How to choose lube
The best lube for you depends on what you are doing, what you are using, and how your skin reacts. Start with the base, then narrow by texture, ingredients, and bottle size. A small travel bottle is a smart way to test a new formula before buying a large pump.
Water-based, silicone, or hybrid
- Water-based lube is safe with every toy material and with latex condoms. It washes off easily but may need reapplying.
- Silicone lube lasts much longer and works in the shower, but it can wear down silicone toys.
- Hybrid formulas blend both for a creamy feel with more staying power.
Match it to toys and condoms
Silicone toys pair with a water-based sex lube. Glass, stainless steel, and ABS work with any base. Oil-based products are not safe with latex condoms, so keep oils for massage and non-latex use. Check the label on your condoms if you are unsure.
Read the ingredients
If you are prone to irritation, look for a personal lubricant without glycerin, parabens, fragrance, or warming agents. Sliquid and Intimate Earth focus on short ingredient lists. Patch test any new formula on your inner arm first. Many people shopping for lube for women prefer a thicker gel or hybrid that stays in place.
Pick for the activity
Anal play needs a thicker, longer-lasting formula, so choose from our anal lube range. For oral sex, flavored lube is water-based and tastes sweet. Lube for men used with strokers should be water-based to protect the sleeve material. Thicker gels stay put longer, while thinner liquids feel closer to natural moisture.