Unwanted Visitors
I have some bad news. Those spicy toys in your nightstand might be packing more than the heat. New research published in Microplastics and Nanoplastics – you see where I’m going with this – suggests that popular sex toys such as vibrators and anal toys might contain some seriously sketchy chemicals and microplastics too. With an industry expected to top $50 billion this year, that’s no small percentage of compromised behind the scenes action.
Turns out, some of our favorite playthings come with an uninvited guest: phthalates, a class of chemicals that make plastic softer and more flexible. Phthalates have been found in everything from shower curtains to that questionable rental car air freshener — and they’re also making appearances in dual vibrators, anal beads, and more.
Hold onto Your Harnesses
These chemicals are linked to a host of health issues, like damage to the liver, kidneys, and reproductive system, especially when exposure levels get high. Researchers have found that several types of sex toys contain concerning levels of phthalates and are linked to some pretty unsexy health risks. Many of these products also shed microplastics under regular use as well. The thought of any chemical potentially putting a dent in our sex lives is definitely not a turn-on.
What’s a Phthalate?
Phthalates are commonly added to plastics to make them more flexible and durable; you’ve encountered them in vinyl flooring, shampoo bottles, and medical tubing. But when it comes to products that come into close contact with sensitive body parts, phthalates’ chemical profile raises some major red flags. Research suggests that high levels of phthalate exposure can harm the liver, kidneys, and reproductive system, and animal studies have shown concerning effects on fertility.
Here’s the problem: in the U.S., regulatory oversight for these chemicals in sex toys is basically nonexistent. And while toys for children, for example, must follow strict limits, adult toys aren’t subject to the same protections. In this study, researchers found that levels of phthalates in certain sex toys exceeded limits allowed for children’s toys in the U.S. and EU. It’s a loophole in consumer safety that leaves a major gap in the health of people who use these products regularly.
If you think buying “phthalate-free” products gives you an easy out, I hate to break it to you, but the fine print doesn’t mean much here.The study found that even some toys labeled as free from phthalates actually contained the chemicals, and not at low levels. Essentially, the “phthalate-free” label in this industry doesn’t always mean much — it’s a reminder that there’s still a serious lack of transparency and accountability for what goes into these products.
Shedding Microplastics: The Long-Term Risk
The study didn’t stop at phthalates. Researchers also tested if the toys shed microplastics during use – yes, wear and tear in the most personal sense. Using an abrasion machine to simulate what happens over time, they found that all four toy types – dual vibrators, external vibrators, anal beads, and anal toys – shed plastic fragments. Anal toys topped the list, shedding the most particles.
While this kind of exposure to tiny plastic fragments is not well understood, what this means in practice is that the sensitive areas of our bodies may be exposed to these microplastics that could get absorbed through the mucous membranes in the vagina or rectum. And given that these membranes are excellent at pulling things straight into our bloodstream, we’re talking about microplastics potentially hitching a ride through the body’s express route.
Despite their soaring popularity and the fact that they’re used on some of the body’s most sensitive real estate, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) doesn’t require manufacturers to disclose the presence of phthalates or microplastics on sex toy labels. Meanwhile, studies continue to show that people are increasingly incorporating these products into their lives. The lack of transparency means most consumers are flying blind when it comes to what they’re putting on (or in) their bodies.
And honestly, if there’s ever been a product that needs a “what’s inside” label, it’s this one.
Moving Forward with Awareness
For now, you don’t have to panic or trash everything in your nightstand–nor do you have to clear out the adult shelves of your shop. But it’s worth remembering that, as liberating as it is to bring toys into the bedroom, as well as your retail outlet, some of them come with invisible baggage of their own. Look for companies that prioritize body-safe materials like medical-grade silicone, glass, or stainless steel — these are generally safer bets. And, as frustrating as it may be, it might be worth steering clear of novelty items or products from brands that don’t disclose their materials or manufacturing processes. So keep having fun, keep exploring, but stay aware — and push for an industry that takes our health as seriously as our pleasure.
The story doesn’t end here. Next month, we’ll dig deeper, connecting with industry experts to explore the challenges facing adult toy manufacturers and the innovative ways they’re tackling them. Stay tuned!
