Considering a TPE sex doll, but unsure of exactly what that entails? TPE dolls – often less expensive and a different feel from silicone — can be the perfect choice, but they require a special kind of preparation and care. Uneducated owners often make costly mistakes that lead to the early deterioration of their TPE dolls.

It’s good to have a general knowledge of love dolls before we get into the specifics. See our introduction to sex dolls here.

WHAT IS TPE?

TPE stands for thermoplastic elastomer. It is essentially a mix of different polymers, so there are many slight variations. TPE is made by mixing these polymers with thermoplastic properties with rubber, giving the mixture the elasticity and bounciness that we love.

TPE has become a very popular material outside of the sex doll world – it’s used for making various everyday items, including handles, cosmetic cases, and shoe soles. One of the reasons for its popularity is that injection molding techniques can be used with TPE, but with a flexible, rubber-like consistency. This manufacturing method is very cost-efficient, allowing for high-quality products at lower prices.

Many people think that TPE dolls are lower in quality just because of the low price. This is simply not true; the drawbacks come with increased maintenance, not the build itself. TPE dolls have a very pleasant feel that can at times be even softer than silicone.

The main characteristics of TPE are:

  • Soft
  • Flexible
  • Malleable
  • Slip-resistant
  • Recyclable

CARING FOR A TPE LOVE DOLL

Before you purchase a TPE doll, it’s crucial to understand all the steps that go into proper maintenance and care. For some, the extra time required is a turn-off to owning a TPE model. For others, the bathing and powdering processes only add to the intimacy.

See our thoughts on TPE vs Silicone Dolls here. (coming soon!)

SHOWERING AND BATHING YOUR DOLL

Unlike a new car, the “new TPE scent” is not particularly pleasant. When you first receive your doll, you should share a shower or bath once (and then regularly thereafter).

See our complete how-to on cleaning and maintaining sex dolls here. A few specifics for TPE:

  • Do not use hot water when bathing a TPE dolls – it will damage the skin and cause the secretion of vital oils
  • Water inside a TPE doll means rust, mold, or other damage. Make sure you unscrew the head and cover up the neck before bathing
  • Don’t submerge your TPE doll’s head, as doll hair and makeups are not designed to be soaked
  • Remember, TPE dolls can be heavy – softer skin + gravity during showering can mean damaged feet. Make sure you’ve set up a towel or other soft surface underneath your doll when bathing
  • Wash your doll gently with an unscented and mild antibacterial soap
  • Gently dry off your doll with a soft towel. See Drying Your Love Doll

It’s best to shower your doll once or twice each month, even if you are not actively having sex.

TPE SEX DOLL SKIN TREATMENTS

After you dry your doll well, it’s time to treat her skin. There are only three basic steps, each rather simple:

  1. Baby oil – TPE dolls need to be regularly massaged and oiled to maintain the integrity and quality of their skin. Otherwise, they will dry out. For TPE dolls, choose an oil contaiing liquid paraffin, sometimes called paraffinum liquidum. See Oiling Your TPE Sex Doll here for full instructions.
  2. Vaseline – Additionally, stressed areas — like elbows, armpits, inner thighs, around the breasts, and near anal and vaginal cavities – need some extra love. Apply Vaseline liberally and allow it to dry overnight.
  3. Baby powder or cornstarch – TPE skin is always a bit tacky, so it attracts wig hair and lint. To avoid this, apply baby powder all over her. Just pat and rub it in — the difference will be instantly noticeable. You can also apply it with the makeup brush. Though your doll’s skin will feel great to the touch afterward, this step isn’t just about comfort; it will also make the skin last much longer.
  4. Be patient and gentle. It doesn’t matter if the clothes are a bit tight or complicated – TPE dolls have delicate skin that can be easily damaged.
  5. Powder your doll before dressing her. Clothes go on easier and scratching is minimized.
  6. When putting on shirts and sweaters, don’t raise the arms straight above the head. You’ll eventually wear out the armpit skin and cause tears.
  7. When putting on sleeves, be gentle with her fingers. TPE dolls generally have wire “bones” in their fingertips — if you’re rough, they can break.
  8. TPE toes are floppy, so take care when you put on socks.