How to Clean & Care for Your Bondage and Fetish Gear

Proper cleaning and care isn't just about hygiene — it protects your health, extends the life of your gear, and ensures every experience is as safe as the first. This guide covers how to clean and store the most common materials found in bondage and fetish gear.

Why Cleaning Matters

Fetish and bondage gear comes into contact with skin, bodily fluids, and lubricants. Without proper cleaning:

• Bacteria and pathogens can survive on surfaces and cause infections
• Materials can degrade faster, leading to cracks, tears, or structural failure
• Lubricant residue can break down certain materials over time (especially silicone lube on silicone toys)

Make cleaning a non-negotiable part of every session — before and after use.

Silicone Toys and Gear

Silicone is one of the most hygienic materials available — non-porous, body-safe, and easy to clean.

• Method 1: Wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap
• Method 2: Place on the top rack of a dishwasher (no detergent, no heated dry)
• Method 3: Boil for 3–5 minutes (for items without motors or electrical components)
• Important: Never use silicone-based lubricants on silicone toys — they bond to the surface and cause degradation. Use water-based lube only.
• Dry thoroughly before storing

Metal Toys and Gear (Stainless Steel, Aluminium)

Metal is non-porous and highly durable — one of the easiest materials to sterilise.

• Wash with warm water and mild soap after every use
• For full sterilisation: boil for 5–10 minutes or wipe with 70% isopropyl alcohol
• Dry completely to prevent water spots and, in rare cases, surface oxidation
• Compatible with all lubricant types

Leather Gear (Collars, Harnesses, Paddles, Cock Rings)

Leather is porous, which means it cannot be fully sterilised — it should not be shared between partners without a barrier.

• Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap after use — do not saturate
• Allow to air dry fully before storing
• Condition regularly with a leather-specific conditioner to prevent cracking and drying
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight — UV light degrades leather over time
• Do not machine wash or submerge in water

Rubber and Latex Gear (Hoods, Suits, Accessories)

Rubber and latex require specific care to maintain their integrity and appearance.

• Rinse with warm water and mild soap immediately after use
• Pat dry with a lint-free cloth — do not rub, as this can cause surface damage
• Apply a silicone-based polish (such as Vivishine or Pjur Back Door) to restore shine and prevent the material from sticking to itself
• Store flat or loosely rolled, away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Keep away from oils and oil-based products — they degrade latex rapidly

Rope (Cotton, Jute, Nylon)

• Cotton rope: Hand wash in warm water with a small amount of mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly. Air dry completely before storing — never store damp rope.
• Jute rope: Spot clean only where possible. If a full wash is needed, hand wash gently and hang to dry. Condition with jute oil or hemp oil to maintain suppleness.
• Nylon rope: Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle in a mesh laundry bag. Air dry.
• Store all rope loosely coiled in a breathable bag or box — avoid tight bundles that can cause kinks and weaken fibres.

Riding Crops, Paddles, and Impact Toys

• Wipe the striking surface with a damp cloth and mild soap after each use
• For leather-wrapped handles: condition as per the leather care guide above
• Inspect regularly for cracks, splits, or loose components — a damaged impact toy can cause unintended injury
• Store hanging or flat to prevent warping

General Storage Tips

• Store toys and gear separately where possible — some materials react with each other (e.g., rubber and latex can bond if stored in contact)
• Use individual pouches or bags for each item
• Keep out of direct sunlight and away from extreme heat or cold
• Check gear before every use for signs of wear, cracking, or damage

Recommended Cleaning Products

Browse our Cleaning collection for body-safe toy cleaners and care products suited to all the materials above.