Body-Safe Sex Toys UK: Materials, Lube & Cleaning

The material a sex toy is made from affects how it feels, how easy it is to clean and how long it lasts. This guide covers which materials are body-safe, which lube to use with each one, and how to clean and store your toys so they stay in good shape.

What does "body-safe" actually mean?

When people talk about body-safe toys, they usually mean two things. The material is non-porous, so it has no tiny holes where moisture and bacteria can hide. It's also free from chemicals some people prefer to avoid, such as phthalates.

Porous vs non-porous

Non-porous materials have a sealed surface, so they can be cleaned properly every time. Porous materials have microscopic pores that can trap moisture, bacteria and lube, even after washing. Porous toys are best kept for one person, or used with a condom if shared.

What are phthalates?

Phthalates are chemicals used to make some plastics, like PVC, soft and bendy. Many people prefer to avoid them in anything that touches the body, so it's worth looking for "phthalate free" in a product description if you're choosing a softer toy.

A quick guide to sex toy materials

Silicone

Silicone is smooth, soft to the touch, non-porous and easy to wash. The one thing to remember is that silicone lube can damage the surface of some silicone toys, so stick to water-based lube.

ABS plastic

ABS is a hard, smooth, non-porous plastic often used for vibrators and bullets, sometimes combined with silicone.

Glass

Glass toys are smooth, firm, non-porous and very easy to keep clean. Check glass toys for chips or cracks before each use, and stop using one if you find any damage.

Metal

Metal toys, such as stainless steel or aluminium alloy, are non-porous, sturdy and weighty. Glass and metal can both be warmed or cooled in water for temperature play, if the manufacturer says the toy is suitable for it.

TPE and TPR

TPE and TPR are soft, stretchy and usually cheaper than silicone, so they're common in strokers. They're slightly porous, so clean and dry them carefully, and use water-based lube.

PVC and jelly

PVC and "jelly" toys are usually the cheapest. They're porous, and some contain phthalates. If you choose one, look for a phthalate-free label, clean it carefully and consider using it with a condom.

Each product page on our site lists the material where the manufacturer supplies it. If you're new to toys, our beginner's guide to sex toys is a good place to start.

Which lube should I use with my toys?

• Water-based lube: safe with every toy material and with condoms. It's the easiest all-rounder and simple to wash off.
• Silicone-based lube: long-lasting and waterproof, so it's great for the shower and for glass or metal toys. Avoid it with silicone toys, as it can damage the surface over time.
• Hybrid lube: a mix of water and silicone. If you want to use one with a silicone toy, test a small patch first.
• Oil-based lube: fine with glass and metal, but avoid it with latex condoms, as oil can weaken latex.

If you're not sure, choose water-based. You'll find all our lubes in the essentials collection.

How to clean your sex toys

Clean your toy before and after each use. Always check the manufacturer's instructions first, especially for toys with a motor.

Toys with a motor

For vibrators and anything with a battery or charging port, use warm water with a mild, unscented soap, or a dedicated toy cleaner. Only put a toy under water if it's described as waterproof. Water-resistant toys should be wiped down instead. Keep charging ports dry, and make sure any port cover is closed before washing.

Silicone, glass and metal toys without a motor

Wash them with warm, soapy water or a toy cleaner, rinse well and let them dry. Some manufacturers say their solid silicone, glass or metal toys can also be boiled or put through a dishwasher, but only do that if the manufacturer says it's safe.

TPE, TPR, PVC and jelly toys

Use warm water with mild soap or a toy cleaner, then rinse and let the toy dry completely. Don't use hot water, bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage soft materials.

Drying

Pat your toy dry with a clean, lint-free towel, then let it air dry fully before putting it away. Storing a toy damp is the quickest way to spoil it.

How to store your toys

Keep each toy in its own pouch or box, somewhere cool, clean and dry. Storing toys separately is important, because some materials, especially soft ones, can react with each other if they touch. A pouch also keeps dust and fluff off.

Batteries and charging

Take batteries out of toys you won't be using for a while, as old batteries can leak. For rechargeable toys, use the cable supplied and follow the manufacturer's charging advice. If you're putting a rechargeable toy away for a long time, charge it every few months so the battery stays healthy.

When should I replace a toy?

Even good toys don't last forever. It's time for a new one if you notice:

• cracks, tears, chips or rough patches on the surface
• a sticky or tacky feel that doesn't wash off
• a smell or discolouration that stays after cleaning
• a battery that no longer holds its charge, or a motor that cuts out

Our picks for body-safe play and toy care

Here are six picks from our range, all in stock at the time of writing.

Loving Joy Cleanse Sex Toy Cleaner 250ml, £8.09

A spray-on cleaner with a mild, coconut-derived cleansing agent. Spray it on, wipe with a clean cloth and leave to air dry. It's suitable for all types of toys, including silicone, rubber and latex. Shop the Loving Joy Toy Cleaner.

Sliquid Naturals H2O Water Based Lubricant 125ml, £13.49

A water-based lube that's glycerin free, paraben free, vegan, unscented and non-staining. It's suitable for use with all types of toys, so it's a safe choice for silicone. Shop Sliquid H2O.

Sliquid Naturals Silver Silicone Lubricant 125ml, £29.69

A long-lasting, 100% waterproof silicone lube that only needs a few drops and washes off with soap and water. It's a good match for glass and metal toys, but as with any silicone lube, avoid using it with silicone toys. Shop Sliquid Silver.

Loving Joy 6 Inch Silicone Dildo with Suction Cup, £17.99

Made from 100% silky silicone, with a curved, textured shape, a suction cup base and a 13cm (5.1 inch) insertable length. Pair it with a water-based lube. Shop the Silicone Dildo.

Spectrum Ribbed Glass Dildo, £26.99

A ribbed glass dildo that's hypoallergenic and easy to clean, and suitable for both vaginal and anal use. Glass works with any type of lube. Shop the Ribbed Glass Dildo.

Precious Metals Silver Butt Plug, Small, £10.79

A small plug made from aluminium alloy, with a pointed tip, a wide base for safety and a jewelled end. It has a smooth, easy-to-clean surface, is suitable for temperature play and works with water, silicone or oil-based lube. It comes with a drawstring storage bag. Shop the Silver Butt Plug.

Looking for more? Browse our vibrators, dildos, women's sex toys, anal toys and male sex toys.

Shopping with TootyFruit

Every order is sent in plain packaging. The sender shown on the parcel is Ashtech Innovations, and that's also the name on your bank statement.

Orders placed before 2pm Monday to Friday are usually dispatched the same working day, and delivery is free on UK orders of £50 or more.

Materials and cleaning FAQ

What is the safest material for a sex toy?

Non-porous materials such as silicone, glass, metal and ABS plastic are the easiest to keep clean, which is why they're often called body-safe.

Can I use silicone lube with a silicone toy?

It's best not to. Silicone lube can damage the surface of some silicone toys over time. Use a water-based lube instead, or check the manufacturer's advice.

Can I return a toy if it isn't right for me?

You have 14 days to cancel under UK consumer law. For hygiene reasons, intimate products that arrive sealed can only be returned if the seal and packaging haven't been opened, unless they're faulty. Full details are on our FAQ page.

I still have questions. Who can I ask?

Email us at sales@tootyfruit.com. We'll reply discreetly and in confidence.