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Non-porous materials have smooth, sealed surfaces at the microscopic level. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi cannot embed themselves in the material. This means you can clean the surface and know it's actually clean. Non-porous sex toy materials include: silicone, borosilicate glass, stainless steel, aluminum, ceramic (glazed), and ABS plastic. Porous materials (TPE, TPR, jelly rubber, Cyberskin, latex, leather) have microscopic holes where pathogens hide permanently. You can clean the surface of a porous toy but never sanitize the interior. The distinction matters most if you share toys between partners, switch between body areas, or have a compromised immune system.