7 Best Sex Toy Materials You Need for Safer, Affordable Erotic Play
So many folks love to take their sexual pleasure into their own hands — quite literally — through the use of sex toys. Whether these are toys for vaginas, toys for penises, or couples’ sex toys, a vibrator, fleshlight, butt plug, or anything in between, it’s critical that the sex toy materials you opt to use are body-safe. In fact, we would argue that it’s a major aspect of safe sex! Even when a product claims to be phthalate-free, other chemicals (timethytin chloride, phenol, carbon disulphide, toluene, and cadmium, to name a few) can be hazardous to the body. As well, PVC and vinyl, jelly, rubber, and other porous sex toy materials should also be avoided, as they make it easy for bacteria to stay put and thrive (thanks to the fact that cleaning and caring for sex toys like these are extremely difficult).
But what materials do make for adequately safe sex toys? Any of the following seven options would be perfect!
ABS Plastic
A type of hard plastic, ABS can transmit the ideal vibrations (if desired) while still being easy to use and clean. These toys are scentless, tasteless, and hypoallergenic, making them perfect for anyone to use.
Compatible lubricants: Any of the best lubes on the market, including water-based, hybrid, silicone, and oil-based lubricants. For the latter, note that oil can affect methods for safe sex to prevent sexually transmitted infections, and birth control options, such as latex condoms.
Our favourite toy: Exclusive Novelties’ Kangaroo Mini KM-100 Bullet Stimulator
Glass
Both hypoallergenic and toxic-free, glass sex toys are perfect for sexual pleasure through temperature play, as they can be easily and safely warmed up or cooled down before play. Talk about capitalizing on enjoying slow sex! Washing should be done in warm, soapy water or with a sex toy cleaner, avoiding hot water that might break the crystal structure of the product.
Compatible lubricants: Any type of lube can be safely used.
Our favourite toy: Gläs’ Pacifier Butt Plug
Lucite
Also known as ‘acrylic,’ this polymer material appears almost glass-like in appearance, but is actually a thermoplastic. In addition to being utilized for many different types of sex toys for all sexual organs, it’s also a popular material for Kegel exercisers. Yup, this is one way to get relationship self-care in a fun way!
Compatible lubricants: Any type of lube can be safely used.
Our favourite toy: California Exotic’s Berman Isis Kegel Exerciser
Porcelain
With high mechanical strength, porcelain is far less fragile than one might assume. This material is excellent for both warming and cooling; as you get to know your body better through the sensual self-love exercise of masturbation, a porcelain toy can be the perfect guide.
Compatible lubricants: Water-based, hybrid, or silicone lubes can be safely used.
Our favourite toy: Désirables’ Dalia
Silicone
A common material making up plenty of the best sex toys, from vibrators to cock rings intended to postpone ejaculation of an erect penis, silicone products are used by many as part of their sexual self-care and self-love. Silicone is extremely easy to clean and maintain, while keeping a soft and velvety texture that feels great.
Compatible lubricants: Water-based or hybrid lubes.
Our favourite toy: Geeky Sex Toys’ Laser Sword LED Dildo
Stainless steel
Stainless steel sex toys generally require less maintenance compared to other toys out there. This is also a popular material for sounding devices. They last a lifetime and can also double as a massager during a romantic couples massage. When it comes to these, you only need to clean them and store them in a cool and dry place. Should the mood strike, polishing your toys is also an option (although not necessary).
Compatible lubricants: Any type of lube can be safely used.
Our favourite toy: XR Brand’s Meridian Stainless Steel Beaded Cockring
Wood
Yes, wooden sex toys are perfectly safe for you (and, no, they won’t give you splinters). Not only are these toys beautiful to look at, but they’re also always unique (thanks to no wood grain ever being exactly alike). Many finishes to the product can help the toy glide easily, with minimal amounts of lube needing to be applied. Just make sure that the manufacturer you buy from uses a body-safe finish on their toys!
Compatible lubricants: Any type of lube can be safely used.
Our favourite toy: NobEssence’s Seduction 2.0 Sculpted Hardwood G-Spot Dildo
Regardless of the type of sexual stimulation you’re looking for while masturbating with your sex toys, choosing products that are made of body-safe materials is crucial. While it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering sexual health, it’s incredibly important. After all, while masturbation is good for you, it can only truly be enjoyable if you’re not having to stress about unwanted bacterial growth, allergic reactions, or harmful effects to the central nervous system (or, if pregnant or breastfeeding, a fetus or baby).
From purchasing a vibrator to a fleshlight — and anything in between — it’s best to stop and consider what you’re putting on or inside of your body.
What are your favourite sex toy materials for bringing yourself sexual pleasure? What kind of sex toys do you typically reach for from your collection? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
