Would you be shocked to know that there are ZERO regulations on sex toys? For decades, toys were made mostly of “jelly”—that translucent, soft, sticky stuff that screams “dirty sex toy.” Even today, I bet when the average person thinks of a dildo or vibrator, they think of rubber or jelly.
Well, guess what? Jelly contained phthalates, and phthalates have been known to cause cancer, birth defects, and all sorts of allergies. Definitely not something that I wanna put in my vagina! Due to public outrage brought about by a retailer named Smitten Kitten and some very brave souls, most companies, even those still making jelly, claim to be phthalate-free. But hey, the package hasn’t changed since the ’80s, the design is the same—are we really to believe that millions of toys were just thrown away without any legal obligation?
That’s why we need body-safe toys and companies we can trust (check out www.dildology.org for more info on testing). My best friend Isla and I have compiled a list of basic sex toy materials—their characteristics, how safe they are, and how to keep them as safe as possible through specific care and cleaning.
Silicone
Materials and Properties Silicone is a man-made material with a tight molecular structure and is composed of semi-organic polymer. Even though silicone toys are generally in a higher price range, there are a variety of reasons why they remain a popular choice. Silicone toys are usually of high quality and durable, and come in a variety of textures and colors. The material is pliable and varies in density from soft to hard, depending on the silicone mix used by the manufacturer. Silicone is known to maintain a strong vibration but not as well as plastic, so occasionally toys, like the Je Joue MiMi, are made of plastic with a silicone covering.
It is the favored material for sex toys because not only does it feel great (some companies like Vixen have lines like Vixskin that truly feel more like the real thing than I thought possible) but it is superior when it comes to body safety.
Because pure medical-grade silicone is 100% impermeable, it doesn’t absorb STIs, bacteria (fecal matter, for example, can cause UTIs), or fungus (yeast infections/jock itch). It is, however, a lint/dirt/hair magnet, but as long as you clean your toys properly—before and after users and/or orifices—silicone is safe to share.
Silicone toys are a good choice for those who don’t want to use condoms or are concerned about negative reactions to other materials or scents since it is phthalate-free, latex-free, and hypoallergenic.
Pure Silicone? I think that it’s very important to mention that a silicone blend should not be considered a silicone toy. Once you add any other material, you not only lose the 10/10 safety rating but toys made of blends are actually less safe than either material alone because they are quite porous. To test if your item is pure silicone, a flame test is 99% effective. Simply attempt to light a portion of the toy on fire with an open flame. It should not melt and definitely should not catch fire. All that should happen is a little leftover ash residue and perhaps a change in color as the dye evaporates. If you have a toy advertised as silicone and not a blend and the flame test fails, you should have no trouble getting a refund.
Cleaning and Storing To clean your silicone sex toys, simply wash with antibacterial soap and water or preferably sterilize for 5–10 minutes in boiling water, as long as the toy does not contain a motor. You can also use a 10% bleach and water solution or, better yet, 10% peroxide, as it kills any possible herpes virus present on contact. I like to add a few drops of tea tree and eucalyptus essential oils to my cleaning solution or commercial toy cleaner because it renders the solution antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral!
Silicone may be heated in hot water before use. Silicone is dishwasher safe, once again, providing that it does not contain electrical components as found in vibrators with attached motors. If you do not sterilize between uses, make sure that you use a condom. Non-lubricated condoms are best for use with silicone. DO NOT use silicone lubes; it will break down the material. This also applies to lubricated condoms.
Store separate from any other silicone toys or products of any sort, as the bonding nature is such that you may find dyes transferred from one toy to another or dents or tackiness to the surface. If your toy does not come with storage, you can always use a Ziploc bag or, in a pinch, even a sock works great. Personally, I like those cheap mesh bags from the dollar store.
There are some companies of toys and lube that can be exceptions to the no-contact rule. If a company claims that their product can touch other silicone, make sure you do a safety test on a small patch of the toy that isn’t inserted or generally comes into contact with your body.
It is a tried-and-true fact that silicone toys manufactured by Tantus are safe to touch other Tantus toys, but this is not the same with all manufacturers.
Lube compatibility: water or oil-based only (stick with water) If you must use a silicone or hybrid lube, always do a patch test. Examples: Jopen and Jimmyjane, Leaf, Minna Life, Lelo, and Fun Factory. Most luxury toys are silicone.
Rubber/Latex
Texture and Properties Rubber toys are made of an elastic hydrocarbon polymer found in the sap of plants but can also be man-made. Rubber comes in a variety of textures and colors. They are firmer than silicone and consequently are considered by many to feel less realistic. Nonetheless, they remain popular for their lower cost and lack the stronger scent associated with Jelly, although many (particularly Doc Johnson) can also smell. Rubber is generally less durable than silicone but remains wear-resistant and with proper care can be long-lasting. Rubber has a 7/10 safety rating, and Latex has a high allergy rate.
