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Reviewed 30 August 2026 · UK consumer context

Care for equipment properly

Cleaning, drying, storage, inspection, recalls and retirement decisions for adult products.

Prepared by The UK Kink Guide editorial team. Review methodology.

Key points

  • Cleaning and disinfection are not synonyms.
  • Dry fully before storage.
  • Inspect safety-critical parts and quick releases.
  • Stop using recalled or damaged equipment.

Follow the specific instructions

Material, electronics and construction determine what cleaning is safe.

Do not mix chemicals or assume boiling, bleach or alcohol is universally suitable.

Drying and storage

Moisture supports odour, corrosion and microbial growth.

Store clean, dry items away from heat, sunlight, pets and incompatible materials.

Inspection

Look for cracks, tears, exposed wire, corrosion, battery swelling, loose hardware and unreliable releases.

A cosmetic repair does not restore a safety-critical rating.

Recalls and disposal

Check product identifiers against regulator and manufacturer notices.

Render unsafe products unusable before disposal and protect personal data on connected devices.

Primary and authoritative sourcesOPSS: product safety adviceMHRA: medical devices for usersHSE: product safety