A Guide to Sex Toy Materials: What’s Safe and What to Avoid
dandadannie
Jan 30, 2025
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The Gold Standard
Agreed upon by many, silicone has become the most recommended material for sex toys—and for good reason. Medical-grade silicone is non-porous, phthalate-free, and can be easily sterilized, making it safe for body use. Soft, flexible, and often realistic in feel, this material adds to comfort during use. Silicone toys may be enjoyed with water-based lubricants, but avoid oil-based, as those degrade the material. Always opt for good quality silicone products, which will have a longer life and lesser chances of hosting bacteria.
What Are Phthalates?
Phthalates are a group of synthetic chemicals commonly used to make plastics more flexible and durable, often found in products like toys, food packaging, and personal care items. They can be harmful because they may disrupt endocrine function, potentially leading to reproductive and developmental issues, hormonal imbalances, and other health problems, especially in children and pregnant women. As they can leach into food and the environment, reducing exposure to phthalates is recommended for better health.
And, Why Go for Non-Porous Materials?
Well, porous surfaces can trap bacteria, making them risky to share unless you properly clean them first. Alright, now that you're up to speed, let’s dive into what's next!
Beauty and Safety: Glass
In terms of aesthetics and safety, glass sex toys can be an excellent option for vaginal and anal play. Made from borosilicate glass, these toys are completely safe for the body since they are phthalate-free and non-porous. The unique feature about glass is temperature change; you can warm the glass under warm water or cool it in the fridge to get a variety of sensations. Like silicone, glass is easy to clean and sanitize, so it's a hygienic material. Users just have to be careful with glass toys not to break them.
Stainless Steel: Strength and Style
Stainless steel has become popular in the sex toy marketplace for its sleek, modern appearance and robust durability. Like glass and silicone, stainless steel is non-porous and phthalate-free, making it perfectly safe to use on the body. Not only can you enjoy the same kind of temperature play as with glass, but these toys are cleanable to the point of withstanding boiling for sterilization. The extra weight of stainless steel toys offers another dimension of feeling and is especially attractive to many users.
The Affordable Alternative: ABS Plastic
Not as luxurious as silicone or glass, ABS plastic is another common material used in sex toys. Here are the key points:
Strong and non-porous material.
Another phthalate-free material, making it body-safe.
Often found in cheaper toys.
May not last as long as silicone or glass.
Oil-based lubricants can damage ABS plastic; stick to water-based options.
While ABS plastic is a viable option for some, users should be mindful of its limitations.
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) and Rubber
While TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) and rubber are popular materials due to their affordability and soft, stretchy feel, caution is advised here. TPE is porous, and many rubber toys contain phthalates, which can be harmful to health. If you’re considering toys made from these materials, ensure they are labeled as phthalate-free and understand that cleanliness is paramount to avoid infections.
Avoiding PVC
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is often used in cheap, novelty sex toys; however, it is typically best avoided. PVC can contain phthalates and other harmful chemicals that can leach into the body. Additionally, it is porous, making it difficult to clean properly and increasing the risk of bacterial growth. If you’re committed to safe and healthy sexual experiences, opt for toys made from more reliable materials.
Allergies, allergies, allergies!
Another common material used in sex toys is latex, especially in the manufacture of condoms. Whereas some people love the feel of latex, one must always keep in mind that it causes quite frequent allergies. In such a case, if you or your partner are allergic to latex, try alternatives like silicone or polyurethane. People with no allergy can definitely enjoy latex toys; just make sure to use water-based and silicone-based lubricants to prevent them from deteriorating.
Sex Toy Care and Maintenance
Taking good care of your sex toys and keeping them clean is as important as the materials they are made from. Always wash your toys before and after each use using warm water and mild, unscented soap or a designated toy cleaner. In many cases, silicone, glass, and stainless steel toys can be boiled for sterilization; however, porous materials such as TPE and rubber require a more delicate cleaning process to fight bacteria growth. Also, store toys in a cool dry place, preferably in one pouch or container to prevent breakage or contamination.
Making Informed Choices
Knowing what materials are used in sex toys, one is able to make decisions that will enhance both pleasure and safety. Look for products made from body-safe materials, like silicone, glass, or stainless steel, while avoiding PVC or porous plastics unless the item is labeled as containing phthalates-free formulas. Remember to properly hygiene the toys to make the experiences safe and enjoyable.
Empower yourself with knowledge by going to toychats.com for in-depth reviews and guides on how to choose and take care of your sex toys, guaranteed to give you a much safer and more pleasurable experience!
