It is important to take good care of your sex doll. A well-cared-for doll can last for many years. Because TPE dolls are the most popular at the moment, this guide will be specifically for TPE sex dolls.
CLOTHING:
- Make sure you wash any clothing before putting them on your doll.
New, unwashed clothing have dyes that can stain your doll. Make sure you wash your doll’s clothing multiple times to remove any dyes from the fabric.
Note: All clothing is different. Some clothing can still stain your doll after being washed. It is best to test it on your doll for short periods of time or on a TPE sample.
2. Avoid dark-colored clothing
Dark-colored clothing can stain your doll even after it has been washed. It is best to avoid dark-colored clothing completely, but if it is necessary, limit the amount of time it is worn. Deep-colored clothing like solid red/blue can also potentially cause problems. Try testing the clothing on a piece of TPE or part of the doll (such as top of head) to see if it stains.
3. Avoid tight clothing
Avoid tight clothing because it can leave indents and markings on your doll. If it is necessary, limit the amount of time it is worn.
LUBRICANT:
Water-based lubricant is the most recommended and safest lubricant to use for intercourse with your doll. Oil-based lubes may cause damage to the material, and silicone lubricants should be avoided completely.
Some doll owners recommend using Vaseline and mineral oil as lubricants. Vaseline can be a good lubricant because mold and bacteria cannot grow in pure petroleum jelly. Many doll owners swear by it, although it is not officially recommended by doll manufacturers. Water-based lubricant is the safest lube for TPE dolls.
CLEANING:
TPE dolls are fairly easy to clean but because they are porous, they cannot be sterilized. They can be cleaned with diluted antibacterial/mild soap and water or sex toy cleaners.
Avoid: Bleach, rubbing alcohol, boiling water, and dishwasher. Alcohol, bleach, or dish soap will break down the material.
If your doll is just a little dirty, she can be wiped with a wet microfiber cloth. Avoid scrubbing as that can damage the doll.
If your doll has a removable vagina, take it out and clean it after each use. For built-in vaginas, you can use a cleaning douche (vaginal irrigator), squirt bottle, or showerhead to clean inside with soapy water and drain the water out. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and fully dry afterwards.
REMOVING STAINS:
Because TPE material is porous, it can easily get stained from colored clothing or surfaces. Most stains will eventually dissipate on their own, but it is recommended to try removing stains as soon as they appear. Most doll brands offer a Stain Remover cream or solution. It’s best to order from the the specific brand.
If you do not have the doll brand’s Stain Remover cream, there are a few homemade solutions to removing stains:
1. Mineral oil massages can work for minor stains and Vaseline/Petroleum has helped some people remove deeper stains.
2. Many people had success with Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Cream (such as Oxy10 Acne Cleanser) to remove stains. Let the cream sit on stained areas for a few hours (12-24 hrs) and then clean it off. I have also heard of people using hydrogen peroxide toothpaste as an alternative. Note: There has been reports that Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Cream stains SM Dolls, but no reports on any other brands. Remember that these should be used at your own risk.
Some desperate doll owners had success with odorless Painter’s Solvent or Mineral Spirits at removing the toughest stains. However, I really don’t recommend this method as it can potentially damage your doll.
DRYING:
After cleaning your doll, you MUST make sure it is thoroughly dry to prevent mold formation.
Pat dry with a microfiber cloth or soft towel. Allow it to air dry or place a fan (do not use a hairdryer) in front of any wet cavities such as mouth, vagina, and anus. Leave these areas open/exposed until it is fully dry. (You can use a pen to keep the mouth open)
Many people recommend using an aquarium air pump or electric air pump to dry orifices, which is a good idea. Because of the TPE material, more time and effort is required to fully dry it. It can take a few hours to fully dry. Some people also use tampons to dry the orifices or rolled up paper towels (which is cheaper than tampons).
Failure to fully dry your doll’s wet cavities can lead to mold formation and health hazards.
Tip: To avoid having to wash and dry the doll, many people use reusable female condoms which does not lead to mold growth.
STORAGE:
Store your doll in a cool, dry, and dark area. Try to avoid hard surfaces as it can flatten the doll, and avoid any surfaces with colors that can stain your doll. It’s best to have your doll in a neutral, straight position where none of the joints are bent.
