Pure Pleasure: The Professional’s Guide to Silicone Hygiene – For Our Readers in Australia

Pure Pleasure: The Professional’s Guide to Silicone Hygiene

Maintaining your favorite intimate accessories isn't just about tidiness—it’s about health, safety, and protecting your investment. If you’ve chosen a silicone toy from The Cold Lady, you already know the incredible difference that high-quality materials make. However, to keep that "brand new" feeling and ensure your body stays safe from irritation, knowing exactly how to clean a silicone dildo is essential. Unlike cheaper materials, silicone is a premium choice that rewards good care with years of reliable pleasure. This guide will walk you through everything from the basic rinse to professional-grade sanitation, ensuring your playtime remains as hygienic as it is exhilarating.

What Is a Silicone Dildo?

A silicone dildo is a high-performance intimate toy crafted from medical-grade or food-grade silicone. This material is widely celebrated in the wellness industry for being body-safe, hypoallergenic, and incredibly durable. Unlike "jelly" or PVC toys, silicone warms quickly to your body temperature, providing a soft, skin-like texture that makes penetration feel natural and comfortable. It is flexible yet firm enough to provide the structural support needed for deep stimulation.

The primary reason silicone is the gold standard for dildos is that it is non-porous. In the world of hygiene, this is a game-changer. Non-porous means the material has no microscopic holes where bacteria, mold, or old lubricant can hide. While other materials might trap "residue" that can lead to infections, silicone stays clean on the inside, making surface cleaning highly effective.

Silicone toys come in an endless array of designs:

  • Realistic: Featuring veins, heads, and testicles for a life-like look.
  • Abstract/Artisanal: Smooth, ridged, or curved shapes designed for specific internal spots.
  • Dual Density: A firm inner core with a squishy outer "skin" layer.
  • Hands-free: Equipped with suction cups for mounting on walls or floors.

Understanding these variations helps you realize that while the shapes change, the fundamental cleaning requirements remain the same: gentle care for a superior material.

Why Proper Cleaning Is Essential

Cleaning your toy is the most important part of your post-pleasure ritual. When we engage in intimate play, our toys come into contact with body fluids, lubricants, and occasionally environmental dust. Even though silicone is non-porous, bacteria can still sit on the surface. Proper cleaning ensures that these microbes are neutralized before your next session, preventing the risk of bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections, or general skin irritation.

Beyond hygiene, cleaning is about preservation. Over time, lubricants (especially if you accidentally used a silicone-based lube on a silicone toy) can break down the surface, making it feel "tacky" or sticky. Regular washing removes these chemical residues, ensuring the texture remains silky smooth. Furthermore, a well-maintained toy can last a decade or more, whereas a neglected one may develop odors or surface degradation. By spending two minutes on cleanup, you are ensuring your toy remains a safe, effective tool for pleasure for years to come.

How to Clean Silicone Dildo: Step-by-Step Guide

A person with long blonde hair is seated in a white clawfoot bathtub filled with water and scattered rose petals, wearing a red lace garment and a black choker necklace. With both hands raised, they splash water upward, creating a dynamic and dramatic effect. The luxurious bathroom setting features marble walls, gold fixtures, and glowing candles, enhancing the romantic atmosphere. On the edge of the tub, handcuffs and a chain add a provocative twist, contrasting with the elegance of the scene and infusing it with intrigue.

Cleaning a silicone dildo is surprisingly straightforward. Because the material is so resilient, you don't need a degree in chemistry to get it right. Follow these four simple steps:

Step 1: Use Warm Water

Immediately after use, take your toy to the sink and run it under warm water. The warmth helps to break down any fluids or water-based lubricants on the surface. Avoid using boiling water unless you are performing a deep-sanitization (boiling is safe for 100% silicone toys without batteries, but for daily cleaning, warm tap water is perfect).

Step 2: Use Mild Soap

Apply a small amount of mild, unscented, and non-antibacterial soap to your hands or a soft cloth. Gently lather the dildo, paying close attention to any ridges, textures, or the "head" of the toy where residue might gather. If your dildo has a suction cup base, don't forget to clean the underside of the flange.

Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the toy under the faucet until the water runs clear and all soap suds are gone. It is vital to remove all soap residue, as dried soap can cause a pH imbalance or irritation during your next use.

