Sex toy materials explained: body-safe vs not
Silicone, glass, metal, ABS and jelly: what each material is, how easy it is to keep clean and what to check before you buy.
The material a toy is made from decides how it feels, which lube you can use and how easy it is to keep clean. Here is the plain-English version, no chemistry degree needed.
Non-porous vs porous: the one idea that matters
A non-porous material has a sealed surface, so it can be washed properly. A porous material has tiny gaps that can hold on to moisture and bacteria even after washing. That is why people say “body-safe”: it usually means a non-porous material that can be cleaned well.
NHS sexual health services point out that bacteria, viruses and other particles can stay on sex toys after use, and advise cleaning toys after every use and covering a toy with a new condom if it is shared (source). That advice matters most for porous toys, which are harder to get truly clean.
The common materials
- Silicone (glossary): soft, smooth and non-porous. The most common material for vibrators. Check the listing says silicone rather than “silicone-feel” or “silicone blend”.
- ABS plastic: hard, non-porous plastic often used for bullets and handles. Easy to wipe clean.
- Glass and stainless steel: firm, non-porous and easy to clean. Heavier, and they can be warmed or cooled in water for temperature play.
- TPE / TPR and “jelly”: softer, cheaper and stretchier. These are generally porous, so they are harder to keep clean and usually best kept for one person, or used with a condom.
What to check on the listing
- The exact material (“medical-grade silicone”, “ABS”, “borosilicate glass”), not just “body-safe”.
- The cleaning instructions, and whether the toy is waterproof or only splash-proof.
- Which lube the brand recommends.
If a listing does not say what a toy is made of, ask the retailer or choose another toy. Some people also react to certain materials or ingredients; if you get itching or a rash after using a product, stop using it (see the NHS guide to contact dermatitis below).
Materials and lube
Water-based lube is safe with every toy material. Silicone-based lube lasts longer but can damage some silicone toys, so check the brand’s advice first. Our explainer Which lube with which toy goes into more detail.
