How to Clean an Anal Dildo Safely & Comfortably

If you're new to anal play, knowing how to care for your toys can ease nerves and build confidence. Learning how to clean an anal dildo supports both your comfort and your body's safety. Our best anal dildos for anal play guide can help you discover options made for easy care and peace of mind. You may also want to explore our full range of dildos for anal, everything there is body-safe and beginner-friendly.

Below, we'll walk through how to clean an anal dildo step by step, so you can feel good using it—and caring for it—every time.

Keeping your toy clean isn't just routine; it's part of how you care for yourself and your experience.

When a toy isn't cleaned after use, leftover fluids, lubricant, and bacteria can linger on the surface. The result? Irritation, discomfort, or a less-than-fun surprise the next time you reach for it.

It can also lead to cross-contamination if you’re sharing toys or switching between different kinds of play. A quick clean between uses keeps things safe, comfortable, and worry-free, so when the mood strikes again, you can focus on pleasure, not problems.

Tip: Some folks keep separate toys for anal and vaginal use, or color-code them, for simpler cleanup and peace of mind ^[1].

Non-porous toys, like silicone, glass, and metal, are easier to clean and less likely to hold onto odors or stains. Porous ones, like jelly rubber, can hold bacteria even after washing ^[2].

That's why non-porous materials matter, especially for anal play. A clean toy respects your body's balance and helps keep texture, scent, and color just right.

Care & Storage: Always clean toys before and after use, and let them dry fully before putting them away.

Once you understand why cleaning is key, the next step is knowing your toy's material.

The material your toy is made from guides how to clean it and what to avoid while doing so. Taking a minute to check makes your toy last longer and stay body-safe.

Silicone, glass, and stainless steel are favorites for anal dildos. They're non-porous and simple to sanitize. These materials don't trap bacteria and handle frequent washes well.

Materials like PVC or jelly rubber, though, are porous. Those tiny, invisible gaps can hold on to things water can't reach ^[2].

Common Pitfalls: Porous toys may wear faster. A condom or liner can help protect them ^[3].

• Check your toy's label for the material

• Use only water-based lubricants with silicone

• Replace damaged porous toys more frequently

• Store items by material to avoid breakdown

For silicone toys, a gentle soap and warm water does the trick. Stay away from silicone-based lubricants or cleaners, as they can wear down the toy over time ^[4].

Glass and metal toys can be cleaned the same way. If they're free of motors or parts, they can even be boiled for a deeper clean. If you want to explore all your options for non-porous toys, our glass adult toys collection offers beautiful, easy-to-clean choices.

Try This: A mild, unscented hand soap works well for most non-porous toys and keeps care easy.

When you know what your toy's made of, you're ready for the wash-up after play.

A regular cleaning routine turns toy care into something simple, and a feel-good experience each time. Just a quick clean is all it takes to keep things fresh and ready whenever you are.

You don't need much. A soft cloth or sponge, mild unscented soap, and warm water usually cover it. Keep your supplies nearby to make it smoother.

Some folks like using a toy-safe spray or wipes between deeper cleanings. Skip anything with alcohol, bleach, or strong scents unless your toy says it's okay. For added peace of mind, keeping dedicated sexual toy cleaners on hand can help ensure every wash is gentle but thorough.

Tip: If a toy is porous or tricky to clean, using a condom can help ease the cleanup ^[3].

Rinse the toy in warm water right after use. Lather all its parts gently with a soft cloth or your hands. Focus on grooves or textures where residue can hide.

Wash for at least 30 seconds, rinse thoroughly, then dry with a fresh towel—or let it air dry. Don't store your toy until it's fully dry.

Care & Storage: Let toys dry completely on a clean towel before storing to avoid moisture buildup.

Everyday cleaning is solid, but sometimes your toy needs a little more love.

Every so often, giving your toy a deeper clean adds extra peace of mind, especially if it’s been shared or sitting in storage. It’s just a small way to show your silicone toys a little extra care.

If you've shared your toy (even with protection) or it's been tucked away for a while, a deeper clean can be a nice reset. Soap and water cover the basics, but sometimes giving it a little extra love just feels right.

It's also smart to deep clean before using a brand-new toy or when dust or other things may have collected.

Tip: Always check your toy's manual, as some materials may look tough but need gentle care.

Silicone toys without motors or batteries can be boiled for 3–5 minutes to sanitize ^[5]. Glass and stainless steel toys can, too, if they're all solid, with no electronics or attachments.

A diluted bleach soak (1 part bleach to 10 parts water for 10 minutes) works as well. Just rinse thoroughly. Skip bleach often, as it can wear materials down over time.

Care & Storage: Never boil toys with motors or charging components. Stick to soap and toy-friendly sprays for those.

After drying, place your toy in a breathable pouch, case, or drawer. Avoid sealed plastic bags as they can trap moisture and bring back odor. For extra discretion and cleanliness, specialized sex toy storage bags are designed to keep your toys safe and organized between uses.

Storing each toy in its own soft pouch helps stop materials from rubbing or breaking down.

Try This: A clean cotton sock makes a great low-key, breathable storage option. Clean toys are lovely, but keeping things discreet matters too, especially at home.

Good toy care should flow naturally into your life even when you share your space. With a little planning, cleaning can be easy and low-key.

A small basin or a bathroom sink during quiet moments is all you need. Keep supplies handy and easy to reach. Clean right after use so toys are not left out accidentally. If you're in a rush, do a quick rinse and come back for the full clean later. A sealed caddy or box keeps it all compact and discreet.

Accessibility Note: Fragrance-free, gentle dish soap can stand in for toy cleanser if needed.

Living with roommates, family, or partners? Privacy may be top of mind. Try a non-transparent box or a drawer with a lock. For quick cleans, toy-safe wipes or baby wipes can help. Follow with a more thorough wash when you have time. A small towel kept only for your toys adds another private touch.

Tip: A toiletry bag can double as a travel-friendly, discreet place for your toy and cleaning essentials.

Once you feel confident in your routine, everything around toy time becomes easier, softer, and more fun.

Cleaning your anal dildo doesn't have to feel like a hassle. It can be a calming, empowering part of how you care for yourself. Whether you're just starting or refining your ritual, small, steady habits lead to more confidence and ease. Knowing how to clean an anal dildo helps you stay focused on feeling good—body, mind, and mood.

1. SELF, How to Clean Your Sex Toys, 2020-06-25, https://www.self.com/story/how-to-clean-sex-toys

2. Scarleteen, Sex Toys 101, null, https://www.scarleteen.com/article/body/sex_toys_101

3. Verywell Health, How to Clean Sex Toys, 2022-06-27, https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-clean-sex-toys-5189858

4. Healthline, How to Clean Sex Toys Safely, 2020-10-16, https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sex/sex-toy-cleaning

5. Cleveland Clinic, How to Clean Sex Toys, 2022-02-14, https://www.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22681-how-to-clean-sex-toys