What Are Body-Safe Sex Toy Materials? (And Why They Matter)

When it comes to sex toys, what they're made from matters just as much as what they do. Understanding materials helps you shop smarter, feel more confident in your choices, and make sure every experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Think of it as the foundation of your pleasure journey — and honestly, it's simpler than it sounds.

If you're just getting started, this article pairs perfectly with our Beginner's Guide to Sex Toys: Everything You Need to Know.

What Does "Body-Safe" Actually Mean?

You'll see "body-safe" everywhere when shopping for toys — but what does it actually mean? A genuinely body-safe material is:

• Non-toxic— nothing harmful going anywhere near your body
• Non-porous — meaning it won't absorb fluids or bacteria
• Stable — it holds up over time and through regular cleaning without breaking down

The non-porous piece is especially important. Porous materials can trap bacteria even after washing, no matter how thorough you are. Non-porous materials, on the other hand, can be properly cleaned and sanitized every single time — giving you real peace of mind.

The Best Body-Safe Materials

🏆 Medical-Grade Silicone

Widely considered the gold standard of sex toy materials — and for good reason. Silicone is soft, flexible, hypoallergenic, and non-porous, making it easy to clean and gentle on sensitive skin. It's a fantastic option for beginners and experienced users alike.

⚡ ABS Plastic

Hard, smooth, and completely non-porous, ABS plastic is a reliable and affordable choice. It's commonly used in external vibrators and wand-style toys and is lightweight and easy to clean. A great option if you're looking for something budget-friendly without compromising on safety.

🌡️ Borosilicate Glass

Don't let the word "glass" put you off — borosilicate glass is specifically designed to be strong, durable, and body-safe. It's non-porous, simple to sanitize, and ideal for temperature play. Warm it up or cool it down for a completely different sensation. A genuinely exciting material once you're ready to explore.

✨ Stainless Steel

Sleek, weighty, and completely non-porous, stainless steel is one of the easiest materials to sanitize. Its natural weight creates a unique sensation that many people love, and it's also great for temperature play. Often associated with more experienced users, but absolutely beginner-friendly too.

Materials To Be Aware Of

Some widely available toys are made from materials like jelly rubber, PVC, and TPE/TPR. These materials are often porous, which makes thorough cleaning difficult over time. A few things worth knowing:

• They may cause irritation for people with sensitivities
• Bacteria can linger even after washing
• Some cheaper versions may have strong chemical odors — a sign of potentially harmful additives

Already own one of these toys? No need to throw it out straight away — using a condom over the toy can significantly reduce risk while you decide whether to replace it. Just look for clear material labeling when shopping for your next one.

What To Look For When Shopping

Feeling overwhelmed by product listings? Keep it simple and prioritize:

• Clear material labeling — if a toy doesn't tell you what it's made from, that's a red flag
• Non-porous materials — silicone, ABS plastic, glass, or stainless steel
• Reputable retailers — a good retailer will always be transparent about materials and safety

The more comfortable you get with reading labels, the easier and more enjoyable shopping becomes. You've got this!

Up Next

• Best Sex Toys for First-Time Users — Not sure where to start? We've done the shortlisting for you
• How to Clean and Store Sex Toys Safely — Two minutes of care that makes every experience better
• Beginner's Guide to Sex Toys: Everything You Need to Know — The complete starting point for your pleasure journey
• How to Choose the Right Sex Toy for Your Body — Because the best toy is always the one that's right for you