How to Clean and Store Your Masturbator: A Step-by-Step Guide

Published: August 16, 2026 Last Updated on August 16, 2026

Product Care · 7 min read · Updated 2026

Cleaning takes a few minutes. Skipping it costs a lot more, in bacteria, in material breakdown, in a shorter usable life for something you paid for. This is the straightforward version, no filler, no upsell — just what actually works.

Before You Start

Two things determine everything else here: your device's waterproof rating, and what it's made of. Check both before you clean anything.

If it's motorized, confirm the rating first — a device rated below IPX7 shouldn't be rinsed or submerged, only wiped down. If it has a removable sleeve, take it out. Separate pieces clean, and dry, far more thoroughly than a single sealed unit ever can.

The Cleaning Steps

Rinse under warm water, roughly 30–35°C. Hotter water risks damaging silicone or TPE over time.

Use a mild, unscented cleanser made for personal care devices, or a gentle antibacterial soap. Skip anything with alcohol or heavy fragrance.

Work the cleanser into any seams, grooves, or textured areas by hand. This is where a quick rinse always misses.

Rinse thoroughly until no residue or slickness remains.

Shake off excess water, then pat dry with a clean, lint-free cloth. A microfiber towel works better than a standard one, which can leave lint behind.

Drying: The Step Most People Rush

Trapped moisture is the actual hygiene risk, more than anything else on this list. After patting dry, let the piece air-dry fully — 30 to 60 minutes uncovered, standing upright if possible so any remaining water can drip out rather than pool.

Don't use a hairdryer or any heating device to speed this up. Heat can warp silicone and TPE. Air, and a little patience, is the only method worth trusting here. If your device has an internal chamber that's hard to fully air out on its own, a dedicated drying tool removes the guesswork — see our internal chamber dryer.

Storing It Properly

Once it's completely dry, store it somewhere cool, dark, and separate from other items — different materials can react with each other over time, particularly TPE against other plastics. A breathable pouch or dedicated case works better than a sealed bag or a drawer full of unrelated things.

If your device runs on removable batteries, take them out before long-term storage to avoid corrosion.

When to Replace, Not Just Clean

Even with good care, materials wear out. Check every couple of months for cracks, tears, a permanently sticky or tacky surface, or a smell that doesn't go away after cleaning. Any of those is a sign to replace the piece, not clean it harder. This is a normal part of ownership, not a failure on your part.

For a deeper look at why this all matters, see our guide on the science behind hygiene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular soap?

A mild, unscented soap is fine for most materials. Avoid anything with alcohol, strong fragrance, or harsh antibacterial additives, since these can dry out or degrade silicone and TPE over time.

How long should I let it air dry?

Generally 30 to 60 minutes, standing upright if possible. Devices with internal chambers or sleeves may need longer, or benefit from a dedicated drying tool to fully eliminate trapped moisture.

Can I put it in the dishwasher?

Only for genuinely non-porous materials like glass or stainless steel, and only if the manufacturer explicitly allows it. Most male masturbators, which combine electronics and softer materials, should not go in a dishwasher.

How often should I inspect it for wear?

Roughly every two to three months for regular use, or sooner if you notice a change in texture, smell, or surface feel. Higher-frequency use warrants more frequent checks.

Shop cleaning accessories · Full maintenance guide

This guide reflects general product-care standards and manufacturer-recommended practices. Always defer to your specific device's included instructions where they differ.