Step 1: Material—How to choose between TPE and silicone
. 90% of products on the market are made of these two materials, each with its own specific target audience.
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer)
- Feel: soft, close to skin, naturally sticky and smooth after oil release
- Advantages: inexpensive, wide range of softness options, can achieve an ultra-thin inner wall
- Disadvantages: short lifespan (usually 1–3 months), prone to oiliness, must be washed and dusted with
powdereach time - Suitable for: beginners trying water, seeking a soft wrapping feel, limited
budget silicone
- Feel: Strong elastic support, leaning towards "Q" rather than "soft"
- Advantages: Long lifespan (can last one to two years), no oil production, odorless, can be disinfected with boiling
water - Disadvantages: High price, softness limit not as high as TPE, thin inner wall structure is rare
- Suitable for: long-term use, sensitive skin, dislike oily and sticky hands
In short: For peace of mind long-term use, choose silicone; for an extremely soft wrapping experience, choose TPE. Note that TPE products must be labeled as "food-grade" or "medical-grade" raw materials. Inferior TPE has a pungent odor and should be discarded immediately.
Step 2: Channel structure — determining the type of stimulation
. Internal structure is much more important than the shell; it directly determines stimulation intensity and rhythm.
- Single-channel straight cylinder: Uniform bumps or threads on the inner wall, gentle stimulation, suitable for beginners and long-term use
- Granule bump type: Dense particles provide point-like stimulation, medium intensity, suitable for those seeking clear tactile
sensation - Threaded ring type: Continuous ring-like contraction, strong wrapping feel, clear
rhythm- Multi-stage composite type: Tight at the inlet, loose in the middle, and retightened at the end, with the richest layers and hardest to clean
- Penetrating type (double opening): transparent at both ends, extremely convenient to rinse, easy to dry, but the trade-off is weaker suction and wrapping feel than
closedtypes. - Closed: the end is sealed to create negative pressure, strong suction and tight wrapping, but requires more effort to clean and dry.
Selection logic: beginners start with single-channel or granular types, and after experiencing a clear preference, apply composite structures. If you know you're the type who 'can't be bothered to wash carefully,' prioritize the continuous type—this is more worthwhile than the layering that multi-segment structure brings.
Two other parameters you shouldn't overlook: hardness (soft/medium/hard, most brands specify this) and inner length. If the inner length is too short, it won't fit properly. Before purchasing, compare the actual inner length data on the product page.
Step 3: Cleaning and maintenance—decide how long it will last
. Regardless of the material, the process is "wash as you go." After leaving it overnight, residue will seep into the material and won't remove the odor.
1. Disassembly: Remove all removable inner pots, outer shells, and sealing rings
. 2. Pre-rinse: Use warm water (not hot to the touch, about 30–40°C) to rinse through the inlet to let any residual internal flow flow out
. 3. Cleaning: Use a special cleaning solution or mild, soap-free solution, gently rub along the inner wall of the channel with your fingertips, do not scrape with your fingernails
. 4. Rinse: Rinse repeatedly until there is no foam. Never scald TPE with boiling water, as it will deform
5. Drying: This is the easiest and most crucial step to skip. Use a water-absorbing rod or drying rack, place in a ventilated area to dry in the shade; never expose to direct sunlight or use a hair dryer or hot air
. 6. Maintenance: After TPE is completely dry, sprinkle a thin layer of talcum powder to prevent sticking; Silicone does not require powder
application. 7. Storage: Store separately in bags or storage boxes, avoiding sunlight, high temperatures, and prolonged adhesion with other TPE products (which may cause bonding).
Cleaning agent contraindications: Do not use alcohol, oil-based body wash, or strong alkaline detergents, as they accelerate material aging and damage the inner wall structure.
Miqu's product page lists material grade, measured internal length, channel type, and whether it is removable and washable, along with matching cleaning solution and drying rack—matching these four items when selecting products basically prevents pitfalls.
16-character mnemonic
:Choose TPE softly, use silicone for a long time; Wash immediately after use, dry in the shade and sprinkle with flour.
