Sex toy materials have evolved over time, with new and exciting materials being introduced every day. There are tons of different types of sex toy materials on the market, each with its own unique properties that can help you enjoy your experience even more. One thing to keep in mind is that they might not be safe to use if you're allergic to a certain material, so make sure to do your research before buying anything.
The material most commonly used in sex toys is silicone because it's easy to clean and doesn't contain any harmful chemicals or toxins. It's also hypoallergenic, non-porous, and phthalate free - three factors that make it an excellent choice for people with sensitive skin or allergies.
Think About Different Sex Toy Materials
An important thing you have to do is ensure that product you are using is designed with body-safe material. And everything that is phthalate-free and non-porous must do a trick. The common materials used are non-toxic and simple to clean and they are:
- Medical-grade silicone
- Porcelain
- Stainless steel
- Glass
Some sex toys come with ingredients not safe for your body, including:
- Polystyrene
- PVC
- Polyethylene
- Latex
Body-Safe Materials
Body-safe sex toy materials include silicone, stainless steel, glass, hard plastic (like ABS), Cyberskin®, TPE/TPR blends, wood and stone. Here's a rundown of the different types you're likely to encounter:
Silicone
Silicone is one of the most popular and safest options for sex toys. It's non-porous so it won't harbour bacteria like some other materials, and it can be sterilized by boiling or throwing it in the dishwasher. It has a velvety texture that makes it feel really good on your skin and is long-lasting because silicone doesn't break down over time.
On the downside, silicone dildos are more expensive than other materials because they require high-quality silicone which costs more to produce. Plus, the material often picks up a lot of lint or hair when stored with clothes.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane (or PU) is also considered an acceptable option because it's hypoallergenic and waterproof.
Acrylic
Acrylic is a softer plastic that's easy to shape but less durable than silicone, and should only be used with water-based lubricant.
TPR/TPE
This is another affordable option for beginners who want something soft and squishy but are wary of porous materials. These two materials contain chemicals called phthalates which could leach out if exposed to heat or prolonged use - so use these sparingly and don't share them unless you've covered them in a condom first!
Non-Body Safe Materials
Non-body safe sex toy materials include things like latex, PVC, jelly, and rubber. These toys are porous and can't be sterilized so they're better suited for single use or sharing with a monogamous partner who is also non-body safe.
They're also not compatible with some lubricants which can cause the material to deteriorate faster than other materials. Non-body safe sex toy materials are also known to contain phthalates which have been linked to reproductive issues in both men and women.
Make sure to do abit of research if you can to find out what type of materials work best for you. Every body can react differently to different materials so its best to find out what works for you and your body by trying different materials where possible and sticking with those that don’t case any reactions or that your skin feels the best with.