Lubricants are used to reduce friction and essentially make sex and masturbation more enjoyable and pleasurable. The general rule of thumb is “the wetter the better” and that is where lubricants come in.

Lubes come in a variety of bases – water, silicone, oil and hybrid. Hybrid lubes are usually a combination of water and silicone bases.

Not all lubes are fit for all activities. Here is how to choose the right one for you:

Definitely one of the most versatile and fool-proof lubricants. These lubes can be used practically for any activity involving any material toys. Additionally, water-based lubricants are safe to use with condoms – both latex and non-latex.

Water-based lubricants wash off easy, don’t stain the sheets and are gentle on the skin.

Silicone based lubricants are great for those with really sensitive skin. Silicone is hypoallergenic therefore most people don’t experience any reaction and its silky nature will leave the skin feeling soft and smooth.

This type of lube lasts longer than others however it can deteriorate the surface of silicone toys so these two should not be used together. This is usually affecting the safety of the toy as the damaged part of the toy is a place for bacteria to grow.

Unlike other lubricants, silicone ones can be used for shower play as it will stay put for longer (especially if in gel form).

If you are looking for something that keeps on giving – this is your match. Oil based lubricants stay put, feel silky and you won’t need to apply more anytime soon.

Oil lubes are often chosen for sensual massages. Unfortunately oil lubes increase the chances of a torn or ripped condom and should not be used together.

Oil based lubes tend to be hard to wash off and can stain sheets.

For those who want to have the benefits of a water-based lubricant and enjoy the long-lasting properties of a silicone lubricant – hybrid is the way to go. This type of a lube is also great for shower play and bedroom the like.

Some hybrid lubricants can deteriorate your silicone toys therefore you should always do a patch test if you plan on using a hybrid lubricant with your silicone toy.

• A good lubricant should be in the same pH level as a healthy vagina which is usually around pH 3.5 to 4.5.
• If you are prone to yeast infections stay away from any lubricants that contain glycerin – it will act as a food source for bacteria.
• Nonoxynol-9, petroleum, chlorhexidine gluconate as well as parabens are all ingredients you should be mindful as they can cause irritation and infections.
• For some Propylene glycol can cause irritation, however unless you chug bottles of lubricant per day (which we recommend not to), this should cause no harm.