For short-term storage, it is recommended to lay the doll on a memory foam surface such as the memory foam blocks that come with the doll. It is best not to leave the doll in 1 position too long. Changing her position or moving her around every so often will prevent flattening.
Take the Removable Vagina out while storing the doll.
For long term storage, some people remove the head and hang their doll with a hook from the manufacturer.
Some doll owners stand their dolls (if it has Standing Feet) and lean them against a cushioned wall for storage. Personally, I don’t think this is a good method for long-term storage because it can weaken your doll’s knee joints. However, some doll owners have had no problems storing their dolls this way. It should be fine for short-term storage.
MAINTENANCE:
It is recommended to oil and powder your doll to extend your doll’s lifespan. However, please do this carefully and don’t overdo it.
If you notice your doll is not as supple, you can apply some mineral oil. The general process is to first clean the doll and wait for it to dry. After the doll is fully dry, massage on the oil. After the oil is fully absorbed, powder the doll with corn starch or baby powder. (Corn starch is not recommended if you live in humid environments or for long-term storage)
Depending on how much you use your doll, some people recommend powdering at least once a month, and oiling every few months.
Why oil and powder your doll? TPE material naturally leaks oil over time and oiling your doll will help replenish that natural oil. TPE material can also get sticky over time, especially after washing it, so powdering helps smooth the skin and prevents your doll from becoming a dust magnet.
Note: Certain brands may be different. Doll-Forever/PiperDoll (and newer DH168 dolls) do not require oiling (for at least the first few months). 6YE also supposedly does not require oiling anymore.
Looking for even more care instructions?
Here is an in-depth guide from a trustworthy vendor: SiliconeLovers Care Guide
I recently bought a doll from a pal after he upgraded. Very pleased with her except for one thing – my pal’s lube of choice is Deb Swarfega which has left her orifices absolutely reeking of the stuff. Any tips for removing a persistent smell? Thanks, Terry
Does anyone know if it’s possible to remove scuffs from the skin on TPE dolls the stand I use to stop her from falling over as left these scuffs between her legs any help would be appreciated
Doll’s body is getting white powdery looking dry areas on it. How do I get rid of these?
Hi I have a doll on the way and I know it’s recommended to clean the orifices after each use but I live with my sister and I’d rather her not see me carrying a sex doll to the bathroom lol, is there any easy way to clean it in the bedroom where I plan to keep her? And also what is the longest she can be lubed down there without mold growing? For example if I use her multiple times in a day can I just clean her before bed or will mold have begun to form in the previous 8-10 hours since that morning? Thanks for any advice!
Hi Brandon,
I’ve never liked the idea of hiding a sex doll (since it can cause anxiety), but it’s up to you. I assume you have a doll with a built-in vagina. Cleaning the vagina usually involves douching out the vagina and then drying it. You might be able to do it in your room with a bucket but it could make a mess. This would involve sitting your doll safely (with padding) on a bucket and rinsing out the orifices, and then fully drying her.
I don’t recommend leaving lube in your doll all day. That will lead to mold growth. You should really clean the orifice after each use; it’s not worth the risk. If cleaning is too much hassle, you could look into female condoms (preferably nitrile or polyurethane). They can easily be washed and reused without having to clean the doll. Just make sure you wash all the stuff off the femdom the first time you open it. This search might help: https://www.google.com/search?q=dollforum+female+condom
Use a douche-like bottle to squeeze water and 3% peroxide inside and purchase a diamtaceaous earth drying rod. You can also use tampons to soak up internal fluids
Hi,
I just bought a torso doll a few days ago. When I took it out of the box it was so oily and sticky so I did a light wash down with a soft damp cloth and pat dried it. I let it fully dry and lightly applied baby powder with a make up brush. I waited a while then stored it in a cool dark area. The next day I checked on it and it was all sticky again.
Hi Tommy,
Different brands have different blends of TPE so the oiling and powdering process can differ. Are you sure the doll was fully dried after washing? It can take a few hours; some people even wait 24 hours. I would suggest using more powder and see if that helps.
New TPE dolls will leak some oil, but if it leaks a lot and continues to be sticky, it might be a low quality blend of TPE.
What other solutions to use to clean stain on doll
Hi Vxinn,
The most popular methods for TPE stain removal are mentioned in the post, such as oil massages and the acne cream (benzoyl peroxide). You can also try stain removal cream from the doll brand, baking soda, or Arm-and-Hammer toothpaste. That’s all I can think of right now.
