When $20 and $200 sex toys are in front of you, what will you choose? Because of the price?No, you should research what they are made of.
As we all know, sex toys can help enhance your pleasure and foster a deeper connection with yourself or your partner. Whether you’re exploring solo or adding a new dynamic to your relationship, what is your main consideration when shopping? Aside from the purpose, the most important thing is the material of the sex toy. It affects your health and safety.
But here’s the thing: not all materials are created equal. Some can be harmful to your body, and others just don’t hold up over time. If you’ve ever wondered whether your toys are safe to use—or why some toys just feel better than others—you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk through the best body-safe materials for sex toys, why they matter, and how to choose the right ones for your needs.
Why Body-Safe Materials Matter
When it comes to sex toys, your body is the most important thing to keep in mind. If you're like most people, you want to feel comfortable, confident, and safe while exploring your desires. Choosing body-safe materials means you don’t have to worry about toxic chemicals, harmful bacteria, or uncomfortable irritation.
Toys made from unsafe materials can introduce harmful chemicals like phthalates into your body, leading to hormone imbalances and other health issues. Some of these materials are also porous, which means bacteria can get trapped, making it harder to clean them properly. That can lead to infections, discomfort, and even lasting health problems.
That’s why we always recommend looking for toys made from high-quality, non-porous, and hypoallergenic materials. These ensure you get the most out of your pleasure while keeping your body safe. Let’s take a closer look at the materials you should be reaching for—and which ones you should leave behind.
1. Silicone Toys: The Gold Standard
Let’s talk about silicone. It’s considered the gold standard for a reason: non-porous, hypoallergenic, and incredibly easy to clean. It feels soft to the touch and provides a smooth, flexible texture that’s perfect for intimate play. And one of the best things about silicone is that it doesn’t absorb fluids, which means bacteria and germs can’t hide inside the material. If you’re someone who cares about both safety and pleasure, medical-grade silicone is likely already on your radar—and for good reason. But it's actually hard to tell with labels like medical-grade. Maybe, food-grade silicone or platinum-cured silicone can be included in your selection - they are equally common, safe, and non-toxic.
Take for example, westlakelover's Heat Wand Massage Vibrator. Made from premium food-grade silicone and ABS, this vibrator doesn’t just look sleek and elegant—it’s designed to be soft, flexible, and comfortable. It also features 10 different vibration modes, plus a heating function that warms the toy to about 42°C, providing a soothing, luxurious experience. Or you can try other more PLHEART toys, trust us, once you’ve experienced it, you’ll understand why silicone is so popular.
Why Choose Silicone?
- Non-porous and easy to clean
- Hypoallergenic, ideal for sensitive skin
- Soft, flexible, and durable
2. Glass Toys: Elegant, Durable, and Safe
If you’re someone who enjoys elegance and sensory play, a glass toy might be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s not just a toy; it’s a statement piece. Glass toys are another great option for those who want both beauty and functionality. Made from high-quality borosilicate glass, these toys are non-porous, durable, and incredibly easy to clean.
Non-porous, means you don't have to worry about harboring germs inside. Easy to clean, means you can just wash it with soap and water, or sterilize it by boiling it for a few minutes. This also brings us to the added benefit of glass toys. They will hold temperature well—whether you want a cool sensation or a warm touch, glass toys can be heated or chilled for added sensory play.
Why Choose Glass?
- Non-porous and easy to clean
- Ideal for temperature play (can be heated or cooled)
- Durable and resistant to scratches
- Aesthetic appeal
3. Stainless Steel: Weighty, Sensual, and Safe
Stainless steel toy offers a weighty, intense sensation that adds depth to your experience, making it a favorite for many. If you like your toys with a little more weight and substance, this material might be just what you need. Stainless steel toys provide a luxurious feel due to their smooth, shiny surface and satisfying weight. But beyond just feeling good, stainless steel is also durable, non-porous, and easy to clean.
