How to Make Safe Homemade Sex Toys with Everyday Items

Yes, you can make safe homemade sex toys with everyday items if you follow some key rules. Always choose body-safe, non-porous materials and clean everything before and after use. Many people use items like hairbrush handles or vegetables, but you should cover them with a condom, avoid anything sharp, and use a flared base for anal play. Your safety, hygiene, and consent matter most. Ready to learn more? Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

• Always choose body-safe, non-porous materials like medical-grade silicone, stainless steel, or ABS plastic for homemade sex toys.

• Clean your toys thoroughly before and after use with warm water and mild soap; use condoms over porous or homemade items to prevent infections.

• Avoid sharp, cracked, or smelly items and never use anything that contains harmful chemicals like phthalates or BPA.

• Use plenty of water-based lubricant to reduce friction and increase comfort during use.

• Never share homemade sex toys and stop using them immediately if you feel pain, irritation, or if something gets stuck.

Safety Basics

What to Avoid

When you make homemade sex toys, you need to know which materials can put your health at risk. Some items might look safe, but they can cause problems you do not expect.

• Stay away from porous materials like jelly rubber, TPE/TPR, leather, and cloth. These materials trap bacteria and viruses. You cannot clean them well, so they can lead to infections.

• Do not use plastics with phthalates or BPA. These chemicals can mess with your hormones and cause other health issues.

• Avoid PVC. It can release toxic chemicals that may harm your body.

• If you have a latex allergy, never use rubber-based toys.

• Skip anything that smells strongly of chemicals or gives you a headache. This could mean it has volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• Watch out for low-quality versions of glass, metal, or silicone. Cheap materials might have hidden dangers.

Tip: Always check for smooth surfaces. Sharp edges or cracks can hurt you or make cleaning impossible.

Cleaning & Disinfecting

Keeping your homemade sex toys clean is one of the most important steps for your safety. You want to avoid germs and infections every time you use them.

• Wash non-porous items like silicone, glass, or stainless steel with warm water and mild, unscented soap before and after each use.

• For deep cleaning, you can boil 100% silicone, stainless steel, or glass toys for three minutes. This kills most germs.

• If you want to disinfect, soak the toy in a bleach solution (⅓ cup bleach per gallon of water) for 10 minutes. Rinse well with water afterward.

• Some people use the dishwasher’s sanitizing cycle for sturdy, non-porous toys. Make sure you do not use detergent, and remember that dishwashers may not kill all germs.

• Do not use antibacterial cleaners with harsh chemicals. These can irritate your skin and upset your body’s natural balance.

• For homemade sex toys made from porous materials, always use a condom over the toy. Throw away the toy after one use if you cannot clean it well.

Note: Always let your toys dry completely before storing them. Damp toys can grow mold or bacteria.

Material Safety

Choosing the right material makes a big difference in your safety and comfort. Some materials are much safer and easier to clean than others.

• Medical-grade silicone is soft, flexible, and non-porous. You can boil it or bake it to sterilize. It is a top choice for homemade sex toys.

• Stainless steel is strong, smooth, and hypoallergenic. It does not hold onto germs and is easy to clean.

• ABS plastic is another safe, non-porous option. It is durable and easy to wash.

• Look for certifications like CE or RoHS on any products you buy. These labels mean the item passed safety tests and does not have harmful chemicals.

• Trusted brands share safety testing results and use clear labels. This helps you know what you are using.

• Avoid anything with phthalates, BPA, or other toxic chemicals. These can cause health problems over time.

• If you use produce (like cucumbers or carrots), always cover them with a condom. Never use them for anal play unless they have a flared base to prevent accidents.

Remember: Safe materials last longer and keep you healthier. When in doubt, choose non-porous, certified options.

Hands & Lubrication

Techniques

Your hands are always ready and safe for solo or partnered play. You control the pressure, speed, and movement, so you can explore what feels best for you. Try using your fingertips, palms, or even the back of your hand for different sensations. You can squeeze, stroke, or circle—there’s no wrong way to touch yourself as long as you feel comfortable.

Adding a lubricant makes everything smoother and more enjoyable. Water-based lubricants work well with your hands and are easy to clean up. You can also try coconut oil, but remember that oil-based products can break down latex condoms. If you use condoms, stick with water-based or silicone-based lubes.