Step 4: Dry Properly

Use a clean, lint-free towel to pat the toy dry. Avoid using "fuzzy" towels that leave little fibers behind, as these will stick to the silicone. Alternatively, place the toy on a clean surface and allow it to air dry completely before putting it away.

Best Toy Cleaners for Silicone Toys

While soap and water work well, specialized toy cleaners are the gold standard for maintenance. These formulas are specifically engineered to kill 99.9% of bacteria without containing the harsh surfactants or perfumes found in dish soap or hand soap. They are often "no-rinse," making them perfect for quick sessions or travel.

Why reach for a dedicated cleaner?

  1. Material Compatibility: They won't dry out the silicone over time.
  2. Speed: Most work in 60 seconds or less.
  3. pH Balanced: They are designed to be safe for your most sensitive areas.

If you don't have access to a sink—perhaps you're traveling or in a shared living space—a quick spray and wipe with a dedicated cleaner is much safer than skipping the cleaning process entirely.

Top 10 Toy Cleaners: Detailed Reviews

Choosing the right cleaner at The Cold Lady is easy when you know what each formula offers. Here are our top recommendations:

1. ID Toy Cleaner Mist

This is a classic antibacterial spray that is incredibly gentle. Since it’s alcohol-free, you don’t have to worry about it drying out your high-end silicone or irritating your skin. It’s a no-rinse formula, which means you can spray it, wait a moment, and wipe it off—perfect for the busy pleasure-seeker.

ID Toy Cleaner Mist - 4.4 oz - Article product
ID Toy Cleaner Mist - 4.4 oz
ID Toy Cleaner Mist. This antibacterial mist toy cleaner from ID is gentle on you and your toys. This non-irritating formula is alcohol free and safe for use on latex, rubber and silicone. Paraben free. No rinse formula. 4.4 oz. mist spray pump bottle.
$21.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Non-irritating & Alcohol-free Might require two applications for heavy residue
Safe for all materials (latex, silicone) Small bottle size for frequent users


2. Playboy Pleasure Clean Foaming Toy Cleaner

If you like a bit of "scrubbing power," this foaming cleanser is fantastic. The foam expands into all the little ridges of textured dildos, lifting away impurities faster than a liquid spray. It leaves no sticky residue behind, just a fresh, clean surface.

Playboy Pleasure Clean Foaming Toy Cleaner - 7 oz - Article product
Playboy Pleasure Clean Foaming Toy Cleaner - 7 oz
Clean Foaming is a cleanser designed to clean toys. The gentle formula is fast acting and leaves no residue.
$32.00
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Pros Cons
Fast-acting foaming action Foam can be messy if over-applied
Leaves zero residue Bottle is a bit bulky for travel


3. Shunga Gentle Toy Cleaner

Shunga is known for luxury, and this cleaner is no exception. It is specifically designed to protect the "look and life" of your toys, preventing the dullness that sometimes happens with age. It’s very effective at removing stubborn silicone-safe lubricants.

Shunga Gentle Toy Cleaner - 3.89 oz - Article product
Shunga Gentle Toy Cleaner - 3.89 oz
Our cleaning spray is your best ally to protect the look and life of your favorite intimate accessories. It was designed to effectively clean and remove lubricant and other impurities, without leaving any residue. Its gentle formula is safe to use on all toy materials and skin.
$21.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Protects the aesthetic of the toy Slightly higher price point
Very gentle on sensitive skin

Mild scent may not appeal to everyone


4. Sliquid Shine Organic Toy Cleaner

For the eco-conscious user, Sliquid Shine is the winner. It uses natural tea tree and castor oil for antimicrobial properties. It’s 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and NSF certified organic. It’s essentially "nature’s way" of keeping your dildo sterile.

Sliquid Shine Organic Toy Cleaner - 2 oz - Article product
Sliquid Shine Organic Toy Cleaner - 2 oz
Sliquid Shine Organic Intimate Toy Cleaner is infused with body & nature safe cleansing agents like tea tree oil and castor oil, which have natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. This non-foaming toy cleaner does not contain glycerine, parabens, alcohol, triclosan or other harsh chemicals. To use, simply spray Shine directly on to area to be...
$19.00
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Pros Cons
Organic and Vegan-friendly Tea tree oil has a distinct scent
No harsh chemicals or parabens Non-foaming (liquid spray)


5. Bathmate Clean Misting Toy Cleaner

Bathmate is a powerhouse brand, and their cleaner is just as strong. It contains anionic surfactants that provide a deeper level of cleaning for those who use their toys frequently. It’s a professional-grade mist that sanitizes on contact.

