Quick answer

A silicone dildo can smell because of trapped body oils, bacterial residue, or absorption of strong scents from storage materials. Most odors are harmless and removable with a simple boil or baking soda soak. If the smell persists after deep cleaning, the silicone may have degraded, and it's safest to replace the toy.

What causes the smell?

Body-safe silicone is naturally non-porous and odorless when new. Over time, however, natural body oils, lubricant residues, and soap scum can cling to the surface. These organic residues can develop a mild, musky, or sometimes sour odor, especially if the toy isn't washed immediately after use. Storage in non-breathable bags or alongside other materials can also transfer smells.

How to remove odor from a silicone toy

Start by washing the toy with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. For persistent smells, boil the toy in a pot of water for 5–10 minutes — this kills bacteria and lifts residue without damaging 100% platinum silicone. Alternatively, soak the toy in a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water for 15–30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. A baking soda paste applied to the surface and left for an hour can also neutralize odors. Avoid using bleach, alcohol, or abrasive cleaners, as they can break down the silicone over time.

When the smell means something else

If your toy has a strong chemical or burnt plastic smell, that is not typical of body-safe silicone. This can indicate low-quality silicone or a material that has started to degrade. Similarly, a musty smell that returns immediately after cleaning may signal micro-cracks or mold inside the toy. In these cases, the safest option is to discard the toy and replace it with a certified 100% platinum silicone product.

Diagnosis: Is your silicone dildo smell normal or a red flag?

  • Symptom: Mild musky or soapy smell after use Likely body oils or lube residue. A warm wash with mild soap usually fixes it.
  • Likely cause: Organic residue trapped on the silicone surface Boil for 5–10 minutes or soak in vinegar-water to remove deeply embedded residue.
  • Corrective action: Deep clean using boiling water, baking soda paste, or vinegar soak After cleaning, the toy should be odorless. If not, proceed to the next step.
  • When to stop or choose another option: Smell returns immediately after cleaning, or has a chemical/burnt plastic scent The silicone may be degraded or counterfeit. Stop using the toy and replace it with a certified 100% platinum silicone product.

Product facts that matter

  • Mustang: Made out of our exclusive VixSkin® silicone, Mustang has a solid inner core and an outer silicone layer that feels like the real deal. VixSkin's dual-density construction uses a solid inner core and a soft outer layer. This design resists absorbing odors better than single-density toys because the outer silicone is smooth and less prone to trapping residue.
  • Medium Realistic Bent: The Vixen Creations Original Formula is SINGLE DENSITY 100% premium platinum silicone which by nature is: hypoallergenic, hygienic, phthalate free, boilable, and of course, durable. Original Formula toys are boilable, making deep cleaning easy. If you notice an odor, a quick boil is a safe and effective fix that won't damage the material.