Tip: Warm the lube in your hands before you start. This feels more natural and comfortable.

Benefits

Using your hands with lube has many perks. You don’t need to buy anything special, and you always know your hands are clean and safe. You can wash them before and after play, which helps prevent infections. Hands are gentle and let you stop right away if something feels off.

Lubricants help reduce friction, which means less chance of irritation or tiny cuts. This keeps your skin healthy and lowers the risk of infection. Water-based lubes are a top choice because they match your body’s natural pH and work with condoms. Here’s a quick look at different types of lubricants:

Using lube with your hands can make solo or partnered play more comfortable and fun. You get to explore safely and easily, with less mess and more pleasure.

Homemade Sex Toys: Masturbation Sleeves

Safe Materials

You can make masturbation sleeves with things you probably have at home. The most important thing is to pick materials that are safe for your body. Look for items that are soft, smooth, and non-porous. These are easier to clean and less likely to cause irritation or infection.

• Sponges: Choose new, unscented, and uncolored sponges. Make sure they have no rough edges or scrubby sides.

• Condoms: These add a layer of protection. They help keep things clean and reduce the risk of bacteria.

• Latex gloves: If you do not have a condom, a clean, unused latex glove can work as a barrier.

• Plastic bags: Use only food-safe, unprinted bags. Never use bags with holes or tears.

• Soft cloths: Pick tightly woven, clean, and lint-free cloths. Always use with a condom.

• Lubricant: Water-based lube is best. It keeps things smooth and comfortable.

Tip: Never use anything with sharp edges, strong smells, or unknown chemicals. Some sex toys and household items contain phthalates or other harmful substances. These can cause health problems over time.

Step-by-Step Guide

You can make a simple masturbation sleeve in just a few minutes. Here’s how you do it:

1. Gather your materials. You need two soft sponges, a condom, and some water-based lube.

2. Stack the sponges. Place them side by side or on top of each other. Make sure the surfaces are smooth.

3. Wrap with a condom. Stretch the condom over the sponges. This creates a soft, safe tunnel.

4. Secure the ends. Use a rubber band or hair tie to hold the condom in place. Make sure it is not too tight.

5. Add lube. Squeeze a generous amount of water-based lube inside the sleeve.

6. Test the sleeve. Gently press your finger inside to check for rough spots or tears.

7. Use and enjoy. Slide the sleeve over your penis and adjust the pressure to your liking.

You can also try other methods:

• Roll a soft towel and wrap it in a plastic bag, then cover with a condom.

• Use a latex glove, fill it with lube, and place it between two pillows for hands-free fun.

Note: Always use a condom with homemade sex toys, especially if you use porous materials like sponges or cloths. This helps prevent bacteria from getting inside and keeps things cleaner.

Some guides, like Scarleteen, remind you to avoid sharing your sleeve with anyone else. Do not use electric items for penetration. Never use electric objects in water. The sex toy industry does not have strict safety rules, so you need to be extra careful with homemade options.

Cleaning Tips

Keeping your masturbation sleeve clean is just as important as making it. You want to avoid germs and infections every time you use it.

• Single-use for porous items: If you use sponges, cloths, or anything that soaks up moisture, throw them away after one use. These can trap bacteria and are hard to clean.

• Wash non-porous parts: If you use a condom or plastic bag, you can throw these away after use. If you use a reusable sleeve made from silicone or plastic, wash it with warm water and mild soap.

• Dry completely: Let everything air dry before you store it. Damp items can grow mold or bacteria.

• Store safely: Keep your homemade sex toys in a clean, dry place. Use a storage bag or box to keep dust and dirt away.

Alert: Many homemade sex toys do not go through safety testing. Some materials, especially those with phthalates, can release harmful chemicals. Always choose the safest materials you can find and never use anything that feels off or causes irritation.

A Harvard review points out that most sex toys, including masturbation sleeves, do not have to list their ingredients or pass safety tests. This means you need to pay extra attention to what you use and how you clean it.

If you ever notice redness, pain, or irritation after using a homemade sleeve, stop right away. Wash the area with gentle soap and water. If symptoms do not go away, talk to a healthcare provider.

