Sex toys make things more exciting, whether you’re flying solo or sharing the moment with someone else. But there’s one thing people often overlook: keeping them clean and safe. If you think rinsing it once and tossing it in the drawer is enough, we need to talk. Using sex toys without proper hygiene habits can lead to irritation, infections, or even permanent damage to your favorite item. Read on and see if you may have made some mistakes.

Using Harsh Chemicals

Then there’s the issue of cleaning products. Grabbing whatever’s under the sink may seem convenient, but harsh cleaners can ruin the toy’s surface or irritate your skin. Silicone, for example, doesn’t play well with bleach or alcohol-based sprays. Stick with mild, fragrance-free soap or a cleaner specifically made for intimate items. It might feel like overkill, but your body will thank you later.

Not Cleaning Before the First Use

One of the earliest slip-ups people make? Not washing a new toy before using it. Even fresh out of the box, a toy might carry dust, factory residue, or invisible particles from the packaging. A quick wash with warm water and gentle soap, or a toy-safe cleaner, should always be your first step, no matter how excited you are.

Skipping Cleanup After Every Use

Another surprisingly common mistake? Skipping post-use cleanup. That’s not something you want to gamble with. Fluids, lubricants, and even just skin contact can leave behind bacteria. And no, even glass or stainless steel toys aren’t immune if they’re left dirty. Always wash after use, dry thoroughly, and make sure it’s fully clean before it goes back into storage.

Poor Storage

Storage is another area where people get careless. Tossing all your toys into one drawer may seem convenient, but it can cause damage, especially if you mix silicone toys together. Moisture and poor airflow can also create a perfect storm for bacterial growth. Store toys in individual pouches or lined boxes, in a cool and dry place. Think of it as giving your toys their own little spa treatment.

Playing With the Wrong Lube

Let’s talk lube. It’s a game-changer for comfort and pleasure, but if you’re not matching the right lube to the right toy, you could be setting yourself up for trouble. Silicone lubes don’t mix well with silicone toys. Oil-based lubes can degrade latex or leave a residue that’s difficult to wash off. Water-based is usually the safest bet, but always read the fine print or the manual.

Thinking Sharing Is Caring

Sharing toys can be fun, but hygiene shouldn’t take a back seat. If you’re passing a toy between partners, or between different body parts, use protection like fresh condoms or clean the toy thoroughly in between. This is especially critical with porous materials, which can’t be fully disinfected.

Pro Tip: Know When It’s Time to Let Go

Eventually, every toy reaches its limit. If it starts to feel sticky, smells strange, shows signs of wear, or stops holding a charge, it might be time to retire it. Quality toys last longer, but even the best need replacing after a while. Good hygiene isn’t just about staying clean, it’s about making your pleasure safer, longer-lasting, and a whole lot more enjoyable. You wouldn’t skip brushing your teeth for a week. Don’t neglect your toys either. They deserve better. So do you.