Your pleasure products are an investment in intimacy. With the right cleaning, lubricant, storage, and charging habits, most premium toys can last for years. This guide walks through every material we carry — and every category — so you get the best (and safest) experience out of everything in your collection.
A quick note before we start: this is a general care guide meant to cover the wide range of materials and product types you'll find at The Happy Wife®. It isn't a replacement for the specific care instructions included with your product — always follow the manufacturer's guidance first, and use this guide to fill in the gaps.
Quick Navigation
- Unboxing & First Inspection
- Glossary: Key Terms Explained
- Porous vs. Non-Porous — Why It Matters
- Know Your Material
- Lubricant Guide
- Cleaning: General Guidelines
- Battery & Rechargeable Care
- Waterproof Ratings Explained
- Storage Guide
- Category-Specific Notes
- When to Replace a Toy
- FAQ
Unboxing & First Inspection
Welcome to your new Happy Wife™ toy — we're so glad it made it to you.
If your outer packaging looks a little rough, don't panic. During transit, boxes and outer packaging can get bumped, crushed, or scuffed. This is completely normal and does not affect your product. Every item that leaves our facility is brand new, never used, and goes through a quality check before it's picked and packed for you. We stand behind every product we ship.
Please note: We do not accept returns on intimate products for hygiene reasons — but we do guarantee your item is unused and in perfect working condition when it leaves us. If you believe your actual product (not packaging) arrived damaged or defective, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery with photos and we'll make it right.
Before your first use:
- Remove all packaging materials and any protective film or stickers
- Inspect the toy for any visible cracks, tears, or defects
- Charge it fully if it's rechargeable — even if it powers on, a full first charge extends battery life
- Wash it before use — always, even brand new out of the box
- Read the waterproofing section below before getting it anywhere near water
Glossary: Key Terms Explained
Body-Safe
“Body-safe” is a term commonly used to describe materials considered suitable for intimate products when properly manufactured and used as intended. Materials such as high-quality silicone, borosilicate glass, stainless steel, and ABS plastic are often preferred for their durability, ease of cleaning, and generally non-porous surfaces.
Not all products are created equal, however. Material quality, manufacturing processes, coatings, and proper care can all affect a product's suitability for intimate use. Use extra caution with products made from jelly rubber, certain types of PVC, or materials with undisclosed ingredients, particularly those with a strong chemical odor.
Porous vs. Non-Porous
Different materials offer different textures, sensations, and care requirements. Soft, flexible materials like TPE, TPR, and jelly-style compounds are popular for their realistic feel, comfort, and affordability. Because some of these materials are porous, they require a little extra attention when cleaning and storing.
Wash thoroughly before and after each use with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap or a manufacturer-approved toy cleaner. Rinse well, allow to dry completely, and store separately in a clean, dry place. Porous materials can be cleaned, but cannot be reliably sterilized. For additional hygiene, consider using a compatible condom, particularly when sharing products, and replace items if they develop tears, unusual odors, or changes in texture.
Waterproof vs. Splash-Proof vs. Not Water-Safe
- Waterproof (IPX7+): Can be submerged up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. Safe for bath/shower play.
- Splash-Proof (IPX4–IPX6): Handles splashes and light spray — rinse under running water is fine, but don't submerge.
- Not Water-Safe: Wipe clean only. Submerging will damage the motor or electronics.
- Rechargeable port = never submerge unless explicitly rated IPX7 or higher.
Sterilizable
Can be fully disinfected to kill bacteria and viruses. Only non-porous, non-motorized toys qualify. Motorized toys — even silicone ones — cannot be boiled.
Silicone-Based Lube + Silicone Toy = No
Silicone lube degrades silicone toys over time, causing the surface to become sticky or break down. Always use water-based lube with silicone toys.
Porous vs. Non-Porous — Why It Matters
Non-porous materials — Silicone, glass, stainless steel, and ABS plastic — have a smooth, sealed surface at a microscopic level. Nothing gets absorbed into the material, which means they're easy to fully sanitize and generally safer to share (with a barrier method) or use across different types of play.
Porous materials — TPE, TPR, jelly blends, and most rubber or fabric-based products — have a texture that, close up, is more like a sponge. That's part of why they feel so good: it gives them that soft, giving, realistic texture. The tradeoff is that they can hold onto bacteria even after washing, so they need more attention and typically shouldn't be shared between partners without a condom.
Neither category is "better" — they're suited to different preferences and products. It's just important to know which one you're working with so you clean it properly.
Know Your Material
Platinum Silicone, Medical-Grade Silicone & Liquid Silicone
You'll see a few different silicone terms across our silicone toys collection, and it's worth knowing what they mean:
- Platinum-cured silicone refers to how the silicone is processed — cured using a platinum catalyst rather than tin. This produces a purer, more stable, longer-lasting silicone, which is why it's the standard for our CORE Series pleasure sleeves and most premium toys.
