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Best sex toy cleaners, tried and tested by Mumsnet users
Toys are great for adding a bit of spice to your sex life. But keeping them clean is super important if you want to keep the fun going! Here are the best sex toy cleaners, tried and tested by Mumsnet users.
By Rebecca Roberts | Last updated Aug 20, 2023
If you’re thinking, do I need a sex toy cleaner? The answer is probably yes. Cleaning and maintaining your sex toys is an essential aspect of practicing safe sex. Whether you own a Womanizer, wand, or any of the wealth of sex toys out there, keeping them clean helps prevent the spread of bacteria, infections, and STIs. Regular cleaning also helps preserve the lifespan of your toys, ensuring they remain hygienic and ready for use whenever you fancy.
The cleaning process for sex toys varies depending on the material they are made of. Non-porous materials like silicone, glass, and stainless steel are easier to clean with mild soap and warm water since they don't absorb fluids. You can even chuck ‘em in the dishwasher, as Quornflakegirl says: “Fab for sex toys, dildos come out super clean.”
Porous materials like rubber, jelly, and some types of silicone on the other hand may require extra care. So, always read the manufacturer's instructions to ensure you are using the appropriate cleaning methods for your specific toys.
Besides regular cleaning, storage is also crucial to keeping your sex toys hygienic and ready to go. After cleaning, allow them to air dry completely before storing them in a clean, dry, and discreet location. Avoid storing toys together if they are made of different materials, as they can potentially react with each other. Additionally, using separate storage bags or containers for each toy helps prevent cross-contamination and maintains their integrity.
For tried and tested sex toy cleaning solutions, check out our list of the best sex toy cleaners.
Still searching for tried and tested items to spice things up even more? Check out our guides to the best sex toys for couples, best massage oils, best sex games, and the best sex toys for women. For affordable fun, you can also check out our guide to the best cheap sex toys.
1. Best overall sex toy cleaner: Lovehoney Fresh Toy Cleaner
RRP on writing: £13 | Buy now from Lovehoney
Key specs
Size: 250ml | Formula: Water-based | Bottle type: Spray nozzle | Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Decyl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Propylene Glycol, Methylisothiazolinone
What we like
Water based
Spray nozzle for accurate application
Safe to use with all toys
What we don’t like
Could be too large but does come in a travel size
What Mumsnet users say
“You can [use] spray from shops like Ann Summers or Lovehoney.” EBearhug
Our verdict
This convenient spray bottle allows for easy application, while the non-greasy formula ensures quick drying and leaves no residue behind. Lovehoney is a staple for affordable sex toy choices. This is a no frills, reasonably priced sex toy cleaner.
2. Best sex toy cleansing wipes: Buzz Fresh Cleansing Wipes
RRP on writing: £10 | Buy now from Ann Summers
Key specs
Size: 30 wipes | Material: Non-woven, synthetic, natural fibres | Special features: Dispersible, biodegradable and flushable | Ingredients: Aqua, Cetrimide, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum
What we like
100% dispersible, biodegradable, and flushable
Free from Animal Testing
Good for travel
What we don’t like
Non reusable
What Mumsnet users say
“You can get specific sex toy wipes to clean.” MaryJean87
Our verdict
These cleansing wipes offer a hassle-free way to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of your toys, whether you're at home or traveling. The wipes are individually wrapped, making them portable and discreet. With a gentle formula that is suitable for most toy materials, Buzz Fresh Cleansing Wipes effectively remove dirt, bacteria, and residue, leaving your toys fresh and ready for use.
3. Best foaming sex toy cleaner: Adam & Eve 4 In 1 Foaming Toy Cleaner
RRP on writing: £13 | Buy now from The Kinksters
Key specs
Size: 240ml | Formula: Alcohol-free | Special features: Disinfects, sanitises and deodourises
What we like
Anti-bacterial
Non greasy
Alcohol free
Safe for all toys
What we don’t like
Risk of leakage
Our verdict
This cleaner easily clings to the surface of toys, ensuring a thorough job is done. It removes dirt, bacteria, and unwanted residue from a variety of materials. Additionally, this 4-in-1 cleaner not only cleans but also deodorises, extending the life of your toys, and maintaining their integrity. The convenient pump bottle makes it easy to dispense the foam and the non-irritating formula is suitable for sensitive skin.
