How to Clean and Store Your Vibrator the Right Way

A vibrator is a personal care product, and it deserves to be treated like one. Cleaning it properly isn't an extra step, it's the difference between a toy that stays safe to use for years and one that becomes a place for bacteria to build up.

Why It Matters

Anything that comes into contact with the body can pick up bacteria, natural fluids, and lubricant residue. Left uncleaned, that residue breaks down over time and, on the wrong material, can actually degrade the surface of the toy itself. For non-porous materials like 100% silicone, ABS plastic, or glass, proper cleaning fully removes what's collected. For porous materials, it doesn't, which is one more reason body-safe materials matter.

How to Clean It

• After every use: rinse with warm water, then wash with a mild, unscented soap or a dedicated toy cleaner. Avoid antibacterial soaps and anything with fragrance, both of which can irritate sensitive tissue on future use.
• For waterproof toys: you can clean under running water directly, working soap into every ridge, seam, or textured surface.
• For toys that aren't fully waterproof: wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap, keeping water away from any charging ports or seams, then dry thoroughly before storing or charging.
• Occasional deep clean: 100% silicone toys without any electronic components can be boiled for a few minutes for full sterilization. Never boil anything with a battery or motor.

What to Avoid

• Silicone-based cleaners or lubricant residue left on silicone toys, which can degrade the material over time
• Submerging non-waterproof toys, even briefly
• Storing a toy while still damp, which encourages bacterial growth
• Sharing a toy between partners without cleaning it or using a barrier method in between

How to Store It

Dry the toy completely before putting it away. Store it in a breathable fabric pouch, like the ones Dame includes with most products, rather than a sealed plastic bag, which traps moisture. Keep silicone toys separate from each other, since silicone-on-silicone contact over time can cause the surfaces to degrade or become tacky. Keep everything away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, which can break down silicone faster than normal wear would.

When to Replace It

If the surface becomes sticky, develops a persistent odor that cleaning doesn't resolve, or shows visible cracking or tearing, it's time to retire it. A body-safe toy that's properly cared for should last years. One that shows these signs is no longer safe to use, regardless of how well it still functions mechanically.

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