Big Guide to Sex Toy Cleaners: Top 10 Products, Ingredients & Tips

Sex toy cleaners – you’ve seen them in every brick-and-mortar sex shop and online store. They’re an easy add-on to most purchases and are often labeled as a “must” for sex toy care. But have you ever wondered what’s actually in these cleaners and how safe they are? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about sex toy cleaners, from their ingredients to the best practices for keeping your toys clean.

Understanding Sex Toy Cleaners

Sex toy cleaners are products designed specifically to clean your sex toys. They’re non-irritating and safe for a variety of materials like silicone, rubber, and glass. Using these cleaners helps prevent infections and keeps your toys in tip-top shape, so they last longer.

Why Should I Use a Sex Toy Cleaner?

Using a sex toy cleaner is key to maintaining good hygiene. Here’s why it matters:

Health Benefits: Proper cleaning prevents the buildup of bacteria and viruses that can cause infections.
Material Safety: Regular soaps can be harsh on your toys, causing them to degrade faster. Sex toy cleaners are gentle and designed to protect the materials.
Longevity: Clean toys last longer because they aren’t damaged by harsh chemicals or improper cleaning methods.

Types of Sex Toy Cleaners

Sex toy cleaners come in a variety of types, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. Knowing these categories can help you pick the best option for keeping your toys clean and in good condition.

Antibacterial Cleaners

Antibacterial cleaners are made to kill bacteria on contact. These are especially good for making sure your toys are clean and safe to use. They help prevent infections and work well with most materials. If you want to keep things really hygienic, especially after each use, antibacterial cleaners are a solid choice.

Natural and Eco-Friendly Cleaners

Natural and eco-friendly cleaners use plant-based ingredients and skip harsh chemicals. They’re safe for both your body and the environment, making them perfect if you have sensitive skin or prefer more sustainable options. These cleaners often have soothing ingredients that are gentle on your skin while being kind to the planet.

Quick-Drying Cleaners

Quick-drying cleaners are great when you need to clean your toys quickly. They evaporate fast, so your toys are ready to use again in no time. This type of cleaner is really handy if you’re in a hurry and don’t want to wait for your toys to dry.

Foaming Cleaners

Foaming cleaners create a rich lather that helps lift dirt and residue from your toys. The foam makes it easier to clean every part of the toy, especially those with intricate details. These cleaners are thorough and make the cleaning process simple and effective.

Wipes

Sex toy cleaning wipes are super convenient and portable. They come pre-moistened with a cleaning solution, making them perfect for quick clean-ups or for use while traveling. Just pull one out, wipe down your toy, and you’re good to go.

Spray Cleaners

Spray cleaners come in a handy spray bottle, allowing you to easily apply the cleaning solution directly to your toys. They are versatile and can be used for both quick clean-ups and more thorough cleanings. Just spray, wipe, and rinse if necessary.

DIY Cleaners

DIY cleaners are homemade solutions using common household ingredients like vinegar, water, and mild soap. They are cost-effective and let you know exactly what’s in your cleaner. If you enjoy making your own products, this can be a fun and practical option.

What’s Are In Cleaners?

If you’re confused about what’s in the bottle, these are the common ingredients…

Bacteria Fighters:

Some ingredients not only clean but also keep the cleaner from growing bacteria itself. Examples include benzalkonium chloride and benzethonium chloride. They make sure the cleaner stays effective and safe by stopping germs from multiplying inside the bottle. While usually safe, it’s smart to follow the instructions to avoid any potential issues, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Emulsifiers:

Emulsifiers help mix different liquids together in the cleaner. Common ones are polysorbate 20 and polysorbate 80. They keep the cleaner stable and make sure all the active stuff spreads out evenly. Emulsifiers are generally safe for cleaning products and help the cleaner work well.

Surfactants:

These help the cleaner spread out and get into all the nooks and crannies by lowering how thick the liquid is. Examples are sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). They’re good at cleaning but might cause some irritation, especially for sensitive skin types. It’s a good idea to pick a cleaner with surfactants that match your toys and rinse well afterward.

Foaming Agents:

Foaming agents make the cleaner bubbly, which looks good and helps clean better. Examples include cocamidopropyl betaine and decyl glucoside. They’re generally safe, but too much might dry out your skin or cause irritation. Just make sure to pick a product that suits your skin and rinse your toys well after cleaning.

