The 17 best lubes for friction-free foreplay, sex and masturbation
It's a little known fact that women and people with vulvas are more prone to vaginal dryness at certain points in the cycle. And we all know that rough sex (no judgement here, we all like to wrestle every now and then) can lead to chafing and soreness.
So, what's the solution? If you find sex uncomfortable, suffer from vaginal dryness, or simply enjoy the feel of extra slip and slide, lubricant (AKA lube) is the ultimate sex accessory, and we'd all benefit from keeping a bottle on our bedside table.
Lube is a liquid (or gel) designed to tackle any unwanted friction, chafing or tension during masturbation, foreplay, fun with your sex toys and during penetrative sex with a partner.
From the best water-based lube for partnered sex to oil-based gels designed to augment solo masturbation sessions, we've been busy testing all the latest lubes so all you have to do is pick the most appealing product and get busy. Keep reading for our pick of the best lubes for every sexual scenario.
Best lube at a glance
We’ve splashed a few of our favourites right here — keep scrolling for the full list.
What are the different types of lube?
Like we said, using lube with your partner(s) or adding a pea-sized blob or two to your favourite sex toy during solo masturbation can sidestep vaginal dryness, make penetrative sex a whole lot more comfortable and can even help combat chafing should things get really heated in the bedroom.
But choosing the right type will give you a head start. Lube comes in a few different forms, each with its own benefits:
Water-based lube
Water-based lube is our go-to accessory for most sexual scenarios, including masturbation with your favourite sex toy. They're also great for vulva owners with sensitive skin, as they tend to contain more natural ingredients.
This type of lube is also easy to rinse off with hot, soapy water or a toy cleaner. We’re particularly fond of Coco De Mer’s herby-smelling antibacterial spray. Simply spray, wipe away (with a dry cloth) and play.
Silicone-based lube
While your vagina produces its own steady stream of natural juices to keep things supple, your backdoor is not self-lubricating. Silicone-based lube is usually a little thicker (and arguably more luxurious) than its water-based rivals, which makes it well-suited to anal sex.
So, if bum fun is on the agenda tonight, don't skimp on the lube. Apply silicone-based lube liberally to anything you plan to put up there and you'll reap the rewards. Thicker lube also tends to last a little longer, so it's ideal if you're hoping to go all night long.
Oil-based lube
If you fancy taking a leaf out of our ancestors' book, we recommend using these for sensual massages as part of your foreplay.
But just remember that oil-based formulas can trap bacteria, leading to blocked pores and infections. They're also a little messier and can stain your bedsheets, sofa, carpet and clothing.
Hybrid lube
Some brands have caught onto the fact that no two people are the same and created hybrid lubes to suit differing tastes. So, if you’re after a water-based lube that’ll stand the test of time, try one blended with silicone.
How we test the best lubes
Our comprehensive testing process starts with a quick squirt on the hand to check the consistency, smell and taste. Then our sex writers get busy — or hand out samples to some willing volunteers on the WH team — for more extensive rounds of testing.
FYI, our testers cover the entire sexuality spectrum — we're talking straight, homosexual, bisexual and pansexual — plus have a range of bedroom experience (think everything from riders on the decade-long monogamy train to sex party queens). All lubes were tested with and without condoms and by people with vulvas or penises.
17 of the best lubes in 2024
Whether you’re flying solo or embarking on partnered play, here are our favourite pleasure gels to minimise friction and maximise your fun...
Personal Moisturizer
You probably don’t need us to rehash why we love the luxury Swedish sexual wellness brand, LELO (read our edit of our 14 faves here). Its toys offer a premium route to pleasure — and the same can be said for its water-based moisturiser.
Aptly named, this one fights any friction when playing on your own, with sex tech, or with a partner, but can also be used as a moisturiser when your skin needs a little extra hydration.
Then there’s the sleek black design of the bottle, meaning it could pass as something else in your washbag (or carry-on, as the 75ml size is plane-approved).
Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant
Do you want multiple intensely pleasurable bangs for your buck? One fan of this Lovehoney lube says the 500ml bottle lasted them a whole six months.
The water-based lube itself is simple but effective and hasn’t changed much since it was first launched — because, as they say, ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’.
A little thicker than some other water-based offerings, this is great if you need a little extra wetness down there. Plus, it comes with an easy-to-use pump that’s ideal if you’ve only got one hand free.
Glide
What do we want from our water-based lube? Extra glide. And we can confirm that this great new product from Knude Society delivers in abundance. It's 100% natural — no parabens, fragrances, hormones or colourings here — so it maintains your delicate vaginal pH and fends off conditions like thrush or BV.
