Hygiene and cleaning BDSM equipment

Written by: Mistress Moriah
Safe, responsible, and respectful use of the body, equipment, and space means cleaning thoroughly.

Hygiene is an important part

BDSM is all about trust, surrender, and physical intimacy. That is precisely why hygiene is not a minor issue, but an essential foundation for every experience. Anyone who works with materials, whether toys, bondage equipment, or an entire dungeon, is responsible for their own health and that of others. Good hygiene not only prevents infections and the transmission of bacteria or fungi, but also contributes to a sense of safety and care. And the latter is at least as important as the technical aspect of cleaning.

Working hygienically means looking beyond “just rinsing off.” Materials vary greatly in structure, porosity, and durability, and therefore each requires its own approach.

Why hygiene requires extra attention in BDSM

BDSM materials often come into direct contact with skin, mucous membranes, bodily fluids, and sometimes small wounds. This makes them more susceptible to bacterial contamination than everyday utensils. Especially with internal toys, impact tools, bondage aids, or prolonged use, careful cleaning is not a luxury but a necessity.

In addition, there is also a psychological aspect. Knowing that materials are clean, well maintained, and used consciously reinforces the feeling of trust. For many subs, hygiene is an important part of being able to surrender safely. For the Dominant, it is a visible sign of care, responsibility, and professionalism.

The use of condoms as a hygienic aid

Condoms are often associated exclusively with sex, but within BDSM they are also a practical hygienic aid. Using a condom over a toy, especially for internal use, limits direct contact with bodily fluids. This is particularly useful for silicone toys, glass or metal dildos, and toys that are used by multiple people.

Using a condom makes cleaning easier, but it never completely replaces it. After use, the toy must still be thoroughly cleaned. However, it significantly reduces the risk of cross-contamination and provides an extra layer of safety, especially with multiple partners or toys that cannot be completely sterilized.

Ultrasonic cleaning and distillation: when and why?

An ultrasonic cleaner works with high-frequency sound waves that loosen dirt in places that are difficult to reach by hand. This makes the device particularly suitable for hard, non-porous materials such as stainless steel, glass, and high-quality silicone. Think of metal toys, chains, carabiners, plugs, or medical devices.

It is important to note that an ultrasonic cleaner is not a substitute for disinfection, but a supplement. It removes dirt and residues very effectively, but does not automatically kill all bacteria. That is why it is often combined with a suitable cleaning agent or followed by disinfection.

A distiller is less commonly mentioned, but can be useful for making lime-free water for rinsing or for use in combination with certain cleaning methods. Distilled water leaves no residue and is particularly suitable for materials that are sensitive to stains or deposits.

Cleaning by material type

Silicone toys (internal and external)

High-quality silicone is non-porous and therefore relatively safe, provided it is properly maintained. Silicone toys can usually be cleaned with warm water and a mild, unscented soap. For extra hygiene, they can be boiled, provided the manufacturer allows this. Five to ten minutes in boiling water is usually sufficient.

After cleaning, silicone toys must dry completely before being stored. Storing them in a breathable fabric bag prevents dust or dirt from reattaching.

Stainless steel and metal materials

Stainless steel and other metals are very hygienic and durable. They can be cleaned with warm water and soap, in the dishwasher, or in an ultrasonic cleaner. Boiling is also usually possible.

Pay attention to hinges, welds, or decorative elements, where dirt can accumulate. Drying thoroughly after cleaning prevents water stains and extends the life of the toy.

Glass and hard plastic

Glass toys are non-porous and easy to clean. Warm water and soap are usually sufficient, possibly supplemented by boiling or an ultrasonic cleaner. Always check for hairline cracks; damaged glass should no longer be used.

Hard plastic varies greatly in quality. Some types are safe and non-porous, while others can develop microcracks over time. Be extra vigilant and replace materials if in doubt.

