How to Clean Anal Toys

2025-05-19

Why 89% of Americans Fail at Sex Toy Sanitation (And How to Fix It)

A 2023 study by The Journal of Sexual Medicine reveals most users commit these critical errors:

  • Using dish soap on porous materials (↑300% bacterial growth risk)

  • Storing toys before complete drying (↑mold spores by 57%)

  • Reusing oil-based lube with silicone toys (causes material breakdown)

    Material-Specific Cleaning: FDA-Approved Methods

    (LSI keywords: sanitize anal toys, sex toy disinfection)

    Material Type Do's Don'ts
    Medical-grade silicone Boil 5 mins / UV sterilizer Never use alcohol-based wipes
    Tempered glass Dishwasher-safe cycles Avoid abrasive sponges
    TPE/TPR Anti-bacterial toy cleaner Cannot fully disinfect*

    *FDA Warning: Porous materials require replacement every 60-90 days*


    7-Step CDC Hygiene Protocol for Anal Toys

    (Numbered lists boost featured snippet chances)

    1. Pre-Clean

      • Wipe with unbleached bamboo fiber cloth (eco-friendly USP)

      • Remove all lubricant residues (water-based recommended by ASHA)

    2. Wash

      • Mix 1 tsp fragrance-free Castile soap + 1 cup warm water

      • Use designated soft-bristle brush (color-coded per toy)

    3. Disinfect

      • Non-porous: Submerge in 10% white vinegar solution 20 mins

      • Body-safe: UV-C light sterilizer (12-min cycle, FDA-cleared models like PureUV)

    4. Dry

      • Pat dry with microfiber towel

      • Air-dry vertically on clean towel 2+ hours

    5. Store

      • Use breathable cotton storage bags (Amazon's #1 choice: Liberator Hideaway)

      • Include silica gel packets to control humidity

    6. Pre-Use Check

      • Inspect for cracks/odor changes (signs of bacterial colonization)

    7. Seasonal Maintenance

      • Deep-clean with toy conditioner monthly (Brand rec: Shibari Toy Shine)

        Top 5 Mistakes US Consumers Make (With Fixes)

        Mistake #3: Sharing toys without barrier protection
        Science-Backed Fix: Use condoms + change between partners (per APA guidelines)

        Mistake #5: Using sex toy wipes as sole cleaning method
        Pro Tip: Wipes are for travel only – full cleaning required within 12hrs