What Are Dildos Made Of? A Guide to Dildo Materials and Safety

Dildos have been used for centuries, evolving from primitive designs to highly sophisticated products crafted from advanced materials. But when shopping for a dildo, many people wonder: What will my dildo be made of? Understanding the materials used in the sex toy industry is essential to ensure safety, comfort, and an enjoyable experience. In this article, we explain common and uncommon materials for dildos, their properties, safety concerns, and how to care for them.

The 4 Most Common Materials for Dildos

Modern dildos are crafted from a variety of materials, each offering unique sensations and benefits. Below are the popular materials used in dildo manufacturing:

1. Medical-Grade Silicone

Silicone is one of the most body-safe materials available. It is nonporous, hypoallergenic, and highly durable, making it a top choice for many users.

Advantages

  • Easy to clean with mild soap and warm water.
  • Compatible with water-based lubricants (avoid silicone-based lubes to prevent damage).
  • Feels soft and realistic, mimicking skin for a more lifelike experience.

Always opt for 100% medical-grade silicone to ensure safety and avoid exposure to harmful chemicals. Steer clear of subpar materials like jelly rubber, as they may contain toxic additives that can pose health risks.

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2. Glass (Borosilicate Glass)

Glass sex toys, particularly those made from borosilicate glass, are luxurious and versatile. These toys are popular for their ability to adjust to different body temperatures and offer intense sensations during use. 

Advantages

  • Nonporous and easy to clean.
  • Compatible with all types of lubricants, including oil-based lubricants and water-based lubes.
  • Can be heated or cooled for temperature play.

Always buy from a reputable sex toy company to ensure the glass is tempered and shatter-resistant. Never use a damaged glass dildo to avoid injury.

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3. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel dildos are known for their weight and firmness, providing intense pressure and unique stimulation.

Advantages

  • Nonporous and body-safe.
  • Retains temperature, offering cool sensations or warm contact.
  • Extremely durable and easy to sanitize. Clean with mild soap and warm water, or boil for a few minutes to sterilize.

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4. ABS Plastic

ABS plastic sex toys are firm, lightweight, and nonporous, making them a popular choice for vibrators and dildos.

Advantages

  • Body-safe and free of dangerous chemicals like phthalates.
  • Budget-friendly compared to other materials.
  • Provides a smooth surface for friction-free experiences.

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What Is the Most Popular Material for Dildos?

Silicone is the most popular material for dildos due to its combination of safety, versatility, and comfort. Here's why it stands out:

  • Body-Safe and Nonporous: Silicone is hypoallergenic, making it ideal for people with latex allergies or sensitivities. Nonporous nature ensures it doesn’t harbor bacteria, making it easy to clean and maintain.
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: High-quality silicone is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring the toy stays safe and functional for a long time.
  • Realistic and Flexible: Silicone can be molded to replicate the look and feel of human skin while offering flexibility.
  • Temperature-Neutral: Silicone retains body heat, providing a comfortable experience during use.
  • Compatible Designs: Available in various shapes, sizes, and textures to cater to different preferences.

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Ensuring Safe Penetration: Unsafe Materials to Avoid

The material for dildos directly impacts safety, durability, and the overall experience. Nonporous materials like medical-grade silicone, borosilicate glass, and stainless steel are the safest choices, ensuring no harmful chemicals leach into the body. Cheap, porous materials, on the other hand, can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or even exposure to dangerous compounds.

Low-Quality Materials to Avoid

  • Jelly Rubber Toys: Often contain phthalates, which are a public health concern due to their harmful effects.
  • Latex Rubber: Can cause latex allergies in some individuals.
  • Vinyl Rubber: Contains dangerous chemicals that can irritate the skin or mucous membranes.

Choosing body-safe sex toy materials not only enhances your pleasure but also safeguards your sexual health. If a toy has a strong chemical odor or lacks clear labeling about its composition, it’s best to avoid it.

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How to Care for Dildos Based on Their Material

Proper care ensures your dildo remains body-safe, functional, and long-lasting. Follow these guidelines to maintain different types of materials:

Silicone Toys

  • Cleaning: Wash with mild soap and warm water after each use. For sterilization, boil in water for 3-5 minutes (ensure the toy does not contain electronic components).
  • Material Safety: Silicone sex toys are nonporous and hypoallergenic, making them one of the safest materials for extended skin contact.
  • Avoid: Silicone-based lubricants, as they can degrade the toy's surface. Opt for water-based lubricants instead.

Glass Toys

  • Cleaning: Use soap and warm water. Alternatively, sanitize them with cool water and mild soap to avoid damage.
  • Safety Tip: Ensure the glass is borosilicate or another type of high-quality, nonporous glass designed for sexual activities. Avoid extreme temperatures to prevent cracking.

Metal Toys

  • Cleaning: Wash with dish soap and warm water. For sterilization, boil for 3-5 minutes.
  • Material Benefits: Stainless steel toys are nonporous, body-safe, and easy to maintain. They provide a luxurious sensation due to their temperature-retaining properties.

Porous Toys

  • Precautions: Use a condom during use to prevent bacteria buildup and protect the toy's surface from bodily fluids.
  • Cleaning: Wash immediately after use with soap and warm water. Porous materials can harbor bacteria and are harder to sterilize.
  • Material Warning: Avoid prolonged use of toys made from porous or unsafe materials due to potential health risks.

General Care Tips

  • Dry Properly: Always dry toys with a clean towel to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or bacterial growth.
  • Store Safely: Keep toys in a cool, dry place, ideally in individual storage bags or cases to avoid material cross-contamination.
  • Inspect Regularly: Check for signs of wear, such as cracks or surface damage, especially in porous toys, to ensure continued safety.

By following these care practices, you can maximize the safety and lifespan of your sex toys while maintaining their performance and body compatibility.

How to Choose a Dildo

Get the Best Sex Toys Online at Cupid Boutique

At Cupid Boutique, we offer a carefully selected range of high-quality adult products. From body-safe silicone dildos to luxurious glass and stainless steel toys, our collection is designed to meet diverse needs and desires. With expert advice, discreet shipping, and a focus on customer satisfaction, we’re here to provide a welcoming and comfortable shopping experience. Whether you’re new to adult toys or exploring new possibilities, Cupid Boutique is here to help you take sexual pleasure to a new level!

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