How To Clean A Realistic Dildo

hand holding a realistic dildo
Keeping your realistic dildo clean and pristine will make your toy last while ensuring your safety. Failing to do this means a host of uninvited party guests like bacterial infections, STIs, and even allergic reactions will crash and ruin your pleasure party.
There's no doubt proper cleaning will make your investment last. Silicone, rubber, and Cyberskin are the typical materials used to create these types of toys because of their skinlike texture. Each of these materials requires a specific cleaning process. Let's get into details so won’t miss anything.

Understanding Dildo Materials

Different types of materials are used to manufacture realistic dildos with the goal of simulating the real deal. These are silicone, rubber, Cyberskin, and a few others. Knowing what your toy is made of is essential to keep things clean, safe, and hygienic.
Porous and non-porous materials are different. Porous ones are like sponges. They have tiny holes where bacteria can breed. On the other hand, non-porous materials do not harbor bacteria. Glass is a perfect example, as it has a super smooth surface that bacteria can't penetrate. This distinction is crucial because non-porous dildos can be thoroughly sterilized in boiling water, while porous ones require more gentle care to avoid becoming a bacteria bash.
Understanding the material of your toy is the foundation of proper hygiene. You may damage your toy or, worse, put your health at risk if you ignore getting to know your toy's physical qualities.
And here's a quick pro tip: some materials are tough cookies and can handle high temperatures. For instance, you can boil silicone or toss it in the dishwasher—sans soap—for a deep cleanse. But before throwing your toy in boiling water or dishwasher, check the manufacturer's cleaning guide.

Pre-Cleaning Steps

Before you even think about getting your realistic dildo sparkling clean, don’t forget prep work. Yes, even sex toys come with a bit of homework, but don't worry – it's easy stuff.
First, remove any batteries or detach any electrical components your toy might have. You don't want to short-circuit your good times.
Next up, grab the manufacturer's instructions – and read them. They might have particular pre-cleaning steps or no-nos specific to your toy. Following these will keep your dildo in top shape and prevent any face-palm moments.
Then, gather your cleaning supplies: mild soap, a clean cloth, and maybe some specialized sex toy cleaner if you're feeling fancy. Keep them within arm's reach so you're not doing the wet, soapy dash across the bathroom later.
Before you start cleaning – lay your dildo on a clean surface with a fresh towel or paper towel. This isn't a five-second rule situation; you want to keep ickiness to a minimum.
The last step in our pre-cleaning ritual: wash your hands before and after cleaning your toy. Your hands will do the dirty work and deserve a good clean.

Basic Cleaning: Soap And Water Method

soap and water
Cleaning your toy is as quick and easy as mastering the classic soap and water method. It's straightforward and effective in maintaining hygiene. Here's a simple guide to follow:
First, use a mild antibacterial soap. You want something gentle yet effective. Next, get your hands on some warm water—not too hot or cold.
Now, lather up the dildo with the soap. Be generous but not overzealous. You're not trying to create a foam party. Get into all the nooks and crannies, the entire surface—leaving no spot unsoaped. You're not simply rinsing it; you're giving your pleasure buddy a full-on bubble bath.
As you rinse your dildo, be mindful of any electronic components. If it buzzes, pulses, or has any electric personality, keep the water away from its life source.
Rinsing is crucial. Make sure there’s no soap residue left behind. Watching the gentle stream of warm water wash off the bubbles can be therapeutic, too.
Finally, drying. Dab it with a clean towel, or let it air dry completely. Any moisture left becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.
You've just mastered the soap and water method. Your dildo should be spotless and hygienic for body use. Because of that, you can play with it worry-free, knowing your toy won't give you infections while it stays in great condition.

Advanced Cleaning: Boiling And Dishwasher Methods

Giving your pleasure buddy a thorough clean is easy. If you own a non-motorized, non-porous dildo, you can opt for heavy-duty cleaning that can help kill 99% of germs.
These toys can be sterilized in boiling water. Before you do that, make sure it's non-porous and doesn't have any mechanical or electrical parts. If your bedtime buddy is silicone, boil it for 3 to 5 minutes.
The dishwasher is a convenient option. This trick is like a secret hack for the lazy, but remember—no soap! Avoid any detergent as it can break down your toy's material. Put your toy on the top rack, set the dishwasher to a hot water cycle, and voila! Your toy is spick and span! But remember, this is for the brave, non-porous toys without any electronic components.
Whichever method you choose, you'll need some patience. Let your dildo cool down before you even think about touching it. Nobody wants a hot potato situation, especially during playtime.
These are proven ways to give your toy the ultimate clean. These steps aren't for every day, but consider them your dildo's occasional deep clean. Hassle-free and squeaky-clean fun? Yes, please!

Using Specialized Sex Toy Cleaners

sex toy cleaner
You've got another surefire way to keep your pleasure tool hygienic—sex toy cleaners that are specially formulated. These can offer extra cleanliness, ensuring your toy is safe for kinky play.
Using these cleaners is pretty straightforward—spray or dab the cleaner onto your dildo, but make sure you follow the product instructions. There's often a right amount and a correct time for the cleaner to sit and work its magic.
Why should you go for alcohol and paraben-free cleaners? Your delicate areas require gentler formulas as they are less likely to cause irritation. Plus, it's all about keeping things safe and sound for you and your beloved toy. But hold up—while these cleaners are great for your toy, they're not meant for direct contact with your private parts.
Make sure the cleaner and your toy are compatible. Silicone, glass, or plastic—each has its cleaning soulmate. Check the label or the manufacturer's website to avoid a material mishap.
Using specialized sex toy cleaners is a breeze; just be smart and safe about it. Your toy will be clean and ready for action whenever you need it.

