To clean a vibrator with a motor safely, first check its water rating. Fully waterproof vibrators (IPX7 or higher) can be rinsed under running water and washed with mild, unscented soap; splash-proof ones should only be wiped with a damp, soapy cloth, keeping water away from buttons, seams and charging ports. Never boil a vibrator, put it in the dishwasher or soak it in bleach, and always dry it completely, especially around the charging port, before charging or storing it.
A vibrator is not just a toy. It is a small electronic device with a motor, battery and circuit board sealed inside. That means cleaning it is a little different from cleaning a solid silicone dildo. The wrong method can push water into the electronics, damage the motor or ruin the battery.
This guide shows you exactly how to clean your vibrator thoroughly without damaging it. You will learn:
- The difference between waterproof and splash-proof
- What you should never submerge
- A safe, step-by-step cleaning method
- How to dry your vibrator before storage
- The signs water got where it shouldn’t
If you are still choosing your first toy, our first vibrator guide covers what to look for.
Waterproof vs Splash-Proof
Not all “water-resistant” vibrators can handle the same amount of water. Manufacturers use the IP (Ingress Protection) rating system to show how well a device is sealed against water.
IP Water Ratings Explained
| Rating | What it means | Cleaning approach |
|---|---|---|
| No rating | Not protected against water | Wipe only with a barely damp cloth |
| IPX4 | Splash-resistant from any direction | Wipe with a damp cloth, quick rinse of the tip only |
| IPX5 | Resists low-pressure water jets | Brief rinse under a gentle tap, avoid soaking |
| IPX6 | Resists strong water jets | Rinse under the tap, avoid submerging |
| IPX7 | Can be submerged up to about 1 meter (3.3 ft) for up to 30 minutes | Rinse, wash and briefly submerge for cleaning |
| IPX8 | Can be submerged deeper or longer, as specified by the maker | Fully washable and submersible within stated limits |
Waterproof vs Splash-Proof in Plain Terms
- Waterproof (IPX7, IPX8): you can rinse it under running water, wash it with soap and use it in the shower or bath.
- Splash-proof (IPX4 to IPX6): it can handle splashes or a quick rinse, but not soaking or submersion.
- No rating: keep water away entirely. Wipe-clean only.
Examples From Our Collection
The Prostate Heat, Prostate Beader and Prostate Thrust are all rated IPX7 waterproof, so they can be rinsed and washed under running water. Always check the specific rating listed on each product page.
Remotes Are Often Different
Remote controls are frequently less water-resistant than the toy itself. For example, the Luke vibrating dildo’s product page advises keeping the remote and bulb reservoir away from full submersion. Always check the remote separately, and keep it dry unless it is specifically labeled waterproof.
Where to Find Your Toy’s Rating
- The product page or packaging
- The user manual
- The manufacturer’s website
If you cannot find a rating, treat the toy as splash-proof at most.
What Not to Submerge
Even waterproof vibrators have limits. Knowing what to avoid protects the motor, battery and seals.
Never Submerge These
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Vibrators with no water rating | Water can reach the motor and battery |
| Splash-proof toys (IPX4 to IPX6) | Seals are not designed for submersion |
| Remote controls (unless labeled waterproof) | Often unsealed |
| Toys with open charging ports | Water can enter directly |
| Toys with battery compartments | Water can leak inside |
| Toys with damaged or cracked seals | Waterproofing is compromised |
| Toys with heating elements, unless rated | Electronics are sensitive |
Never Do This With Any Vibrator
| Avoid | What happens |
|---|---|
| Boiling | Melts seals, damages battery and electronics |
| Dishwasher | Heat and pressure destroy seals and electronics |
| Bleach or harsh chemicals | Damages silicone and seals |
| Rubbing alcohol on silicone | Can dry out and degrade the surface |
| Hot water | Can weaken seals over time |
| Long soaks, even for waterproof toys | Prolonged exposure stresses seals |
| Cleaning while charging | Risk of electrical damage |
| Submerging beyond the rated depth or time | Exceeds waterproof limits |
Why Charging Ports Matter
Many vibrators use magnetic charging points or sealed ports. Even on waterproof toys, water trapped in or around charging contacts can cause corrosion or short circuits if the toy is charged while wet. Always dry the charging area completely before plugging in.
Safe Cleaning Method Step-by-Step
Here is a safe cleaning method that works for most vibrators. Adjust it based on your toy’s water rating.
What You Need
- Mild, unscented soap or a toy cleaner safe for silicone
- Lukewarm water
- A soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber towel
- Cotton swabs for small areas around buttons and seams
For Waterproof Vibrators (IPX7 or IPX8)
- Turn the vibrator off and make sure it is not charging.
- Close any port covers if your toy has them.
- Rinse under lukewarm running water.
- Apply a small amount of mild soap or toy cleaner.
- Wash gently with your fingers or a soft cloth, including textured areas, ridges and the base.
