Not all sex toys are created equal — and the material your toy is made from matters more than most people realize. The wrong choice can affect your health, hygiene, and overall experience. Here's what you need to know before you buy.

The Gold Standard: 100% Silicone

Silicone is widely considered the best material for sex toys, and for good reason:

• Non-porous — bacteria cannot penetrate the surface
• Hypoallergenic — safe for virtually all skin types
• Body-safe — no harmful chemicals
• Easy to sterilize — can be boiled or bleached
• Soft and skin-like — comfortable against the body
• Durable — lasts years with proper care

The one rule: only use water-based lubricant with silicone toys. Silicone-based lube degrades the material over time.

Glass: Underrated and Excellent

Borosilicate glass is another outstanding material. Completely non-porous and sterilizable. Dishwasher safe. Perfect for temperature play — warm or cool for different sensations. Compatible with all lubricant types. Many people are initially nervous about glass, but medical-grade borosilicate glass is extremely durable and won't shatter from normal use.

Stainless Steel

Similar benefits to glass — non-porous, sterilizable, temperature-play compatible, and works with all lubes. Heavier than glass, which some people prefer for the sensation.

ABS Plastic

Hard, smooth, non-porous, and body-safe. Common in vibrators and bullet-style toys. Easy to clean, budget-friendly, and perfectly safe.

TPE and TPR: Proceed With Caution

Softer and more affordable than silicone but porous — meaning bacteria can live inside the material even after cleaning. Not sterilizable. Always use a condom with these toys and replace them more frequently.

Materials to Avoid Entirely

• Jelly rubber — almost always contains phthalates, a known hormone disruptor
• PVC — can off-gas harmful chemicals
• Anything with a strong chemical smell out of the package — a red flag, do not buy

How to Spot Quality When Shopping

• Look for "100% silicone" or "phthalate-free" labeling
• The material should be clearly named — not just "silicone-like"
• Buy from reputable brands with verifiable manufacturing standards
• No strong chemical smell

At Uncensoredvibes.com every product we carry meets our body-safe standards. We only stock toys from trusted manufacturers so you never have to guess.

Cleaning your toys properly is one of the most important — and most overlooked — aspects of sexual wellness. It protects your health, prevents infections, and keeps your toys lasting years longer. Here's everything you need to know.

Why Proper Cleaning Matters

Toys that aren't cleaned correctly can harbor bacteria, mold, and other pathogens — even when they look clean. This is especially important for shared toys, toys used in multiple areas, and porous materials that trap bacteria inside.

Cleaning by Material

Silicone and Glass — Non-motorized These are non-porous and can be fully sterilized. Best method: Boil in water for 3 minutes, OR run through the dishwasher on the top rack, OR use a 10% bleach solution. Also works: Warm water and mild unscented soap.

Motorized and Rechargeable Toys Cannot be submerged unless rated fully waterproof. Best method: Warm water and mild soap, wiped down thoroughly. Or use a dedicated toy cleaner spray — spray on, wipe off, no rinsing needed.

ABS Plastic Non-porous and easy to clean. Warm water and soap, or toy cleaner spray.

Rubber and Jelly Toys These are porous and cannot be fully sterilized. Always use a condom with these materials and replace them with body-safe options when possible.

How Often to Clean

Before first use — Always, no exceptions After every use — Without fail Before storage — Make sure completely dry before putting away

Storage Tips

Store each toy separately to prevent material reactions Use the fabric pouches that come with most toys Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme heat Never store toys touching each other — some materials react badly

Shop our recommended toy cleaners at Uncensoredvibes.com — toy-safe sprays that work on all materials, no rinsing required.

Lubricant is the most underrated product in sexual wellness. It makes everything more comfortable, more pleasurable, and safer. Yet most people either skip it entirely or grab whatever's nearby without thinking twice. This guide changes that.

Why Lube Matters

Friction is the enemy of pleasure and comfort. Whether you're using toys, engaging in intimacy with a partner, or exploring solo, lubrication reduces discomfort, prevents irritation, and enhances sensation for everyone involved.

The body doesn't always produce enough natural lubrication — and that's perfectly normal. It's affected by stress, hormones, medication, and hydration levels. Lube simply fills that gap.

The 3 Main Types

Water-Based — Best for most people Best for: Toy use, everyday intimacy, sensitive skin Compatible with all toy materials and all condom types. Cleans up easily with water. One downside: may need reapplication during longer sessions.

Silicone-Based — Lasts longer Best for: Longer sessions, water play, massage Lasts significantly longer than water-based and feels incredibly silky. Waterproof — ideal for shower use. Important: Do NOT use with silicone toys — it breaks down the material.

Oil-Based — External use Best for: Massage, external use only Feels luxurious and lasts a long time. However, degrades latex condoms and harder to clean. Not recommended for internal use.

Specialty Lubes Worth Knowing

Warming lubes — Create a gentle warming sensation, great for heightening arousal Cooling and tingling lubes — A refreshing minty sensation many people love Flavored lubes — Perfect for oral intimacy, choose sugar-free options Anal lubes — Thicker consistency designed specifically for anal play

The Golden Rule

Always use water-based lube with silicone toys. Silicone-based lube breaks down silicone toy material over time.

Shop our full lubricant collection at Uncensoredvibes.com — water-based, silicone, flavored, warming, and specialty lubes, all body-safe and discreetly shipped.