The gel-like formula doesn't drip, sparing your sheets. Plus that pop-top bottle? Well, that almost took the title for top perk — until we discovered the brand's subscription service. Yep, have a three-month supply of motion lotion delivered discreetly to your door on repeat and you'll save 13% per bottle.
Water-Based Anal Lubricant
Bum fun fans, listen up. Bondara has given their anal lube a refresh, this time adding in a numbing agent to ensure it’s no pain and ultimate gain.
It’s also non-tacky, meaning no sticky residue gets left on you or your sheets, and with a 250ml (squeezy) bottle coming in at just £12.99, it’s also a total steal.
Just remember to take it slow and consider chucking out a safe word.
Silicone Lubricant
US brand Überlube — before you ask, no, this isn’t the car service’s attempt to break into the sex industry — was founded in 2010. The goal? To create a long-lasting, lightweight lube that wouldn’t ever be labelled ‘sticky’. And we can confirm it's nailed the brief. It's slippery without being drippy and lasts the distance.
The brand's eco-friendly approach to travel is also worth a mention. The Good-to-Go traveller case, holding up to 15ml of the wet stuff, can be refilled as many times as you like.
Generous Gel
Come with us on a quick diversion: sex toys are great, particularly for exploring what you do and don't like, as well as getting your sexual kicks.
However, there are a few things they can't do: A) cuddle, B) produce love juices. Hence why we always recommend turning up to your next round of teasing with a bottle of the good stuff.
Smile Makers' Generous Gel has been designed to pair perfectly with all its tech (FYI, The Firefighter brings the heat). Just add a couple of drops to your freshly-charged toy and head south.
A Quiet Night In Personal Lubricant
A new brand in the British pleasure market, Gentil's aim is to create a range of intimate wellness products women would be proud to leave on display, and we are here for it.
It's pricey, but this water-based lubricant will cause minimal disruption to your vaginal microbiome. The pH-balanced formula is free from parabens, petroleum, glycerin and synthetic fragrance, scented only by the aloe included on the ingredients list.
In terms of wetness, this falls somewhere between natural lubrication and uncontrollable slip n’ slide. Essentially, start with one pump and see how you go. When it comes to lasting power, this is one you don't need to reapply — but you also won't be left feeling sticky afterwards.
Vegan Lubricant
We’re sure you're already big fans of Hanx’s vegan, ultra-thin condoms for safe yet ultra-satisfying sex, but did you know that the sexual wellness brand also makes (brilliant) lube?
Another water-based offering that’s safe to use with latex condoms and silicone sex toys, Hanx has crafted an all-rounder that’ll work in most sexual scenarios — even during shower sex, as it removes friction before washing effortlessly off the skin.
Even better news: you can subscribe to deliveries every two/four/eight/twelve weeks, meaning no more awkward dashes to the supermarket or settling for a mediocre love liquid. Plus it will save you 15% on every bottle.
Intimate Lubricant Drops
If you find that a few days after getting frisky you're a bit uncomfortable down there, you may be having problems with your pH. Yep, your balance can be thrown off by condoms, lube and even your partner's juices.
Thankfully, some brands are taking a new approach to sexual wellness — one that considers your vaginal health and happiness.
DeoDoc's lube drops were developed with an expert gynae, meaning they don't interfere with your 'good' bacteria, otherwise known as Lactobacillus. So, enjoy a smoother ride without a side of serious discomfort.
Divine Glow Aqua Lubricant
This premium offering from London-based pleasure experts Coco De Mer combines ginseng and moisturising aloe vera to maximise your vaginal comfort.
However, the major perk of this one is its discreet design, meaning no awkward questions if you accidentally leave it in plain sight. Yep, a brown glass bottle disguises its contents, while intricate artwork decorates the front, meaning this could definitely pass as your newest fragrance.
Safe to use with all your toys and fitted with an easy-to-use pump, this ticks every box. Oh, and it’s one of the least sticky options in our lineup. Sold.
Glow Warming Lubricant
Are you looking to start a party in your pants? This warming lube from Lovehoney is designed to help you glide right towards that final goal while also increasing your sensitivity.
Simply squeeze this on you, or your lover, and wait a few minutes for the warming sensations to start spreading.
This is a great travel-sized option, measuring up at just 100ml, and comes with a precise spout to stop it from squirting everywhere. Sadly, we can’t promise the same for you...
Water-Based Personal Lubricant
Another water-based lubricant that can be used for solo sessions, partnered play and toy teasing — except this one wins the award for most fun aesthetics.
Infused with aloe vera and free from glycerin, parabens and sugar, this has, once again, been designed with your natural balance in mind. The brand has even confirmed this lube has a pH of 4.0 – 4.5 to match a healthy vagina (usually between 3.8 – 4.5).
