15 Best Lubes For Dildos (And Vibrators)

Why do you need lube when using sex toys?

Lube can be used to help sex, masturbation, or sex toy play more pleasurable. Lubrication works to reduce friction on your skin that happens during penetration and can eliminate pain, uncomfortable rubbing, and chafing.

Using lube during vaginal penetration.

Some women experience vaginal dryness, which can lead to discomfort or pain during intercourse.

Women who breastfeed, take some form of medication (including antihistamines, antidepressants, acne medication, etc.), breast cancer survivors, and people with Sjorgen’s syndrome may often experience temporal or permanent vaginal dryness in which situations, a lubricant can be helpful.

Additionally, post-menopausal women tend to notice more vaginal dryness and discomfort during penetration and this is because of the hormonal changes they experience.

After menopause, the genitourinary area may change and atrophy due to the decrease in estrogen levels.

When estrogen levels start to decrease, these tissues become thinner, less flexible, receive less blood flow, and produce less natural vaginal fluids.

Using a lubricant can prevent pain and discomfort during penetration and can increase sexual pleasure.

Using lube during anal penetration.

Lubrication is highly recommended for anal sex since the anal canal does not produce lubricating fluids that help ease penetration.

Moreover, the tight muscular sphincter at the entrance of the anus offers much more resistance than the vagina, which can cause high discomfort and pain and can seriously damage the skin tissue, so using a lubricant will definitely make anal sex safer, painless, and enjoyable.

NB: If you’re looking for something unique, I’ve just published a list of 10 flavored lubes to make oral sex amazing!

The Best Lubes For Sex Toys

Lubes come in all sorts of different materials, however, the “base” is the main and most important ingredient and there are three main kinds:

  • Water-based lubes.
  • Silicone lubes.
  • Plant/Oil lubes.

Each of these has its own pros and cons, so let’s break down each one of them.

Water-Based Lubes

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Water-based lubricants are the most widely used personal lubricants and are known as the “versatile” lube. These lubricants contain around 95% water and feel like natural vaginal lubrication.

However, products available today may have various added agents that make them thicker and help with even dispersal, moisture retention, and allow for that slippery feeling as well as resistance to contamination.

That’s why you will also find preservatives, humectants, and dispersants in most water-based lubes.

Water Lubes Pros.

Here’s why water-based lubes are most popular on today’s market:

Water-based lubes are inexpensive.

Since water is inexpensive, so are water-based lubes and this is probably one of the reasons why water-based lubes consistently keep the number one spot for most selling lubes year after year.

Works with all sex toy materials.

Water-based lubes are compatible with all sex toys materials and they are also safe to be used with both latex and non-latex condoms as they may decrease the risk of condom breakage.

They are versatile.

Water-based lubes can be used in practically any sexual activity you can think up. They provide the needed comfort during vaginal and/or anal penetration and protect the delicate skin tissue from potentially damaging friction.

Won’t stain your sheets.

Water-based lubes are water-soluble which makes them easy to clean since they easily come off with a quick rinse. Additionally, water-based lubricants are unlikely to leave a permanent stain on your sheets or clothes during use.

They smell good.

Water-based lubes often have a very mild scent or no smell at all. If your water-based lube smells a little funny, then you know it has petroleum-derived ingredients inside it, which can potentially be harsh on vaginal and rectal tissues.

Water Lubes Cons:

And here are several disadvantages of using water-based lubes:

Water-lubes don’t last long.

Because water-based lubes absorb into the skin and evaporate, most water-based lubes often dry out quickly and lose its slippery properties during use.

However, reapplication of the lube or a tiny amount of water is usually sufficient to reactivate them and help them last a little longer.

Not great for underwater activities.

Since they can be easily washed off with water, bringing your favorite sex toy with you in the shower may require something that can stay longer and won’t wash off quickly (like silicone or oil-based lube).

5 Best Water-Based Lubes

Here is my list of best water-based lubes for your sex toys:

#1 Sliquid H2O Original Water-Based Lubricant; $19,99

This water-based lube is the standard when it comes to choosing a water-based lube for easily irritable and sensitive skin.

The H2O Original Lubricant doesn’t contain glycerin, parabens, or potential allergens that are often the main culprit behind skin irritations.

Additionally, adding water causes this lube to reactivate, which will make it last longer.

#2 System JO H2O Water-Based Lubricant; $19,99

This is another water-based lube of good quality that doesn’t feel greasy on the skin and it won’t stain your sheets or furniture.

It is highly spredable and slippery, so a tiny amount will still give you the full effect and you can easily drizzle it over your favorite sex toy or use it to reduce friction during sex.