- Clean around buttons and seams with a damp cotton swab.
- Rinse thoroughly until no soap remains.
- Dry completely (see the next section).
For Splash-Proof Vibrators (IPX4 to IPX6)
- Turn the vibrator off and unplug it.
- Dampen a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a little mild soap.
- Wipe all surfaces, keeping water away from buttons, seams and charging ports.
- Rinse the cloth and wipe again with clean water to remove soap.
- Briefly rinse the insertable tip only, if the rating allows, holding it downward so water runs away from the electronics.
- Dry completely.
For Non-Waterproof Vibrators
- Turn it off and remove batteries if possible.
- Wipe with a barely damp cloth and a small amount of mild soap or toy cleaner.
- Wipe again with a clean, damp cloth.
- Dry immediately with a lint-free cloth.
Cleaning Remote Controls
- Turn the remote off.
- Wipe with a slightly damp cloth.
- Use a dry cotton swab around buttons.
- Dry thoroughly. Keep it out of water unless it is labeled waterproof.
How Often to Clean
- Before first use
- After every use
- Before storing after a long break
- Between partners or between anal and vaginal use
For cleaning methods across all toy materials, including solid silicone dildos, see our complete guide on how to clean sex toys properly.
Lube and Cleanup
Using water-based lube makes cleanup easier and protects silicone surfaces. Silicone-based lube can damage silicone toys and is harder to rinse away. Our Water-Based Lube rinses off easily.
Drying Before Storage
Drying is just as important as washing. Moisture left on a vibrator can damage electronics and encourage bacterial growth.
How to Dry Your Vibrator
- Pat dry with a clean, lint-free towel.
- Pay special attention to charging ports, magnetic contacts, buttons and seams.
- Use a dry cotton swab to remove moisture from small crevices.
- Air dry for at least 30 to 60 minutes in a clean, ventilated area, with the charging port facing down so any remaining water can drain out.
- Confirm it is completely dry before charging or storing.
Before You Charge
- Make sure the charging area is completely dry.
- Wipe magnetic contacts with a dry cloth.
- Never charge a wet or damp toy.
- Use only the charger that came with your toy.
Storage Tips
| Do | Do not |
|---|---|
| Store in a clean, breathable pouch | Store in a sealed plastic bag while damp |
| Keep away from heat and sunlight | Leave in a hot car or near heaters |
| Store separately from other toys | Let it touch other silicone toys for long periods |
| Turn on travel lock if available | Let it switch on accidentally in storage |
| Recharge every few weeks | Let the battery drain completely for months |
Browse our storage bags to keep each vibrator protected.
Signs Water Got Where It Shouldn’t
If water reaches the inside of a vibrator, you may notice problems right away or days later. Catching them early can sometimes save the toy and prevents safety risks.
Warning Signs
| Sign | What it may mean |
|---|---|
| Motor runs weak, slow or erratic | Water affecting electronics |
| Vibrator will not turn on | Short circuit or battery damage |
| Will not charge or charges slowly | Corroded or wet charging contacts |
| Charging light behaves strangely | Moisture in the charging circuit |
| Fog or droplets visible inside clear parts | Water inside the housing |
| Rattling or sloshing sound | Water trapped inside |
| Green, white or rust-colored residue on contacts | Corrosion |
| Buttons stop responding | Water around the control board |
| Unusual smell, such as burning | Electrical damage, stop using immediately |
| Toy feels unusually warm while charging | Possible battery damage, unplug immediately |
What to Do If Water Gets Inside
- Stop using it immediately and do not charge it.
- Turn it off and remove batteries if possible.
- Dry the outside thoroughly.
- Leave it to dry in a warm, dry, well-ventilated place for 24 to 48 hours with ports facing down. Silica gel packets in a container can help absorb moisture.
- Try charging only when fully dry.
- If it still malfunctions, stop using it and contact the manufacturer.
When to Throw It Away
Stop using and safely dispose of a vibrator if:
- It smells like burning
- The battery is swollen or bulging
- It gets hot while charging or in use
- There is visible corrosion that will not wipe away
- It sparks or behaves unpredictably
Lithium-ion batteries should be recycled at a battery or electronics recycling drop-off, not thrown in household trash.
Preventing Water Damage
- Know your toy’s IP rating.
- Close port covers before rinsing.
- Never submerge splash-proof toys.
- Dry charging areas completely before charging.
- Inspect seals regularly for cracks or wear.
Explore our waterproof options in the vibrators collection.
Clean Carefully, Play Longer
Cleaning a vibrator with a motor safely comes down to knowing its water rating, using mild soap and lukewarm water, keeping water away from places it should not go, and drying everything completely before charging or storage. Avoid boiling, dishwashers and harsh chemicals, and watch for signs of water damage. With the right routine, your vibrator stays hygienic, safe and powerful for years.
All RealCock Toys orders ship in plain, unmarked packaging with discreet billing, and orders over $99 ship free.