Bathmate Clean Misting Toy Cleaner - 100 ml - Article product
Bathmate Clean Misting Toy Cleaner - 100 ml
Bathmate Clean is formulated as a silicone-safe and rubber-safe powerful anti-bacterial misting formula for effective toy cleaning. Bathmate Clean Misting Toy Cleaner is deigned to be used directly on sex toys, not to be commonly used on the skin, should be kept away from the eyes. Bathmate Clean contains non-ionic (anionic) surfactants for enhanced cleaning....
$28.00
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Pros Cons
Very powerful sanitization Not intended for use on skin
Silicone and rubber safe Must be kept away from eyes


6. Blush Toy Renewal Powder

While not a "cleaner" in the liquid sense, this is essential for "Realistic" or "Dual Density" silicone toys that can sometimes feel tacky after washing. A light dusting of this powder restores that silky, velvet-to-the-touch finish instantly.

Blush Toy Renewal Powder White For TPE TPR Strokers And Toys - Article product
Blush Toy Renewal Powder White For TPE TPR Strokers And Toys
Blush Toy Renewal Powder White for TPE/TPR Strokers & Toys Refresh the lifelike texture of your favorite TPE/TPR strokers and toys with Blush Toy Renewal Powder. This gentle dusting powder helps maintain softness and a skin-like feel between cleanings, so your toys stay plush, responsive, and ready for action. Texture restoration: Maintains...
$32.00
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Pros Cons
Restores "skin-like" texture Can be messy to apply
Prevents toys from sticking to each other Not a sanitizer; use after washing


7. JO Misting Toy Cleaner (from the Bundle)

JO is a staple in the industry. Their misting cleaner is included in their Anal Thick bundle, emphasizing the need for deep cleaning after adventurous play. It’s a convenient, no-fuss spray that provides peace of mind.

JO Limited Edition Anal Thick 4 Oz And Misting Toy Cleaner 4 Oz Bundle - Article product
JO Limited Edition Anal Thick 4 Oz And Misting Toy Cleaner 4 Oz Bundle
JO Limited Edition Anal Thick 4 Oz & Misting Toy Cleaner 4 Oz Bundle Experience a premium duo designed to elevate intimate moments. The JO Limited Edition Anal Thick 4 oz provides a thick, long-lasting lubricant crafted for anal play, delivering smooth, comfortable sensations. Paired with the Misting Toy Cleaner 4 oz, this bundle...
$36.00
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Pros Cons
Convenient spray-and-wipe Often sold in bundles
Trusted, body-safe brand Basic formula compared to organics


8. Wicked Cleene Antibacterial Spray

Infused with lavender and olive leaf extracts, this cleaner smells like a spa day. It kills bacteria while remaining incredibly soothing. It’s a great choice if you find most cleaners smell too "medicinal" or chemical.

Wicked Cleene Anti Bacterial Toy Cleaner 4 Oz Lavender Olive Leaf Extract - Article product
Wicked Cleene Anti Bacterial Toy Cleaner 4 Oz Lavender Olive Leaf Extract
Wicked Cleene Anti Bacterial Toy Cleaner 4 Oz Lavender Olive Leaf Extract Keep your toys safe and your intimate areas healthy with Wicked Cleene Antibacterial Toy Cleaner. Enhanced with natural lavender and olive leaf extracts to boost antibacterial effectiveness, this 4 oz spray delivers powerful protection while remaining convenient and easy to use. Fragrance-Free...
$20.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Natural antibacterial extracts Wait time of 1 minute required
Pleasant lavender aroma 4 oz bottle goes quickly


9. Wicked Sensual Care Simply Foam & Fresh

This is the "herbal" powerhouse of cleaners. It contains tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, and rosemary oils. Not only does it clean, but it also leaves a cooling, fresh scent that makes your toy feel revitalized.

Wicked Sensual Care Simply Foam and Fresh Toy Cleaner 7 oz - Article product
Wicked Sensual Care Simply Foam and Fresh Toy Cleaner 7 oz
Wicked Sensual Care Simply Foam and Fresh Toy Cleaner 7 oz Simply Foam & Fresh is a carefully crafted blend of an active antibacterial agent along with natural antimicrobial and antiseptic elements—tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, and rosemary oils. This foaming cleanser keeps things clean and ready for your next session, giving you playtime...
$25.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Powerful herbal antimicrobial blend Strong scent
Large 7 oz bottle lasts a long time Foaming pump can occasionally clog


10. Doc Johnson Natural Toy Cleaner with Citrus

If you love a clean, citrusy scent, this is the one for you. It uses natural citrus oils to break down grease and lube residue without using Triclosan or parabens. It’s simple, effective, and very affordable.

