How to Identify Body-Safe Materials in Sex Toys

Body-safe materials keep you healthy when using sex toys. These materials do not release toxins and are easy to clean. Silicone, for example, offers a safer profile and helps prevent harmful reactions. Choosing the right materials lowers your risk of irritation or long-term health issues. The table below shows how some materials compare in terms of toxicity:

You deserve the best sex toys that protect your body and give you peace of mind. With a little knowledge, you can spot safe options and shop with confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Choose sex toys made from medical-grade silicone, borosilicate glass, stainless steel, or ABS plastic for safety and easy cleaning.

• Avoid toys made from jelly rubber, PVC, TPE, or unknown metals because they can release harmful chemicals and trap bacteria.

• Always clean your toys before and after use with mild soap and water, and store them properly to prevent infections and damage.

• Look for clear labels and certifications like “phthalate-free” or “medical-grade silicone” and buy from trusted brands to ensure product safety.

• Inspect your toys regularly and replace them if they change in texture, smell, or color to protect your health.

Body-Safe Materials

Silicone

Silicone stands out as one of the safest materials for sex toys. You can trust medical-grade silicone because it does not contain harmful chemicals like phthalates. This material feels soft and flexible, making it comfortable for your body. Silicone resists bacteria and does not absorb fluids, so you can clean it easily with soap and water.

• Silicone does not break down or release microplastics during normal use.

• It stays strong and smooth, even after many uses.

• Many experts recommend silicone because it does not cause allergic reactions for most people.

Tip: Always look for toys labeled "100% medical-grade silicone." Some products claim to be silicone but may contain unsafe blends. Studies show that some toys labeled “phthalate-free” still contain harmful chemicals, so buy from trusted brands.

Glass

Glass sex toys use borosilicate glass, which is the same type used in laboratory equipment. This glass is non-porous, so it does not trap bacteria or odors. You can sterilize glass toys by boiling them or using a dishwasher.

• Glass does not contain phthalates or other toxic chemicals.

• It feels smooth and firm, giving you a unique sensation.

• You can safely use glass toys with any type of lubricant.

Glass toys do not break easily. Manufacturers temper borosilicate glass to make it strong. If you drop a glass toy, check for cracks before using it again.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel offers another excellent choice for body-safe sex toys. This material is non-porous and does not react with your skin. Stainless steel toys feel cool to the touch, but you can warm them up or cool them down for different sensations.

• Stainless steel does not contain phthalates or other harmful chemicals.

• You can clean these toys with soap and water or boil them for extra safety.

• Stainless steel lasts a long time and does not scratch easily.

Note: Stainless steel toys often cost more, but you get a product that will last for years and stay safe with proper care.

ABS Plastic

ABS plastic is a hard, non-porous material. You find it in many vibrators and bullet toys. ABS plastic does not contain phthalates or BPA, so it is much safer than cheaper plastics.

• ABS plastic resists bacteria and does not absorb fluids.

• You can clean it with mild soap and water.

• This material feels smooth and lightweight.

Some studies show that toys made from other plastics, like PVC or PET, can release harmful chemicals. ABS plastic avoids these risks and gives you a safe, reliable option.

Choosing toys made from silicone, glass, stainless steel, or ABS plastic helps you avoid exposure to dangerous chemicals. Many cheaper toys use materials that exceed safety limits for phthalates, even though labels may say otherwise. Always check product details and buy from brands you trust.

Unsafe Materials

Jelly Rubber

Jelly rubber often appears in low-cost sex toys. You might notice a strong chemical smell when you open the package. This material contains chemicals like phthalates, toluene, and cyclohexanone. These chemicals can cause serious health problems. Some users have reported skin irritation, chemical burns, and even poisoning that required medical care. Jelly rubber is also very porous. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can hide in these tiny pores, making it hard to clean the toy completely. Even if you use a condom, you may not avoid all the risks because chemicals can still leach out.

• Jelly rubber toys may contain:

  • Toluene

  • Cyclohexanone

  • Phthalates

  • Other toxic chemicals

Warning: Jelly rubber toys can cause severe irritation and increase your risk of infection.

PVC

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is another material you should avoid. Like jelly rubber, PVC often contains phthalates and other harmful chemicals. These chemicals can disrupt hormones, harm your reproductive system, and even increase your risk of cancer. PVC is also porous, so it traps bacteria and cannot be fully sanitized. Studies show that phthalates in PVC are so dangerous that they are banned in children's toys in the United States.

