Quick answer
Clean your glass anal plug immediately after use with warm water and mild soap, then sterilize it by boiling or using a 10% bleach solution. Always dry it completely before storing it in a soft pouch or separate compartment.
Why glass plugs need special care
Borosilicate glass, like the kind used in quality plugs, is non-porous and body-safe. That means it resists staining and won't harbor bacteria the way silicone or jelly toys can. But it's still a sex toy that goes inside your body, so cleaning it thoroughly after every use is non-negotiable. The good news: glass is one of the easiest materials to sterilize. The catch? It's breakable if dropped, so handle it with care during washing and storage.
When to clean vs. when to sterilize
A quick wash with soap and water is enough after each solo session. But if you're sharing the toy with a partner, switching from anal to vaginal use, or storing it for a long period, go the extra step and sterilize it. Boiling or a bleach dip will kill any lingering germs. Because glass can handle high heat, you have more options than with electronic or porous toys.
How to clean and care for your glass anal plug
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Step 1: Rinse immediately after use: Hold the plug under warm running water to remove any lubricant and residue. Don't use hot water yet — a sudden temperature change could shock the glass. Warm is just right. A common mistake is letting the toy sit before cleaning. Lube and residue dry on, making the job harder.
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Step 2: Wash with mild soap: Apply a small amount of mild, unscented soap to the plug. Use your hands or a soft cloth to gently scrub the entire surface, including the base and any textured areas. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Avoid antibacterial soaps with triclosan — they can be harsh on your skin and aren't needed for glass.
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Step 3: Sanitize or sterilize (optional but recommended): For a deeper clean, either boil the plug for 5-10 minutes in a pot of water (place it on a cloth to prevent clinking) or soak it in a 10% bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) for 3-5 minutes. Rinse extremely well afterward. Never boil a plug that has electronics or batteries. The Icicles No. 83 is a vibrating glass plug, so skip boiling and use the bleach method instead.
Icicles No. 83
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Step 4: Dry completely: Pat the plug dry with a clean, lint-free cloth or paper towel. Let it air-dry on a clean towel for a few minutes to ensure no moisture remains. Moisture trapped in a storage bag can lead to mold or mildew. Make sure it's bone-dry before putting it away.
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Step 5: Store safely: Place your glass plug in a soft pouch, a dedicated toy bag, or a separate compartment away from other toys. If storing multiple plugs, wrap each one in a soft cloth or use the original packaging to prevent scratches or chips. Never toss glass plugs loose in a drawer with metal or silicone toys — hard contact can cause micro-fractures.
Products that make care easier
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Booty Sparks Glow-in-the-Dark Glass Anal Plug Small: Made with smooth and durable borosilicate glass to provide a hard and satisfying mass. Borosilicate glass is non-porous and heat-resistant, so it can be boiled for sterilization without damage.
Booty Sparks Glow-in-the-Dark Glass Anal Plug Small
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b-Vibe 4-Piece Anal Dilators Glass Plug Set: Crafted from special borosilicate glass that's 100% shatterproof. Shatterproof glass means you can boil or bleach-clean the plugs confidently without worrying about cracks.
