Themo-Plastic Rubber (T.P.R.) and Jelly Rubber
Thermo-Plastic Rubber is a very common, inexpensive toy material used to make all kinds of soft to semi-firm toys. It is a porous material, so cannot be disinfected, but can be cleaned before and after use with toy cleaner and used with a condom if it is being shared between partners. Jelly, like T.P.R. is used to make soft to semi-firm pliable toys and is inexpensive, but often contains phthalates (a chemical softener linked to some health issues). If you choose a jelly toy, try to find a phthalate-free variety (listed on the label), or use a condom on the toy each time. Jelly can also be cleaned with a basic toy cleaner, but not fully disinfected due to its porous nature.
Thermo-Plastic Elastomer (T.P.E.)
Thermo-Plastic Elastomer is another common toy material that is pliable and soft, and often feels very similar to silicone. T.P.E. is porous, so cannot be disinfected but can be cleaned with toy cleaner or “soap-free soap” (i.e. baby shampoo or feminine wash). T.P.E. is usually phthalate-free and is a safe, non-toxic material that will hold up substantially better than jelly if it’s taken care of properly and stored not touching other toys. We recommend storing each toy in a satin-lined pouch available at Stag Shop.
Silicone
Silicone is used to make many different shapes and sizes of toys, and makes some of the most realistic feeling toys on the market. It is also commonly used as an outer skin for high quality vibrators due to its soft, velvety texture, low maintenance and longevity. Pure silicone toys, while more expensive than some others, are a worth-while investment. If taken care of properly, they will last a lifetime. Silicone is 100% free of all phthalates, non-porous and as such can be completely disinfected.
This is particular important for those suffering from low immunity. It can be boiled for disinfection, or sanitized with a toy cleaner and warm water. Silicone toys should never be stored touching each other as silicone bonds to like-materials effectively melting them. For the same reason, you should avoid using silicone lubricant on your silicone toy. Use water-based instead. Silicone comes in a range of textures from super soft to super hard, and all kinds of shapes and colours.
Hard Plastic, Lucite, or Acrylic
These rigid materials are commonly seen in hard-vibrating toys such as clitoral vibes and gyrators where flexibility is unnecessary. Because they are non-porous, silicone lubricant can be used on them if desired (and is often preferred) to give them some slide during use. They are non-porous and are phthalate-free, and should be cleaned using a toy cleaner and warm water. They can be stored touching without incident.
Glass, Metal, or Ceramics
These rigid materials are commonly seen in hard-vibrating toys such as clitoral vibes and gyrators where flexibility is unnecessary. Because they are non-porous, silicone lubricant can be used on them if desired (and is often preferred) to give them some slide during use. They are non-porous and are phthalate-free, and should be cleaned using a toy cleaner and warm water. They can be stored touching without incident.
Realistic "Skin" Materials
Realistic materials made to mimic skin are most commonly seen in male masturbators and dongs designed to look and feel ‘real.’ These super soft toys are usually made of a silicone and T.P.E. or T.P.R. hybrid and are extremely porous so must be cleaned with a toy cleaner (ideally a foaming one that will get in all the nooks and crannies of the toy). Then they must be rinsed thoroughly with warm water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Once dry, they need to be sprinkled with a talc-free powder available at Stag Shop. This step is crucial to keeping these toys from disintegrating and keeps the toy soft.
Other materials, though uncommon, exist, and you should refer to their manufacturers for best clean and care practices.
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