Doc Johnson Natural Toy Cleaner with Citrus Oils Triclosan Free - Article product
Doc Johnson Natural Toy Cleaner with Citrus Oils Triclosan Free
Doc Johnson Natural Toy Cleaner with Citrus Oils Triclosan Free Keep your intimate toys clean with a natural, plant-based cleaner designed to sanitize without harsh chemicals. This spray-on formula uses natural citrus oils to break down residue and leave a fresh, clean scent, while staying Triclosan-free. Key benefits of this body-safe cleaner include: ...
$18.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Breaks down residue easily with citrus Citrus can be slightly acidic
Triclosan and paraben-free Requires a thorough wipe-down


What NOT to Use on Silicone Dildos

While silicone is tough, it isn't indestructible. To keep your dildo from degrading, avoid the following at all costs:

  • Silicone-Based Lubricants: This is the most common mistake. Silicone-on-silicone will cause the material to melt or become permanently "pitted" and tacky. Only use water-based lubes.
  • Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, high-concentration alcohol, or abrasive household cleaners will destroy the "skin" of the toy and can be dangerous if absorbed by your body.
  • Abrasive Scrubbers: Never use a scouring pad or steel wool. These create tiny scratches on the surface where bacteria can thrive, effectively ruining the "non-porous" advantage of the material.
  • Dishwashers: Unless the manufacturer explicitly states it is dishwasher safe, avoid the high heat and harsh detergents of a dishwasher, which can warp the shape or degrade the suction cup.

How to Store a Silicone Dildo After Cleaning

Once your dildo is clean and dry, how you store it is just as important as how you wash it. Silicone has a unique property: it can "migrate" or react with other materials.

  1. Store Individually: Never let silicone toys touch each other. If they are stored in a pile, they can chemically fuse or cause "melting" spots.
  2. Use a Toy Bag: At The Cold Lady, we recommend using a soft satin or cotton drawstring bag. This keeps dust and lint away from the toy while allowing the material to "breathe."
  3. Cool, Dry Place: Keep your collection out of direct sunlight. Intense UV rays can cause the vibrant colors of your dildo to fade and may weaken the material over time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most experienced enthusiasts make mistakes. Keep an eye out for these:

  • Skipping the Dry Phase: Storing a toy while it's still damp can lead to a "musty" smell or even mildew in the storage bag.
  • Cleaning "Later": Try to clean your toy within 15 minutes of use. If lubricant dries on the surface, it becomes much harder to remove.
  • Forgetting the Base: For dildos with suction cups, residue often hides in the rim. Clean the whole toy, not just the shaft!

Top 10 Silicone Dildos: Friendly Reviews

The image features a woman with blonde waves and red lipstick posing in a vintage clawfoot bathtub within a luxurious marble bathroom. She is wearing elegant red lace lingerie and a black choker, which stands out against the soft white curtains and golden accents. The scene is filled with atmospheric details, including a burning candelabra, scattered rose petals, and ornate glass jars on the floor.

If you’re looking to add to your collection at The Cold Lady, here are our absolute favorites, reviewed for your pleasure:

1. Silicone Studs Neon 6" Dildo

This is the ultimate "fun" toy. It’s bright, bold, and has a firm, realistic feel that beginners and pros alike will love. The suction cup is impressively strong, making it a great partner for shower play or floor mounting.

Silicone Studs Neon 6
Silicone Studs Neon 6" Dildo - Purple
Immerse yourself in a world of vibrant pleasure with the Neon® Silicone Studs® 6"/15.25 cm, a striking creation crafted from pure silicone. This neon-hued delight offers an exciting visual twist to your collection, ensuring not only a sensational experience but also a burst of colorful fun. Its firm and life-like feel closely mimics the real...
$53.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Exciting neon colors 6 inches might be small for some
Hands-free suction cup Very firm (not much "squish")


2. Studs Dual Density 6.25" Dildo

This toy features a "best of both worlds" construction. It has a firm inner core for structural integrity but a soft, flexible outer layer that feels like real skin. It’s textured with veins and a realistic head for deep satisfaction.

