Glossary
What Are Non Porous Materials?
A simple guide to one of the most important material terms used in fantasy toy care, cleaning and product descriptions.
Quick answer
Non porous materials do not absorb fluids in the same way as porous materials. In fantasy toys, this matters because non porous materials are generally easier to clean and care for when used as directed. Materials often discussed as easier-to-clean, non porous options include silicone, glass, stainless steel and some hard plastics, but quality, finish and product design still vary.
What does non porous mean?
Non porous means that a material does not have tiny spaces that easily absorb fluids, residue or moisture. In adult product care, this term matters because a smoother, non absorbent surface is generally easier to clean than a porous one.
Fantasy toys are often highly detailed. They may include ridges, curves, scales, textures or creature-inspired shapes. That makes the material especially important. A detailed product can look impressive, but it still needs to be made from a material that can be cleaned and stored properly.
Why non porous materials matter
Non porous materials are important because cleaning is part of safer product use. A product that is easier to clean is usually easier to care for over time, provided the user follows the maker’s instructions.
NHS sexual health guidance says sex toys should be kept clean. If toys are shared, they should be washed between uses and used with a new condom each time.
This is why material clarity matters. If a product page does not clearly explain what the toy is made from, how to clean it or how to store it, treat that as a reason to be cautious.
Common non porous materials
The materials most often discussed as non porous in adult product care include:
- Silicone
- Glass
- Stainless steel
- Some hard plastics, such as ABS plastic
These materials can still vary in quality, finish and intended use. Non porous does not automatically mean a product is suitable for every person or every type of use. Always check the specific product information.
Silicone and non porous materials
Silicone is one of the most common materials used in higher-quality fantasy toys. It can be soft, flexible and detailed, while still being easier to clean than many porous materials when properly made.
However, not every product described as silicone gives the same level of detail. A strong product page should explain whether the product is made from silicone, how firm it is, how to clean it and which lubricants are suitable.
For more background, read our glossary entry on body safe silicone and our full guide to fantasy toy materials.
Porous vs non porous materials
The main difference is how the material behaves at the surface.
A non porous material is less likely to absorb fluids. A porous material may have tiny spaces that can hold moisture, residue or bacteria more easily. This can make porous materials harder to clean thoroughly.
TPE, TPR, PVC and jelly-like materials are often discussed as porous or more difficult to sanitise. That does not mean every product made from those materials is identical, but it does mean users should read care instructions carefully.
Does non porous mean completely safe?
No. Non porous does not mean no care is needed. It simply describes one useful material property.
A non porous toy still needs to be:
- Cleaned before and after use
- Used with a suitable lubricant
- Dried properly before storage
- Checked for damage
- Stored away from dust, heat and direct sunlight
SH:24 advises checking toys for breaks or scratches, washing with warm soapy water where the product instructions allow, avoiding perfumed soaps that may irritate the body and drying toys properly before storage.
Lubricant compatibility
Material also affects lubricant choice. Water-based lubricant is often the easiest starting point because it is widely compatible with many toys and condoms.
Silicone lubricant may damage some silicone toys. Planned Parenthood advises not using silicone lube with silicone sex toys unless a condom is used on the toy.
Always check the product instructions before using lubricant.
What to check before buying
Before buying a fantasy toy, check whether the product page gives clear answers to these questions:
- What material is the product made from?
- Is the material described as non porous?
- Is the product suitable for the intended use?
- How should it be cleaned?
- How should it be stored?
- Which lubricant is compatible?
- Does the product have any electronic parts or special care needs?
If those details are missing, it may be better to choose a product with clearer information.
Quick checklist
- Non porous materials are generally easier to clean than porous materials.
- Silicone, glass and stainless steel are commonly discussed as non porous options.
- Non porous does not mean maintenance free.
- Always follow the maker’s cleaning instructions.
- Use water-based lubricant unless product guidance says otherwise.
- Do not rely only on marketing phrases. Check the actual material details.
Sources and further reading
This glossary entry is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. For health concerns, pain, irritation or infection symptoms, speak to a qualified medical professional.