- Medical-grade silicone is a broader safety classification meaning the material meets standards for body contact — used by many brands we carry, sometimes alongside platinum-curing, sometimes on its own.
- Liquid silicone typically refers to the manufacturing method (liquid silicone rubber/LSR injection molding) — it's how some of our more intricately shaped or textured toys are produced.
In short: these terms often describe different aspects of the same family of body-safe silicone. All are non-porous and share the core care principles below — but always check the specific product page or included instructions, since exact formulations vary by brand.
Worth noting: in the U.S., there's no government body that certifies a finished sex toy as "medical-grade". The term describes a manufacturer's claim about the silicone they chose to use, not a regulatory stamp of approval. Reputable brands back it up with consistent, non-porous, body-safe material — but it isn't independently verified the way a true medical device would be.
Benefits: Non-porous, body-safe, long-lasting, easy to sanitize, hypoallergenic for most users.
Safe lubricants: Water-based. Hybrid only if the manufacturer confirms compatibility.
Avoid: Pure silicone lubricant on silicone toys — over time it can react with the surface and cause softening or degradation.
Cleaning: Warm water and mild soap or toy cleaner is always the safest, universally recommended method. We don't recommend or authorize boiling or dishwasher cleaning for any toy in our catalog unless the manufacturer's included instructions specifically state that method is safe for that exact product.
TPE, TPR & Jelly Blends (Sleeves & Masturbators)
These softer materials are a favorite for a reason — many people prefer the give, warmth, and realistic feel they offer. They're porous by nature, so they need a bit more care:
- Rinse with warm/hot water immediately after use. (Do not soak in hot water)
- Apply a small amount of toy cleaner or mild, unscented soap and work it through gently
- Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear
- Do not use: boiling water, bleach, alcohol, or dishwasher — these will degrade the material
- Store separately from silicone toys — surface interactions between different soft materials over time are best avoided
- Use a condom over the toy for the cleanest experience between uses or partners
Drying — This Step Is Critical: Moisture trapped inside a toy is the #1 cause of mold and material breakdown. Turn inside out (If applicable), pat dry with a lint-free cloth, and leave open to air dry completely — at least a few hours — before storing. Never store while damp.
Safe lubricants: Water-based only. Silicone and oil-based lubes will degrade TPE/TPR over time.
Penis Pumps
- After each use, detach the cylinder and wash separately with warm water and toy cleaner
- Clean the pump mechanism with a damp cloth — do not submerge the pump
- Check the seal/gasket regularly for cracks — a compromised seal affects both hygiene and suction performance
- Store disassembled to prevent seal compression
ABS Plastic
Found on many vibrators, wands, and toy handles. Very durable, non-porous, and compatible with water-based, silicone, or hybrid lubricant. Easy to clean with warm water and mild soap.
Glass & Crystal Toys
Non-porous and safe with every lubricant type. Made from borosilicate glass — the same used in lab equipment — incredibly durable when handled properly.
Before every use: Inspect for chips, cracks, or scratches. Run your finger along the entire surface. Even a hairline crack is a reason to retire the toy — glass under pressure can break. This is non-negotiable.
Cleaning: Dishwasher safe (top rack), boilable for full sterilization, or warm water and mild soap for everyday use. Compatible with all cleaners including alcohol wipes.
Temperature play: Glass holds temperature beautifully.
- Warm: Place in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes (never microwave)
- Cool: Place in a bowl of cold water or the refrigerator (never freezer — thermal shock can crack glass)
- Always test temperature on your wrist before use
Storage: Store in a padded pouch or the original box. Do not store loose in a drawer with other hard objects.
Stainless Steel
Extremely durable and non-porous, safe with all lubricant types, and able to be sterilized more thoroughly than most materials. Inspect for surface damage before each use. Wash with warm soapy water and dry immediately to prevent water spots.
Silicone/Fabric Blends & Straps (Harnesses, Restraints)
Many of our bondage and strap-on products use nylon webbing, faux leather, or fabric straps combined with silicone or metal hardware.
- Fabric and faux leather components: wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap — never submerged, never machine washed
- Metal hardware (buckles, D-rings): wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth; check for rust or corrosion regularly
- Let straps air dry fully before storing to prevent mildew
- Store flat or hanging — never folded tightly, which causes permanent creasing
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat (UV fades and dries leather/faux leather)
- Condition real leather regularly with a leather conditioner; avoid petroleum-based products
Pump Cylinders & Mechanical Components (Sex Machines)
- Clean the parts that contact skin (cylinder, sleeve, attachment) with warm water and mild soap; dry completely
- Never submerge motors, pump mechanisms, or electronic bases — wipe with a barely damp cloth only
- Check tubing and seals periodically for cracks
Lubricant Guide
Choosing the right lubricant is just as important as choosing the right toy — for comfort, for material compatibility, and for your body's health.
