Your Guide to Lubes
If we had the resources, we’d go on an entire US campaign to talk about the importance of using lube. We’re not sure how or when the wires crossed, but we need lube! Lube saves lives.
Here is a breakdown of the different types of lubricants:
Water-based lube
Water-based lube is an excellent choice for most people. It's body-safe and compatible with most other things in the sex world, including condoms and toys. Some are thick, some are thin, some feel silky-smooth, while others have a more gel-like texture. Water-based lube is safe to use on your sheets and is easy to clean up.
Pros
Easy to find
Compatible with all sex toys
Friendly to the vagina
Washes away in water (easy clean-up!)
Cons
Dries up the fastest
Because there are so many different ingredients, those more prone to allergic reactions may experience one.
Washes away in water (do not use in shower)
Silicone-Based Lubes
As the name implies, silicone-based lubricants are made from silicone and are more expensive than water-based ones. Though not as popular, they still make for a good lubricant choice for those looking for long-lasting silky-smooth pleasure. *Not compatible with silicone sex toys.
Pros
Lasts longer than water-based lubes
Compatible with most latex condoms
Safe for sensitive skin
Cons
Not compatible with silicone sex toys
Some types may stain sheets
A bit more difficult to clean up
Oil-Based Lubes
Aside from massage oil, oil-based lubes can also be some household products that you have lying around, like coconut oil or baby oil. Though experimenting with oil-based lubes can be fun and exciting, they tend to come with more downsides and are incompatible with most sex toys and condoms.
Pros
Lasts long
Easily accessible by using household products
Cons
Will destroy condoms
May destroy most sex toy materials
Can cause infections when used vaginally
Very difficult to clean up.
Hybrid Lubes
Hybrid lubes can be a combination of lubricants like water-based and silicone lubes. To make the best of both worlds. Together they create a long-lasting and slippery feel, making it great for anal sex.
Pros
Long-lasting compared to water-based
Compatible with latex condoms
Best of both worlds
Cons
May not be as compatible with silicone sex toys
*To pick the best lubricant for you, think about the type of materials you most commonly use for sex toys.