{"id":45656,"date":"2025-04-20T04:22:34","date_gmt":"2025-04-20T02:22:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lelo.com\/blog\/?p=45656"},"modified":"2026-03-17T06:03:50","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T05:03:50","slug":"common-cleaning-mistakes-tc","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lelo.com\/blog\/common-cleaning-mistakes-tc\/","title":{"rendered":"Common Cleaning Mistakes and How To Avoid Them"},"content":{"rendered":"

Proper sex toy hygiene matters when it comes to cleaning <\/a><\/span>sex toys<\/span>. This means being knowledgeable about materials, irritants, and basic sanitation. Regular cleaning can prevent infections, maintain integrity, and extend the product’s lifespan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The consequences of sex toy cleaning mistakes<\/a>\u2014AKA incorrect cleaning\u2014can lead to bacterial buildup, skin irritation, and toy degradation. Damage to your products can compromise your safety.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Our sex toy cleaning guide will include a breakdown of common cleaning mistakes and expert-approved solutions. Sex toy care equates to self-care, too.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Top Common Cleaning Mistakes & How To Fix Them<\/h2>\n

The top sex toy cleaning mistakes can happen to anyone. We all use our toys, either alone or <\/span>with someone<\/span><\/a>, and want to roll over and fall asleep right after use. But keeping up with sex toy hygiene can ultimately keep your body safe as well as increase the longevity of your toy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you’re still unsure of where to start or what to avoid, we’ve listed a few common sex toy cleaning mistakes below and what to look out for when you need to give your toy a <\/span>nice, warm bath<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Using Harsh Cleaning Agents (Bleach, Alcohol, or Acetone)<\/h3>\n

One of the most common mistakes when cleaning a toy is using bleach, alcohol, or acetone on the surface of your sex toy. Using harsh chemicals<\/a> such as these can break down materials like silicone, TPE, and rubber. Moreover, residue from alcohol or acetone can cause irritation and allergic reactions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Instead of using these chemicals, use a pH-balanced, alcohol-free toy cleaner, like <\/span>LELO’s Cleaning Spray<\/span><\/a>, when cleaning silicone toys. LELO’s spray is a fast-acting alcohol and paraben-free 2 oz spray.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Another option is to stick to a mild, fragrance-free soap and use warm water for regular cleaning.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Not Cleaning Toys Immediately After Use<\/h3>\n

Unfortunately, toys aren’t self-cleaning yet, so prioritizing sex toy hygiene is crucial. After using your toy, make sure you clean it thoroughly. Not wiping down your toy or disinfecting your vibrator can result in a pH imbalance which can lead to yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. Body fluids can dry onto the surface, making cleaning more difficult. And delaying cleaning can increase the risk of mold and odor buildup.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you’ve used your toy:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n