#3 Lovehoney Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant; $19,99

Lovehoney’s Enjoy Water Lubricant is probably one of the best lubricants when it comes to quality and money value.

It is simple, smooth, spreadable, and it has a pump for easy access.

It does contain glycerin, however, so if your skin gets easily irritated during sex, you should definitely go with a glycerin-free lube.

#4 Good Clean Love Almost Naked Organic Lubricant; $16

The Almost Naked Organic Lubricant contains Aloe Vera juice instead of water and it has a faint, delicious scent of vanilla.

In addition, it is totally safe to eat and makes for a great flavored lube. It contains all natural and organic ingredients, which means it’s completely safe for sensitive and easily irritated skin.

It is also compatible with latex condoms, sex toys, and can be used throughout pregnancy.

#5 Sliquid Sassy Water-Based Lubricant; $19,95

Sassy is Sliquid’s thickest water-based lube that is one of the highest-rated lubes on both Amazon and Lovehoney.

It lasts longer than most water-based lubes and is specially designed for most sensitive skins, which means it is highly unlikely to cause allergic reactions or stinging sensations.

It is also the best water-based lube for anal play due to its thick and slippery consistency.

Silicone-Based Lubes

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Silicone-based lubes do not contain any water and offer quite a different feeling from water-based lubes.

These do not evaporate and are not absorbed by the skin or mucous membranes and consequently last longer than typical water-based lubes.

Silicone-based lubricants are also body-safe and have not been shown to increase the risk of HIV transmission during anal intercourse.

Silicone Lubes Pros

Here’s why silicone-based lubes are great:

They last longer.

Since the silicone molecules are too large to absorb into skin, the lube remains super slippery and lasts much longer so you don’t need to worry about reapplying it as often.

They are hypoallergenic and body-safe.

Meaning, you are unlikely to experience an uncomfortable and unwanted reaction during play time.

Additionally, it can serve as a great massage oil, so if you are out of the ordinary stuff while giving or receiving a back rub from your significant other, you can always reach out for some lube and it will work just as good.

Can be great for having fun while in the shower.

Silicone-based lubes are great to use in the shower. If you or your partner like to play while standing under running water or you simply want to bring your favourite sex toy and relax in the bathtub, silicone-based lube is by far the best option out there.

Silicone Lubes Cons

However, nothing is ever perfect, so consider these few disadvantages before buying your silicone lube bottle:

Not compatible with all sex toy materials.

When using silicone-based lubes it is best to avoid pairing them up with sex toys that are made of:

  • Silicone
  • TPE/TPR (Skin-safe Rubber)
  • Realistic Feel (Rubber) 

This is because silicone lube can break down the surface of these materials through a process of chemical reactions and can make them become porous and allow them to harbour bacteria easily.

Difficult to wash off.

One of the pros of silicone lubes is also its biggest con. While this type of lube will last longer and will allow you for some steamy time in the shower, it can be really difficult to wash off.

If you spill silicone lube on your sheets, furniture, or clothes, you need to give the area a good soapy scrub to remove any residues or stains.

Typically more expensive than water lubes.

Silicone-based lubes are typically hard to be found in stores and command a higher price than water lubes of similar volume and purpose.

5 Best Silicone-Based Lubes

Here is my list of best silicone-based lubes:

#1 Sliquid Silver Luxury Silicone Lubricant; $24,99

In addition to being vegan-friendly, the Silver Luxury Silicone Lubricant doesn’t contain glycerin, which can sometimes trigger a skin reaction in some people.

Cyclopentasiloxane Dimethicone, and Dimethiconol are the only three ingredients in this product and are silicone compounds, which tells us this is a lube that is essentially pure silicone.

It is an excellent silicone lube for people who have sensitive skin or those wanting to avoid problematic ingredients.

#2 pjur Back Door Silicone Lubricant; $29,99

This is a super high-concentrated silicone formula that also contains jojoba oil extract which is a natural oil noted for being similar to our skin’s own oils.

Jojoba is also antimicrobial, helping to keep infections and bacteria at bay and due to the moisturizing properties, it help to relax the anal sphincter without causing a numbing sensation.

#3 Uberlube Luxury Silicone Lubricant; $28

Uberlube’s Luxury Lubricant is a really good silicone-based lube which is ideal for anal sex. It is not wate-soluble so you can have plenty of fun time while in the bath or shower and it is also safe to be used with latex or non-latex condoms.

It comes in a very fancy bottle, and while it’s a bit out there with the price, you are getting a pretty opulent and well-made silicone lube.

