Last updated October 2026 · Written by Casey M., Resident Toy Specialist at Epic Dildos.
TL;DR
Silicone is the best all round choice: soft, non porous and easy to clean. Glass and steel are firm and great for temperature play. Realistic materials such as UltraSkyn feel amazing but need more care. Jelly and PVC are cheap but porous.
Material Comparison
| Material | Feel | Porous? | Lube | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone | Soft to firm | No | Water based | Almost everyone |
| Glass | Hard, smooth | No | Any | Temperature play, firm pressure |
| Stainless steel | Hard, heavy | No | Any | Temperature play, weight |
| UltraSkyn and realistic blends | Very soft, skin-like | Yes | Water based | Realism |
| Jelly or PVC | Soft, rubbery | Yes | Water based | Tight budgets, with a condom |
Silicone
Non porous, so it cleans thoroughly, and it comes in everything from squishy to firm. It is a favourite for girthy dildos and dual density toys. Downsides: it costs more, and silicone lube can damage it. Pure silicone rarely causes reactions, but check the listing, since not every product labelled "silicone" is 100% silicone.
Glass
Smooth, firm and non porous. Warm it in water or chill it in the fridge for temperature play. Check for chips before each use and do not use it if damaged.
Stainless Steel
Heavy, firm and practically indestructible. Holds temperature well. The weight takes getting used to.
Realistic Materials: UltraSkyn, Vixskin and More
UltraSkyn is Doc Johnson's own soft, skin-like material. It feels very realistic but is not silicone and is somewhat porous, so wash it well, dry it fully and store it on its own. Vixskin is different: it is dual density platinum silicone, so it is non porous. Full comparison in our UltraSkyn, VixSkin and SkinTech guide.
Jelly and PVC
Cheap and colourful, but porous, and cheaper ones may contain phthalates. If you choose one, use a condom over it and replace it once it turns sticky, cloudy or smelly.
New to the terms? See the dildo glossary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest dildo material?
Non porous materials: silicone, glass and stainless steel. They can be cleaned thoroughly and do not hold bacteria.
Is silicone hypoallergenic?
Pure silicone rarely causes reactions, but not every product is pure silicone and anyone can react to anything. Check the listing and patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Can I use silicone lube with silicone toys?
It is safest not to. Silicone lube can make some silicone toys tacky or damaged. Water based lube works with everything.
Are jelly or PVC dildos safe?
They are porous and cheaper ones may contain phthalates. If you buy one, use a condom over it and replace it when it gets sticky or discoloured.