If your toy vibrates or has batteries, be sure to check the instruction manual before submerging any electrical components! As a no cost, sexual health supply ordering service for Syracuse University students, don’t forget to explore Safer Sex Express.
| Material | How to Clean | Compatible Protection | Compatible Lubricants | Helpful Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rubber/Nylon (Porous) | Hand wash (fragrance-free soap and warm water). | Non-lubricated condoms, oral dams, gloves, finger cots. | Water-based | Always use with condoms, they’re difficult to fully clean. |
| Cyberskin (Porous) | Hand wash (fragrance-free soap and warm water). | Non-lubricated condoms, oral dams, gloves, finger cots. | Water-based | To keep the silky feel, sprinkle with cornstarch after drying. |
| Silicone (Non-porous) | Dishwasher (top rack, no soap), hand wash (fragrance-free soap and warm water), boil (only if 100% silicone). | Non-lubricated condoms, oral dams, gloves, finger cots. | Water-based | If the toy is made of a silicone blend, use cleaning instructions for hard plastic toys. |
| Hard Plastic (Porous, Non-porous) | Hand wash (fragrance-free soap and warm water). | Non-lubricated condoms, lubricated condoms, oral dams, gloves, finger cots. | Water-based or silicone-based. | These toys can absorb soap, be sure to wash off every trace of it! |
| Stainless Steel (Non-porous) | Boil for 5 to 10 minutes, soak in a 10% bleach solution for 10 minutes, dishwasher (top rack, no soap), hand wash (soap and warm water). | Non-lubricated condoms, lubricated condoms, oral dams, gloves, finger cots. | Water, silicone or oil-based. | Let your toy cool off after a wash in hot water (or use a potholder). Be cautious of fake metal toys; they may get dings/imperfections that can cause cuts or irritation. |
| Glass (Pyrex, Borosilicate, Non-porous) | Dishwasher (top rack, no soap), hand wash (soap and warm water). | Non-lubricated condoms, lubricated condoms, oral dams, gloves, finger cots. | Water, silicone or oil-based. | Glass toys can be warmed or chilled before use (e.g. freeze or soak in warm water). |