If you've ever wanted to take a toy into the shower or bath, you've probably noticed the labels: "waterproof," "water-resistant," "submersible," "splashproof." They sound like marketing variations on the same thing. They're not — and using a toy rated for splashes in a bathtub is one of the fastest ways to wreck it (and void the warranty).

Here's what the ratings actually mean and which toys belong where.

Waterproof vs water-resistant: the real difference

Waterproof (fully submersible) means the toy can be fully submerged in water without damage — safe for baths, showers, and intentional underwater use. Look for an IPX7 rating or higher, which means it's been tested for submersion at least 1 metre deep for at least 30 minutes.

Water-resistant (splashproof) means the toy can handle splashes, rain, or quick rinses under a tap, but not full immersion. It's safe for shower play if you're holding it and keeping it mostly out of direct spray, but not for dropping in a bath or using underwater. This is typically an IPX4 to IPX6 rating.

Not water-safe toys have no water protection beyond "don't deliberately soak it." These are usually battery-operated (non-rechargeable) models with exposed battery compartments, or toys with porous materials that trap moisture.

The difference matters: a waterproof toy is sealed so water can't get into the motor or charging port. A water-resistant toy has some protection against splashes, but the seals aren't tight enough to prevent water reaching the internals if you submerge it. Once water gets into a motor or battery compartment, the toy is often done — corrosion happens fast.

IPX ratings: what the numbers mean

You'll see IPX ratings listed on some product specs. The number tells you exactly what kind of water exposure the toy can handle:

• IPX4 — splashproof from any direction, safe for light shower play
• IPX5 / IPX6 — water jets or heavy spray, better for vigorous shower use
• IPX7 — submersible up to 1 metre for 30 minutes, safe for baths
• IPX8 — submersible beyond 1 metre, suitable for deeper or longer underwater use

If a toy doesn't list an IPX rating, check for "fully waterproof" or "submersible" language in the description. If it just says "water-resistant" or "splashproof," assume it's not bath-safe.

What to look for in a shower or bath toy

Material: Silicone is the most reliable waterproof material — fully non-porous, easy to clean, and doesn't degrade from water exposure. Hard plastic (ABS) is also common in waterproof designs. Avoid jelly, rubber, or any porous material for wet play, since they trap water and bacteria even if the motor is sealed.

Rechargeable vs battery-operated: Rechargeable toys with USB or magnetic charging ports are almost always easier to waterproof properly, since there's no removable battery cap that can leak. Battery-operated toys with screw-cap compartments can be waterproof if the seal is tight, but they're the first place water gets in if the cap isn't closed perfectly.

Charging port covers: Check whether the charging port has a secure, tight-fitting cover — a flimsy rubber flap that doesn't seal properly is a weak point. If water gets into a charging port, the toy may stop charging or fail entirely.

Cleaning and care after water play

Even waterproof toys need to be dried after use. Rinse with warm water and a gentle soap or dedicated toy cleaner, then dry fully — especially around buttons, seams, and charging ports — before storing. Leaving a toy damp, even a fully waterproof one, can lead to mould or buildup in textured areas or seams.

If you're using a toy in a bath, clean the toy and rinse the bath before and after — bath products (oils, salts, bubble bath) can leave residue on silicone that dulls the surface or makes it sticky over time.

What not to do

• Don't assume "rechargeable" means waterproof — some rechargeable toys are only splashproof. Check the rating or product description.
• Don't use a water-resistant toy in a bath just because it survived a shower once — repeated or prolonged exposure is what causes the failure, not always the first time.
• Don't leave charging port covers open or loosely closed during wet play — water will find its way in.
• Don't use bath oils or oil-based lubricants with silicone toys in water — oil can coat the surface and interfere with cleaning, and some oils degrade certain toy materials over time.

Where to start if you're unsure

A simple rechargeable silicone vibrator with an IPX7 or IPX8 rating is the safest bet for first-time water play — straightforward to use, easy to clean, and genuinely submersible without worrying about whether you've sealed a battery cap tightly enough.

If you already own a toy and aren't sure whether it's waterproof, check the product description or manual for an IPX rating or "submersible" confirmation. If it doesn't explicitly say waterproof or give a submersion rating, treat it as splashproof at most.

For safe materials and cleaning basics, read Safe, Body-Friendly Materials: What to Look for When Buying Adult Toys and How to Clean, Store, and Care for Your Adult Toys the Right Way. For specific vibrator types suited to water play, see Beginner's Guide to Vibrators: Which Type Is Right for You?.