How to Store Your Sex Toys the Right Way
Sex toys deserve better than being tossed into a random drawer or left on a nightstand. When you store your sex toys properly, you protect your body, extend the life of your toys, and create a more hygienic and organised space. It’s not just about tidiness—it’s about safety, longevity, and respecting your own pleasure tools.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or have a growing collection, having a thoughtful storage plan makes all the difference. Bacteria, heat, and poor storage conditions can damage your toys and lead to health risks. With a few expert-backed habits and easy tweaks, you can avoid all of that.
This guide breaks down exactly how to store your sex toys with care. From how to clean your sex toys with aftercare routines and smart storage setups to the best places (and worst) to keep them, we’ll cover everything you need to know for safe, discreet, and practical storage. Let’s get into it.
- Cleaning Comes First
- Picking the Perfect Storage Spot
- Why Material Type Matters
- Smart Storage Ideas
- Discretion Without Sacrificing Convenience
- Two Trusted Tools for Toy Care
- Your Most Asked Questions – Answered
- Better Storage Means Better Experiences
Cleaning Comes First
Before you store your sex toys, cleaning them properly is the most important step. No matter how short or gentle the use, bacteria can stick around on the surface and in tiny crevices. Putting a toy away without washing it first is like putting dirty dishes back in the cupboard—it’s unhygienic and can lead to health problems.
Always follow the cleaning instructions that come with your toy. If there’s none provided, a good rule is to rinse with warm water and use a dedicated toy cleaner. Soap can work in some cases, but it’s not ideal for all materials and may cause irritation. Avoid boiling unless your toy is non-electric and made from 100 percent silicone or stainless steel.
Cleaners made specifically for adult products are gentle on skin and materials. These formulas help maintain the toy’s surface and won’t interfere with future use. It’s worth investing in a cleaner that protects both your health and the toy itself.
When you store your sex toys, make sure they’re completely dry. Storing them wet or even slightly damp invites mould and bacterial growth. Leave them on a clean towel to air-dry fully before placing them into storage.
Picking the Perfect Storage Spot
Where you keep your toys matters just as much as how clean they are. To store your sex toys safely, choose a spot that is cool, dry, and out of direct sunlight. Heat and moisture can break down toy materials over time, especially if they’re made from silicone, rubber, or jelly-based compounds.
Bathrooms might seem convenient, but they’re one of the worst places to store your sex toys. Steam from showers, fluctuating temperatures, and limited ventilation make them a breeding ground for mould. Even sealed drawers in bathrooms can hold moisture long after you think it’s gone.
Under your bed, inside a bedside drawer, or on a closet shelf can all work well—just make sure there’s no exposure to direct sunlight or extreme heat. If your storage area gets warm during summer, consider relocating your toys temporarily to keep them in better condition.
Always avoid storing toys near radiators or inside cars. Even brief exposure to high heat can warp delicate materials and damage internal motors. When you store your sex toys in the right conditions, you extend their lifespan and protect your health in the process.
Why Material Type Matters
Different materials need different care. Not all toys can be stored together. When you store your sex toys, it’s essential to separate those made from porous materials like jelly rubber or TPE from non-porous ones like silicone, glass, or stainless steel. When stored in contact, some materials can react chemically, causing discolouration or breakdown.
Porous toys are more prone to trapping bacteria, even after cleaning. These types should be stored in individual pouches or containers to prevent cross-contamination. Non-porous toys are more durable but still need their own space to avoid surface damage.
Mixing silicone toys can also be risky. Two silicone surfaces stored together for long periods may stick or melt slightly, especially in warmer environments. This can ruin the texture and function of your toys. Always check the label or product details to confirm the material type if you’re unsure.
Using individual storage bags or compartments is the safest bet. It keeps toys separated, clean, and protected from environmental damage. When you store your sex toys according to their materials, you ensure they stay in top condition for longer.
Smart Storage Ideas
Storage doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should be intentional. When you store your sex toys, focus on keeping them clean, protected, and easy to access. Soft drawstring pouches, velvet cases, or structured organisers all do the job well. If your toy came with a pouch, use it—it’s designed to keep the material in good shape.
For those with more than a couple of toys, compartmentalised storage is the way to go. Drawer organisers or lockable boxes can keep everything tidy while maintaining privacy. Breathable fabrics help avoid moisture build-up, while hard cases prevent toys from being squashed or misshapen. Avoid using sandwich bags or airtight plastic tubs for long-term storage, especially with silicone or jelly-based toys, as they can trap humidity.
