Water-based is the universal answer: safe with every toy material, every condom, and easy to clean up. Choose silicone lube for longer sessions or shower play — just not on silicone toys — and a thick gel formula for anal. When in doubt, water-based.

Wash with warm water and a dedicated toy cleaner or mild fragrance-free soap before and after each use, dry completely, and store each toy separately — a breathable pouch is ideal. Non-porous materials (silicone, glass, steel) can be cleaned more aggressively; porous ones need gentler care and complete drying.

Best not to — silicone lube can soften and degrade a silicone toy's surface over time, making it tacky and harder to keep clean. Use water-based lube with silicone toys, and save the silicone lube for skin-on-skin, shower play, or glass and steel toys.