The Truth About Platinum Silicone vs. TPE/PVC: What You Can't See

At first glance, two toys might look the same: they are both red, both soft, and both serve the same purpose. But one costs $20 and the other $80. Why?

Many people think it's just branding, but the reality lies in chemistry. At ClimaxLab, we believe it is vital that you know exactly what you are putting inside your body. That is why today we explain, in simple terms, the battle between Platinum Silicone (what we use) and "low cost" materials.

1. TPE and PVC: The Problem with Pores

Most cheap toys are made of plastic and rubber mixtures (TPE/TPR or PVC). They are still manufactured for one reason only: they are dirt cheap to make.

The Problem: The Sponge Analogy Although they feel smooth to the touch, under a microscope, these materials are like a sponge. They have thousands of invisible pores.

• Hygiene: Fluids and bacteria get trapped in those pores. No matter how much you wash the toy, it is very difficult to clean what has gotten "inside" the material.

• Chemicals: To make that plastic soft, chemical softeners (plasticizers) are added. Over time, these oils leach to the surface (which is why they sometimes smell strongly of rubber or get sticky if left in a drawer too long).

2. Platinum Silicone: Like Glass, But Flexible

Silicone is not a plastic; it comes from silica (like sand or glass). In our workshop, we use exclusively Medical Grade Platinum Cure Silicone.

What does this mean? For liquid silicone to harden, it needs an ingredient to activate the reaction.

💡 Artisan Fact: Platinum silicone is expensive because the catalyst (platinum) is a precious metal. But it is the only way to guarantee that what goes into your body is 100% safe.

Why is it safer?

• Sealed Surface: Unlike TPE, platinum silicone has no pores. It is like glass: nothing can enter it. Bacteria stay on the surface and wash away with simple soap and water.

• Heat Resistant: Cheap plastic melts if you heat it. Platinum silicone withstands over 200°C (390°F). This means you can boil your toys in a pot for 5 minutes to fully sterilize them, just like baby bottles or medical equipment.

• It is Inert: It does not react with your body or release substances over time. It is hypoallergenic and will last for years just like the first day.

3. How to Distinguish Them at Home?

If you have toys and don't know what material they are made of, try these simple tests:

The Memory Test: Dig your fingernail into the toy or stretch it.

• If the mark stays for a while or it takes time to recover its shape, it is usually TPE/PVC (cheap material).

• If it snaps back to its shape instantly and with force, it is Silicone. It has "memory"; it always wants to return to its original state.

The Touch Test: If after washing and drying it you notice it still feels slightly greasy or sticky, it is likely a porous material releasing plasticizers. Clean silicone feels dry and smooth (squeaky clean).

Conclusion: An Investment in Peace of Mind

Choosing Platinum Silicone is not a luxury; it is basic hygiene.

While porous materials degrade and are difficult to disinfect thoroughly, a ClimaxLab piece is a safe and durable tool. We prefer to explain why our materials cost more rather than sell you something we wouldn't use ourselves.

[Discover our Medical Grade Silicone Pieces]