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Look, I’ll be honest: I love lube. There are so many options for all of your needs, from flavored to oils to silicone-based. And if you need it, that doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you – it can make your sex life more pleasurable. If you’re interested in trying it out, I highly recommend it! Don’t know where to start? I’ve got you covered with all the details you need to decide on the best lube for you.
Water-Based Lube
Water-based lube is…water-based. It’s one of the most popular lubes out there, because you can use it in basically every sexy situation. It is silky-smooth, sliding effortlessly wherever you place it; is easy to clean up and wash out of sheets, thanks to its base; and allows you to use it with silicone-based sex toys and condoms.
There aren’t many cons to using water-based lube. The main downfalls: it doesn’t last long in water, and it dries out quickly, so you’ll need to reapply more often throughout sessions – especially if your lady bits are exposed to air for an extended period of time. Overall, though, it’s the best lube for many thanks to its versatility.
Silicone-Based Lube
Silicone-based lube is also extremely popular. Just like water-based lube, it glides on without issue. And the reason it may be better than water-based, depending on your wants: it’s long-lasting, and it works during water play (so bring it into the shower, bath, pool, ocean – whatever you’re into). However, you can’t use it with silicone sex toys because it will erode the rubber. However, any other toys’ materials are fair game, and latex condoms are also safe to use.
Hybrid Lube
Hybrid lube combines the best of both worlds of water-based and silicone-based lubes. While there’s a small presence of silicone, it’s usually not enough to damage your rubber toys (but test it out first and read reviews!). On the other hand, the water-based side makes it easy to clean up. The consistency is slightly smoother and creamier than water-based lube, but overall, it’s slippery, long-lasting, and latex-friendly.
Oil-Based Lube
Oil lubes are perfect for foreplay, and some can be brought into sex play as well. However, they don’t work with sex toys or latex condoms, so oil lubes should only be used when you don’t need a barrier method. There are specific lubes you can buy from sex shops, but oils like avocado and coconut can be used for outside foreplay. However, there’s a larger likelihood of infections, so it’s better to stick with silicone-based or water-based lube.
Novelty Lube
Warming lube, flavored lube, tingling lube – it’s all fun and games with these. Before you use them, check their bases – the last thing you want is for a warming lube to ruin your rubber toys thanks to its silicone base. These lubes will take trial and error to figure out what you like, but hey, that’s part of the fun! There’s no promise that you’ll enjoy the smell of caramel lube or the warming feelings on your lady bits, but it’s worth a try.
Lubes to Avoid
There are some types of “lube” that should rarely — if not ever — be used as lubricants. For example, sugary foods (like honey) may seem like a good, smooth idea. However, sugar can cause vaginal infections – not worth the taste or lubrication. If you’re looking for natural lubes, keep in mind that oils will act as synthetic oils, even if they are deemed safe for outside genital use.
Always, ALWAYS research potential lubes you may think of, like aloe vera or ghee, rather than assuming what the reactions may be. And when it comes to store-bought lube, look into the company, and read reviews and ingredients in its products.
Lubes can be life-changing, and there should be no shame in using them. Don’t know which lube is best? Ask your questions in the comments!
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