BEWARE that corn starch and such is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and such. Especially if it is humid. (Like when it gets colder.)
Hi Barefoot,
That is true. Although many people use corn starch without issues, humid environments can cause bacteria and fungus to grow on it. It’s not recommended to use corn starch on a doll for long term storage. I will update this post later. Thanks.
where does the heater go
Hi Jim,
What heater are you referring to? Some dolls come with a usb heater to heat up the vagina.
Out of curiosity, would it be safe, and perhaps wise, to leave a thin coating of petroleum jelly in all the orifices as a long term mold preventative measure? Or should any petroleum jelly be removed with a thorough washing and drying?
Hi Tabol & Grey,
It is ok to use petroleum jelly every now and then as it does inhibit mold growth. However, it should be used sparingly and not long-term. Petroleum jelly, as well as baby oil, can break down TPE over time. The purpose of oiling the doll is to replenish the natural TPE oil, but too much actually weakens the TPE overtime. Petroleum jelly has the same effect. Different brands have different TPE blends so results vary. Some people had no problems with Vasaline long-term while others had their dolls damaged by it. The safest practice is to use petroleum jelly sparingly, at most a few times a year, and not to store a doll long-term with it on.
Thank you for responding! Much appreciated.
Hey what sort of mineral oil should I use? Could I maybe get a link if it’s not to much trouble?
Any mineral oil or baby oil with no other ingredients is good. Fragrance is fine but preferably just mineral oil with no other ingredients.
May be a stupid question,I don’t know. In your opnion, is kimberdoll better quality than DXES?
Hi Tracey,
I don’t know much about DXES other than what Ricky from TheDollChannel has said about them. According to Ricky, DXES are very good quality. However, they have a goose neck and wire wrists to reduce the cost. I believe KimberDoll has hinged neck and wrists, and is probably better quality and a better deal overall.
I’m wondering why people recommend using odorless paint thinner to clean stains. Isn’t this harmful to dolls skin? Then again wouldn’t it leave a residue that if you breathe in while using the doll. Would harm you. I’m using cream now. Any advice on what I’m saying here, not to be judgemental.
Hello Scott,
You are right. Odorless paint thinner should be used as a last resort when nothing else works, and is usually not recommended. I should make it more clear. This guide is a bit old. I will update it when I have time. Thanks.
How do you deal with a small amount of mold on the doll?
Hello there,
I’m sorry to hear there is some mold on your TPE doll. Mold is tricky and it is best to prevent it from happening in the first place by making sure all cavities of the doll is fully dry after use or washing. I have not personally had to deal with mold, but I recommend using either white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, or bleach. Be careful especially with bleach because it can damage the material.
Here is a passage from a doll expert regarding mold and bleach:
“1) If the doll has an insert, never leave it inside the vaginal cavity. Always
remove it after use and do not re-insert it until the next use (playtime)
otherwise dark mold will form inside the cavity and around the outside of
the insert from moisture and because TPE material (insert) is pressing
against TPE material (vaginal cavity). Whether there is an insert or not,
clean and dry inside vaginal cavity and leave a piece of paper towel rolled
up like a cigarette between vaginal lips to let air flow inside. This will
prevent dark mold from forming inside vaginal cavity. Flush and clean out
vaginal insert, turn it completely inside out to pat dry with towel then back
to right side in and do not re-insert inside vaginal cavity until next play
time.
2) If mouth is used in any way that causes moisture inside, always clean
thoroughly, dry inside mouth and leave a piece of paper towel rolled up like
a cigarette between lips to let air flow inside. This will prevent dark mold
from forming inside mouth cavity and lips.
3) If dark mold spots form anywhere (usually inside mouth or vaginal
cavities) soak 4 stacked sheets of paper towels in straight bleach (not too
soaked so as to be streaming bleach everywhere), roll them up and stuff
inside mouth or vaginal cavity so soaked towel roll is pressed against mold
areas. If on body, lay flat on mold areas with a little weight on the towel to
press against mold area. Leave for at least 5 hours. Mold should be gone,
then flush with water repeatedly. If still a little mold, repeat for another 2-3
hours. Then flush with water.”
Maybe some of these results will help: https://www.google.com/search?q=dollforum+mold&oq=dollforum+mold