Important Notes:

In many product advertisements, you might also encounter claims of “soothing” and “moisturizing” properties. However, it’s essential to debunk these claims. While some ingredients might temporarily soothe your skin, there’s no benefit in leaving them on your toy after cleaning. Just like any soap or disinfectant, sex toy cleaners should be rinsed off promptly. Claims of moisturizing effects are essentially meaningless in this context and serve as mere marketing tactics.

Top 10 Safest & Best Sex Toy Cleaners

When picking a sex toy cleaner, think about the material of your toys, your skin sensitivity, and your lifestyle. Antibacterial and quick-drying cleaners are great for everyday hygiene, while natural and eco-friendly options are perfect if you have sensitive skin. Foaming cleaners and wipes offer convenience and thoroughness, and DIY cleaners provide a budget-friendly alternative.

By understanding the different types of sex toy cleaners, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and ensures your toys remain clean, safe, and ready for use. But it’s also useful to know what ingredients you should stay away from.

1. LeWand Intimate Toy Cleaner

LeWand’s Intimate Toy Cleaner is 95% organic and naturally unscented. It works great on all kinds of toys, no matter what they’re made of. This cleaner is anti-bacterial and anti-fungal, so it gets rid of germs and odors. It’s non-foaming and vegan, with ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, castor oil, and jojoba oil. Plus, it’s free from glycerin, parabens, alcohol, triclosan, and other harsh chemicals.

2. Sliquid Shine Organic Toy Cleaner

Sliquid Shine is one of the first toy cleaners I ever used. It’s made with organic aloe vera, tea tree oil, castor oil, and jojoba oil. This cleaner is water-soluble, has no added fragrances, is vegan, and doesn’t contain glycerin, parabens, alcohol, or triclosan. It cleans well, but it doesn’t sanitize.

3. Hello Cake Sex Toy Cleaner

Hello Cake’s foaming cleaner is bubbly and fun to use. It has no fragrances, parabens, or triclosan, and it’s vegan. It kills 99.9% of bacteria, making it super effective. The ingredients include water, cocamidopropyl betaine, propylene glycol, phenoxyethanol, benzalkonium chloride, and zinc gluconate. Just make sure you’re not allergic to any of these ingredients.

4. System JO Foaming Toy Cleaner

System JO’s foaming cleaner is unscented and cleans fast without leaving a residue. It works on all toy materials and is gentle on your hands. The ingredients include disodium cocoamphodiacetate, sodium trideceth sulfate, propylene glycol, citric acid, phenoxyethanol, and purified water.

5. Dame Hand and Toy Cleaner

Dame’s spray cleaner can also be used as a hand cleaner after sex. It’s gentle, effective, and kills 99.9% of germs. It does contain alcohol, which might not work for everyone, so test it first. It’s made of water, isopropyl alcohol, witch hazel, grape seed extract, sweet orange, polysorbate, essential oil blend, gluconolactone, and sodium benzoate.

6. SweetVibes Foami

SweetVibes Foami is a foaming cleaner that’s hypoallergenic and non-irritating. It’s made with water, disodium laureate sulfosuccinate, glycerin, aloe vera, vitamin B5, tea tree oil, hexamidine dilsethionate aroma, and ethylhexyl glycerin. It’s free from parabens, oil, and silicone.

7. Intimate Earth Green Tea Tree Oil Foaming Cleaner

Intimate Earth’s cleaner uses natural tea tree oil and lavender for a gentle yet effective clean. The foam helps lift dirt and residue, ensuring your toys are thoroughly cleaned. It’s a great choice for sensitive skin or eco-conscious users.

8. CleanStream Toy Cleaner

CleanStream Toy Cleaner uses natural ingredients like tea tree oil and lavender. It’s safe and effective for regular use and gentle on all toy materials. This cleaner is perfect for keeping your toys clean without harsh chemicals.

9. Lelo Premium Toy Cleaning Spray

Lelo’s cleaning spray contains safe ingredients like citric acid and tea tree oil. It’s gentle yet effective, ensuring your toys are clean and ready for use. This spray is also quick-drying, making it convenient for frequent use.

10. Pjur Med Clean Toy Cleaner

Pjur Med Clean is a great choice for keeping your toys spotless. It’s alcohol-free and unscented, making it ideal for sensitive skin. This cleaner is effective at killing bacteria and viruses on your toys.

