Using the right lubricant can enhance your experience with sex toys, ensuring comfort, pleasure, and longevity. Learn how to choose the best lube for your favorite toys with this comprehensive guide.
Understanding Lubricants
A lubricant (aka “lube”) is a substance used to lubricate (moisten) a product to prevent friction. In a sexual context, lubricant is used to prevent friction during sex which could become uncomfortable, but lube can also be used for sex toys that are meant to be inserted into the vagina or anus. Needless to say, lubricant is important, as it helps tremendously with insertion.
There are many, many different kinds of lubricants out there, including household products like olive oil. Commercial lubricants are generally considered the best option, as they’re formulated to lubricate effectively and be safe for the delicate tissue that will be making contact with them.
In the realm of lubricants, versatility meets necessity.
Graphite lubricants, silicone spray lubricants, and starfield lubricants keep machinery humming, while treadmill and brake lubricants ensure smooth rides and safe stops.
For intimacy, fertilitylubricant and coconut oil lubricants offer comfort and natural solutions. Silicone spray and dry lubricants tackle everyday squeaks and jams with ease.
From mechanics to romance, lubricants keep the world moving, silently easing friction in all its forms.
Types of Lubricants
Let’s take a look at the most common types of lubricants now, specifically for someone who wants to use lube for sex toys.
Water-Based Lubricants
Water-based lubricants are formulas that use water as the primary source of moisture. They’re suitable for most sex toys, including those made of silicone and latex. They don’t stain anything, which is great if you want to keep those sheets clean, and water-based lube washes away very easily without leaving behind any residue. One thing to keep in mind with water based lubricants is that they may need to be reapplied during longer sessions, as water quickly absorbs into the tissue of the body.
Silicone-Based Lubricants
A silicone-based lubricant is a good choice for someone who wants their lube to last for a long session, and silicone is great for anyone engaging in water play. However, silicone-based lubricants can degrade silicone sex toys, so that’s something to keep in mind. And you’ll need soap and water to remove any lingering residue.
Oil-Based Lubricants
Finally, we have oil-based lubricants. First off, keep in mind that oil-based lubricants are never recommended for use with latex condoms, as the oil and the latex can cause friction that causes a condom to break. Oil-based lubricants may be used with certain sex toys but not with materials that are porous. They may stain fabrics, but they do offer long-lasting lubrication.
Ingredients to Avoid
Certain ingredients should be strictly avoided when shopping for lubricant for the sake of both comfort and safety. Here are the ingredients to avoid.
Parabens
Parabens can irritate delicate internal tissue and are linked to endocrine disruption. Therefore, it’s best to avoid them in lube altogether.
Glycerin
Glycerin may irritate the tissue as well, and some individuals are prone to yeast infections when using it. If you have sensitive skin, please avoid glycerin in your lube.
Fragrances and Flavors
Fragrances and flavors may bring novelty to your experience, but they tend to do more harm than good. Avoid them altogether, as they are very prone to causing irritation, yeast infections, and other problems.
Choosing the Right Lube for Your Sex Toys
So, how do you pick the right lube for your sex toys? Here’s our simple guide that can help you find the best formula that’s out there.
Consider the Toy Material
First, consider the toy material. To avoid damaging the silicone material, use a water-based lubricant for silicone toys. For latex toys, water or silicone-based lubes work just fine. If you have a porous material like rubber or jelly, stick with a water-based lube, as silicone and oil can degrade the material.
Special Considerations
You’ll want to read the ingredients carefully to avoid those that you’re sensitive to, due to allergies, or having skin that’s prone to irritation. Also, keep in mind that different lube formulas accommodate different needs. For instance, if you’re going to be engaging in anal play, you’ll benefit from a thicker and longer-lasting lube to ensure maximum comfort.
Application and Usage Tips
Once you find the perfect lube formula for your needs, it’s time to apply. Here are our favorite tips for applying and using lubricant with your sex toys.
Apply Liberally
Don’t be shy! Apply lube liberally to maximize glide and comfort, as this plays a huge role in your ability to engage in a satisfying session.
Reapply as Needed
If you need to, reapply! There’s no rule when it comes to how often you can reapply lube to your sex toy, as your comfort comes first.
Clean-Up and Storage
Always clean your lube off of your sex toy with mild soap and water, as this will prevent residue from accumulating. And, make sure to store your toys in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, to prolong their lifespan.
Recommended Products
Finally, let’s look at our favorite picks for lube, covering a few different options.
Top-Rated Water-Based Lubricants:
- Silk Hybrid Intimate Lube: This lubricant provides adequate lubrication while enhancing the body’s natural lubricating abilities for maximum comfort.
- Swiss Navy Warming Lubricant: This lube combines a water-based formula with natural warming ingredients that can enhance pleasure while relaxing the muscles for easier and more pleasurable insertion.
Top-Rated Water-Based Lubricants:
- Body Action Xtreme Glide: Perfect for water-play, this non-sticky, non-slippery lube makes gliding a piece of cake.
- Pjur Analyse Me Anal Personal Silicone Lubricant: This extra long-lasting, thick formula is perfect for anal play, ensuring maximum comfort when using your favorite sex toys.
Sex Toys & Lube Make a Fantastic Combination
Sex toys offer a whole lot of fun on their own, but at the end of the day, a lube is a crucial component to your playtime. Luckily, there are plenty of lubes to choose from, which can accommodate your needs and work with the material of your favorite toys. Explore the different types of lubes that are out there. Also remember, the lube you choose has a lot to do with your ability to enjoy your sessions.