What You Should Know About Sex Toy Materials: Safety, Feel, And Dildo Care

When selecting any internal sex toy, the most critical consideration is the material's safety. This guide breaks down the essential differences between common materials, focusing on the key concept of porosity.

1. The Core Concept: Porosity

Porosity refers to the presence of tiny holes or gaps in a material's surface structure. These gaps dictate whether a material is safe or unsafe for internal use.

• Porous (Unsafe): Materials with microscopic pores that trap and harbor bacteria, moisture, and cleaning residue. Once bacteria are trapped, these materials are impossible to fully sanitize, making them a health risk.

• Non-Porous (Body-Safe): Materials with a smooth, continuous, and sealed surface structure. They cannot harbor bacteria and are extremely easy to sterilize, often by boiling or using disinfectant wipes.

2. The Danger of PVC and Jelly Materials (Phthalates)

The most common unsafe materials are those labeled as Jelly, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), or TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber). While their porosity is a major health concern, these materials also pose a chemical risk.

These materials are naturally hard, so manufacturers add chemical softeners called Phthalates (such as DEHP) to make them flexible and squishy.

• Phthalate Leaching: Phthalates are not permanently bound to the plastic. Over time, especially when exposed to heat, lubricants, or body fluids, these chemicals "leach" out.

• Health Risks: Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with the body's hormonal system. Always avoid these materials for internal use.

h2:3. Detailed Material Comparison (Body-Safe Options)

Here is a side-by-side comparison of the most popular and safest materials you should look for:

4. Essential Cleaning and Care

Proper cleaning is essential, even for non-porous materials.

1. Always Clean Immediately: Wash your toys before and after every use.

2. Use Mild Soap: Use warm water and a mild, unscented soap, or a dedicated sex toy cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals like alcohol or bleach, which can damage surfaces.

3. Sterilize (Silicone/Glass): Silicone and glass can be sterilized by submerging them in boiling water for up to five minutes.

4. Avoid Cross-Contamination: Never store silicone toys in contact with porous toys (Jelly/TPE), as chemicals from the unsafe material can leach into and permanently damage the safe silicone.

5. Storage: Store toys in a clean, dry, breathable bag or container, away from excessive heat or cold.

Ready to choose a body-safe toy? Browse our selection today and check out our guides on choosing the perfect First Dildo or finding the best Water-Based Lubricant to pair with your new toy!