Quick answer: Choose a water-based lube if you want one bottle that works with every toy and every condom. Choose a silicone lube when you want long-lasting glide or play in the shower, but keep it away from silicone toys. Avoid oil with latex condoms.
Key takeaways
- Water-based lube is safe with all toys and condoms and is easy to clean up.
- Silicone lube lasts much longer and works in water, but can damage silicone toys.
- Oil-based products break down latex and polyisoprene condoms.
- For anal play, a thicker lube and plenty of it is the safest choice.
Why lube matters
Lube reduces friction, which makes sex and toy play more comfortable and helps prevent small tears and irritation. It also helps condoms work as intended, because a dry condom is more likely to break. Most people use lube at some point, and there is nothing unusual about needing it.
Water-based vs silicone vs oil: at a glance
| Type | Best for | Toy-safe | Condom-safe | Clean-up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water-based | Everyday use, toys, sensitive skin | Yes, all materials | Yes | Washes off with water |
| Silicone-based | Long sessions, shower and bath play, massage | Not with silicone toys | Yes (latex and polyisoprene) | Needs soap and water |
| Oil-based | Solo massage, no condoms | Varies | No, breaks down latex | Can stain and needs soap |
Water-based lube
Water-based lube is the most versatile choice. It is compatible with every toy material, including silicone, and with all condoms. It feels light, rinses off easily and does not stain sheets. The trade-off is that it absorbs into the skin, so you may need to reapply during longer sessions. A few drops of water can also revive it.
Water-based lubes also come in fun variations: flavoured lubes for oral play, plus warming and cooling formulas for extra sensation. If you have sensitive skin, patch test any flavoured or warming product first.
Silicone-based lube
Silicone lube stays slippery far longer than water-based lube because it does not absorb into the skin. That makes it a favourite for long sessions and for play in the shower or bath, where water would wash a water-based lube away. It is also safe with latex and polyisoprene condoms.
The big rule: do not use silicone lube with silicone toys, as it can make the surface tacky or damage it over time. Glass, stainless steel and hard plastic toys are fine. Silicone lube needs soap and water to wash off.
What about oil-based lube?
Oils feel rich and work well for massage, but they break down latex and polyisoprene condoms, which makes them unsafe for contraception and STI protection. They can also be harder to clean and may stain fabric. If you use condoms, stick to water-based or silicone.
Which lube for which situation?
- With silicone toys: water-based.
- With condoms: water-based or silicone. Never oil.
- In the shower or bath: silicone.
- Anal play: a thicker lube, used generously and reapplied often. Thick water-based gels work with toys; silicone lasts longest with non-silicone toys. See our anal range.
- Oral play: a flavoured water-based lube.
- Sensitive skin: a simple, unscented water-based lube. Patch test anything new.
Browse our full lubricants range, including JO, Wet, Wet Stuff and Pjur.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use silicone lube with silicone toys?
It is best not to. Silicone lube can make silicone toys tacky or damage the surface. Use a water-based lube with silicone toys instead.
Which lube is safe with condoms?
Water-based and silicone-based lubes are both safe with latex and polyisoprene condoms. Avoid oil-based products, which weaken latex.
Which lube lasts the longest?
Silicone lube lasts the longest because it does not absorb into the skin. Water-based lube may need reapplying, or reviving with a few drops of water.
What is the best lube for anal?
A thicker lube, used generously and reapplied often. A thick water-based gel suits silicone toys, while silicone lube lasts longest with glass, metal or hard plastic toys.
Is flavoured lube safe for sex?
Flavoured lubes are designed mainly for oral play. Many are water-based and condom-safe, but if you are prone to irritation, patch test first and use a plain lube for penetration.
Need help choosing? Call us on 1800 249 569 or visit our Carrum Downs store. Every order ships in discreet, unbranded packaging, with free standard shipping on orders over $100.