Selecting The Right Cleaning Supplies

When keeping your realistic dildo in tip-top shape, remember to choose your cleaning supplies well. Buying and using the wrong ones can lead to an undesirable result, so get it right the first time. Throw away those aggressive chemicals that could wage war on your precious plaything. Instead, pick gentle, non-abrasive cleaners that are kind to your toy's delicate materials.
Now, how about the application? Grab a soft cloth or sponge—your trusty sidekick during cleaning time. These gentle ones will help you lovingly lather it without causing harm. If your toy has ridges or grooves, use a soft-bristled brush to get into all those gaps without making a scratch.
Next, maintain cleanliness etiquette. Ensure your toy-cleaning tools are separate from your household cleaning supplies. That means no double-dipping between cleaning the kitchen counter and your intimate accessories. Why? Because cross-contamination is a definite no-go. Keep those cleaning tools exclusive to your pleasure products, and you'll avoid any unwelcome microbial guests.

Cleaning Porous Materials

realistic dildo
A rubber or cyberskin dildo is delicate and needs a little extra attention and care. These materials are porous, so you must clean them thoroughly but gently.
Boiling and tossing your porous pal into the dishwasher is a no-no. High heat will warp or damage these materials, so don't even think about it. Wash it with a mild soap and some lukewarm water, gently lathering the surface with your hands or a soft cloth. Be thorough but don't scrub aggressively.
To make cleaning a lot easier, slip a condom over your pleasure buddy before use. Use a new one each time to keep things safe and sanitary.
Once done washing it, pat it down with a towel. Then, let it air dry completely. Humidity invites mold or mildew, making your toy a breeding ground for bacteria.
Lastly, sprinkle a bit of cornstarch on it when it's dry. This will protect the soft, skin-like feel of the material without the sticky feel. Just remember, don't apply too much. Give your porous pleasure-givers the TLC they need to remain reliable companions. Happy cleaning!

Post-Cleaning Care: Drying And Storage

After giving your realistic dildo the cleaning it needs, it's time to dry and store it properly. The least you'd want is to undo all that good cleaning work with sloppy aftercare!
Air drying is simply leaving your toy out in a well-ventilated area, but not where your roommate or pet might catch a glimpse of it. If you don't have time to wait till it's dry, a gentle pat with a clean towel will ensure you get into all those gaps and dips.
Keep your toy in a dedicated pouch, box, or container—clean and separate from other items for proper storage. Doing so helps prevent any unwelcome microbial guests.
Be smart about materials. If your collection includes different types, store similar materials together and away from others, as some materials can react with each other.
Lastly, store your toy in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. UV rays and heat can break down the material over time. Store it where the temperature is just right to ensure your pleasure tool stays in its best condition. Follow these tips, and your realistic dildo stays in prime condition.

Frequency And Timing Of Cleaning

Keeping your toy hygienic and in good condition isn't an option. Consider it as a little TLC for your pleasure buddy.
First off, you should give that dildo a good scrub down after every single rendezvous. They can cause infections and mess with your health. So, once the fun's over, the cleaning begins.
Before getting to business, consider a pre-game wash if your toy has been on the bench for a while. This ensures that any lint, dust, or dirt is removed.
Cleaning regularly also means you won't get a whiff of something off. Plus, your toy will stay in tip-top shape for longer, protecting your investment from becoming a sad, broken relic. Set a routine or even a nifty little reminder on your phone. It's easy to let it slide, but your future self will appreciate you for keeping things fresh and ready at all times.
The golden rule is to clean immediately after use. It keeps things hygienic and saves you from a bigger mess later on. So, after you've had fun, show your toy some love – your health (and pleasure) depend on it!

Troubleshooting Common Cleaning Issues

realistic flexible dildo
After following all the steps down to the smallest detail, and yet your realistic dildo still smells funky or looks a bit off-color? Don't fret. It happens. Let's look at the common cleaning problems and ensure your toy is in perfect shape.
If your pleasure buddy has an unusual odor or discoloration after cleaning it, it's time to investigate. Was it cleaned thoroughly? Sometimes soap and water aren't enough to keep your toy smelling fresh. Should this happen to a non-porous toy, submerge it in a mild bleach solution (10% bleach, 90% water) for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly afterward. If that doesn't resolve the awful smell, it’s time to replace it with a new one.
Stains and residues can be difficult to remove. If issues persist, it's time to use a sex toy cleaner formulated for the job. On textured surfaces, a soft-bristled brush will do the trick.
For cyberskin or soft-material dildo becoming sticky or tacky after cleaning, don't worry. Dusting it with cornstarch will bring back and preserve its smooth, skin-like feel. Don’t use baby powder or talcum powder to avoid causing irritations down there.
It's also important to do a regular toy inspection. Never hesitate to buy a new one when you see signs of wear and tear. Better spend on a new toy than be sorry.

Conclusion: The Importance Of Regular Maintenance

Cleaning your realistic dildo is not that difficult at all. You've learned different methods—from the gentle soap-and-water combo to boiling water for non-porous pals, including the dishwasher for the lazy (minus the soap!).
Make the cleaning ritual a part of your intimacy routine. If you've got some secret for keeping your toy in tip-top shape, share it in the comments section. Got a question? Drop it below, and let's get the conversation started. Community wisdom is priceless, after all.
And before you dash off to your next adventure, etch this in stone: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. So, stay clean, play safe, and have fun!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Simone Brooks

A Southern-based author brings clarity to the intimate world of sex toys, focusing on user-friendly guides and reviews for dildos and nipple toys. Drawing from her past as an educator, she crafts content that enlightens and equips her readers, making the exploration of pleasure accessible to all. Beyond writing, she finds solace in nurturing her garden and roaming the countryside with her favorite dogs, where she gathers inspiration for her work.