How to Choose a Body-Safe Dildo: Materials, Sizing & Care (2026 Guide)
What "body-safe" actually means
A body-safe sex toy is made from a non-porous, phthalate-free and latex-free material. Non-porous surfaces don't trap bacteria in microscopic pores, so they can be cleaned thoroughly and won't harbour mould or odours over time. The two materials that reliably meet this bar are 100% medical/platinum-grade silicone and borosilicate glass.
Materials, ranked by safety
- Platinum silicone — non-porous, hypoallergenic, holds body heat, and lasts for years. The safest all-round choice.
- Borosilicate glass & stainless steel — completely non-porous and great for temperature play, but firm.
- TPE / TPR / "jelly" — softer and cheaper, but porous. Harder to fully sanitise and should be paired with a condom for shared or anal use. See our silicone-vs-TPE comparison for details.
- Avoid anything that won't name its material, or that smells strongly of chemicals out of the box.
How to choose the right size
Two numbers matter more than the headline length:
- Insertable length — how much actually goes in (always shorter than total length, which includes the base).
- Diameter / girth — usually the bigger comfort factor. If you're newer, prioritise a comfortable diameter and increase gradually.
Every product page on our store lists total length, insertable length and diameter in the Specifications table, so you can compare like-for-like.
Cleaning and care
- Wash before and after each use with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap.
- For 100% silicone toys with no electronics or suction base, you can also sanitise in boiling water for a few minutes.
- Use a water-based lubricant. Avoid silicone lube on silicone toys — it can degrade the surface over time.
- Air-dry fully and store separately from other silicone items in a clean, dry place.
Quick FAQ
Is silicone safe for anal use? Yes — choose a toy with a flared or suction base so it stays external.
Can I share my dildo? Only non-porous toys can be properly sanitised between partners; otherwise use a fresh condom.
How long does a silicone dildo last? With proper care, years. Replace any toy whose surface becomes tacky, torn or discoloured.
