Thoughtful care is part of the experience. Cleaning and storing an intimate wellness product correctly helps protect its materials, preserve its performance and keep every use feeling considered.

The right routine is usually simple. What matters is knowing what your product is made from, whether it is waterproof and what its manufacturer recommends.

Begin with the care instructions

Before cleaning any product, check the packaging or manufacturer’s guidance. Water resistance, charging ports, motors and surface materials all affect what is safe. “Splash-resistant” does not mean submersible, and a method that suits one product may damage another.

Switch the product off, unplug it and remove replaceable batteries where possible. Lock travel controls before cleaning if the design includes them.

Clean before first use and after every use

Wash a new product before using it for the first time, then clean it after every use. If a product is shared, or used on more than one area of the body, clean it between uses and change any barrier protection before moving from one person or area to another.

For most waterproof, non-porous products, warm water and a small amount of mild, fragrance-free soap are sufficient. Rinse thoroughly so no residue remains. A purpose-made intimate product cleaner can also be suitable, but it should complement proper washing rather than replace it.

Avoid bleach, household disinfectants, alcohol, antibacterial wipes, strong detergents, perfumes and abrasive cleaners unless the manufacturer specifically approves them. These can irritate skin or damage a product’s finish.

Waterproof and non-waterproof products

Waterproof designs

If the product is explicitly rated as fully waterproof, wash it under warm running water with mild soap. Keep charging points closed where applicable and follow the stated depth or time limits.

Non-waterproof and splash-resistant designs

Never immerse these products. Use a soft, slightly damp cloth with a small amount of mild soap, carefully avoiding buttons, seams, charging ports and battery compartments. Wipe again with a clean damp cloth to remove residue.

Care by material

Silicone

Premium, non-porous silicone is usually easy to care for with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Do not boil a silicone product unless it is a single-piece, non-motorised design and the manufacturer specifically confirms that boiling is safe.

Glass and stainless steel

Non-porous glass and stainless-steel products can generally be washed with warm water and mild soap. Check carefully for chips, cracks, rough edges or damage before every use. Only use higher-temperature cleaning methods where the manufacturer explicitly permits them.

Porous or unknown materials

Materials such as jelly rubber, some soft plastics and products of uncertain composition can retain moisture or residue more readily. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely, consider using a compatible barrier, and replace the product if it develops an odour, tackiness, staining or surface change that cleaning does not resolve.

Dry completely

After rinsing, pat the product dry with a clean, lint-free cloth and allow it to air-dry fully before storage. Pay particular attention to seams, textured areas and charging ports. Storing a damp product can encourage odour, surface deterioration or damage to electronic components.

Store with discretion and care

Keep products in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat and humidity. A breathable pouch or the original storage case protects against dust and contact with other materials. Store different products separately, particularly where their material composition is unknown, and keep them away from sharp jewellery, oils and fragranced products.

For rechargeable designs, follow the manufacturer’s battery guidance. Avoid leaving a product permanently connected to power, and give items kept for long periods an occasional charge if recommended.

Choose a compatible lubricant

Water-based lubricant is the most widely compatible option. Silicone-based lubricants may affect some silicone products, while oils can damage certain materials and latex barriers. Check both the product and lubricant instructions before combining them; if uncertain, use a water-based formula.

Know when to replace

Retire a product if you notice cracks, tears, peeling, persistent odour, discolouration, stickiness, swelling, exposed components, battery leakage or unreliable charging. Care can extend a product’s life, but it cannot restore a compromised surface.

A quiet ritual

Good product care need not feel clinical. A few calm minutes to wash, dry and store each piece protects the quality of what you have chosen and makes it ready for the next moment. Discretion, confidence and wellbeing often begin with the details.