What To Avoid

When picking a sex toy cleaner, it’s important to steer clear of some harmful or irritating ingredients. Here’s a quick guide to help you know what to avoid:

Parabens	Methylparaben, Propylparaben	Hormone disruption, potential health risks
Alcohol	Denatured Alcohol, Isopropyl Alcohol	Can dry out and damage materials, skin irritation
Antibacterials	Triclosan	Linked to antibiotic resistance, hormone disruption
Sulfates	Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)	Harsh and irritating, strips natural oils
Fragrances	Synthetic Fragrances, Parfum	Potential allergens, irritation, undisclosed chemicals
Formaldehyde Releasers	Diazolidinyl Urea, DMDM Hydantoin	Known carcinogens, skin irritation
PEGs	PEG-8, PEG-12 Dimethicone, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate	Contaminated with harmful impurities, strips moisture
Preservatives	Phenoxyethanol, Chlorhexidine Gluconate	Can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions
Foaming Agents	Cocamide DEA	Can be contaminated with carcinogenic nitrosamines
Other Preservatives	Methylisothiazolinone, Methylchloroisothiazolinone	Allergic reactions, skin irritation

How to Properly Clean Sex Toys

Rinse Immediately: After use, rinse your toy under warm water to remove any bodily fluids or lubricants.
Apply Cleaner: Spray the sex toy cleaner directly onto the toy, ensuring you cover all surfaces.
Scrub Gently: Use a soft cloth or your fingers to gently scrub the toy, paying attention to any crevices.
Rinse Again: Thoroughly rinse off the cleaner with warm water.
Dry Completely: Pat the toy dry with a clean towel or let it air dry completely before storing it.

Use Warm Water: Always use warm water, as it helps to effectively remove residues without damaging the toy.
Avoid Harsh Scrubbing: Gentle scrubbing is sufficient. Harsh scrubbing can damage the toy’s surface.
Check the Cleaner’s Ingredients: Ensure your cleaner is free from alcohol, parabens, and fragrances that could irritate your skin or damage the toy.

Sex Toy Cleaners FAQs

How often should I clean my sex toys?

You should clean your sex toys before and after each use. This keeps bacteria from building up and ensures your toys are always safe and hygienic.

Can I use regular soap to clean my sex toys?

While mild, unscented soap and water can work in a pinch, it’s better to use a cleaner made specifically for sex toys. These cleaners are gentle on the materials and do a better job of removing bodily fluids and bacteria.

How should I store my sex toys after cleaning?

After cleaning and drying your toys, store them in a clean, dry place. Using a storage bag or a dedicated drawer helps keep them dust-free and prevents any damage from contact with other items.

If you share sex toys, it’s crucial to clean them thoroughly between uses to prevent infections. Using a condom over the toy can provide extra protection and make cleaning easier.

What should I do if I experience irritation after using a sex toy cleaner?

If you notice any irritation, stop using the cleaner immediately and rinse the toy with plenty of water. Switch to a cleaner with hypoallergenic and gentle ingredients. If irritation persists, consult a healthcare professional.

Are all sex toy cleaners safe for all types of toys?

Not all cleaners are safe for all toy materials. For example, alcohol-based cleaners can damage silicone toys over time. Always check if the cleaner is compatible with your toy’s material to keep it safe and long-lasting.

How long should I let the cleaner sit on the toy before rinsing?

Most sex toy cleaners should be left on the toy for about 30 seconds to a minute to make sure they kill bacteria and remove residues. Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s packaging for the best results.

Can I use baby wipes to clean my sex toys?

Baby wipes are not the best option for cleaning sex toys because they might contain fragrances and other chemicals that can cause irritation or damage the toy. Stick to cleaners made for sex toys.

Why use microfiber cloths for drying sex toys?

Microfiber cloths are great for drying sex toys because they are gentle and don’t leave behind lint or fibers. Using regular towels or paper towels can leave residues that might affect the toy’s cleanliness and your health.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your sex toys clean isn’t just about maintaining hygiene; it’s about ensuring your health and pleasure. By choosing the right cleaner with safe ingredients, you can enjoy your toys with peace of mind.

Remember, always read labels, avoid harsh chemicals, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning. With these tips and our top 10 recommendations, you’re all set to keep your toys in top condition and ready for the next adventure. Happy cleaning!