Caring for your collection

Good pieces last years. The difference between one that lasts and one that does not is almost entirely down to a five-minute routine.

Before and after, every time

Warm water and a pH-balanced toy cleaner. Not soap — soap strips the surface of silicone over time, and leaves a residue you do not want.

Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth. Water left sitting in seams is where problems start.

The lubricant rule

• Water-based — safe with everything, including silicone. Dries faster, so keep it handy.
• Silicone-based — never with silicone toys. Fine with glass, steel and ABS.
• Oil-based — not with latex, and not internally.

Storage

Away from direct sunlight, away from anything that can press against it, and ideally in its own pouch. Silicone toys stored touching each other can bond over time — a genuinely annoying discovery.

Batteries and charging

Charge before storing, not after. Lithium cells left flat for months lose capacity. If something takes batteries, take them out when it goes away for a while.

When to replace

If the surface has gone tacky, if it holds a dent, or if it has a nick that cannot be cleaned — replace it. It is not worth the risk.