Clean, dry and store products properly

The complete product determines the cleaning method

Material is important, but so are motors, seams, charging ports and coatings. Follow the manufacturer's instructions first. Many intact nonporous products can be washed with warm water and mild, unscented soap, but a splash-resistant motorized product should not be submerged simply because part of its surface is silicone.

Avoid assuming that boiling, dishwashers, bleach or alcohol are appropriate. Those methods can damage electronics, adhesives, finishes and some materials even when a simple object made from the same base material might tolerate more intensive cleaning.

Drying and storage are part of cleaning

Rinse away cleaner or soap residue, pat the product with a clean lint-free cloth and let it air-dry completely before closing it in a case. Moisture left around seams or charging contacts can create odor, corrosion or material damage. Store products separately when materials could touch, particularly soft elastomer products whose exact composition is unclear.

Inspect before reuse

Look for cracks, peeling surfaces, permanent tackiness, swelling, sharp edges, damaged cords or a battery that is heating or expanding. Stop using a product whose surface or electronics have changed in a way the manufacturer does not describe as normal. Rechargeable products usually benefit from periodic charging and storage away from extreme heat, but follow the supplied battery guidance when it is more specific.