Studs Dual Density Silicone 6.25
Studs Dual Density Silicone 6.25" Dildo - Ivory
This stud is made for your pleasure! The Dual Density Silicone Studs™ 6.25" will take you for a wild ride with the a real feel shaft, realistic flexible design, and suction cup base. Deliver the pleasure you've been craving with a 6.25 inch long dong with realistic head, textured shaft, and life-like balls. The textured...
$84.00
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Pros Cons
Incredible realistic texture More difficult to clean than smooth toys
Dual density feel Bulky base


3. ElectraStim Ovid Silicone Noir Dildo

For those who want to "level up," this is an electro-stimulation dildo. It connects to a power box to deliver pulses directly to the G-spot or prostate. It’s beautifully curved and made of conductive silicone.

ElectraStim Ovid Silicone Noir Dildo - Article product
ElectraStim Ovid Silicone Noir Dildo
Boasting a sweeping upward curve, bulbous tip and mid-shaft swell, the Silicone Noir Ovid Electro G-Spot Dildo is a beautifully formed dildo that serves up incredible stimulation for either her G-spot or his prostate. Soft, squeezable and incredibly conductive, this sensual electro dildo connects to any ElectraStim stimulator to bring you teasing pulsations and powerful...
$122.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Unique electro-stimulation feature Requires a separate power unit
Perfect G-spot curve Premium price tag


4. ColourSoft 5" Silicone Soft Dildo

If you find most silicone dildos too hard, the ColourSoft line is for you. It’s made from a softer medical-grade silicone that has a lot more "give," making it much easier for those who are just starting their journey.

ColourSoft 5
ColourSoft 5" Silicone Soft Dildo - Pink
Enjoy the delicate touch of ColourSoft's realistically molded dildos, made from soft medical grade silicone. Coupled with its lock tight suction cup, ColourSoft delivers a whole new experience and feel. Available in assorted sizes and colors, safe to use with all lubricants. ColourSoft - it's good for you.
$46.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Much softer and more flexible Suction cup is slightly smaller
Great for beginners 5 inches is a modest size


5. Macaroon Glitter Silicone Dildo

Who says sex toys can't be pretty? This "swirl" shaped dildo is filled with shimmering glitter. It’s 7 inches of ridged pleasure that looks as good as it feels. Plus, it has a super-strong suction cup.

Macaroon Silicone Dildo - Yellow/Orange/Pink - Article product
Macaroon Silicone Dildo - Yellow/Orange/Pink
Crystal-clear TPR dildo in the popular “swirl” shape, but filled with rich, shimmering, luxe glitter in metallic red, orange and gold, for an incredibly lustrous look and feel! And these are generously sized pieces! We’re talking a full...
$48.00
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Pros Cons
Beautiful glitter aesthetic Ridges require careful cleaning
Generous 7-inch length TPR/Silicone blend feel


6. b-Vibe Lil Dil Silicone Anal Dildo

Specifically designed for anal exploration, the Lil Dil features a tapered tip and a slender neck. It has a finger loop at the base for safety and easy removal, which is a must-have for anal play.

b-Vibe Lil Dil Silicone Anal Dildo - Article product
b-Vibe Lil Dil Silicone Anal Dildo
Oh, Lil Dil, how you thrill! The b-Vibe Butties Lil Dil Silicone Anal Dildo is here to make your butt play adventures smooth, safe, and seriously satisfying. Designed for beginners exploring anal play, this petite pleasure tool features a realistic tip and smooth silicone shaft that eases you in with comfort and...
$46.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Perfect for anal beginners Very slim (not for those wanting girth)
Easy removal loop Specific to anal use


7. Blush Sunrise Gaze Dildo

This is an artisanal piece of art. Hand-sculpted with a sherbet-colored gradient, it features textured ridges designed specifically for G-spot and P-spot stimulation. It feels like satin on the skin.

Blush Sunrise Gaze Silicone Dildo Sherbet by Avant - Article product
Blush Sunrise Gaze Silicone Dildo Sherbet by Avant
Blush Sunrise Gaze Silicone Dildo Sherbet by Avant Modern, stylish, and beautiful – Meet Avant Sunrise Gaze! This artisanal dildo is hand sculpted with your utmost pleasure and comfort in mind, crafted with a pastel sherbet hue that evokes the warmth of a summer sunrise. Avant Sunrise Gaze flaunts a gracefully wide shaft, shaped...
$93.00
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Pros Cons
Beautiful hand-sculpted design No suction cup
Premium platinum-cured silicone Higher price for artisanal quality


8. Rock Candy Suga Daddy 5.5" Dildo

Chunky and proud! This dildo is for those who love girth. It features a twisted shaft that provides a unique internal "massaging" sensation as you move. It’s thick, short, and very powerful.

