Caring for TPE vs Silicone: The Key Differences You Need to Know

Platinum silicone and TPE are both excellent companion doll materials — but they're chemically and physically different, and they respond to cleaning, storage, and maintenance differently. Using the wrong approach on either material can cause damage. This guide covers the key differences.

The Fundamental Difference

Platinum silicone is non-porous. Liquid doesn't penetrate the surface. This means bacteria can't colonise inside the material — they stay on the surface where they can be cleaned away easily.

TPE is porous. Liquid can be absorbed into the material. This doesn't mean TPE is unhygienic by default — it means cleaning and especially drying must be more thorough. Moisture trapped in porous TPE creates the conditions for bacterial growth over time.

This single difference drives most of the care distinctions between the two materials.

Cleaning: Similar Approach, Different Thoroughness Required

Step	Platinum Silicone	TPE
Lubricant used	Water-based only	Water-based only
Cleaning agent	Mild antibacterial soap + warm water	Mild antibacterial soap + warm water
Drying requirement	Surface dry — 15–20 minutes	Thorough internal and surface dry — 45–60 minutes minimum
Drying tools	Clean cloth is sufficient	Microfibre cloth + drying stick for cavities

For both materials: warm water, not hot. Hot water degrades TPE faster and can alter the surface texture of silicone over time.

Oil Conditioning: TPE Only

TPE loses oil content over time as internal plasticisers evaporate. This causes the surface to become stiffer, dryer, and eventually more prone to tearing. Monthly oil conditioning with pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil prevents this.

Apply a small amount of mineral oil to a clean cloth, work it gently into the surface, leave 30 minutes, wipe away excess. Consistent monthly conditioning keeps TPE in significantly better condition than neglect does.

Do not use mineral oil on platinum silicone. It has no conditioning effect on silicone and will attract dust and lint to the surface.

Renewal Powder: Both Materials

Both silicone and TPE benefit from a light dusting of cornstarch (not talcum powder — avoid talc) after cleaning and drying. This restores the natural matte finish, prevents tackiness, and keeps the surface feeling natural. Apply with a clean powder brush or by hand.

Lubricant Compatibility

Both materials: water-based lubricants only.

• Oil-based lubricants degrade TPE and are not recommended for silicone either
• Silicone-based lubricants break down silicone material over time and should never be used on silicone dolls
• Petroleum-based lubricants are not compatible with either material

When in doubt: water-based, fragrance-free, and nothing else.

Storage

Both materials require storage in a neutral position without sustained pressure or compression. Sustained pressure creates permanent indentations in TPE and can cause silicone to deform at stress points. Hanging storage is the best long-term approach for both.

Additional for TPE: avoid prolonged exposure to heat and direct sunlight. TPE yellows faster than silicone when exposed to UV and high temperatures. Store in a cool, dim environment.

Repair

Minor surface tears can be addressed differently:

• Silicone tears: Use silicone-compatible adhesive (available in our accessories section). Apply carefully, hold position while curing. Clean cure — no excess residue visible when dry.
• TPE tears: Use TPE-specific repair compound. Gentle heat (hairdryer on low) can help blend the repair into the surrounding material. Also available in accessories.

Never use super glue, general-purpose adhesive, or anything not specifically rated for the material. Incompatible adhesives can worsen damage and are impossible to remove cleanly.

Which Requires More Work?

TPE requires somewhat more ongoing care than silicone — specifically the monthly oil conditioning, the more thorough drying routine, and greater attention to storage conditions. Neither is difficult in absolute terms, but buyers who want low-maintenance should lean toward silicone.

Our full care instructions are on the care guide page. Questions about your specific doll? Contact us.