4. Best antibacterial sex toy storage bag: GIDDI UV Sterilizer Bag
RRP on writing: £72 | Buy now from GIDDI
Key specs
Size: 10"L x 5"W x 3"H | Material: Vegan leather | Colour: Black
What we like
Automated rapid sanitising system
Travel safe
Cleans in three minutes!
Use to disinfect any other household items under 10”
What we don’t like
Pricey
Our verdict
This high-tech self-cleaning piece of kit for sex toys and more, is an excellent way to ensure you’re keeping everything clean. It’s super practical, with a built in power system, it’ll charge your toys while you’re at it! This is a worthwhile investment if you want to keep your sex toys in tip top condition.
5. Best organic sex toy cleaner: Self Love Organic Toy Cleaner
RRP on writing: £10 | Buy now from Ann Summers
Key specs
Size: 100ml | Formula: Suitable for vegans and vegetarians | Special features: Organic formulation
What we like
Made from organic ingredients
Kind to sensitive skin
What we don’t like
Only 100ml of product for the price
Our verdict
This hygienic spray is crafted from organic ingredients, ensuring a gentle touch on sensitive skin. Simply spray directly onto your toy before and after use, then wipe clean. With its 100ml spray size, it's conveniently compact. Plus, it's vegan and vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for all. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that your toys are safe and hygienic with this toy-compatible cleaner, expertly made with organic ingredients.
6. Best soap and water cleanser for sex toys: Dove Pure & Sensitive Beauty Bar
RRP on writing: £1.50 | Buy now from Boots
Key specs
Size: 2 x 90g | Ingredients: Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Sodium Palmitate, Aqua, Lauric Acid, Sodium Isethionate, Sodium Stearate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Palm Kernelate, Glycerin, Sodium chloride, Zinc Oxide, Tetrasodium EDTA, Tetrasodium Etidronate, Alumina, CI 77891
What we like
Super cost effective
Can be used on any body safe sex toy
Easy to find
Zero fragrance or irritants
What we don’t like
Not specialist
What Mumsnet users say
“[I use] Hot soapy water. Be careful with any soft rubber toys though as they can be porous so shouldn't be shared, even if cleaned.” PinotPony
Our verdict
Most sex toys can be cleaned with soap and water, as long as they are made of a body safe material. If you can get your hands on one of these and some warm water, it’s not fancy but it does the job!
7. Best antibacterial sex toy cleaner: Dame Products Hand & Vibe Cleaner
RRP on writing: £10 | Buy now from Feel Good Store
Key specs
Size: 60ml
What we like
Stylish bottle
Mist cleaner
No need for water - good for on the go
Safe to use on silicone, rubber, latex, plastic, or metal
Kills 99.9% of bacteria
Good for hands and sex toys
What we don’t like
Not a large capacity
Our verdict
This is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a gentle and effective cleaner specifically designed for both hands and sex toys. This cleaner is made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring a thorough and hygienic cleaning job. It effectively removes bacteria, germs, and residue from hands and toys, promoting a safe and healthy sexual experience. It’s a 2 for 1, compact and travel-friendly size, so it’s convenient to take on the go.
8. Best luxury sex toy cleaner: Coco de Mer Toy Cleaner
RRP on writing: £25 | Buy now from Cult Beauty
Key specs
Size: 100ml | Ingredients: Aqua, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Monopropylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Citric Acid
What we like
Stylish bottle
Mist cleaner - wipes clean in 5 minutes
Efficient
Coco de Mer have been doing notable work in chipping away at taboos around sex and sexuality for over 20 years
What we don’t like
Not a large capacity
Our verdict
This is a super convenient option for anyone to use when the moment strikes. Killing most bacteria in five seconds, all you have to do is wait and wipe it down with a cloth, leaving you to enjoy the moment and have a good time. This is a stylish, chic option, which doesn’t require water, so it’s great if you’re on the go.
9. Best paraben-free sex toy cleaner: LELO Toy Cleaning Spray
RRP on writing: £13.90 | Buy now from LELO
Key specs
Size: 60ml
What we like
Stylish bottle
Fragrance, alcohol, paraben-free
Wipe clean
Travel sized
No odor or residue left behind
What we don’t like
Not great value
Our verdict
Another great choice for those who want to take their toys on their travels. A chic, conveniently sized bottle contains spray mist that wipes clean, leaving behind no odor or residue. It’s also free from parabens, which makes it kind to your body.