Lubricant Compatibility at a Glance
| Material | Water-Based | Silicone-Based | Oil-Based |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone | Yes | No | No |
| Glass | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| TPE/TPR (Sleeves) | Yes | No | No |
| ABS Plastic | Yes | Yes | Check manufacturer |
| Stainless Steel | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Leather/Bondage Gear | N/A | N/A | Avoid |
Water-Based
The most versatile option and the safest all-around default — compatible with silicone, TPE, plastic, glass, and steel. If you're ever unsure what to use, water-based is the answer.
Silicone-Based
Excellent for glass, steel, and ABS plastic, and it lasts longer on the skin than water-based formulas. On silicone toys specifically, our official recommendation is water-based, full stop. Some medical-grade platinum silicone can tolerate silicone lubricant without issue, but because our catalog spans many different silicone formulations and finishes, we can't say that's true across the board — and using silicone lubricant on a silicone toy isn't covered under our warranty.
Hybrid
A blend of water-based and silicone, designed to offer longer-lasting glide. Compatibility varies more by brand and specific formulation. Our official recommendation is still water-based first, and hybrid use on silicone toys isn't covered under warranty. Anecdotally, we haven't had customer complaints about our Liquid Silk hybrid used on silicone toys — but that's shared as our own experience, not a compatibility guarantee.
Oil-Based
Not recommended for most toys — can damage certain materials, is harder to clean, and isn't condom-compatible.
A Note on Ingredients
- Glycerin: Common humectant that adds slip, but in higher concentrations may contribute to yeast overgrowth in people prone to it.
- Propylene glycol: Adds slip and shelf stability, but can be a skin and mucous membrane irritant for some people at higher concentrations.
- Parabens: Preservatives some formulas use — generally recognized as safe in small amounts, but associated with occasional burning or itching in sensitive users.
- Osmolality: Lubricants that are hyperosmolar (pulling water out of cells) are more likely to cause irritation with repeated use. Simpler formulas, lower in glycerin/glycol-type humectants, tend to be gentler.
Bottom line: if a lubricant ever causes burning, itching, or irritation — even one you've used before — stop use, wash the area, and try a simpler, fragrance-free, glycerin-free formula. For anal play specifically, look for a lubricant formulated with that use in mind.
Cleaning: General Guidelines
These are general best practices across our catalog — always defer to the specific instructions included with your product where they differ.
- Remove batteries if applicable before cleaning
- Wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap, or a dedicated toy cleaner
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free towel, then let it air dry completely before storing
- On dishwashers and boiling: We don't recommend or authorize either method for any product in our catalog unless the manufacturer's included instructions specifically confirm it's safe for that exact item. Hand washing is always the safe, warranty-safe choice.
- Never store a toy while damp — one of the most common causes of odor and material breakdown
Battery & Rechargeable Care
Removable batteries: Take them out for long-term storage. Never mix battery brands or mix old and new batteries. If you see corrosion, dispose of the batteries, clean the compartment carefully, and don't continue using damaged electronics.
Rechargeable toys: Only use the supplied charging cable. Don't leave it charging for days at a time. If it's going into storage for a while, recharge it every few months and store it partially charged rather than fully drained. Keep charging contacts clean and dry — wipe with a dry cloth if needed.
Waterproof Ratings Explained
Many of our vibrators and rechargeable toys use the IPX rating system — an international standard that tells you exactly how much water exposure a device can handle.
- IPX4 — Splash-resistant: Handles water splashing from any direction but should not be submerged or rinsed directly under a faucet.
- IPX5–IPX6 — Jet-resistant: Can withstand a direct stream of water like rinsing under a running tap, but still isn't meant for submersion.
- IPX7 — Fully submersible: Up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. Safe for bath or shower play.
- IPX8 — Extended submersion: Beyond 1 meter and/or longer than 30 minutes per the manufacturer's spec. The highest common rating.
- No rating listed: Treat as not water-safe.
The golden rule: If it has a charging port, do not submerge it unless the product is explicitly rated IPX7 or higher. Check the charging port and seams on any IPX4–6 rated toy before assuming it can go fully underwater — treating a splash-resistant toy like a submersible one is one of the most common ways charging ports get damaged.
Storage Guide
How you store your toys is just as important as how you clean them. Always store toys clean, dry, and away from sunlight, heat, and dust.
