Silicone
Silicone is widely used for premium sex toys because it can feel soft, flexible and smooth. Many silicone toys are non-porous and easy to clean.
Use only lubricants confirmed as compatible by the manufacturer.Materials & care
Sex Toy Materials & Care Guide
Learn how to choose, clean, store and care for sex toys made from silicone, ABS plastic, glass, stainless steel, TPE, TPR and other common materials.
Check the material firstThe right cleaning method and lubricant depend on what your toy is made from.
Follow the product instructionsManufacturer guidance always takes priority, especially for electronic and rechargeable products.
Store toys clean and dryProper storage helps protect the material, surface and electronics over time.
Common sex toy materials
Different materials feel different and require different levels of care. Always check the product specifications before use.
ABS plastic
ABS is a firm, smooth plastic often used for vibrators, controls and internal structures. It is generally easy to wipe clean and maintain.
Do not immerse electronic products unless they are specifically rated waterproof.Glass
Sex-toy-grade glass is smooth, firm and non-porous. It is often chosen for precise stimulation and can usually be cleaned easily.
Inspect glass before use and stop using it if you notice chips, cracks or damage.Stainless steel
Stainless steel toys are firm, smooth and durable. Their weight can provide a very different sensation from softer materials.
Keep the surface clean and dry between uses.TPE & TPR
TPE and TPR are soft, flexible materials commonly used in realistic-feel toys and sleeves. They may be more porous than silicone and often need more careful cleaning and storage.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely and store separately from other toys where recommended.Mixed materials
Many products combine silicone, plastic, metal and electronic components. In that case, care instructions should be based on the complete product rather than one material alone.
The product manual is the safest guide for mixed-material toys.How to clean a sex toy
Clean your toy before and after use using a method suitable for the material and water-resistance rating.
Basic cleaning routine
- Switch off electronic toys and disconnect charging cables.
- Use lukewarm water and a mild, suitable cleaner where the product allows it.
- Clean grooves, seams and textured areas carefully.
- Rinse away any cleaner if the product can safely be rinsed.
- Dry thoroughly with a clean, lint-free cloth or allow to air dry.
- Do not store the toy until it is completely dry.
Never boil, soak or submerge a toy unless the manufacturer explicitly states that this is safe. Electronic components, motors, charging points and batteries can be damaged by incorrect cleaning.
Which lubricant should I use?
Lubricant compatibility depends on both the toy material and the lubricant formula.
| Toy material | General guidance | Important note |
|---|---|---|
| Silicone | Water-based lubricant is commonly chosen. | Check before using silicone-based lubricant, as compatibility can vary. |
| ABS plastic | Water-based lubricant is commonly suitable. | Always check the product instructions. |
| Glass | Often compatible with several lubricant types. | Check lubricant ingredients and manufacturer guidance. |
| Stainless steel | Often compatible with several lubricant types. | Clean the toy thoroughly after use. |
| TPE / TPR | Water-based lubricant is generally the safer starting point. | Some formulas can affect softer materials, so always check first. |
How to store sex toys
Good storage helps protect the material and keeps toys clean between uses.
- Store toys only when they are completely clean and dry.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Use the original pouch, box or a clean storage bag when available.
- Keep soft-material toys separated if the manufacturer recommends this.
- Do not store toys pressed tightly against sharp or rough objects.
- Keep charging cables and accessories together so they do not get lost.
Waterproof vs water-resistant sex toys
These terms are not always interchangeable. Check the individual product specification before taking a toy into the bath, shower or water.
Waterproof
A waterproof toy is designed to tolerate a stated level of water exposure. The exact limits depend on the product and manufacturer.
Water-resistant
A water-resistant toy may tolerate splashes or light cleaning but may not be suitable for full immersion.
Not specified
If the product is not clearly described as waterproof or water-resistant, avoid immersion and clean it carefully with minimal moisture.
Materials & care FAQs
What is the easiest sex toy material to clean?
Non-porous materials such as silicone, glass, stainless steel and ABS plastic are generally easier to clean than more porous soft materials. However, the complete product design and any electronic parts also affect how it should be cleaned.
Can I wash every sex toy with water?
No. Some electronic toys are only splash-resistant or should not get wet at all. Always check the product’s water-resistance rating and care instructions before rinsing or submerging it.
Can silicone lubricant damage a silicone sex toy?
It can depend on the specific formulas and material. When using a silicone toy, check the manufacturer’s lubricant recommendation first. A compatible water-based lubricant is often the simplest option when you are unsure.
Why should some sex toys be stored separately?
Some softer materials can react when stored in direct contact with other materials for long periods. Separate storage can also protect surfaces from dust, pressure, scratches and colour transfer.
How often should I clean my sex toy?
Clean your toy before and after use, following the manufacturer’s instructions. It should also be fully dry before storage.
When should I replace a sex toy?
Stop using a toy if you notice cracks, tears, peeling, unusual stickiness, persistent odour, damaged charging points, exposed electronics or other deterioration that could make it unsafe or difficult to clean properly.
Need help choosing a material?
Check the specifications on the product page or contact EroGoods if you need help understanding the material, cleaning instructions or lubricant compatibility of a specific product.