#4 System JO Premium Silicone Lubricant; $19,99

This fantastic lubricant has a silky smooth glide and it isn’t sticky or tacky.

It’s paraben, glycerin, and glycol free, so it is very suitable for those who have a sensitive or easily irritated skin.

It’s also a great option for intimate situations in the shower or bath since it’s waterproof and long-lasting.

#5 Sliquid Ride Bodyworx Lube Silicone; $19

Another brainchild from Sliquid, Ride Bodyworx Lube is a complete line of personal lubricants that are made to enhance all sexual experiences.

Made with a highly concentrated premium blend of medical grade silicone, this silicone-based lube from Sliquid is ideal for all erotic encounters, from sensual massage to safe and comfortable anal sex.

Oil-based Lubricants

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Oil-based lubes are made predominantly of mineral oils, petroleum jellies, or even plant-derived oils such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, and aloe vera.

Unlike water-based lubes, these do not require added ingredients like thickeners, humectants, and many are naturally self-preserving.

Oil Lubes Pros.

Here are some of the pros of using an oil-based lube:

They are very cheap.

Oil-based lubes are typically very inexpensive and in addition to that, they are extremely easy to locate and purchase be it online or from your nearest store.

Compatible with most sex toys.

Oil-based lubes can be used safely with the following materials:

  • Silicone
  • Glass 
  • Stainless Steel & Metal
  • Crystal
  • Wood

They don’t dry out easily.

Oil-based lubes do not dry out easily, and have the desirable texture and slippery feel to them that doesn’t go away easily.

You will get much more use out of an oil-based lube before having to reapply more.

They double as great moisturizers.

Oil-based lubes are great moisturizers for the skin and can also be great for erotic massages and other types of sexual play.

Oil Lubes Cons.

Here are some things to consider before buying an oil-based lube:

Synthetic oils can cause irritations.

While naturally derived oils can act as a great moisturizer on your skin, some synthetic ingredients such as petroleum or mineral oils may cause irritations on your skin.

They are also harder to clear out of your body than their natural counterparts which can increase the risk of a vaginal infection.

Not compatible with latex.

Both natural and synthetic oil-based lubes can destroy latex condoms and cause condom failure, so pairing these two up isn’t a great idea.

Additionally, oil-based lubes are not compatible with materials such as TPE and TPR (skin-safe rubber).

5 Best Oil-Based Lubes

Here are some of the best oil-based lubes on the market:

#1 Sliquid Soul Moisturizing Lubricant; $12

Sliquid Soul Moisturizing Lubricant really takes “going green” to the next level while maintaining the highest of intimate standards.

Their products are free of parabens, glycerin, gluten, and are 100% vegan-friendly.

The Sliquid Soul Moisturizing Lubricant is the safest and sexiest way to make sure every sensual moment is green.

#2 Exsens Organic Coco Shea Oil; $14,99

Exsens Coco Shea Oil is an excellent oil-based lube to pave the slippery path to your entrances while moisturizing and replenishing dry skin.

Perfect for sensual massage play, Coco Shea Oil contains only two ingredients: virgin coconut oil and shea butter. It has a light fragrance that remains lingering on the skin while leaving it hydrated and nourished.

Additionally, this oil-based lube is organic and cruelty-free.

#3 Coconu Coconut Oil-Based Organic Lubricant; $22

Coconu Oil-based formula is absolutely made to stimulate your senses for deeply satisfying sexual experiences while the organic ingredients provide hydration and nourishment to your skin.

It has a long-lasting formula that is designed to protect and moisturize dry or sensitive vaginal and anal tissues.

It is 100% edible and works great as a massage oil. Additionally, it doesn’t contain any alcohol, petroleum, parabens, gluten, artificial fragrances or dyes.

#4 Simply Solutions Simply Slick Natural Lubricant; $19,99

Simply Slick is an oil-based lube specifically designed for those prone to yeast infections and its antimicrobial and pH balanced formula prevents foreign bacterial colonies from forming.

It is made with certified organic castor oil, jojoba oil, and vegetable glycerin. Additionally, it is free of parabens, hormones, petroleum, and silicones.

#5 YES Personal Lubricant; $16

YES Personal Lubricant has an oil-based formula that lasts much longer than its water-based equivalent and doesn’t dry out as easily.

It is made out of naturally-derived, organic ingredients that are certified by the UK Soil Association.

In addition, it is free of paraben, harmful chemicals, and artificial fragrances. The formula is pH balanced and unlikely to cause allergic reactions or skin irritations.