Cleaning and Storage Unlike Silicone, rubber is porous, so if you intend to share it with others or use it between both orifices, be sure to use a condom. Because it is hard to keep clean, you may wish to consider using a condom for every use, and it will likely extend its life. Use soap and water only and store away from extreme heat. Lube compatibility: all lubes Examples: Doc Johnson and Basix Rubberworx.
ABS Plastic
Materials and Properties Plastic is a hard and inflexible man-made petroleum product, but depending on the user, that’s not always a bad thing, especially since it carries vibrations very well (unlike Jelly or Silicone which absorbs it). It’s also quite inexpensive. Consequently, it’s a very popular material for both internal and external vibrators.
Food-grade plastic carries a safety rating of approximately 8/10. It is considered generally non-porous but not 100% so. I prefer the feel of “velvet cote” plastic, as it’s so smooth that you probably won’t even need lubrication. One awesome thing about plastic is that it’s compatible with ALL types of lube—if you prefer silicone lube, then plastic is a great choice. Often plastic toys (such as the We-vibe Salsa/Tango or Bswish Bcurious) have tiny silicone buttons which can deteriorate with silicone lube use.
Plastic is more popular for clit teasers and vibrators rather than for thrusting toys since it transmits vibrations so well but is fairly hard and not flexible at all. It’s quite easy to clean too. The long, slim, pointy “traditional” vibrator is generally plastic.
Cleaning and Storage Cleaning plastic is simple and may be achieved using antibacterial soap and water, or sex toy sanitizer (rubbing alcohol is a cheaper alternative for use with plastic toys). DO NOT submerge vibrators in water as they are typically not waterproof (it will say on the packaging whether it is waterproof or not). Using a washcloth is best. 10% bleach or peroxide is also an alternative. Plastic can be stored virtually anywhere as long as it’s away from direct or intense heat. Lube compatibility: all lubes Examples: some Pipedream and Cal ex lines and many traditional battery-operated vibes.
Jelly (or Nasty Crap You Should NEVER Buy)
Materials and Properties Jelly toys, which are made with polyvinyl chloride, are low-cost and come in a wide variety. Jelly is flexible and rubbery, so it feels more realistic than hard toys. It is sticky, however, which may be unpleasant to the touch and attracts dirt. Since 2005, jelly toys have become less and less popular as the truth about phthalates became wider known. Basically, phthalates are chemicals in plasticizers that are part of the makeup of the jelly material itself and have been found to be carcinogenic (cancer-causing) and definitely can cause allergic reactions and even birth defects. Disgusting stuff—why even bother? I avoid jelly wherever possible, but occasionally a toy (like the Cal Ex Magic Dancer) surprises me, and in these cases, I am absolutely sure to use a condom. Jelly has a 2/10 safety rating; not only can it be toxic, but it is also a sponge and will pick up any number of things which can result in very unhappy genitalia.
Cleaning and Storage To clean, thoroughly rinse with soapy water. DO NOT use boiling water. Jelly is extremely porous so always use a condom with the toy, especially if sharing. Jelly may cause irritation in some users. If you already own a jelly toy, at least store it in a dark, dry place as heat can cause deterioration which releases these toxic chemicals. Lube compatibility: water-based only Examples: Cal Ex and Doc Johnson that is not otherwise labeled and generally tinted but see-through.
Nu-Skin/Cyberskin/Ultra Skin (aka – Ultra realistic 3.0 (UR3), Pure skin, Realskin, Trueskin)
Materials and Properties Nu-Skin is made of a thermal plastic elastomer (silicone and PVC). It is gaining in popularity due to its realistic feel (and typically realistic look), but it comes at a high cost. It only has a safety rating of 3-5. Nu-Skin is soft with a little give and flexibility, mimicking real skin.
Cleaning and Storage Although it is not sticky to the touch, Nu-skin is known for attracting dust and lint, so it is very important that the toys are kept clean. To clean, simply follow the instructions provided with the product, or if in doubt, use a mild antibacterial soap and water. Dusting with cornstarch after use helps to prevent the toy from becoming sticky and protects the material. DO NOT try substitutes such as talc, which has been linked to cervical cancer. DO NOT boil. It is quite porous, so it is a good idea to always use with a condom, especially when using internally or if a penetratable men’s toy. Clean well and do not share. Perhaps even try not to get ejaculate on the material itself and cum elsewhere. Before the first use, clean thoroughly since Nu-Skin is covered in a protective powder. Store in a dark, cool place. Lube compatibility: water-based only Examples: Pipedream Extreme and many “pocket pussies.”
Glass (a.k.a. E-glass, borosilicate glass, Pyrex)
Materials and Properties Glass is a man-made inorganic material that may be a more cost-effective alternative to silicone. These toys are generally aesthetically pleasing and often clear, revealing internal design. These materials are 100% non-porous and with all of the hygienic characteristics of silicone have a 10/10 safety rating. It retains temperatures, so for fun, try running it under warm water or putting it in the freezer before use.
