How to Clean Silicone Sex Toys: A Trans Masc Safety Guide
Clean silicone toys with warm water and mild soap after every use, rinse well, and air dry completely before storing. For full sterilization of solid silicone (nothing with a motor): boil 5–10 minutes, run it top-rack in the dishwasher with no detergent, or soak 10 minutes in a 10% bleach solution. Water-based lube only — silicone lube degrades silicone. That's the entire regimen; here's the detail.
Why cleaning matters
Body-safe platinum silicone is non-porous, which means bacteria and other pathogens can’t get trapped inside the material the way they can with porous materials like rubber or PVC. This makes silicone the safest material for sex toys — but it doesn’t mean cleaning is optional. Regular cleaning keeps your toys safe, extends their life, and is especially important if you’re sharing toys or switching between uses.
Everyday cleaning
For regular use between the same person with no infection risk, warm water and mild soap is everything you need. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Air dry completely before storing.
Full sterilization
When you want to fully sterilize a solid silicone toy (one without an internal mechanism like a vibrator), you can:
- Boil — Submerge in boiling water for 5–10 minutes. Let cool completely before handling.
- Dishwasher — Top rack, no heated dry, no detergent. Works well for solid silicone toys.
- 10% bleach solution — Soak for 10 minutes, rinse thoroughly.
Note: Never boil a toy with an internal vibrator or battery component. For vibrating toys, stick to soap and water or a toy cleaner.
Lubricant rules
Always use water-based lubricant with silicone toys. Silicone-based lubricants can bond with silicone surfaces and damage the material over time. If you prefer silicone lube, use a condom over the toy.
Storing your toys
Store silicone toys in a clean, dry place away from other silicone toys. Silicone can bond to itself or to other silicone materials if stored in direct contact for extended periods. A cloth bag, dedicated drawer, or individual pouch works well.
Harness care
Leather harnesses: wipe clean with a damp cloth, let air dry. Condition leather periodically with a leather conditioner to maintain suppleness. Avoid soaking.
Neoprene harnesses: hand wash with mild soap and cold water. Air dry flat.
Have questions about caring for a specific NYTC product? Chelsea answers every Wednesday at 9pm ET. Come to office hours →
Questions we hear
Can I boil silicone toys? Pure platinum silicone without a motor, yes — 5–10 minutes sterilizes it fully. Anything with electronics gets warm soapy water only, never a bath.
What lube is safe with silicone? Water-based, always. Silicone lube can degrade silicone toys over time — if you must use it, use a condom. Details in our lube guide.
Can toys be shared between partners? Yes — non-porous silicone can be fully sanitized between uses and partners. Boil it or use a 10% bleach solution, rinse well, air dry.
How should I store silicone toys? Separately. Silicone pressed against silicone can react and get tacky over time — individual cloth bags or a drawer where nothing touches.
Keep learning: On lube · Dual density, explained · Harness fit guide