• Risks of PVC toys include:

  • Hormone disruption

  • Reproductive harm

  • Skin irritation

  • Higher infection risk

TPE

TPE stands for thermoplastic elastomer. Some brands market TPE as a safer, phthalate-free option. However, TPE is still porous and softened with mineral oil. This oil can leak out and cause skin reactions. TPE toys can also trap bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making them hard to clean. Experts recommend avoiding TPE for internal use.

• TPE toys may cause:

  • Skin irritation

  • Chemical reactions

  • Higher risk of infection

Unknown Metals

You may find toys made from metal, but not all metals are safe. If a product does not list the exact type of metal, you should stay away. Unknown metals can contain nickel, lead, or other toxic substances. These metals may cause allergic reactions or poisoning. Only trust toys made from medical-grade stainless steel or metals clearly labeled by reputable brands.

Tip: Always check for clear labeling and buy from trusted sources to avoid unknown metals.

Why Safety Matters

Health Risks

Your health should always come first when choosing sex toys. Unsafe materials can release harmful chemicals into your body. Some plastics, like PVC and jelly rubber, may contain phthalates and other plasticizers. These chemicals can leach out during use and enter your system. A study from the University of Michigan found over 100 chemicals of concern in plastic toys, including volatile organic compounds. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals may cause hormone disruption, allergic reactions, or even long-term health problems.

Unsafe toys can also break down over time. When a toy starts to feel sticky, cloudy, or changes color, it may be releasing chemicals or breaking apart. Using toys in this condition increases your risk of irritation or chemical burns. Some metals, if not clearly labeled as stainless steel, may contain nickel or lead. These metals can cause allergic reactions or poisoning. You protect yourself by choosing toys made from medical-grade silicone, borosilicate glass, stainless steel, or ABS plastic.

Tip: Always inspect your toys before use. If you notice any changes in texture, smell, or color, replace the toy right away.

Hygiene

Good hygiene keeps you safe from infections. Sex toys made from porous materials can trap bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Even careful cleaning may not remove all germs. An epidemiological study in Honduras showed that toys can carry bacteria like E. coli, especially when hygiene is poor. This risk applies to sex toys as well. If you use a toy that holds onto bacteria, you may develop infections or irritation.

Improper cleaning also increases risks. An article on vibrator safety explains that bacteria and fungi can grow on toys if you do not clean them well. People who get frequent infections face even higher risks. Always wash your toys before and after use. Use cleaning methods that match the material. Replace toys that show signs of wear or damage.

• Choose non-porous materials for easier cleaning.

• Store toys in a clean, dry place.

• Avoid sharing toys unless you use a condom or sterilize them between uses.

Clean toys help you enjoy intimacy with confidence and peace of mind.

How to Spot Safe Sex Toys

Labels and Certifications

When you shop for sex toys, always check the labels and certifications. These details help you know if a toy is safe for your body. Look for clear product descriptions that mention terms like "phthalate-free," "BPA-free," or "medical-grade silicone." These words show that the toy does not contain harmful chemicals.

Manufacturers use strict safety checks to make sure toys are safe. They follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to keep factories clean and workers trained. Regular inspections and surprise audits help keep standards high. Toys go through tests for strength, bending, and chemical safety. Chemical tests check for things like phthalates and BPA. Some toys also get biocompatibility testing to make sure they do not cause allergies.

Certifications matter. You might see labels like RoHS, REACH, or CE Mark. These show the toy meets safety rules in the U.S. and Europe. ISO 9001 and ASTM standards also prove the toy passed quality and safety checks. For electronic toys, look for UL or EN safety marks. Honest labeling tells you what materials are in the toy and if it is hypoallergenic.

Tip: Always read the packaging and product details. Safe toys list their materials and safety features. If you cannot find this information, choose another product.

Trusted Brands

Choosing a trusted brand helps you find the best sex toys for your needs. Brands that care about your safety use high-quality materials and clear labels. They follow strict rules and test their products before selling them. Trusted brands also offer good customer service and stand behind their products.

Rock Candy Sleepwear is a great example. This brand offers body-safe sex toys and accessories. They use medical-grade silicone, borosilicate glass, stainless steel, and high-quality ABS plastic. Their product descriptions clearly state the materials and safety features. Rock Candy Sleepwear also provides discreet packaging and a fair return policy, so you can shop with confidence.

When you buy from trusted brands, you lower your risk of getting unsafe or mislabeled products. These brands often have certifications and follow international safety standards. They also educate you about how to use and care for your toys.

• Look for brands with:

  • Clear material lists

  • Certifications like RoHS, REACH, or CE Mark

  • Good reviews and customer support

  • Transparent return and privacy policies

Trusted brands help you enjoy the best sex toys without worry.

