The difference between IPX ratings and how to care/cleaning your toy

Understanding IPX Ratings: What They Mean for Your Sex Toy and How to Clean It Safely

When it comes to choosing the right sex toy, features like shape, speed, and vibration strength are often top of mind — but there’s another spec that’s just as important: the IPX rating. Whether you use your vibrator in the shower or simply want to clean it thoroughly, knowing your toy’s water resistance level can help you protect your investment and keep your intimate moments safe and hygienic.

Let’s break down what IPX ratings really mean, and how they affect how you use, clean, and care for your toy — using the Celebrator, an IPX7-rated vibrator, as a prime example.

What Is an IPX Rating?

IPX ratings are part of the Ingress Protection (IP) code, a system used to define how well a device is protected from solids (like dust) and liquids (like water). When it comes to sex toys, we’re typically concerned with water resistance — which is where the X (indicating no dust rating) and the following number (indicating water protection) come into play.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common water-resistance ratings found in sex toys:

  • IPX0: No protection from water

  • IPX4: Splash-proof — safe for cleaning with a damp cloth or light rinse

  • IPX5: Water-resistant — can handle a low-pressure water stream

  • IPX6: More water-resistant — can handle strong jets of water

  • IPX7: Fully waterproof — can be submerged up to 1 meter (about 3 feet) for 30 minutes

  • IPX8: Advanced waterproof — can be submerged deeper or for longer (manufacturer-specific)

The Celebrator: An IPX7 Example

The Celebrator, a trusted favorite in personal vibrators, is rated IPX7 — meaning it’s fully waterproof. You can safely submerge it in water, making it ideal for shower or bath play, and especially convenient for thorough cleaning.

This rating gives users peace of mind. Whether you're rinsing it after a steamy session or incorporating it into your bath-time routine, the Celebrator can handle it — no fuss, no damage.

How to Clean Your Sex Toy Based on Its IPX Rating

Your cleaning routine should always align with the toy's water-resistance rating. Here's how to do it right:

For IPX0–IPX3 (Not Water-Resistant to Splash-Resistant):

  • Never submerge in water.

  • Use a soft, damp cloth or a toy-safe cleaning wipe.

  • Avoid running water directly over the device.

  • Be extra cautious around buttons and charging ports.

For IPX4–IPX6 (Water-Resistant):

  • Rinse gently under running water, avoiding heavy water pressure.

  • Use warm water and mild soap or a pH-balanced toy cleaner.

  • Dry thoroughly with a clean towel and let air-dry before storing.

For IPX7–IPX8:

  • Safe to fully submerge in warm water for cleaning.

  • Use mild, unscented soap or a dedicated toy cleanser.

  • Rinse thoroughly to remove all residue.

  • Pat dry with a lint-free towel and allow the toy to air dry completely before putting it away.

Storage Tips for Longer Toy Life

  • Always store your toy in a cool, dry place, ideally in a soft pouch or its original case.

  • Keep it away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and contact with other toys (especially silicone-on-silicone contact, which can degrade materials).

  • Make sure your toy is completely dry before storing it to prevent mold or bacterial growth.

Bottom Line

Understanding IPX ratings can help you make smarter choices when it comes to buying, using, and maintaining your sex toys. Whether you’re looking for a splash-proof vibrator or a fully waterproof device, knowing how to care for it properly ensures both sexual pleasure and hygienic safety every time you use it.

A little knowledge goes a long way — and in the world of sex toys, that means cleaner play, longer toy life, and a whole lot more satisfaction.

August 05, 2025
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