10. Best water-based sex toy cleaner: So Divine Pristine Toy Cleaner
RRP on writing: £7.99 | Buy Now From Boots
Key specs
Size: 100ml
What we like
Paraben free
Good value
Easy to use spray nozzle
Travel sized
What we don’t like
Doesn’t come in larger size
Our verdict
Another great travel option at a lower price point. So Divine toy cleaner is paraben free so it won’t do any harm to your body. Use it on all your sex toys from cock rings to dildos for good clean fun.
What cleaner you should use for different material sex toys
Silicone: Silicone toys are non-porous and easy to clean. You can use mild soap and warm water. Alternatively, you can also use a specialized silicone toy cleaner. Avoid using silicone-based lubricants with silicone toys, as they can degrade the material.
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel toys are non-porous and can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. You can also use a toy cleaner specifically designed for metal toys. After cleaning, ensure the toy is completely dry to prevent any water spots or potential rusting.
Motorised Toys: For motorised toys, it's important to check the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning guidelines. In most cases avoid fully submerging these toys in water or using harsh cleaning agents. Instead, use a damp cloth or toy wipes to clean the surface.
Hard Plastic: Hard plastic toys are non-porous and relatively easy to clean. You can use mild soap and warm water, or a toy cleaner specifically designed for plastic toys. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
Other Materials: If you have toys made from different materials like rubber, jelly, or TPE, always follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions. These porous materials can be more challenging to clean, and some may require specialised cleaning agents or techniques.
Should you use a condom when using a sex toy?
In short, yes. As with most things, condoms can help reduce the risk of disease transmission, especially if you are using your sex toys with multiple partners.
Other ways to keep your sex toy clean
Proper storage is a key aspect of keeping your sex toys clean and in good condition. Storing your toys in a clean and dry place helps prevent the accumulation of dust, lint, or other contaminants. Consider using individual storage bags or containers for each toy to prevent them from touching, especially if they are made out o f different materials that could potentially react with one another.
Additionally, avoid storing toys in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the materials. Practice good storage to ensure your sex toys are clean and safe when you want to use them.
What are the risks of not washing your sex toys?
Not washing your sex toys can pose risks to your sexual health. Here are some potential risks associated with not cleaning your sex toys:
Bacterial and Fungal Infections: Sex toys can harbour bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. Without proper cleaning, these pathogens can multiply and cause infections when the toy is used again.
Spread of STIs: If you share sex toys with a partner, not cleaning them properly can increase the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Some STIs, such as herpes and HPV, can survive on surfaces and be transmitted through contaminated toys.
Irritation and Allergic Reactions: Residue from lubricants, body fluids, or other substances can accumulate on sex toys. Without regular cleaning, these residues can cause irritation, allergies, or sensitivities when the toy comes into contact with your skin or intimate areas.
Deterioration and Damage: Depending on the material of the sex toy, not cleaning or maintaining them properly can lead to the deterioration of the toy's quality. Certain materials may break down, become discolored, or degrade over time if not properly cared for.
How we chose our recommendations
Recommendations from real Mumsnet users
Mumsnetters have certainly put sex cleaners to the test in the bedroom, with many Mumsnet users sharing experiences (both good and bad) of the sex toy cleaners they’ve personally tried and tested.
First up, we sought out the trusted opinions of Mumsnet users to get their feedback on their favourite sex toy cleaners they use with their partner(s), as well as the products that they have tried, rated, and would recommend to their friends.
We also looked out for any negative reviews, where Mumsetters highlighted products that they felt were poor quality, ineffective or simply failed to do the job.
Expert opinions
We then cross-checked our recommendations with the sex toy cleaners praised by sex experts to ensure we were bringing you the best products that are rated across the board.
Authentic consumer reviews
Finally, to bring you our definitive list of the best sex toy cleaners, we thoroughly investigated genuine, in-depth customer reviews on retailer sites such as Ann Summers, Boots, LoveHoney, and Amazon, and independent sites to get broader consumer experiences regarding the products on our shortlist.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful reviews like this one.
About the author
Our resident Leeds lass, Rebecca Roberts, is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert who, at Mumsnet, works hard to bring parents content specifically designed to make life easier. After birthing and breastfeeding two babies in two years, Rebecca knows first-hand how hard it can be to reignite intimacy. From condoms, to lubricants, to sex toys - she’s on a quest to find the best ones, with the help of Mumsnet user recommendations.
Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, walking the dog, or hiding from her neighbour as she attempts to buy condoms during her weekly “Big Food Shop”.