Ropes and bondage materials

Rope requires special attention. Natural materials such as cotton, hemp, or jute are porous and absorb moisture, sweat, and bacteria. These ropes can often be washed, preferably at a high temperature and without fabric softener. Allow them to dry completely before storing to prevent mold growth.

Synthetic ropes are less porous and easier to clean with warm water and a mild detergent. Here too, it is essential to dry them completely.

Whips, floggers, and impact tools

Impact tools often consist of a combination of materials. The handle, core, and ends may each require a different approach. Leather ends should not be soaked, but can be wiped with a slightly damp cloth and a suitable leather cleaner. Afterwards, leather maintenance is important to prevent drying out and cracking.

Silicone or rubber whips can be cleaned more easily with soap and water. Always check whether the material is resistant to the chosen cleaning agent.

Leather: body bags, cuffs, and other leather items

Leather is porous and requires careful treatment. Never clean leather with aggressive agents or by immersing it in water. Use a special leather cleaning product and wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth. After cleaning, it is important to nourish the leather with a leather conditioner to keep it supple and prevent it from drying out.

Leather body bags and restraints that are used intensively deserve extra attention. Allow them to air thoroughly after use and only store them when they are completely dry.

Furniture: bondage tables, cages, and dungeon furnishings

Bondage tables and cages are often made of metal, wood, faux leather, or a combination thereof. Faux leather surfaces can be cleaned with warm water and a mild disinfectant. Avoid using alcohol on faux leather, as this can damage the material.

Metal parts can be cleaned with a suitable cleaning agent and disinfected if necessary. Wooden parts require caution; do not use excessive water and ensure good ventilation.

The dungeon floor

The dungeon floor is often forgotten, even though it has a lot to endure. A smooth, easily removable floor is the most practical from a hygiene perspective. Regular mopping with a suitable cleaning agent is essential, especially after sessions where bodily fluids have been released.

From a hygiene point of view, textile floor coverings are strongly discouraged in a play area. If they are present, deep cleaning is necessary and replacement should be seriously considered.

General hygiene considerations

Hygienic working practices do not stop at the equipment. Clean hands, short nails, clean towels, and adequate ventilation all contribute to a safe environment. Materials that are damaged, discolored, or can no longer be cleaned properly should be replaced. Saving on hygiene is always a false economy.

Within BDSM, hygiene is not a technical obligation, but a form of care. It shows that someone cares about the other person’s body, boundaries, and safety. Well-maintained materials tell a story: one of preparation, responsibility, and respect.

Those who take BDSM seriously take hygiene seriously. Not out of fear, but out of love for the game, for the other person, and for themselves.

Handy cleaning overview

Material	Recommended cleaning method	Disinfection possible	Important notes
Silicone (internal / external use)	Warm water and mild soap, optionally boiling or ultrasonic cleaner	Yes	Allow to dry completely. Only high-quality silicone can be safely boiled
Stainless steel / metal	Soap and water, dishwasher, ultrasonic cleaner, boiling	Yes	Pay attention to seams, hinges and connection points
Glass	Soap and water, boiling, ultrasonic cleaner	Yes	Always check for cracks or damage before use
Hard plastic	Warm water and mild soap	Limited	May become porous over time. Replace if in doubt
Leather (cuffs, body bags, floggers)	Wipe with a slightly damp cloth and leather cleaner	No	Do not soak. Always apply leather conditioner after cleaning
Latex	Lukewarm water and mild soap	No	Avoid alcohol, oils and heat. Store dry and away from light
Rope (cotton, hemp, jute)	Machine wash at high temperature without fabric softener	Limited	Dry completely to prevent mould and odour
Synthetic rope	Soap and water	Yes	Less porous than natural fibres, still dry thoroughly
Bondage furniture / cages	Wipe down with appropriate cleaner per surface	Yes	Consider combinations of metal, wood and synthetic leather
Dungeon floor	Mopping with appropriate cleaning agent	Yes	Smooth, wipeable floors are the most hygienic

Mistress Moriah

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