Alicia Silverstone, the self-proclaimed ’naughty vegan’ and star of ‘Clueless’, recently endorsed an eco-friendly, chemical-free vibrator called The Leaf. Although Silverstone’s rave-review of the product was a bit of an over-share, she’s smart to choose a chemical-free toy.
Some battery-operated-boyfriends contain phthalate, a hazardous chemical used to soften plastic. Overtime, phthalates can seep out of sex toys and get absorbed into the body. Not good, considering that phthalates are considered a toxic substance and may be linked to a range of nasty problems, from cancer to birth defects.
If you already own a toy, you’ve got some homework to do. Still have the product box? That’s a good place to start your investigation. If it says, “For Novelty Use Only” or has a similar warning, that’s a red flag the product isn’t phthalate-free, says Ethan Imboden, founder of Jimmyjane, an upscale sex-toy retailer. If the box is long-gone, smell the product. If the material has a strong chemical odor, it’s not safe to use and it’s time for a new toy, says Imboden. In the meantime, put a condom over the not-so-safe vibe to protect yourself from the questionable materials.
Not sure what new product will measure up to your current toy? We got your covered! Feel free to take yourself over the edge with our 5 favorite phthalate-free sex toys:
Form 2, $ 145, jimmyjane.com
Made of platinum silicone and stainless steel, this toy is free of cracks and crevices, decreasing the odds of bacteria build-up that can make you sick.
photo: Courtesy of Jimmyjane
Rabbit Habit, $ 90, babeland.com
The Rabbit, made popular by Sex and the City, got a chemical-free makeover— it’s now latex and phthalate-free for your buzzing pleasure!
photo: Courtesy of Babeland
Tri-phoria Intimate Massager, $ 39.99, trojanvibrations.com
Sold in drug stores nationwide, the Tri-phoria provides 24 unique pleasure combinations via three interchangeable tips and eight vibration modes.
photo: Courtesy of Trojan™ Vibrations
WeVibe3, $ 149.99, we-vibe.com
Buzz with your boy: this c-shape vibrator is designed to wear during sex to maximize pleasure for both partners. (Read more about The Best Sex Toys for Couples)
photo: Courtesy of We-Vibe.com
Isla, $ 159, lelo.com
Made of body-safe silicone and ABS (a common thermoplastic used in consumer goods) core, the Isla is a smart choice for solo-sex.
photo: Courtesy of LELO
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The 7 Best Masturbation Tips
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11 Fun (and Sexy) Things to Do with a Man
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