The material is hard and smooth, creating a pleasant slick sensation, but can also come in many surface textures such as bumps, ridges, and swirls.
Cleaning and Storage Glass makes for easy cleaning due to its impermeability. Clean properly between orifices and/or users, and it is safe to share. Simply clean with antibacterial soap and water. You can boil glass or even clean it in your dishwasher. It’s highly unlikely that borosilicate will break; however, if dropped, cracks may appear in the glass, so make sure that you examine it before use. Warm in hot, not boiling, water. Lube compatibility: all lubes Examples: Pipedream Icicles, Don Wands, and Fucking Sculptures.
Acrylic
Materials and Properties Acrylic toys simulate glass and are made of molded thermoplastic—the synthetic polymer of methyl methacrylate. They are non-porous, phthalate-free, hard, smooth, retain heat, and are durable. 9/10 safety rating.
Acrylic body piercing jewelry has been known to be an allergen inducer and can be brittle and absorb via tiny pores and fissures.
Cleaning and Storage Clean with soap and water. Warm in hot, not boiling, water. Condoms are only necessary if sharing. Unlike glass, acrylic will not shatter, but it may crack or show scratches. Lube compatibility: all lubes
Ceramic
Materials and Properties Ceramic is made from heating kaolinite clay at high temperatures and refining it. It is non-porous, highly durable and hard, smooth, phthalate-free, and may be heated or cooled. Like Steel, Glass, and Silicone, it is considered body-safe, though just slightly less impermeable than the rest.
There is a line of toys by Pipedream in which you can fill the shaft with warm or cold water for temperature play.
So far, the ceramic vibrators that I have tested carry vibrations far less so than that of other materials, but that may be simply due to the brands themselves and weaker motors as there are very few ceramic vibe lines. 9/10 safety rating.
Cleaning and Storage Clean with soap and water, and leave to dry, making sure that no residue remains on the toy. Do not boil or use anything abrasive on this material. Use condoms if sharing.
Store pretty much anywhere, but be careful not to drop as they are much, much more fragile than Pyrex toys. Lube compatibility: all lubes Examples: Pipedream Ceramix and Lovemoiselle.
Non-Porous TPR
Materials and Properties Non-porous TPR is medical-grade thermoplastic rubber. It is phthalate-free, somewhat non-porous, smooth, and firm-soft. Often men’s toys are made of TPR because it can be soft enough for pleasurable friction yet has more longevity than Nuskin, etc. 7/10 safety rating.
Cleaning and Storage Clean with soap and water. Do not boil, but warm water may be used to affect the temperature of the toy. Always use condoms for anal penetration or sharing. Use cornstarch but not talc to dry TPR like Fleshlights—it will absorb the water, pat toy dry, then apply powder. Lube: all unless TPR is a blend with silicone, then water-based only. Examples: Fleshlights and Doc Johnson Realistics.
Vixskin
Vixskin is dual-density silicone—the most realistic safe material available today for inserts. Care for it exactly like normal silicone.
Vixskin is made by Vixen. 10/10.
Elastomer
Steel
Materials and Properties Steel is the other 100% body-safe material as it is completely non-porous, but the rating relies on an absence of nickel which can cause allergies.
Steel is great for temperature play, both hot and cold, and is quite heavy and of course rock-hard and generally smooth unless intentionally textured. 10/10 safety rating.
Cleaning Steel is easy to clean—any method will do, including boiling or your dishwasher for sterilization. Keep dry and store anywhere. Lube compatibility: all lubes Brands: Njoy and Pipedream Metalworx.
Aluminum
I’m up in the air about aluminum toys. I know that aluminum jewelry is not good for us—in fact, it can make us sick—so I’m not sure about the safety of aluminum sex toys. I think it’s more of an energy thing, though, as it is considered to be body-safe and is non-porous.
Wood
Materials and Properties Wood depends on two main things—type and finish. As long as it’s an appropriate hardwood and properly sealed, it can be non-porous but must be kept dry and at room temperature. Contrary to what you may think, you will not get a splinter as long as the toy is well-made. 9/10 safety rating. It’s firm and hard and a little warmer than Steel or Glass.
Cleaning Do not soak wooden toys but rather wipe down with antibacterial soaps and water. Must be kept dry and at room temperature. Lube compatibility: all lubes Examples: Nob Essence.
Leather
Leather is not for insertables—always use a condom as it is quite porous. Usually it will be calf or pigskin—calf is softer. Generally, leather is quite durable, and high-quality leather goods such as collars, cuffs, and harnesses (plus a multitude of other BDSM items) come with a lifetime guarantee—they are out there, so if your item is costly, make sure you are getting a warranty (try Aslan or Sinvention).