Red Flags

Some warning signs tell you a sex toy may not be safe. Watch out for these red flags when you shop:

• No clear label or material list

• Vague terms like "novelty use only"

• No mention of certifications or safety standards

• Very low prices that seem too good to be true

• Strong chemical smells or sticky surfaces

• Packaging that does not list safety features

If a toy does not say "phthalate-free," "BPA-free," or "medical-grade silicone," you should be careful. Cheap toys often skip safety tests and use lower-quality materials. These toys may break easily or release harmful chemicals. Always choose quality over price. The best sex toys may cost more, but they protect your health and last longer.

Note: Your safety comes first. If you feel unsure about a product, pick another one from a trusted brand.

Best Sex Toys: Material Checklist

When you shop for the best sex toys, you want to make safe choices. Use this checklist to help you pick products that protect your health and give you peace of mind.

Safe Choices

You should always look for toys made from these materials:

• Choose toys with clear labels like “medical-grade silicone” or “phthalate-free.”

• Trusted brands, such as Rock Candy Sleepwear, offer the best sex toys made from these materials.

• Always check product descriptions for safety information.

Tip: The best sex toys use non-porous materials. These are easy to clean and do not trap bacteria.

What to Avoid

Stay away from toys made with these materials:

• Jelly rubber

• PVC (polyvinyl chloride)

• TPE (thermoplastic elastomer)

• Unknown metals

These materials can contain harmful chemicals or trap germs. They may cause irritation or health problems. If a toy has a strong chemical smell or no clear material label, do not buy it.

• Avoid toys labeled “for novelty use only.”

• Do not pick the cheapest option if you want the best sex toys for your health.

Remember: Your safety matters most. Use this checklist every time you shop for new toys.

Cleaning and Care

Cleaning Tips

Keeping your sex toys clean protects your health and extends their life. Always check if your toy is made from non-porous materials like medical-grade silicone, ABS plastic, stainless steel, or glass. You can wash these toys with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. For extra safety, you can boil non-porous toys for a few minutes or use a dishwasher if the toy is waterproof and has no electronic parts. Dry your toys completely before putting them away.

Porous toys, such as those made from jelly rubber, TPE, or PVC, need extra care. These materials can trap bacteria in tiny holes. If you use a porous toy, always use a condom over it, especially if you plan to share it or switch between different types of play. Experts recommend using special toy cleaners or gentle soap. Never use harsh chemicals or alcohol, as these can damage the material and irritate your skin.

Tip: Clean your toys before and after every use. This habit helps prevent infections and keeps your toys in top shape.

Storage

Proper storage keeps your toys safe, clean, and ready for use. Experts suggest several best practices:

• Use storage pouches that come with your toys or choose antibacterial or antimicrobial bags. These keep dust and germs away.

• Avoid plastic bags that trap moisture. Moisture can help bacteria grow.

• Store each toy separately by material. This prevents chemical reactions that can damage your toys.

• Remove batteries from battery-operated toys before storing them. This stops corrosion and saves battery life.

• Keep rechargeable toys charged and store all toys in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

• Wash storage bags often to prevent bacteria from building up.

• Avoid extreme heat or cold, which can warp or crack your toys.

• Use lockable cases or discreet pouches for privacy and organization.

Expert Holly Jackson notes that improper storage can scratch your toys, break down materials, and shorten their lifespan. Taking a few extra steps helps you enjoy your collection safely and confidently.

You deserve peace of mind when choosing the best sex toys for your health. Always check materials and use the checklist to stay safe. Prioritizing safety helps you care for yourself and enjoy intimacy with confidence. Research your options, ask questions, and buy from trusted sources. Remember, making informed choices empowers you. Your well-being matters every step of the way.

FAQ

What does “medical-grade silicone” mean?

Medical-grade silicone meets strict safety standards. You can trust it for use inside your body. This material resists bacteria and does not cause allergies for most people. Always check for this label when you shop for sex toys.

Can I use any cleaner on my sex toys?

No, you should not use any cleaner. Use mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water for most body-safe toys. Avoid harsh chemicals or alcohol. Some toys need special cleaners. Always read the care instructions.

How do I know if a toy is non-porous?

Non-porous toys do not absorb fluids or bacteria. Look for materials like medical-grade silicone, borosilicate glass, stainless steel, or ABS plastic. Product descriptions often list these materials. If you feel unsure, ask the seller or check the brand’s website.

Why do some toys say “for novelty use only”?

This label warns you that the toy may not meet safety standards. These toys often use unsafe materials. You should avoid them for any intimate use. Choose toys with clear safety information instead.

Can I share my sex toys with a partner?

You can share non-porous toys if you clean them well before and after use. For extra safety, use a condom over the toy. Avoid sharing porous toys, as they can trap germs and increase infection risk.