Sex Toy Materials: Understanding the Pros and Cons of Different Options.
The regulation of sex toy materials is not very comprehensive, leading to the production of sex toys that may not be crafted from safe materials for the human body. Despite diligent efforts to enlighten consumers about this issue, there are still instances where potentially harmful toys are being sold. Moreover, the array of body-safe materials for sex toys is quite diverse, offering distinct experiences depending on the type you opt for and your personal preferences.
Categories of Sex Toy Materials.
Sex toy materials fall into two main categories: those that are considered body-safe and those that are not. Body-safe materials encompass options like silicone, metal, ABS, and glass, all of which are designed to prioritize the well-being of your body. On the other hand, non-body-safe materials encompass materials such as jelly, PVC, and rubber, which may not be as suitable for intimate use and may pose potential risks.
Body-Safe Sex Toy Materials
Body-safe materials are substances that are specifically designed and tested to be safe for intimate contact with the human body. These materials are non-toxic, non-porous, and generally hypoallergenic. They can be easily cleaned and sanitized, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and infections. Mahogany shop exclusively offers toys made from safe materials.
LELO SONA 2 Cruise Clitoral Massager Black
Silicone
Silicone stands out as the foremost, most prevalent, and generally most cost-effective option among body-safe sex toy materials. It boasts a non-porous, latex-free, phthalate-free, and hypoallergenic composition. Reputable companies often designate their products with labels like “100% body-safe silicone,” “premium silicone,” or “medical grade silicone,” all of which are indicators of quality. Its firmness can vary depending on the shore durometer scale used by the manufacturer, encompassing options from entirely firm to exceptionally soft, or even a combination of both. This adaptability allows for the creation of an array of different toy types, and when executed skillfully, can even yield a highly realistic feel.
One minor downside is that certain silicone toys have a tendency to attract dust and lint, a pre-use cleaning is important in some cases. Another important consideration when using silicone toys is that most of them are not compatible with silicone-based lubricants.
Spectrum Ribbed G-Spot Glass Dildo
Glass Toys
Glass also falls within the realm of safe sex toy materials. Borosilicate glass is commonly utilized for crafting sex toys, although other types like soda-lime glass are also employed. Glass products exhibit a wide price range, spanning from relatively inexpensive to quite costly, and they are celebrated not only for their functionality but also for their aesthetic appeal, often resembling exquisite pieces of art.
While the chances of glass breaking or chipping are extremely low, the quality of glass products can vary based on the manufacturing process. One of the glass’s standout attributes is its suitability for temperature play. By immersing it in warm or cold water before use, you can intensify the sensory experience and explore different sensations during play.
Precious Metals Smooth Silver Butt Plug
Metals Toys
Metal represents another safe and reliable material, with medical-grade stainless steel and aluminum being particularly noteworthy. While they tend to be positioned on the more opulent and costly end of the spectrum, these options are well-regarded and have a considerable lifespan.
One crucial aspect to consider when contemplating the acquisition of metal toys is their weight. However, this very characteristic is one of the factors that contribute to their efficacy as G-spotting dildos and anal plugs, making them popular choices for such purposes. Their heftiness can provide a unique sensation during use.
Realistic Warming 6.5 inch Vibrating Dildo
ABS Plastics Toys
ABS plastic is another body-safe and non-porous material. It’s commonly employed in the construction of external toys, such as clitoral vibrators or the handles of vibrators. Interestingly, ABS plastic is the same durable material utilized in the production of LEGO building blocks. Its suitability for external use makes it a practical and safe choice for various types of sex toys designed to enhance pleasure and stimulation.
Squeaky Clean Toy Cleaner
How to Clean Body-Safe Sex Toy Materials
For routine cleaning of the aforementioned toy materials, a simple approach involves using regular hand soap or dishwashing liquid. Thoroughly rinse the toy with warm water afterward. If the toy has intricate textures, using a clean toothbrush can help with a thorough cleaning. After washing, allow the toy to air dry before returning it to storage. I suggest using a zip lock bag for silicone toys to prevent dust accumulation, although storing them together without a bag is also acceptable.
Sterilization is crucial when the toy is used for anal play, transitioning between anal and vaginal use, or being shared between partners. For silicone, ABS plastic, wood, ceramic, and metal toys, you can immerse them in a 10% bleach solution, followed by thorough rinsing. Glass, metal, and silicone toys can be boiled for 3-5 minutes or sanitized in the dishwasher without detergent. Additionally, these same materials can be wiped down with rubbing alcohol. Once again, it’s important to stress the necessity of confirming with the original manufacturer whether these sterilization methods are safe for your specific toy. You can also read this article. [Easy ways to maintain your sex toys: all kinds of sex toys]
Non-Body safe Sex toy Materials
There are two key factors that contribute to the undesirable nature of certain toy materials: porosity and the presence of phthalates. When a toy is porous and/or contains phthalates, it can be problematic. All toys that contain phthalates are inherently porous, but it’s worth noting that not all porous toys contain phthalates. Porosity implies that no matter how meticulously you clean the toy, it can never achieve 100% cleanliness due to the potential for bacteria to reside within its pores. This can result in the growth of mildew and fungus either inside the toy or on its surface, which is obviously not an appealing prospect for internal use.
They’ve been associated with a range of adverse effects, including headaches, cramps, and nausea. Even more concerning, they have been linked to serious health issues like cancer and chemical burns. Interestingly, these chemicals are prohibited in children’s toys due to their potential harm, yet they are still used in sex toys, products designed for intimate contact with our bodies.
Jelly, PVC, and Rubber.
Jelly often displays vibrant fluorescent colors and tends to be transparent, while PVC and rubber are commonly employed to create realistic toys that may have an unnatural sheen or gloss. These materials often exhibit a tacky or sticky texture and can emit a strong odor. While their affordability makes them appealing to manufacturers, it’s essential to recognize that they are not body-safe choices. Instead, they possess porous properties and contain phthalates, which can lead to health risks.
Thermoplastic elastomers TPE/Thermoplastic Rubber TPR
There’s another material worth discussing, even though it’s also porous. This material is typically latex- and phthalate-free, making it a slightly better option compared to jelly, PVC, or rubber. These toys often exhibit a visual blend between jelly and silicone and are fairly prevalent. Despite being porous, they might appear more appealing due to their safer chemical composition. However, it’s important to note that these toys can still pose cleaning challenges and are prone to breaking down over time due to the instability of the material.
It’s advisable to replace these toys every 6-12 months, especially if you observe any alterations in their material, such as the development of black spots or changes in coloration. For internal use, condoms can potentially be used as a protective barrier over these toys. Nevertheless, from my perspective, it’s recommended to avoid these toys altogether and invest in higher-quality options like silicone toys. The expense of purchasing condoms and the need for frequent replacements is not cost-effective compared to buying a durable silicone toy from the outset. It’s worth noting that certain TPE / TPR toys are designed for external use, such as masturbators and massager wand heads.
Bottomline
If you’re uncertain about where to begin, I recommend visiting Mahogany Shop page. There, you can explore a curated selection of reputable and body-safe sex toys. This inclusive and ethical sex toy shop is designed to provide you with a reliable source for products that prioritize your well-being and satisfaction.