One fan loved it so much that she admitted to also using it when sliding in her nixit menstrual cup (yep, the brand makes those too).
With a generous 118ml of good stuff per lime-green bottle, it's great value for money — and that really turns us on.
Cucumber & Yuzu Flavoured Lubricant
Are you after a lube that’ll help you slide smoothly from second to third base, but also tastes great?
The sex care experts at Roam decided to swerve the typical strawberry and cherry flavours, instead opting for a cucumber and yuzu combo that’s as refreshing as a classic G&T. Yum.
Available in both a 50ml and 100ml size, the smaller is perfect for slipping in your handbag before date night. And, for those who struggle with their sight, every Roam product comes with a brail description on the side.
Designed to create a ‘natural wetness’, this isn’t the most moisturising option, but that’s easily fixed with a few extra pumps.
The Big O Sensation-Enhancing Sex Oil
Now, strictly speaking, this one isn’t a lube. But if you need a little extra action down there to reach orgasn, this stimulating oil might be just the thing.
With CBD, ginger extract and cannabis seed oil, this oil is a triple threat, promising to moisturise, smooth and stimulate. Simply tip a few drops onto your go-zone and start exploring.
We don’t recommend using this one with toys or condoms, so save this for your next playdate with your permanent plus-one.
Hybrid Lubricant
Are you a fan of water-based lube but find it doesn't always last the test of time? Then consider switching it out for this silicone hybrid, which truly delivers.
Arriving in a large 250ml bottle with a handy pump and twist-lock, this is great from the outset. But fans (and our sex writer) also confirmed this isn’t sticky and offers a long-lasting glide, making it absolutely appropriate for P-spot play.
In fact, one said, ‘thick, slick and slow to go tacky... still my lube of choice’. Need we say more?
Play Massage 2-in-1 Soothing Personal Lubricant
Looking to add a little romance back into your relationship? This two-in-one lubricant is a great alternative to messy, and sometimes rather pricey, massage oils. So why not focus on various kinks — first the ones in your lover’s neck, and then the ones in your sexual fantasies.
Infused with aloe vera, this is a total treat for your skin and is safe to use with all your sex tech.
One couple said, ‘We had never used lube in our entire married life of 46 years, but now we always will.’ High praise.
Shine Silicone lubricant
Here's another lubricant housed inside a sleek, fairly discreet bottle that you won't mind leaving on your beside table. Although, its organic insides are what really impressed us.
Vegan, cruelty-free, and totally free from parabens or fragrance, this (totally odourless) lube is kind to the skin — and your sheets, thanks to the lack of anything unnatural, meaning it doesn't stain. A little thinner in consistency, this does run and drip, although that's no bad thing if you're particularly dry down there.
One thing to know about Maude is that Dakota Johnson — better known by some as Anastasia Steele in the 50 Shades franchise — is both an investor and co-creative director of the brand. Essentially, we're in good hands.
What is lube?
It’s thought the ancient Greeks and Romans first had the rather great idea to smooth out the path to pleasure. Yep, back in 350 BC they used olive oil to wet their whistle.
But what exactly is lube, and why should we be using it? ‘Intimate lubricant is a blend of ingredients which form a slippery substance used to reduce friction and enhance comfort during intimate activities,’ says the founder of sex care company Roam, Alex Griffiths.
‘Lube helps improve pleasure by reducing discomfort, and also helps to improve sensation.’
What are the benefits of using lube for sex?
As well as reducing your chances of pain and chafing, Griffiths claims there are some emotional benefits to employing the smooth operator.
‘Don’t underestimate the power of lube in dialling up the connection you have with your partner in and out of the bedroom,’ says Griffiths. ‘Lube helps boost intimacy and connecting with your partner on a deeper level, which can help both parties reach climax too.
‘We need to normalise lube use for everyone, regardless of age, gender or sexuality.’ Challenge accepted...
Top tips on using lube
If you’re not sure when, where or how to introduce lube, Griffiths has some useful tips:
Tip 1: Celebrate your lube
‘Take it out the bottom of your bedside drawer, because it’s no use there.
‘Why not proudly display your lubricant on your bedside table to show when you’re in the mood? Or keep it there to remind you that investing in intimacy (solo or partnered) is an important part of your everyday routine.’
Wise words indeed.
Tip 2: There is no such thing as too much lube
‘If it feels good, you’re doing it right. Start by applying three to four pumps to the area you’re wanting to explore and go from there.’
Tip 3: Try temperature play
‘Why not freeze your water-based lube in ice cubes for your next at-home date night? Start melting them in your hands and communicate what does and doesn't feel good with your partner.’ That’s our next night in sorted.
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