Vibrators & Household Items

Electric Toothbrushes

You might have an electric toothbrush at home. Some people use these as a simple vibrator. The small, fast vibrations can feel good on your body. Always use a clean toothbrush head. Never use the same one you use for your mouth. If you want to try this, cover the toothbrush head with a condom or a piece of plastic wrap. This keeps things clean and safe. Make sure the toothbrush is waterproof. If it is not, water can get inside and break it. Never use a toothbrush that has cracks or loose parts.

Tip: Try using the back of the toothbrush head for a smoother surface.

Back Massagers

Back massagers are another popular choice for homemade sex toys. Many massagers have strong vibrations and different settings. You can use them on your body for pleasure. Always clean the massager before and after use. If the massager has attachments, use only the smooth ones. Avoid anything with sharp edges or rough textures. Some people like to use a towel or soft cloth between their skin and the massager for extra comfort.

Safety Tips

Safety comes first when you use household items as vibrators. Only use devices that are waterproof and easy to clean. Never use anything that could break or has loose parts. If you use a device with batteries, keep it away from water. Always check for cracks or damage before you start. Cover items with a condom for extra safety, especially if you share them. If something feels wrong or hurts, stop right away. Listen to your body and take care of yourself.

Remember, homemade sex toys can be fun and safe if you follow these tips.

Dildos & Insertables

Safe Objects

You can find many safe objects at home to use as dildos or insertables. Some people use smooth vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or bananas. Others use the handles of hairbrushes or kitchen utensils. Always pick items that are hard, smooth, and have no sharp edges. Avoid anything that can break, splinter, or has seams. Glass bottles or metal objects can work if they are sturdy and have no cracks. Never use anything that feels rough or smells like chemicals.

Tip: If you are not sure about an object, skip it. Your safety comes first.

Preparation

Before you use any object as a dildo, you need to prepare it. Wash the item with warm water and mild soap. Dry it well. Cover the object with a new condom every time you use it. This keeps things clean and helps protect your body from germs. If you use produce, check for bruises or soft spots. Throw it away after one use. Do not share your homemade sex toys with anyone else. Always use plenty of water-based lube to make things comfortable.

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Wash and dry the object.

• Check for cracks or rough spots.

• Cover with a condom.

• Use lube.

• Discard after use if it is porous or produce.

Flared Bases

If you want to use insertables for anal play, you must use objects with a flared base. A flared base is wider at the end, so the toy cannot get lost inside your body. Never use anything without a flared base for anal play. Many accidents happen when objects slip inside and cannot be removed easily. You can make a flared base by attaching a wide spoon or a large ring to the end of the object. Always test the base before you use it.

Alert: If something gets stuck, do not try to remove it yourself. Go to a doctor right away.

You have lots of options for safe homemade sex toys, but your health comes first. Here’s what to remember:

• Always use body-safe, non-porous materials.

• Clean everything before and after use.

• Listen to your body. Stop if you feel pain or discomfort.

• Use condoms for extra protection.

• Never use anything sharp or with cracks.

If you notice pain, bleeding, or something feels wrong, talk to a doctor. Want to learn more? Check out Scarleteen’s DIY Sex Toy Guide or Planned Parenthood’s sexual health resources.

FAQ

Can I share my homemade sex toys with someone else?

No, you should not share homemade sex toys. Sharing can spread bacteria or infections. Even if you clean them, some germs can stay. Always make a new toy for each person.

What should I do if something gets stuck or breaks inside me?

Stop using the toy right away. Do not try to remove it yourself. Go to a doctor as soon as possible. Your safety comes first.

Are there any household items I should never use?

Yes! Avoid anything sharp, breakable, or with moving parts. Stay away from items with batteries that are not waterproof. Never use anything that smells like chemicals or feels rough.

How do I know if a material is body-safe?

Look for non-porous materials like medical-grade silicone, stainless steel, or ABS plastic. If you are not sure, cover the item with a condom. When in doubt, do not use it.

Can I use food as a sex toy?

You can use some foods, like cucumbers or bananas, if you cover them with a condom. Throw them away after one use. Never use food for anal play unless it has a flared base.