Waterproof ratings explained

A waterproof toy can join you in a long, warm bath, rinse clean in seconds and shrug off the odd splash. But "waterproof" is used loosely, and not every toy described as water-friendly is safe to submerge. The key is the IPX rating. This guide explains what each number means, so you know exactly what your toy can handle.

What is an IPX rating?

An IPX rating is part of an international standard, IEC 60529, that describes how well a device is protected against water. The "IP" stands for ingress protection. The "X" means the device has not been separately rated for dust, which is normal for toys. The number after it shows the level of water protection: the higher the number, the better protected.

What do the different IPX ratings mean?

In simple terms: IPX4 to IPX6 is splash-proof, and IPX7 or IPX8 is fully waterproof.

What does splash-proof mean?

Splash-proof toys can be rinsed under running water, which makes cleaning easy, but they should not be submerged. The Rouge Lipstick Bullet is splash-proof. That is perfect for an easy rinse after use, but keep it out of the bath.

Which toys are fully waterproof?

Fully waterproof toys are sealed for submersion, so they are happy in the bath or shower.

• The Lune Rechargeable Mini Bullet is rated IPX7: a palm-sized, USB rechargeable capsule that rinses clean in seconds. Just make sure the charging port is dry before you charge it.
• The Duet Dual Massage Wand is rated IPX7 too, with two motors in soft, body-safe silicone and a quiet hum under 50 dB.

You can browse every bath-safe option in our Waterproof range.

Why choose a waterproof toy?

Even if you never plan to use a toy in the bath, full waterproofing has real benefits:

• Easier cleaning. You can wash a waterproof toy thoroughly under running water with mild soap. See cleaning your vibrator.
• Quieter. Fully sealed bodies have fewer gaps for sound to escape, and water muffles sound beautifully. See noise levels explained.
• More durable. A well-sealed toy is better protected against everyday moisture.

Looking after a waterproof toy

A waterproof rating applies when a toy is in good condition and properly closed. A few simple habits keep it that way:

• Close everything. If your toy has a battery hatch or charging cap, make sure it is fully closed before it gets wet.
• Never charge it wet. Dry the toy and its charging contacts completely before charging. Our guide to charging and battery safety explains why.
• Avoid very hot water. Warm is lovely; very hot water can affect seals over time.
• Skip bath products on the toy. Bath oils, bubbles and bombs can leave residue on silicone. Rinse the toy in clean water afterwards.
• Keep remotes dry. Some remotes are only splash-proof, even when the toy itself is fully waterproof. Check the product page.

Which lube works best in water?

Water washes away water-based lube quickly, so in the bath or shower some people prefer a silicone-based lube, which lasts longer in water. Silicone-based lube can damage the surface of some silicone toys, though, so patch-test first or check the guidance in lube and compatibility.

How to choose

• Just want easy cleaning? Any splash-proof toy (IPX4 to IPX6) can be rinsed under the tap.
• Want a bath or shower toy? Choose IPX7 or IPX8.
• Want a bath-friendly pick? The Lune Rechargeable Mini Bullet and the Duet Dual Massage Wand are both rated IPX7.

Every product page lists its IPX rating, and our compare tool shows them side by side. Whatever you choose arrives in plain, unbranded packaging, with "BH Commerce Ltd" on your bank statement.