Waterproof Male Masturbators: What IPX7 Rating Actually Means
"Waterproof" gets printed on packaging constantly, but it's a marketing word, not a technical one. IPX7 is the actual technical standard behind it — a specific, internationally defined test with exact numbers attached. Here's what those numbers really mean, and just as importantly, what they don't cover.
The IP Liquid Protection Scale (IEC 60529)
*IPX8 depth/duration is manufacturer-defined, not fixed by the standard — see below.
What IPX7 Actually Certifies
IPX7 comes from IEC 60529, an internationally recognized standard for ingress protection. The "IP" stands for Ingress Protection; the "X" means dust resistance wasn't tested or isn't rated; the "7" is the specific liquid protection level. Concretely, that means: the device can be fully submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 continuous minutes without water reaching the internal components in a way that causes damage.
That's a precise, testable claim — not a vague assurance. It's why IPX7 is treated as the practical minimum standard for anything marketed as genuinely waterproof, rather than just splash-resistant.
⚠ WHAT PEOPLE GET WRONG
IP ratings aren't cumulative. A device rated for high-pressure jets (IPX6) isn't automatically safe for submersion, and a device rated for submersion (IPX7) isn't automatically rated for high-pressure jets. Each level tests a genuinely different failure mode — jet pressure versus static immersion — using a different method. Higher numbers generally indicate broader protection in practice, but the ratings themselves aren't a simple ladder where each level automatically includes the ones below it.
IPX4 vs. IPX7 vs. IPX8: What This Means in Real Use
Fine for a damp cloth wipe-down. Not safe to rinse directly under a tap.
Safe to rinse thoroughly under running water or briefly submerge in a sink. Ideal for actual hygiene practices.
Extended or deeper submersion, but exact conditions are manufacturer-defined rather than fixed by the standard, so always check the specific claim.
For most personal care devices, IPX7 is the meaningful threshold. It's the difference between "be careful near water" and "clean it properly without worrying."
One more thing worth knowing: waterproof ratings vary model to model, even within the same brand. A manual, non-motorized device might carry no water rating at all, while a motorized device in the same lineup could be IPX6, IPX7, or higher, depending on how its seals and casing were engineered. Never assume a rating carries across an entire product line — always check the specific model's listed rating before rinsing or submerging it.
Built for Real Cleaning, Not Just Marketing
SUBMARINE carries a genuine IPX7 rating — meaning you can rinse it thoroughly under running water, not just wipe it down. Not every OTOUCH model shares this rating, so it's worth checking the spec sheet for the specific device you're considering.
View SUBMARINE →A verifiable IPX7 rating is also worth checking alongside a device's other certifications. See our guide on CE and FCC certification for how to confirm any electrical safety claim is real, not just printed on the box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an IPX7 device in the shower?
Generally yes, since shower conditions fall well within the immersion tolerance IPX7 is tested for. Always confirm the specific manufacturer's guidance for your device, since usage recommendations can vary.
Is "water-resistant" the same as IPX7 waterproof?
No. "Water-resistant" is an unregulated marketing term with no fixed technical meaning. IPX7 is a specific, tested standard with defined depth and time parameters. Always look for the actual IP rating, not just the word "resistant."
Does a higher rating always mean better protection?
In practice, generally yes, but the ratings test different failure modes rather than simply stacking on top of each other. An IPX6 jet-resistance rating doesn't automatically guarantee IPX7 submersion safety, since each is tested differently.
What happens if I submerge a device rated below IPX7?
It risks water reaching internal electronics, which can cause malfunction or permanent damage. Devices rated IPX4 or lower should only be wiped down with a damp cloth, not rinsed or submerged.
Read our full hygiene and cleaning guide · Browse the full collection
Technical standard reference: IEC 60529 (Ingress Protection ratings). This article is for general educational purposes; always confirm specific waterproof usage guidance from the individual manufacturer.