One of the unique benefits of stainless steel toys is that they’re perfect for temperature play. Whether you want to experience a cool touch or warm sensations, stainless steel holds temperature incredibly well. You can heat or chill your toy for a completely new experience every time.
Why Choose Stainless Steel?
- Non-porous and easy to clean
- Great for temperature play
- Provides a weighty, intense sensation
- Durable and long-lasting
4. ABS Plastic: Affordable and Functional
If you’re looking for a more affordable option without sacrificing safety, ABS plastic is a great choice. It’s commonly used in vibrators and other toys due to its durability and ability to transmit vibration effectively. Like silicone and glass, ABS plastic is non-porous and free from harmful chemicals like phthalates. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.
ABS material is commonly used to make plastic shells for sex toys, such as vibrators, penis toys, masturbators. Or it is used for operating buttons and charging ports on sex toys. At PLHEART, ABS plastic is the most common material we use besides food-grade silicone, because, indeed, all of our toys require buttons and charging, and some toys are designed with shells.
One of our favorites in ABS plastic and food-grade silicone is the westlakelover‘s Lipsticks Egg Vibrator. This compact, portable vibrator has 10 different vibration settings, so you can customize your experience to suit your desires. It’s an affordable, high-quality option that doesn’t skimp on performance.
Why Choose ABS Plastic?
- Affordable and durable
- Non-porous and safe for intimate use
- Great vibration transmission
- Easy to clean
5. Ceramic & Stone: Unique, Luxurious, and Safe
Ceramic and stone toys offer a different experience—one that’s both luxurious and unique. Made from polished, non-porous materials, these toys provide a natural, soothing touch. Ceramic toys are easy to clean and great for temperature play, while stone toys offer an aesthetic appeal that many find irresistible.
These toys are perfect for those looking for something out of the ordinary. They’re not only safe and body-friendly, but they also provide a distinct texture that enhances the experience. Whether you choose ceramic or stone, you’ll be adding a touch of elegance to your collection.
Why Choose Ceramic or Stone?
- Non-porous and easy to clean
- Great for temperature play
- Luxurious and unique aesthetic
- Provides a different texture and sensation
What to Avoid: Cheap, Unsafe Materials
You should know, while it’s tempting to go for a cheaper option, low-quality toys often come with hidden risks. To stay safe, it’s always best to choose higher-quality materials that are both body-safe and easy to maintain.
TPE and TPR are not harmful to your body because they are non-toxic. However, they are porous, which gives bacteria room to hide, and you may not be able to sterilize them properly. So, it is recommended that you do not use them internally. You may use these toys for external play if you want, such as penis rings, nipple stimulators, etc.
As you shop, watch out for toys made of PVC, jelly rubber, or other similar materials, which may contain phthalates and other toxic chemicals that can interfere with the body's natural processes. These chemicals can disrupt hormones and cause long-term health problems. Jelly rubber is also porous, meaning it traps bacteria, even after cleaning. That can lead to infections and discomfort.
Why Avoid Cheap Materials?
- Contain harmful chemicals like phthalates
- Porous and hard to clean
- Break down quickly, requiring more replacements
How to Care for Your Sex Toys
Taking care of your toys is essential. When you invest in high-quality materials, you want to make sure they stay in top condition. For toys made of non-porous materials like silicone, stainless steel, or glass, simply wash them with warm water and mild, unscented soap after every use. You can also sanitize them by boiling (if the toy doesn’t have electronics) or using a specialized toy cleaner. NOTE: When you use a lubricant, silicone-based lubricants should not be used on toys made of silicone material, that will damage the surface of the toy.
For toys made from porous materials (which we recommend avoiding), you’ll need to consider using a condom on the toy for added protection. It might be better to use them for in-vitro play only.
For Quality and Safety
We believe that safe, pleasurable experiences go hand in hand. That’s why westlakelover only use the highest-quality, body-safe materials in all of our products. We all know how important it is to feel confident and comfortable in your body. If you’re looking for the soft flexibility of silicone, you can trust that PLHEART toys are made to enhance your pleasure—safely and effectively.
