Why Material Matters
Because intimate products come into direct contact with sensitive skin and mucous membranes, material quality matters more here than almost any other product category. The right material is non-porous, body-safe, and easy to clean — the wrong one can harbor bacteria or cause irritation over time.
Body-Safe Materials
Medical-Grade Silicone
Non-porous, hypoallergenic, and easy to sterilize. The most common and trusted material for intimate products.
Borosilicate Glass
Smooth, non-porous, and compatible with all lube types. Can be safely warmed or cooled for temperature play.
Stainless Steel
Extremely durable, non-porous, and easy to sanitize. A great hypoallergenic option.
ABS Plastic
A hard, non-porous plastic commonly used in vibrators and electronic products. Easy to clean and durable.
Materials to Approach with Caution
Some lower-cost materials — often labeled vaguely as "jelly," "rubber," or "skin-safe blend" — can be porous, meaning they contain microscopic holes that can trap bacteria even after cleaning. Porous materials are harder to fully sanitize and may degrade faster over time.
If a product doesn't clearly list its material, or uses vague marketing language instead of a specific material name, it's worth doing a little extra research — or sticking with the body-safe materials listed above.
Understanding Phthalates
Phthalates are chemical softening agents sometimes used in plastic manufacturing. Many people prefer to avoid them in intimate products due to potential sensitivities. Look for products explicitly labeled phthalate-free — all body-safe materials listed above are naturally phthalate-free.
Quick Safety Checklist
- Check that the material is clearly listed (not just "premium" or "skin-friendly").
- Look for "body-safe," "phthalate-free," or "non-porous" on the product description.
- Match the material to the right lube — see our Lube Compatibility Guide.
- Clean and store properly after every use — see our Cleaning & Care Guide.