Silicone vs ABS Plastic Sex Toys: What’s the Difference?

When shopping for sex toys, materials matter more than most people realise. The two most common materials you will encounter are silicone and ABS plastic sex toys. While both are widely used and body-safe when manufactured correctly, they offer very different experiences.

Understanding the difference helps you choose toys that match your comfort, hygiene needs, and pleasure preferences.

What Is Silicone?

Silicone is a soft, flexible, and body-safe material commonly used in premium sex toys. High-quality sex toy silicone is non-porous, meaning it does not absorb bacteria, odours, or moisture.

This makes silicone an excellent choice for intimate use and long-term hygiene.

Key benefits of silicone sex toys

• Soft and skin-like feel
  

• Body-safe and non-porous
  

• Easy to clean and sterilise
  

• Warms quickly to body temperature
  

• Ideal for internal and external use
  

Silicone toys are often preferred for vibrators, dildos, and sex toys designed for extended or sensitive play.

What Is ABS Plastic?

ABS plastic is a hard, lightweight plastic often used for the outer shells of vibrators or bullet-style toys. It is also non-porous and body-safe, but offers a very different sensation compared to silicone.

ABS plastic does not flex, making it better suited for targeted stimulation rather than fullness or softness.

Key benefits of ABS plastic sex toys

• Firm and smooth surface
  

• Excellent for precise stimulation
  

• Very durable and long-lasting
  

• Easy to clean
  

• Often more affordable
  

ABS plastic is commonly used in clitoral stimulators, wand handles, remote controls, and compact toys.

Texture and Sensation Differences

The biggest difference between silicone and ABS plastic is how they feel against the body.

Silicone provides a softer, more natural sensation, which many users find more comfortable for internal use or longer sessions. ABS plastic delivers a firmer, more direct sensation, ideal for focused stimulation and powerful vibration transfer.

Your preference often comes down to sensitivity, experience level, and the type of pleasure you enjoy.

Cleaning and Hygiene

Both silicone and ABS plastic are non-porous, making them hygienic choices when properly cleaned.

• Silicone toys can usually be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. Many can also be sterilised by boiling or using toy cleaners.
  

• ABS plastic toys are easy to wipe clean and maintain but should not be boiled unless specified by the manufacturer.
  

Always check whether your toy is waterproof before submerging it.

Compatibility with Lubricants

This is an important consideration many people overlook.

• Silicone toys should only be used with water-based lubricants, as silicone-based lubes can damage the material.
  

• ABS plastic toys are compatible with both water-based and silicone-based lubricants, offering more flexibility.
  

Using the correct lubricant will extend the life of your toy and keep play comfortable.

Which Material Is Right for You?

Choose silicone if you:

• Want a softer, more realistic feel
  

• Prefer internal toys or flexible designs
  

• Have sensitive skin
  

• Value premium comfort
  

Choose ABS plastic if you:

• Enjoy firm, targeted stimulation
  

• Want powerful vibration transfer
  

• Prefer compact or external toys
  

• Are looking for a budget-friendly option
  

Many people enjoy owning toys made from both materials, depending on mood and desired sensation.

Final Thoughts

There is no “better” material—only what works best for your body and preferences. Silicone and ABS plastic sex toys are both safe, popular, and pleasurable when chosen and used correctly.

At Loveangels, we stock a wide range of body-safe toys made from high-quality silicone and ABS plastic, so you can explore confidently and comfortably.

Pleasure should always feel safe, informed, and empowering.