What Are Fantasy Sex Toys?
Fantasy sex toys are adult products inspired by imaginative, fictional, mythical or creature-based design. Unlike traditional adult toys, which often imitate familiar human anatomy or use simple abstract shapes, fantasy toys tend to draw from fantasy fiction, mythology, gaming culture, folklore, monsters, dragons, tentacles, aliens and other invented forms.
They are often bought for pleasure, curiosity, role play, collecting, creative self-expression or as part of a wider interest in fantasy culture. For many people, the appeal is not only physical. It is also visual, imaginative and personal.
At Fabled Pleasures, we treat fantasy toys as a growing part of the adult product industry. This guide explains what they are, why they have become more visible, what materials to look for, and how beginners can approach them safely and confidently.
How are fantasy sex toys different from traditional adult toys?
Traditional adult toys usually focus on familiar shapes, simple functions and mainstream product categories. Fantasy toys are different because the design is often more expressive.
They may include:
- Creature-inspired shapes
- Unusual textures
- Mythological themes
- Abstract forms
- Bright colours
- Sculptural details
- Collectible designs
- Different firmness options
- Handmade or small-batch production
This makes them closer to a mix of adult product, fantasy object and design piece. Some buyers are interested in them for use. Others are interested in the artistry, colourways, sculpting and collectability.
Why have fantasy toys become more popular?
Fantasy toys have become more visible because adult retail has changed. Online shopping has allowed smaller makers and specialist retailers to reach niche audiences directly. At the same time, fantasy, gaming, anime, mythology and fan communities have become more mainstream.
This has created space for adult products that feel more individual, creative and less clinical than older product categories.
A second reason is privacy. Many people prefer browsing niche adult products online rather than in a physical shop. That makes it easier for unusual or specialist categories to grow.
A third reason is product design. Modern materials, moulding techniques, 3D sculpting and small-batch production have made it easier to create detailed designs in a wide range of shapes, colours and finishes.
Common fantasy toy themes
Fantasy toys can cover a wide range of themes. Some of the most common include:
Dragon-inspired designs
Dragon designs are among the most recognisable within fantasy toy culture. They often include textured surfaces, ridges, scales or sculptural details inspired by fantasy creatures.
Tentacle-inspired designs
Tentacle designs are usually associated with fantasy, science fiction, sea creatures, monsters and surreal art. These products often focus on texture, curves and unusual silhouettes.
Monster-inspired designs
Monster-inspired toys tend to explore exaggerated, creature-like forms. They are often less about realism and more about imagination, fantasy and character.
Alien and science fiction designs
Alien-inspired products often use abstract forms, unusual textures and futuristic colours. They tend to sit between fantasy, science fiction and speculative design.
Mythology and folklore
Some fantasy toys take inspiration from mythology, folklore, demons, spirits, beasts and legendary creatures. These designs often appeal to people who enjoy fantasy world-building and symbolic creature themes.
What materials are fantasy sex toys made from?
Fantasy toys can be made from different materials, but the most commonly discussed material in higher-quality products is silicone.
Silicone is popular because it can be flexible, durable and non-porous when properly manufactured. Non-porous materials are generally easier to clean than porous materials because they do not absorb fluids in the same way.
Other materials may include TPE, TPR, PVC, glass, metal or resin, depending on the product type. However, buyers should always read the product description carefully because material quality can vary.
When browsing, look for clear information about:
- Material
- Firmness
- Texture
- Size
- Whether the product is body safe
- Cleaning instructions
- Compatibility with lubricant
- Storage advice
If a retailer or maker does not clearly explain the material, that is a reason to be cautious.
What does “body safe” mean?
“Body safe” is a common phrase in adult product retail, but it is not always used consistently. In simple terms, it usually means a product is made from materials considered suitable for intimate use when used as directed.
For fantasy toys, shoppers often look for products described as:
- Non-porous
- Phthalate-free
- Latex-free, where relevant
- Made from silicone, glass or stainless steel
- Easy to clean
- Supplied with clear care instructions
Because “body safe” is not always a tightly regulated marketing term, it is worth reading the material details rather than relying only on the label.
Why firmness matters
Firmness is one of the most important differences between fantasy toys. Two products can look similar but feel very different depending on the density and softness of the material.
