Let’s be honest: The best lubes make everything better—and wetter. The only hitch? Amid seemingly endless options (it’s the golden age of lube, after all), finding the right lube for sex can take even more research than securing the best vibrator. To keep your search for the best lubes as frictionless as possible, we compiled everything you need to know about personal lubricant and pulled together a few tried-and-true options that work every time.
Our top picks
What types of lubes are there?
Not all lubes are created equal. Different bases have varying pros and cons for your sexual health, your sheets, and your sex toys, not to mention the inevitable cleanup process. The big three materials are water, silicone, and oil. On top of their material, tons of lubes market themselves with flavors, scents, and sensations. Some are hypoallergenic for sensitive skin; some are numbing to make anal play more comfortable; some have ingredients that deliver a warming effect. You can go with anything that floats your boat. Just read the ingredients and avoid glycerin if you’re prone to yeast infections—it’s been linked to the condition.
Water-based lube
Made primarily of water plus thickening agents, water-based lubes are perhaps the most popular variety. As Good Vibrations staff expert Carol Queen, PhD, tells Glamour, it’s the only option that works well with everything: skin, silicone sex toys, and latex condoms. It’s less likely to stain fabrics, and easy to rinse off with water. The downside? Water-based formulas tend to dry out and become tacky quicker than other formulas, meaning reapplication may be necessary.
Silicone-based lube
Silicone-based lubricants are generally safe to use vaginally, anally, and orally. According to a 2022 meta-analysis, they make sex more pleasurable because they can combat vaginal dryness or enhance anal sex. Silkier and longer-lasting than their water-based counterparts, silicone is great for shower sex since it doesn’t wash off with water alone, Justin Lehmiller, PhD, a research fellow at the Kinsey Institute, previously told Glamour. Plenty of brands promise their silicone lube won’t stain bed sheets, but that’s not a guarantee. Keep in mind to not use silicone-based lube with silicone sex toys, since the material can degrade over time.
Oil-based lube
Oil-based lubricant is another long-lasting option with many of the benefits as silicone. It’s fine to use with silicone sex toys, as long as you thoroughly wash your vibrators and suction toys after use. However, oil should never be used with latex condoms, Dr. Queen warns because it can cause the material to break down, leading to condom tears.
The best lubes
Overwhelmed? Don’t be! Whether you want to add some slippery action to your sex life, make solo play even more fun, or just find a bottle that you’re not ashamed to keep on your nightstand, there’s a great lube out for you. These are the absolute best lubes, based on reviews from their biggest fans.
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