TOY MATERIAL

Toy Material Duck

When I started buying my first sex toys, I was a bit naive. My budget was limited. Anything that was cheap, looked good, and had an appropriate shape was okay for me. The composition of the material didn't matter to me at all, and I didn't even think about. I had no idea that I could endanger my health.

Unfortunately, the sex toy industry is not regulated. There is no EU directive for sex toys. This means that absolutely anything can be used in the making of your sex toy. Sometimes, you may see the label "FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY" on the packaging. Basically, this means that if the ingredients start to come off during use and cause your genitals to swell or have an allergic reaction, the manufacturer cannot be held responsible. Certifying a toy as non-harmful to health is very expensive, so most companies simply don't bother.

When making a purchase, it is generally advisable to opt for products made of Medical-grade-silicone, ABS plastic, glass, or metal to ensure that no harmful substances come into contact with your body. The mucous membranes of the penis and anus are particularly sensitive and can quickly absorb toxins.

Rubber Jelly PVC

Sex toys made of rubber, jelly, and PVC are still being sold because they are cheaper to manufacture and incredibly flexible. However, they contain chemicals that are of health concern and are only "body-safe" when used with a condom.

Over time, they become porous and develop microscopic "holes" in the material, allowing bacteria to multiply unless thoroughly cleaned with antibacterial agents. If not stored separately, these toys may react with each other and become unusable (melting together).

PROS
– Inexpensive (but may come at the cost of your health)
– Soft and flexible (though there are alternatives available)
– Body-safe" with the use of a condom

CONS
– Becomes porous quickly (vulnerable to bacteria)
– Strong chemical odor
– Contains phthalates (health hazards)
– Does not react well with oil
– Use (if at all) only with water-based lubricants

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)

TPE is a blend of natural or synthetic rubber and various oils, possessing the same skin-friendly properties as silicone but even more elastic and skin-like. That's why it's commonly used in male masturbators.
However, TPE toys are not suitable for sharing with a partner as they are porous and can accumulate bacteria over time, leading to unpleasant fungal infections being exchanged between partners.

PROS
– Generally free from PVC, latex, or phthalates
– Soft and flexible
– "Body-safe" with the use of a condom
– Safe for use in masturbators

CONS
– Hazardous to use in the anal area (without a condom)
– Recommended to store with talcum/cornstarch powder
- Becomes porous quickly (vulnerable to bacteria)
– Requires antibacterial cleaning
– Use only with water-based lubricants

Medical silicone

Medical silicone is one of the safest materials used in the production of sex toys. Silicone can be very expensive to manufacture, as good quality comes at a price. It comes in various textures and can be extremely firm or super soft.

It quickly warms up to body temperature and is perfect for use in dildos and butt plugs. Soft silicone is also easy to "squeeze," making insertion much more comfortable.

Don't be confused by silicone blends like "sil-a-gel." These toys may still be porous and possibly not 100% body-safe.

PROS
– Fine and soft surface
– Pleasant feel on the skin
– Completely odorless
– Very lubricious
– Skin-friendly
– Adapts to body temperature
– Non-porous / Bacteria cannot adhere
– Easy to clean (under hot water)
– Platinum-cured silicone is absolutely body-safe

CONS
– Significantly more expensive
– Silicone and oil-based lubricants can degrade silicone
– Use only with water-based lubricants
– Attracts dust like a magnet (requires dust-free storage)

Silicon Dildos and Butt plugs

Silicon Butt plugs and small Dildo von MEO

Glass

Glass toys (dildos or prostate toys) are currently my absolute favorite material for sex toys. They are made from borosilicate glass, the same material used for Pyrex dishes in the kitchen. Glass toys can be warmed to body temperature, which feels incredibly pleasant.

PROS
– Non-porous and body-safe, hypoallergenic
– Easy to clean (can be cleaned in the dishwasher as well)
– Durable and resistant to breakage
– Compatible with any lubricant/oil
– Glass can be heated and retains its temperature

CONS
– Slightly more expensive than TPE/rubber
– Not flexible/use with caution (especially in the anal area)

An alternative with similar properties to glass is acrylic. It is a bit cheaper and not as cold to the touch as glass upon first contact. But be cautious: Do not clean with alcohol!!!

Glassdildo

Medical borosilicate glass from OnundOn

Metal

Metal toys made of stainless steel must be made of 100% surgical steel and nickel-free in Germany. This not only makes them particularly hygienic but also skin-friendly and virtually allergy-free!

PROS
– Non-porous, body-safe, and hypoallergenic (when nickel-free
– Easy to clean
– Compatible with any lubricant/oil
– Can be warmed up like glass and retain temperature

CONS
– Requires some experience in handling
– Not flexible and should be used with caution, especially in the anal area

The weight of metal toys and the possibility of pre-warming them make them very interesting for some users. When warming them, it is important to be cautious (similar to glass) not to choose a temperature that is too high to avoid injuries.