One of the most important decisions when creating or purchasing a silicone reborn doll is choosing the right softness. Silicone comes in different grades and firmness levels, and each type has its own unique feel, durability, and purpose. Whether you’re a collector looking for lifelike realism or an artist choosing the best material to work with, understanding silicone softness is essential.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common silicone types used in the reborn doll community—including EcoFlex 10, 20, and 30, marshmallow silicone, and the role of Slacker in customizing softness.
What Does Silicone Softness Mean?
Silicone softness is measured in Shore hardness—a scale used to determine how firm or flexible a material is. In the reborn doll community, this typically ranges from soft and squishy (like EcoFlex 10) to firmer and more durable (like EcoFlex 30). The lower the number, the softer the silicone.
EcoFlex 10: Ultra-Soft and Flexible
- Feel: EcoFlex 10 is extremely soft, stretchy, and pliable. It bends and squishes easily, mimicking the feel of very delicate, newborn-like skin.
- Best For: Parts of the doll that need extreme realism, such as face and limbs.
- Things to Know: While wonderfully lifelike, EcoFlex 10 can be delicate and may tear more easily with heavy handling.
EcoFlex 20: The Most Popular Choice
- Feel: EcoFlex 20 strikes the perfect balance between softness and durability. It’s still squishy and flexible, but with enough firmness to hold structure.
- Best For: Full-body silicone reborns, as it provides realism without sacrificing strength.
- Popularity: EcoFlex 20 is considered the most popular and widely used silicone softness in the reborn community because it offers the best of both worlds.
- Things to Know: Collectors often find EcoFlex 20 feels most natural for cuddling and handling.
EcoFlex 30: Firmer and More Durable
- Feel: EcoFlex 30 is much firmer compared to Eco 10 or 20. It has less squish but provides strong structure.
- Best For: Larger dolls, body cores, or parts that need durability and support.
- Things to Know: While not as soft as Eco 10 or 20, EcoFlex 30 is long-lasting and resistant to wear, making it useful in certain applications.
Marshmallow Silicone: Extra-Soft Blend
- Feel: Marshmallow silicone isn’t a brand or specific EcoFlex number—it’s a custom blend that creates an ultra-soft, marshmallow-like feel.
- Best For: Collectors who want the softest, most realistic cuddle experience.
- Things to Know: Because it’s softer than standard EcoFlex grades, it can be fragile, and artists often reinforce dolls poured in marshmallow blends.
How Slacker Is Used in Silicone Reborn Dolls
Slacker is an additive made by Smooth-On that can be mixed into silicone to alter its texture and softness.
- Purpose: It makes silicone feel softer, tackier, and more “gel-like.”
- Effect: When added, Slacker reduces the firmness of EcoFlex and creates a squishier, more lifelike feel—sometimes used to make bellies, cheeks, or other areas feel ultra-realistic.
- Things to Know: While it adds realism, too much Slacker can weaken silicone, so it’s used carefully and in moderation by skilled artists.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Silicone Softness
When choosing a silicone reborn doll, the type of silicone plays a big role in how your baby feels:
- EcoFlex 10 – Extremely soft, lifelike, but delicate.
- EcoFlex 20 – The most popular choice, offering the perfect balance of softness and strength.
- EcoFlex 30 – Firmer, durable, and great for structure.
- Marshmallow Silicone – Ultra-soft custom blend for maximum squish.
- Slacker Additive – Used to adjust softness and add realism to certain areas.
At the end of the day, the “best” silicone softness comes down to personal preference. Collectors who want ultra-realism often prefer softer blends, while those who want durability may lean toward firmer grades.
Whether you’re an artist pouring silicone reborns or a collector searching for silicone reborn dolls for sale, understanding softness helps you choose the perfect baby to love and cherish.
Comments