An intimate accessory is safe when it is made from certified medical-grade silicone, is phthalate-free, has no strong odor, and has a smooth, non-porous surface. If the material doesn’t meet these criteria, no matter how attractive the design is, it may irritate the skin, harbor bacteria, or even release toxic substances during use. At La Maleta Roja, this is one of the first things we teach in every workshop, because it’s the question people ask least—and the one they should be asking most before buying.
Most women choose an accessory based on its design, color, or features—and that’s understandable, because those are the first things you notice. But the material is what really determines whether an accessory is safe for your body, and it’s also what stores explain the least.
Why the material matters more than you might think
Not all “silicone” is the same. The market is full of ambiguously labeled materials—“silicone,” “silicone-like,” “TPE,” “jelly”—that aren’t actually medical-grade silicone, but cheaper, more porous plastics. Porous materials have microscopic cracks that are invisible to the naked eye, where bacteria and fungi can take hold no matter how well they’re cleaned. Over time, these materials can also release phthalates, chemical compounds used to make plastic flexible that are associated with hormonal disruption.
Certified medical-grade silicone, on the other hand, is non-porous: it has no microscopic cracks where anything can accumulate, can be effectively cleaned with water and mild soap, and is hypoallergenic, minimizing the risk of irritation even on sensitive skin.
How to identify genuine medical-grade silicone
It’s not always easy to tell at a glance, but there are some helpful signs: genuine medical-grade silicone feels soft yet firm, not sticky; it has little to no odor, or a very neutral one; and when gently stretched, it returns to its original shape without marks or residue. If an accessory smells strongly of plastic, feels sticky, or is simply labeled “silicone” with no further details from the manufacturer, that’s a reason to be wary.
Practical tips
• Look for the manufacturer to specify “medical-grade silicone,” not just “silicone.”
• Be wary of very cheap accessories with multiple features: this is often a sign of low-quality materials.
• Make sure the manufacturer explicitly states that it is phthalate-free.
• Clean the accessory before first use and after every use with warm water and mild soap or a specialized cleaner.
• Store it in a clean, dry place, avoiding direct contact with other accessories made from different materials, as they can degrade one another.
Between us
In our workshops, when we bring out the accessories for everyone to touch, many people are surprised by how much quality has improved—not just technology. They immediately compare them with one they’ve had for years, like the one from their bachelorette party, which smells of plastic or latex and has become sticky over time… and which they still use because no one has explained that things don’t have to be that way anymore. When they touch quality silicone for the first time, they notice the difference instantly: they stroke it because it feels silky and pleasant.
You don’t buy an intimate accessory every day. It’s something that will be in contact with the most delicate part of your body, so it deserves the same care you give your face cream or the food you eat. Invest in something safe, pleasant to the touch, and that will give you a good experience. Don’t compromise when it comes to your pleasure and your health.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if an accessory is made from genuine medical-grade silicone?
Check that the manufacturer explicitly identifies it as “medical-grade silicone” and states that it is phthalate-free. If this information is missing, that’s a reason to be cautious.
Is it dangerous to use an accessory that isn’t made from medical-grade silicone?
It may irritate the skin and harbor bacteria because of its porous surface. It’s not immediately dangerous, but it isn’t recommended in the long term.
**Medical-grade silicone is designed for contact with mucous membranes and is non-porous. TPE and other generic “silicones” are cheaper and more porous, even if they’re labeled similarly.
What’s the difference between medical-grade silicone and “regular” silicone or TPE?
Medical-grade silicone is formulated specifically for contact with mucous membranes and contains no porous additives. TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) and other generic “silicones” are cheaper, more porous materials with less quality control, even if they’re labeled similarly.
How long does a well-maintained medical-grade silicone accessory last?
With proper cleaning and storage, it can last for several years without losing its properties. Medical-grade silicone doesn’t degrade with normal use, unlike porous materials, which wear out sooner.
Can medical-grade silicone cause an allergic reaction?
It’s very rare, as silicone is one of the most hypoallergenic materials available. If you notice irritation, it’s more likely to be caused by an incompatible lubricant or soap than by the material itself.
Is it worth paying more for an accessory made from certified medical-grade silicone?
Yes: the price difference usually reflects quality control and material safety, not just the design.
Care is part of safety, too
Whatever material your accessory is made from, using a specialized cleaner such as Pjur Care helps keep it hygienic and in good condition, use after use.