Best Storage Options
- Individual pouches: The easiest solution — most toys come with one. Breathable fabric is ideal.
- Dedicated toy box or case: Great for collections. Line with a soft fabric insert.
- Original packaging: Works well for toys you use less frequently.
What to Avoid
- Airtight plastic bags (traps moisture)
- Storing multiple toys loose together — many materials react with each other in contact (especially silicone-on-silicone and TPE near silicone)
- Storing near perfumes, lotions, or cleaning products (chemical off-gassing)
- Cars, garages, attics, or anywhere near direct heat — excessive warmth can warp materials, damage batteries, and shorten motor life
- Never store a toy with lubricant still on it — residual lubricant attracts dust and can degrade some materials
Battery-Powered Toys
Remove batteries before long-term storage to prevent corrosion and leakage.
Category-Specific Notes
Penis Sleeves: Use only high-quality water-based lubricant. Wash immediately after use, dry the interior completely, and store it open so it can air out — never leave lubricant sitting inside overnight.
Masturbators & Strokers: Most use a soft, porous inner sleeve. Rinse with warm water, let the sleeve dry fully — turning it inside out if the design allows — before reassembling or storing. Automatic masturbators follow the same sleeve care, plus the mechanical component guidance above for the motorized housing.
Suction Cup Toys: Wash and dry the base completely — dust or leftover lubricant will reduce suction. Use on smooth, clean surfaces.
Vibrators & Wands: Keep charging ports clean and dry, avoid pressing buttons underwater unless the manufacturer says it's safe, and never force a charging cable.
Anal Toys: Clean immediately after every use, use generous lubricant, and always check the flared base before use — this applies to anal beads and butt plugs as well as prostate massagers. Never use a toy with a damaged base.
Realistic Dildos: Use a soft cloth around textured or veined detail, and make sure it's completely dry before storage to avoid trapped moisture.
Kegel Exercisers: Clean the retrieval cord as carefully as the toy itself — cords can trap moisture and bacteria if not fully dried.
Enhancement Rings & Ball Stretchers: Silicone versions follow standard silicone care; metal versions can be washed with warm soapy water and dried immediately to prevent water spots.
Pumps & Sex Machines: Clean skin-contact parts only, never submerge motorized bases.
Bondage Gear — Restraints, Cuffs & Collars, Paddles & Whips: Wipe down with a damp cloth; fabric or rope items should air dry fully before folding or storing to prevent mildew.
When to Replace a Toy
Retire a toy if you notice any of the following:
- Cracks, splits, or peeling
- A sticky surface that doesn't go away after cleaning
- A strong odor that doesn't go away after cleaning
- Battery swelling, motor failure, or exposed wiring
- Deep cuts or tears in the material
- Fraying straps or compromised stitching on harnesses and restraints
- Any chip or crack in a glass toy — retire it immediately
These are signs of material breakdown, and continuing to use a product in this condition isn't worth the risk. If it's time for a replacement, we're always happy to help you find your next favorite.
FAQ
Why did my toy get sticky?
Usually residual lubricant, heat exposure, improper storage, or the material simply aging.
Can I use silicone lubricant on a silicone toy?
Only if the manufacturer specifically says it's compatible. When in doubt, use water-based.
Why does my toy have a white residue?
Almost always dried lubricant, vaginal fluid, semen, or soap residue — wash thoroughly with warm water and mild soap, then dry completely.
Can I put my toy in the dishwasher, or boil it?
We don't recommend or authorize either method unless your product's included instructions specifically confirm it's safe for that exact item. Hand washing is the safest choice across our entire catalog, and cleaning outside manufacturer-approved methods isn't covered under warranty.
Can I disinfect my toy?
Glass and stainless steel toys can generally be disinfected more thoroughly with mild soap and hot water. For silicone products, and anything with a motor or charging port, stick to the manufacturer's included instructions.
What's the difference between waterproof and splash-proof?
Waterproof (IPX7+) means fully submersible. Splash-proof (IPX4–6) means it can handle splashes or a running tap but should not be submerged. When in doubt, wipe clean.
How do I know if my toy is porous?
If it's made from TPE, TPR, jelly, rubber, or a soft blend that isn't labeled 100% silicone, it's likely porous. Silicone, glass, stainless steel, and ABS plastic are non-porous.
The Happy Wife™ Care Promise
Taking care of your products helps ensure the best possible experience and extends their lifespan. We recommend following this guide as a general foundation for every product purchased from The Happy Wife™, alongside the specific instructions included with your item. Questions about a specific product? Contact us — we're happy to help.
This guide provides general care information across a wide range of materials and product types. It is not a substitute for the specific instructions included with your product — always defer to the manufacturer's guidance for your individual item.
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