the Future

If you’re worried about silicone lube buildup on your sex toy, you can practice a few methods. 

Using a barrier method, like a condom, on your silicone toy can avoid silicone damage from lube. 

Rinsing toys immediately after use can prevent the silicone lube from settling and sticking even furthermore on the sex toy. While running to the sink post orgasm may not be in your fantasies, you can keep a few sex toy cleaning wipes on your nightstand for a quick wipe down. 

If you’d like to avoid cleaning silicone lube entirely, switch to a hybrid lube instead. These can be easier to clean while still maintaining silicone’s benefits. 

Proper Drying and Storage After Cleaning

When you’re finished cleaning your sex toy, make sure your toy is completley dry before storing to prevent bacteria buildup. Store your toys separately from other materials and avoid silicone-to-silicone reactions. Putting your toy in a breathable (never plastic) cotton drawstring bag is a great option for storage. Using a dedicated pouch or container for your sex toy can maintain cleanliness. 

Conclusion

The best practices for sex toy maintenance include diligence and understanding sex toy hygiene. Proper cleaning after using silicone-based lubricants can prevent toy degradation and extend the life of your toy. 

So, do you think you clean your toy as well as you should? If not, fold it into your routine after using your toy and upgrade as needed. It’ll benefit your health as well as the longevity of your collection of sex toys. 

Discover pleasure with:

SONA 2

ENIGMA

F1S V2

HUGO 2

GIGI 3

SORAYA Wave