Cleaning, Storage and Care

Build a simple cleaning routine

Cleaning is easier to keep up when it follows a fixed routine rather than a reminder. Keep the cleaning products the maker approves in one kit beside the robot, so nobody reaches for something harsher in a hurry. In its 2006 survey of chemical substances in intimate products, Survey No. 77, the Danish Environmental Protection Agency recommended cleaning such products before and after use, a habit that suits removable and washable parts in particular. Keep water away from electronics, seams and charging ports unless the maker says they are sealed, and clean removable parts separately from the main body. A short written checklist stored with the kit helps the routine survive busy weeks.

Drying, inspection and material care

Moisture left in folds, seams or removable parts can cause odours and damage, so let every part dry fully at room temperature before reassembly or storage. Avoid direct heat from heaters or hair dryers unless the maker allows it. During each clean, run your hands over seams and high-wear areas; stickiness, cloudiness or a smell that lingers can signal that a material is breaking down. The Danish survey found that plasticiser can make up as much as 70% of soft PVC materials, one reason to prefer makers who name the material and confirm compliance with chemical rules such as Commission Regulation (EU) 2018/2005 on phthalates. Never patch damage with household adhesives.

Charging and battery safety

Robotic models carry rechargeable batteries, and the London Fire Brigade's advice on batteries and chargers applies to them as much as to phones. It recommends always using the charger supplied with the device, not leaving items on charge once the charge cycle is complete, and never covering chargers or devices while they charge. It also warns against storing, using or charging batteries at very high or low temperatures, and against damage from crushing, puncturing or immersion in water. If a battery swells, stop charging and do not tamper with it. Buy replacement chargers only from the maker or a supplier you trust, since the Brigade warns that fakes are common.

Storage and discretion at home

Put the robot away only once it is fully dry, under a breathable cover and away from direct sunlight, radiators and damp rooms. If the maker supplies a stand or case, use it rather than leaning the body against furniture, which can leave pressure marks. Keep the robot, its charger and its cleaning products in a lockable cupboard or case that children and visitors cannot reach. For longer storage, follow the maker's advice on the battery's charge level, and check the robot every few weeks for dust, marks or moisture. A plain storage bag or box with no branding keeps things discreet if you share your home or have regular visitors.

Sources and further reading

• Survey and health assessment of chemical substances in sex toys (Survey No. 77, 2006) — Danish Environmental Protection Agency.
  Government chemical-safety survey of intimate products, covering plasticisers, phthalates and cleaning advice.
• Batteries and chargers — London Fire Brigade.
  Fire-service advice on charging and storing rechargeable batteries safely, and what to do if one swells.
• Commission Regulation (EU) 2018/2005 restricting phthalates under REACH — European Union (EUR-Lex).
  EU restriction on four phthalates (DEHP, DBP, BBP and DIBP) in plasticised materials in consumer articles.

Common questions

How should I dispose of an old companion robot?

Wipe stored data and unlink any accounts first, then take batteries and electronics to an electrical waste collection point rather than household rubbish. Ask the maker whether it runs a take-back scheme, and use opaque packaging for the journey if discretion matters to you.

When should worn parts be replaced?

There is no universal interval. Replace a part when inspection shows damage that cleaning cannot fix, such as tears, stickiness or a smell that persists after washing. Noting purchase and replacement dates helps you spot parts that wear faster than expected.