The question of whether silicone lubricant is safe for use with silicone toys has a clear answer: it is not. Silicone lubricants and silicone toys share a similar chemical foundation, leading to a destructive reaction when they come into contact. This incompatibility causes material degradation that compromises the toy’s integrity and hygiene. The lubricant acts as a solvent on the toy’s surface, leading to irreversible damage.
Why Silicone Lubricants Damage Silicone Toys
The destructive interaction between silicone lubricants and silicone toys is an example of the chemical principle known as “like dissolves like.” Both the lubricant and the toy are primarily composed of silicone polymers. The most common silicone fluid used in lubricants is polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which is also the core chemical structure of the vulcanized silicone elastomers used in high-quality toys.
When a silicone lubricant is applied, the liquid silicone molecules in the lube are absorbed into the solid silicone material of the toy. This absorption process, often described as plasticization or solvent swelling, initiates the material breakdown. The liquid lubricant works its way between the cross-linked polymer chains that give the toy its stable shape and firmness.
This chemical intrusion causes the toy’s material to soften, expand, and eventually become sticky or gooey. The surface may develop a gel-like texture, and this damage is permanent. Once the material degrades, it creates microscopic crevices and a porous surface that is impossible to properly sanitize, leading to potential hygiene concerns.
Recommended Lubricant Alternatives
To maintain the longevity and quality of silicone toys, water-based lubricants are the recommended alternative. Water-based formulas use water as the base, often with a thickening agent like glycerin or cellulose. Since these ingredients are chemically inert when interacting with silicone, they pose no threat to the toy’s polymer structure.
Water-based lubes are safe for use with all types of sex toys, including those made from glass and metal, and with barrier protection like latex condoms. They are easy to clean up with just water, leaving no residue that could encourage bacterial growth. While they may require reapplication more frequently because they can dry out, some formulas contain moisturizing ingredients.
Another option is a hybrid lubricant, which is primarily water-based but contains a small amount of silicone for added slipperiness. These are considered safe because the percentage of silicone is typically too low to cause significant degradation. However, consumers should check the ingredient list, as formulations vary widely. It is best to stick to 100% water-based options for material safety.
How to Identify Body-Safe Silicone and Porous Materials
Identifying high-quality, body-safe silicone is important for safety and compatibility with lubricants. Medical-grade silicone is the gold standard because it is non-porous, meaning it has a dense structure that does not harbor bacteria or absorb liquids, making it easy to clean. If a product is genuinely made from 100% silicone, it will typically be advertised as such and will not have a strong chemical smell.
Cheaper toys are often made from porous materials like jelly rubber, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), TPR (thermoplastic rubber), or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer). These materials are less durable and can contain softening chemicals, such as phthalates, that may leach out and pose health risks. Porous materials also absorb bacteria, making them difficult or impossible to sanitize properly.
A simple way to test a toy’s material is to observe its texture; body-safe silicone often has a smooth, silky feel, while porous materials can feel sticky or oily. To maintain the integrity of any silicone toy, store it separately from toys made of porous plastics to prevent a chemical reaction called “contact burn.” This separation, along with using only water-based lubricants, ensures the toy remains body-safe.