What Are Sex Toys Made Of? A Beginner’s Guide to Safe & Body-Friendly Materials
If you’re buying your first toy (or upgrading your collection), you might be wondering: “What are sex toys made of — and does it matter?” The truth is, it matters a lot. The material affects not just how a toy feels, but also how safe, hygienic, and long-lasting it is.
The Short Answer
Sex toys are made from a variety of materials, but the safest and most body-friendly are medical-grade silicone, glass, and stainless steel. Other materials like jelly, rubber, or cyberskin can be porous, which means bacteria can hide inside — not ideal for long-term use.
Silicone — The Gold Standard
- Why it’s great: Non-porous, body-safe, soft yet firm, easy to clean.
- Best for: Vibrators, dildos, butt plugs, and couples toys.
- Care tip: Only use water-based lube with silicone toys to avoid degrading the surface.
Glass Toys
- Why they’re popular: Smooth, rigid, temperature-play friendly (can be warmed or cooled safely).
- Best for: People who want a different sensation from softer toys.
- Care tip: Use warm water and toy cleaner — and always check for chips before use.
Stainless Steel
- Why it’s loved: Super durable, weighty for pressure play, completely non-porous.
- Best for: Anal toys, advanced users, anyone who enjoys temperature play.
- Care tip: Clean with soap and water, or even boil for deep sanitisation.
Cyberskin / TPE (Flesh-like Materials)
- Why people choose it: Soft, stretchy, and realistic.
- Downsides: Porous and harder to keep bacteria-free. Needs powdering to maintain texture.
- Care tip: Use a condom if sharing, and always clean immediately after use.
Jelly or Rubber Toys
- Why they’re risky: Cheap but highly porous, often contain phthalates (chemicals that aren’t body-safe).
- Best avoided: Unless you’re just experimenting — but investing in silicone is healthier in the long run.
Final Word
So, what are sex toys made of? A whole range of materials — but if safety and comfort matter to you, stick with silicone, glass, or stainless steel. These options are body-safe, easy to clean, and designed to last.
Looking for toys made from premium, body-safe materials?
[Explore Manatomy’s Body-Safe Collection ]