What's the Best Material for Sex Toys?

So you finally decided you want to buy a sex toy - congratulations on making an excellent life choice! The only problem is that you’ve got a sea of options. There’s silicone, glass, metal, and materials with names you can hardly pronounce. How do you know which one is right for you?

We’ll help you cut through the confusion and share the deets on what really matters when it comes to sex toy materials - safety, sensation, and satisfaction.

These are body-safe materials that won’t leach chemicals or harbor bacteria. Medical-grade silicone is the gold standard for sex toys because it’s soft, flexible, warms to your body temperature, and is completely non-porous, meaning bacteria can’t penetrate the surface. It’s easy to clean and doesn’t harbor any microbes.

Glass might sound terrifying, but it’s actually a fantastic material. Glass sex toys are made of borosilicate glass (the same as Pyrex), which is incredibly strong and won't shatter into a million pieces. It's completely non-porous, hypoallergenic, and can be heated or cooled for temperature play. They’re also slick and firm, which gives unique sensations that softer materials can't match.

Stainless steel toys are weighty, smooth, and perfect for focused pressure (hello, G-spot and P-spot play). Like glass, they're temperature-responsive, non-porous, and easy to clean. They're practically indestructible, making them a good investment in your pleasure. The only downside is that it can be too hard or cold at first to touch.

ABS plastic (the hard plastic you'll find in many vibrators) is another safe bet. It's non-porous, affordable, and transmits vibrations exceptionally well. It doesn't have the same luxurious feel as silicone or the weight of metal, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank.

Now for the materials that should never, ever come near your sensitive bits. If it's made from these materials, walk away. Let’s start with the worst offender, "Jelly" rubber. This soft, squishy material often contains phthalates which are chemicals that have been linked to hormone disruption and other health complications. It's also extremely porous, meaning it can harbor bacteria, fungi, and viruses even after cleaning.

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is another material to avoid. Unless explicitly labeled "phthalate-free," PVC sex toys often contain softening chemicals that you really don't want leaching into your body. Like jelly rubber, it's porous and impossible to sanitize fully.

TPE/TPR (thermoplastic elastomer/rubber) falls into a gray zone. While it’s often marketed as "body-safe," these materials are still porous, so they can't be completely sterilized and should ideally be used with condoms if you're sharing toys or switching between different body openings. They're safer than jelly but not as safe as silicone.

Different materials can create different sensations. It’s important to find one that matches what you’re looking for. If you crave pressure and firm stimulation, glass and metal should be at the top of your list. Their weight and hardness make them perfect for G-spot or prostate play, where focused pressure often leads to intense sensations. They're also fantastic for temperature play—try running them under warm water or popping them in the fridge (not the freezer!) before use.

For those who prefer something with more give, silicone is your friend. From squishy-soft to quite firm, silicone toys come in various densities to suit different preferences. Dual-density silicone (firm core with a softer outer layer) provides a remarkably realistic feel if that's what you're after.

For vibrating toys, pay attention to what the vibrations travel through. ABS plastic transmits vibrations more intensely, while silicone tends to dampen them slightly but feels warmer and more comfortable against the skin. Many toys combine materials strategically—a silicone exterior for comfort with an ABS plastic core to maximize vibration strength.

When it comes to sex toys, you truly get what you pay for. Cheap materials might save you money, but they won't last long and could cause health issues. A high-quality silicone, glass, or metal toy might cost more initially, but it can last for years or even decades with proper care.

Just think about it: Would you rather spend $20 on a toy that smells weird, might contain harmful chemicals, and will fall apart after a few uses? Or invest $80+ in something body-safe that will reliably get you off for years to come? Skimping on quality isn't worth the risk when we're talking about items that go in or on your most sensitive body parts.

The best material is ultimately the one that feels best to you while keeping your body safe. Don't be afraid to experiment with different options as you discover your preferences. Finding your perfect toy should be just as fun as the destination.