If you’re short on space, think vertically. Hanging organisers or slim slide-under-the-bed bins can maximise storage without sacrificing discretion. A repurposed makeup bag or clean pencil case works in a pinch, as long as it’s dry and easy to clean. When you store your sex toys in a setup that suits your lifestyle, you make it more likely you’ll maintain it.
Discretion Without Sacrificing Convenience
Hiding your toys doesn’t mean burying them in the back of a wardrobe. When you store your sex toys, you want to keep them out of sight from guests, kids, or housemates—but still easy for you to access. That balance is possible with smart storage ideas like lockable bedside boxes, coded pouches, or even furniture with hidden compartments.
If you live in a shared home or travel often, discretion matters even more. Compact storage cases that blend in with luggage or bedside items are a game changer. Look for neutral colours, non-branded designs, and items that don’t scream “adult toy” at first glance. A little planning can go a long way in keeping your private things private without making them hard to reach.
Two Trusted Tools for Toy Care – Store Your Sex Toys
A good cleaning routine makes storing your toys far easier and safer. When you store your sex toys, it helps to have products that are designed specifically for the job. These two trusted items not only clean well but also protect the material and feel of your toys over time.
Eros Intimate & Adult Toy Cleaner
Eros Intimate & Adult Toy Cleaner is a gentle, effective spray that works on a wide range of materials including silicone, latex, and rubber. It doesn’t leave residue, dries quickly, and is pH-balanced to be kind to your skin. This cleaner is especially useful if you want a no-fuss option for regular toy maintenance.
Bathmate Cleaning Kit
Bathmate Cleaning Kit is ideal for those with multiple toys or more complex cleaning needs. It includes a spray cleaner, lint-free cloth, and specially designed brushes to get into hard-to-reach spots. It’s discreetly packaged and great for travel or home use alike. Using this kit helps ensure your toys are fresh and ready to go whenever you are.
Your Most Asked Questions – Answered
How often should I clean my toys before storing them?
Every time. Clean your toys thoroughly after each use before putting them away. Even if they look clean, microscopic bacteria can remain on the surface. When you store your sex toys without proper cleaning, you risk irritation or infection during future use. Consistent cleaning is a small step that makes a big difference.
Is it safe to store toys in plastic containers?
It depends on the container. Hard plastic organisers with ventilation can work well. Airtight tubs, however, can trap moisture and lead to mould, especially in humid environments. If you use a plastic container, make sure it’s completely dry and include breathable bags or cloth separators for each toy.
Can toys be kept in the bathroom cabinet?
Bathrooms are convenient but far from ideal. Steam and temperature swings can cause material degradation over time. If you must store toys there, use a sealable, moisture-resistant case and make sure everything is dry before packing it away. But honestly, a bedroom drawer is usually safer.
What’s the best way to travel with toys discreetly?
Use a non-descript storage bag or case—something that doesn’t scream “sex toy” if it falls out in transit. Some brands offer travel-friendly cases with locking zippers or coded pouches. When you store your sex toys for travel, also pack a small cleaner or wipe to maintain hygiene on the go.
How do I store toys made of different materials?
Keep them separated. Toys made of silicone, rubber, and glass shouldn’t touch each other. Material interactions can cause surface damage or chemical reactions over time. Use individual pouches or compartments for each one. This method also keeps them cleaner between uses and easier to organise.
Better Storage Means Better Experiences – Store Your Sex Toys
Looking after your toys isn’t just about keeping them clean—it’s about investing in your personal comfort and peace of mind. When you store your sex toys properly, they stay functional, safe, and always ready for whenever the mood strikes. It’s a small habit that supports your broader self-care routine.
Storing toys with care also helps you feel more in control of your space. You don’t have to worry about someone stumbling across something they shouldn’t. With the right storage setup, your collection stays private but easily within reach.
Think of your toy drawer like a skincare shelf or a coffee station—it’s part of your day-to-day joy. A clean, organised, and discreet setup turns something practical into something pleasurable. So if you’ve been tossing your toys into a random drawer or hiding them in a sock, it might be time for an upgrade.
Cassandra Smith is a yoga instructor sharing tips on wellness, mental health, and intimacy—focusing on self-awareness, balance, and daily mind-body care.
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