What's in my Jelly Rubber Toy?

What is "jelly rubber"?

How can I protect myself?

Alternative Sex Toy Materials

Food for thought

What is "jelly rubber"?

Jelly rubber is a soft plastic, porous material that is composed of different ingredients including latex and phthalates (pronounced "thall-eights"). Phthalates are a family of chemicals that are used as plastic softeners or solvents, and can be found many places in our daily environment. Some questions have been raised about whether jelly rubber sex toys containing pthalates can pose a health risk, as there have been studies done on the effects of phthalates found in common household items and items such as children's teething rings. Because no research has been done on jelly rubber sex toys, we do not have conclusive information on the long or short-term effects that phthalates have on bodies when used orally, vaginally or anally.

How can I protect myself?

Toys In Babeland encourages the use of high-grade, non-porous and/or phthalate-free sex toys (such as silicone), many of which can also be disinfected and are more hygienic all the way around. We realize however, that while these toys are our preference, they can also be more expensive. If you have a jelly rubber toy, or are interested in purchasing one, please know that we strongly recommend using a condom on it every time. This creates a barrier between you and the toy that will greatly reduce your contact with its ingredients. Always use a condom when sharing toys with other people. Since jelly rubber toys are porous, they cannot be disinfected. Please clean them with a mild soap and warm water, and store in a cool, dry place away from other objects. If your toy is not waterproof, please take care not to get water in its battery pack or cord.

Alternative Sex Toys Materials

Not all sex toy materials contain phthalates. If you’re concerned about reducing your exposure to phthalates from sex toys please consider purchasing one made from any of the following materials: Silicone, stainless or surgical steel, acrylic, Pyrex, or hard plastic. Always refer to the care and cleaning information that comes with your toy, or please ask one of our Sex Educators for advice.

Food for Thought

We would also like you to consider the other sources and places that we are all exposed to phthalates--they can be found in: Cosmetics like hairspray and deodorant, flooring, adhesives, wallpaper, furniture, raincoats, shower curtains, some medical devices, children’s and pet’s toys, as well as other, similar products containing PVC (polyvinyl chloride).

For more information please check out the following resources:

• Chemical Body Burden
• Pthalates and Human Health
• Sex in the Marketplace: Bad Vibrations
• Consumer Product Safety Commission Study on Pthalates

Please feel free to contact us with any questions regarding your new toy. You can call toll-free to (800) 658-9119, or send a message to Customer Service. We appreciate your business!