Whether you’re exploring solo pleasure or sharing intimacy with a partner, choosing the right sex toy starts with understanding what it’s made of. Materials affect not only how a toy feels, but also how safe, hygienic, and durable it is. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common materials used in male and female sex toys, and share essential tips for keeping them clean and body-safe.
Common Sex Toy Materials
| Material | Description & Feel | Pros | Cons | Cleaning Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone | Soft, flexible, skin-like | Non-porous, hypoallergenic, body-safe | Can attract lint, may degrade with silicone lube | Wash with warm water + mild soap; boil or sanitize if needed |
| TPE/TPR | Jelly-like, squishy | Realistic texture, affordable | Porous, can harbor bacteria, less durable | Use condom for safety; clean with toy cleaner and dry thoroughly |
| ABS Plastic | Hard, smooth surface | Non-porous, firm, inexpensive | Less flexible, can feel clinical | Wipe with damp cloth or toy cleaner |
| Glass (Borosilicate) | Smooth, firm, temperature-play friendly | Non-porous, elegant, easy to clean | Fragile if dropped | Wash with soap or boil; store safely |
| Stainless Steel | Heavy, ultra-smooth | Non-porous, durable, great for pressure | Expensive, cold to touch | Wash with soap or boil; polish if needed |
| Latex/Rubber | Stretchy, soft | Cheap, flexible | Porous, may cause allergies | Use condom; clean gently with soap |
| PVC | Soft, flexible | Affordable, varied textures | Often contains phthalates unless labeled “phthalate-free” | Use condom; clean with toy cleaner |
Note: Always check if a toy is labeled “body-safe” or “medical-grade.” Avoid toys with mystery materials or strong chemical smells.
Male-Oriented Toys
- Masturbators (e.g., sleeves, strokers): Often made from TPE or silicone for a realistic feel.
- Prostate massagers: Typically silicone or ABS plastic for firmness and hygiene.
- Cock rings: Silicone, rubber, or metal depending on desired flexibility and pressure.
Female-Oriented Toys
- Vibrators: Silicone or ABS plastic are most common for safety and sensation.
- Dildos: Silicone, glass, or metal for variety in texture and temperature play.
- Kegel balls: Usually silicone or metal for weight and hygiene.
Hygiene & Cleaning Tips
Keeping your toys clean isn’t just about longevity — it’s about protecting your health.
Before Use:
- Wash new toys before first use.
- Use water-based lube with silicone toys to avoid degradation.
- Consider using condoms on porous toys for added safety.
After Use:
- Wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap or a dedicated toy cleaner.
- For non-porous toys (silicone, glass, metal), you can boil them for 3–5 minutes or use a 10% bleach solution (rinse thoroughly).
- Dry completely before storing to prevent mold or bacteria growth.
- Store in a clean, dry place — ideally in a pouch or case to avoid dust and lint.
Avoid sharing porous toys unless covered with a condom. And never submerge battery-powered toys unless they’re waterproof.