Rock Candy Suga Daddy 5.5
Rock Candy Suga Daddy 5.5" Silicone Dildo - Blue
How many inches does it take to get to the center of your sweet spot? The Rock Candy® Sugar Daddy® is up for the challenge! Even better than the real thing, this chunky hunk is crafted to satisfy your deepest carnal cravings. The Sugar Daddy features an extra thick and twisted silicone shaft. The realistic...
$32.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Incredible girth for its size May be intimidating for beginners
Unique twisted texture Heavyweight


9. Colours Pleasures Slim 8 Inch Dildo

Length lovers, rejoice! This slim dildo offers 8 inches of insertable pleasure. Because it’s slim, it’s easy to handle, and the purple satin finish provides a luxurious glide that feels amazing with water-based lube.

Colours Pleasures Slim 8 Inch Dildo Purple Satin Silicone - Article product
Colours Pleasures Slim 8 Inch Dildo Purple Satin Silicone
Colours Pleasures Slim 8 Inch Dildo Purple Satin Silicone Experience a new level of luxurious stimulation with the Colours Pleasures Slim 8 Inch Dildo in Purple Satin Silicone. Building on the award-winning Colours Pleasure Dongs, this slim edition offers precise contact and a velvety silicone feel for a satisfying sensation. Crafted from satin-textured, superior-grade...
$51.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Impressive 8-inch length Suction cup needs a very flat surface
Slim and easy to manage Purple finish can show dust


10. Curve Toys Jock Real Skin 8.5" Dildo

This is the pinnacle of realism. With a "real skin" texture that stretches and moves over a firm inner core, it’s hand-painted with realistic features. It’s big, it’s bold, and it feels incredibly lifelike.

Curve Toys Jock Real Skin Silicone 8.5
Curve Toys Jock Real Skin Silicone 8.5" Dildo
Realistic stretchable skin design crafted to feel like a layer of skin and firm shaft. Dual density and super soft dildo. Painted in detail with realistic features. Super strong suction cup sticks to almost any flat surface. Harness compatible. Easy to clean.
$99.00
Add to cart

Pros Cons
Extreme realism (Dual Density) Most difficult to clean properly
Harness compatible Very large (8.5 inches)

 

Why Shop at The Cold Lady?

When you choose The Cold Lady, you aren't just buying a toy; you're joining a community that values discretion, quality, and empowerment.

  • Curated Excellence: We don't stock everything; we only stock what works. Every toy in our catalog is hand-picked for its material safety and pleasure potential.
  • Discreet Shipping: Your privacy is our priority. Our packaging is 100% plain—your neighbors will never know what's inside.
  • Education First: We want you to be a pro. Our blog and guides are here to help you get the most out of every purchase.
  • Customer Support: Have a question about a material or a cleaner? Our friendly team is always here to provide expert advice with a human touch.

Cleaning your silicone dildo is the simplest way to ensure your intimate health and the longevity of your pleasure products. By following the "Warm Water, Mild Soap, Thorough Rinse, Air Dry" method, you keep your toys in peak condition. Remember, at The Cold Lady, we believe that pleasure should always be paired with safety. Investing in a high-quality toy cleaner and a proper storage bag will pay for itself in the long run by keeping your favorite accessories fresh and ready for action.

Ready to upgrade your cleaning routine or find your next favorite toy? Explore our full collection at The Cold Lady today!

FAQ

While you can use mild, unscented hand soap in a pinch, it is generally better to use a dedicated toy cleaner or a very gentle, pH-balanced soap. Many household dish soaps contain harsh degreasers and concentrated fragrances that can leave a thin film on the silicone, which might lead to irritation of your sensitive internal tissues later. Furthermore, antibacterial hand soaps often contain triclosan or heavy alcohols that can prematurely dry out the silicone, causing it to lose its silky texture over time. At The Cold Lady, we recommend sticking to soaps that are free of dyes and perfumes to ensure your toy remains body-safe and the material stays in peak condition. Always ensure you rinse the toy for at least thirty seconds to remove every trace of soap suds before drying.

