What are the Different Types of Dildo Materials

What are the Different Types of Dildo Materials

By Tatyana Dyachenko

Early dildos probably originated as statues and not masturbatory aids, therefore the materials used were not what you might consider pleasing or even remotely comfortable to get yourself off with. Stone, wood, wax and pottery phallic objects have been recovered from archaeological digs that place them as far back as 4000 years ago.

Today the purpose of these phallic objects has completely shifted and dildo materials are way more genital area friendly. Sex Toy makers have made and are continuing to make dildos in materials that push the envelope in creativity and superior feel. These are a list of some of the materials that you can get a dildo in today.

Leather – While not popular with most, the leather dildo with a fairly solid cotton rag filter has a small following. Leather is not only good for a winter coat

PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) – These dildos are often inexpensive. They are made from a widely used plastic treated with plasticizers called phthalates to make it soft and flexible.
Inside is made with a slightly softer PVC filler for max flexibility. Porous material that cannot be sterilized, thus clean with soap and water and best if used with a condom. Studies have shown that large amounts of Phthalates are linked to health problems.

Silicone rubber – Superior quality high-grade rubber that is very durable and withstands extreme temperature, making it easier to clean by sterilization in boiling water or bleaching. Holds body heat well and is an excellent conductor of vibrations. Avoid use with a silicone based lubricant because it dissolves they toy.

Cyberskin – Soft and stretchy material with the look and feel of human skin. Designed to give a more realistic look. Also known as Ultraskin, Eroskin, Softskin, Cyber Jel-lee, Futurotic and UR3. Requires touch ups with talc because the dildo becomes sticky after being washed. More prone to rips and tears than silicone rubber dildos.

Borosilicate glass (Pyrex) – Smooth, often beautifully designed, yet inflexible and somewhat expensive. Able to be heated or cooled in water for better stimulation. Able to be sterilized in boiling water.

Chrome plated steel – Have a small following of people, especially those into BDSM. Smooth, yet inflexible design. Able to be heated, cooled and easily washed.

As with anything, all dildo materials have their pros and cons. Porous materials such as PVC and Cyberskin generally feel softer and more realistic, while they are able to conform to the body. However, these materials cannot be sterilized and run the risk of harboring bacteria or transferring sexual fluids. When using any dildo make sure the object is as thoroughly cleansed as possible after use and avoid sharing.

Chrome plated steel and borosilicate glass dildos are the easiest to clean because the materials are non-porous and can be boiled in extremely high temperatures for sterilization. Although these dildos do not run the risk of trapping bacteria or sexual fluid, they should be washed prior to moving between vaginal and anal stimulation and/or sharing with a partner. Unlike, plastic and silicone rubber, these materials are inflexible and sometimes uncomfortable for beginners to use.

Silicone rubber dildos are probably the most economical choice. Dildos made from this material are moderately expensive and durable enough to withstand high temperatures for sterilization because they are not porous. The material is still very soft and flexible enough to allow easier penetration.

While all dildos come with care instructions it is important to follow everything carefully as to experience the most gratifying and safest experience.