What Type of Lubricant Should I Use?

It used to be simple. If you wanted a personal lubricant, you reached for the only one available: K-Y Jelly. But as the sex toy industry has grown, so has the selection of lubricants. We carry oil-based, water-based and silicone-based lubes. We carry warming lubricants and flavored lubricants. We carry hypoallergenic, all-natural lubes as well. We only stock lubricants we've tested and love. How do you know which one is best for you? Read on to find out.

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Water-based

Water-based lubricants are truly the most versatile. They come in jelly or liquid forms, and are condom compatible. Water-based lubricants can get sticky or dry out faster than silicone lubes.

Tip: If your water-based lubricant dries out during sex, add a little water to refresh. You'll be good as new.

Good water-based lubricants: Astroglide, Sync

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Oil-based

Oil-based lubricants are very slippery and won't dry out. They generally come in a thick oil or petroleum form. However, oil-based lubes aren't latex condom compatible. They're recommended for anal sex with a trusted, tested partner, or for use with non-latex anal toys. We don't suggest it for use with vibrators as it can gunk up the control pad, rendering the toy useless. Oil-based lubricants erode latex, jelly and rubber toys as well (silicone and hard-shelled plastic are okay).

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Silicone-based

Silicone-based lubricants are fantastic multi-purpose lubes. They're incredibly slippery, won't dry out and are condom-compatible. You can even use them under water. Disadvantages? Silicone-based lubricants break down silicone sex toys. Some people find the ultra slippery sensation doesn't feel quite like natural lubrication (water-based lubricants emulate the feeling of the body's own moisture much better).

A good silicone-based lubricant: Pink

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Flavored

Flavored lubricants add a sweet flavor to oral delights. Many of these concoctions used to be too sticky to deal with, but in recent years manufacturers have learned to make flavored lubricants work just as well as traditional lube. Be careful when choosing flavored lubricants, as high sugar content can cause vaginal infections.

A good flavored lubricant: Tasty Lube Sampler

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Natural

Natural lubricants are hypoallergenic, and glycerin- and paraben-free. These lubricants are pH balanced for the female body, meaning they won't cause yeast infections. These lubricants are condom safe and can be either silicone or water-based.

A good natural lubricant: Sliquid Organics Silk Lubricant