The material of a sex toy affects how soft or firm it feels, how easy it is to clean and which lubricant works best. It is worth checking the material just as carefully as shape and functions.
Silicone
Silicone is widely used in higher-quality toys. It can be very soft or relatively firm and usually feels smooth.
- often easy to clean,
- comfortable surface,
- available in different firmness levels,
- common in vibrators, dildos and anal toys.
With silicone toys, water-based lubricant is usually the simplest option.
TPE and TPR
TPE and TPR are soft, flexible materials often used for masturbators and realistic toys. They can feel very skin-like but may need more careful drying and storage.
ABS plastic
ABS is a hard, smooth plastic often used for housings, bullets and handles. It is dimensionally stable and easy to maintain.
Glass
Purpose-made glass toys are smooth, rigid and temperature-conductive. Check the surface for damage before use.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is heavier and very rigid. It provides a very different sensation from soft toys and is generally easy to clean when the product is designed for intimate use.
Which material is beginner-friendly?
Many beginners find soft silicone straightforward because it has some give and is usually easy to care for.
Material and lubricant
Lubricant must be compatible with the toy material. Water-based products work with many materials. Silicone-based lubricant may not be suitable for some silicone toys.
Read Which lubricant works with which sex toy?.
Material and cleaning
Not every material should be cleaned in the same way. Electronics, coatings and water resistance also matter.
Browse toy cleaners & care.
How to spot material damage
Cracks, sticky surfaces, strong discolouration or unusual changes in smell can be signs that a toy is no longer in good condition.
Frequently asked questions
QIs silicone always soft?
No. Silicone can range from very soft to relatively firm.
QCan glass toys break?
Quality glass toys are made for their intended use, but the surface should still be checked regularly for damage.
QWhich materials are easiest to care for?
Smooth, non-porous materials such as suitable silicone, glass, stainless steel and ABS are often particularly straightforward.