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Sex Toy Materials - Elastomers

By Cory Silverberg, About.com

Updated October 06, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Elastomers in Sex Toys:
  • In response to concerns about phthalates some manufacturers have started using elastomers to make soft rubber like sex toys.
  • Elastomers are very different from the inexpensive PVC used for most sex toys. They contain no phthalates, are hypoallergenic and durable. No solvents are used in the process of manufacturing.
  • Elastomers are usually suitable for people concerned with allergic reactions or chemical sensitivities.
Care and Cleaning of Elastomer Sex Toys:
  • Elastomers are porous so care should be taken to clean them properly.
  • They can be cleaned with mild soap and water.
  • Only use a water based personal lubricant with silicone and rubber mixed sex toys.
  • Because they are porous it's recommended to use condoms on sex toys that are made primarily of elastomers.
Safer Sex and Elastomer Sex Toys:
  • It is possible to transmit infections on sex toys that have not been sterilized.
  • Because elastomer sex toys cannot be boiled (like silicone sex toys ) use a condom to keep them clean and free of bacteria.
  • If you are going to share a sex toy with a partner use a condom on the toy to prevent transmission of bodily fluids.
  • While it is not recommended, if you are going to use a toy both vaginally and anally use a condom to prevent transmission of bacteria.
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