A softer toy may feel more flexible and forgiving. A firmer toy may make textures and sculptural details feel more pronounced. Beginners often prefer softer or medium firmness products, especially if they are unsure what they like.
When comparing products, look for:
- Soft
- Medium
- Firm
- Extra firm
- Shore hardness, if listed
Shore hardness is a technical measure used to describe how soft or hard a material is. Not every retailer lists it, but when they do, it can help buyers compare products more precisely.
Why texture matters
Texture is one of the main reasons fantasy toys feel different from standard adult toys. Textures may include ridges, scales, bumps, curves, knots, waves or sculptural details.
Texture can make a product feel more intense, so beginners should approach highly textured designs carefully. If you are new to fantasy toys, smoother shapes or gentler textures may be easier to start with.
Are fantasy sex toys safe?
Fantasy sex toys can be safe when they are made from suitable materials, cleaned properly and used according to the product instructions. The main safety points are material quality, hygiene, size, comfort and storage.
NHS sexual health advice says sex toys should be kept clean, washed between uses and used with a new condom each time if shared. Planned Parenthood also advises using condoms on toys to help keep them clean and notes that silicone lubricant should not be used with silicone sex toys.
For beginners, a sensible approach is:
- Choose a reputable retailer
- Read the material information
- Start with a manageable size
- Use suitable lubricant
- Clean before and after use
- Store separately
- Stop if anything feels uncomfortable
This article is general information, not medical advice. Anyone with pain, irritation, infection symptoms or health concerns should speak to a qualified medical professional.
How do you clean fantasy toys?
Cleaning advice depends on the product material and whether the toy has electronics, suction bases, moving parts or decorative finishes.
As a general rule, many toys can be cleaned with warm water and mild, unscented soap, but you should always follow the maker or retailer instructions. SH:24, a UK sexual health service, advises checking the toy for breaks or scratches, using warm soapy water when suitable, avoiding scented soaps that may cause irritation, and drying toys properly before storage.
A simple care routine is:
- Check the product instructions
- Wash before and after use
- Use mild, unscented soap where appropriate
- Rinse thoroughly
- Dry fully
- Store away from dust, heat and direct sunlight
- Keep different materials separated if advised
Some materials can degrade if stored touching other products, so separate storage bags are useful.
How should beginners choose a fantasy toy?
A beginner should not choose only by appearance. Design matters, but comfort, size, firmness and material matter more.
A good beginner checklist is:
- Is the material clearly listed?
- Is the size manageable?
- Is the firmness suitable?
- Is the texture gentle enough?
- Are cleaning instructions clear?
- Is the product compatible with the lubricant you plan to use?
- Is the retailer clear about returns and hygiene policies?
The best first choice is usually not the most extreme design. A simpler, body-safe, clearly described product is often better than a highly textured or oversized design.
Are fantasy toys only for fantasy role play?
No. Some people use fantasy toys as part of role play, but others simply enjoy the shape, colour, creativity or design. Fantasy toys can be playful, artistic, collectible, practical or curiosity-driven.
They do not need to fit one type of person or one type of relationship. The category is broad, and different buyers approach it in different ways.
Why Fabled Pleasures covers fantasy toys editorially
Fantasy toys are not just individual products. They sit at the intersection of adult retail, fantasy culture, independent making, material design, online communities and product safety.
That is why Fabled Pleasures includes guides alongside product discovery. Our aim is to help people understand the category before browsing, so the experience feels informed rather than rushed.
Frequently asked questions
What are fantasy sex toys?
Fantasy sex toys are adult products inspired by fictional, mythical, creature-based or imaginative design. They often use unusual shapes, textures, colours and themes.
Are fantasy toys body safe?
They can be, but it depends on the material and manufacturer. Look for clear material information, cleaning instructions and reputable retailers.
What are fantasy toys usually made from?
Many higher-quality fantasy toys are made from silicone, but some products may use TPE, TPR, PVC, glass, metal or other materials. Always check the product description.
Are fantasy toys suitable for beginners?
Some are, but not all. Beginners should usually start with manageable sizes, gentler textures and softer or medium firmness products.
How do you clean fantasy toys?
Follow the maker’s instructions. Many can be cleaned with warm water and mild, unscented soap, then dried fully before storage. Shared toys should be washed between uses and used with a new condom each time.