Yes, one of the greatest advantages of 100% medical-grade silicone is its incredible heat resistance, which allows you to boil it for a deep clean. To do this properly, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, submerge the toy for three to five minutes, and then carefully remove it with tongs to air dry. This process is excellent for killing 99.9% of bacteria and is especially recommended if you are recovering from a yeast infection or if the toy was shared between partners. However, you must ensure your toy is solid silicone and does not contain any internal vibrators, batteries, or electronic components, as boiling will permanently destroy the motor. Always check the product description at The Cold Lady to confirm your specific model is heat-safe before attempting this method.

You should clean your silicone dildo both before and after every single use to maintain the highest standard of hygiene. Cleaning after use is obvious because it removes body fluids and lubricants, but cleaning before use is equally important to remove any lint, dust, or microscopic particles that may have settled on the toy during storage. Even if the toy looks clean to the naked eye, small fibers from storage bags can cause micro-abrasions or irritation if introduced into the body. A quick 60-second spray with a toy cleaner before you begin ensures a worry-free experience. This "double-cleaning" ritual is the best way to protect your intimate health and keep your collection feeling brand new for years.

Using silicone-based lubricant on a silicone toy is a major mistake because the chemicals in the lubricant will actually "dissolve" the surface of your toy. This happens because "like dissolves like," and the lubricant will cause the dildo to become permanently tacky, pitted, or even melted in certain spots. Once this chemical reaction begins, the toy is no longer non-porous, meaning bacteria can now hide in the damaged areas, making it unsafe to use. If you realize you've made this mistake, wash the toy immediately with strong soap to try to remove the lubricant, but inspect it closely for any changes in texture. If the surface feels sticky even after washing and drying, it is unfortunately time to replace the toy through The Cold Lady and switch to a high-quality water-based lubricant.

Many solid silicone dildos are technically "dishwasher safe," but we generally advise against this unless the manufacturer’s instructions explicitly encourage it. The high heat of a dishwasher is fine for the silicone, but the aggressive chemicals found in dishwasher tablets are often far too abrasive and can leave a caustic residue on the toy. Furthermore, if you wash your toy alongside greasy plates, food particles, and oils can actually settle onto the silicone, which defeats the purpose of sanitizing it. If you do choose the dishwasher route, place the toy on the top rack and run it on a cycle without any "rinse aid" or heavy detergents. For most users, a simple hand wash or a quick boil is a much safer and more hygienic alternative.

If your silicone dildo feels tacky or sticky after cleaning, it is usually due to one of three things: soap residue, the use of the wrong lubricant, or the age of the material. Sometimes, if you don't rinse the toy thoroughly enough, a thin layer of soap dries on the surface, creating a "grippy" feeling that isn't pleasant. Another possibility is that the toy was stored in a way that allowed it to react with a non-silicone toy nearby, causing the material to degrade. To fix this, try washing it again with a very basic, clear soap and drying it with a lint-free cloth. If the stickiness persists, you can apply a small amount of Blush Toy Renewal Powder to restore that velvet-smooth, "skin-like" finish that silicone is famous for.

Proper drying is the most overlooked step in toy maintenance, yet it is vital for preventing the growth of mildew or musty odors. After rinsing, you should pat the toy dry with a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth or a high-quality paper towel that won't leave "pills" behind. Avoid using fluffy bath towels, as the tiny cotton fibers will cling to the silicone and can be irritating during your next session. Once patted down, leave the toy in the open air on a clean surface for at least thirty minutes to ensure all moisture has evaporated from the base and any textured ridges. Never put a damp toy into a sealed plastic bag or a dark drawer, as trapped moisture is the primary cause of unwanted smells in your toy collection.

Actually, specialized toy cleaners are often the best choice for individuals with sensitive skin because they are formulated to be completely "clean-rinsing." Unlike many hand soaps that contain moisturizers, oils, and heavy perfumes designed to stay on your skin, toy cleaners are engineered to disappear entirely after a quick wipe or rinse. This means there are no leftover chemicals to disrupt your internal pH balance or cause "stinging" sensations during play. Many premium cleaners at The Cold Lady, like Sliquid Shine or Wicked Cleene, use natural ingredients like tea tree oil or lavender, which provide antimicrobial benefits without the need for harsh synthetics. If you are prone to infections or irritation, investing in a professional-grade cleaner is one of the smartest things you can do for your body.