The 17 Best Sex Lubes For Friction-Free Fun
There's a long-standing myth that sexual lubricant — AKA lube — is exclisively for reducing chafe during sex. Don't get us wrong, adding a pea-sized blob to your sensitive body parts can nix uncomfortable friction. But lube is about so much more than dry skin.
What if we told you that using lube on the reg could improve your sex life, increase arousal and make sex wetter, better and boost your chances of experiencing a shared orgasm? Yes, really.
Sadly, when it comes to getting wet and wild, you lot are still a little, uh, resistant. 'There is a lot of stigma around using lube due to a lack of proper sex education,' says Gigi Engle, sex therapist and expert at sextoys.co.uk.
'There is an idea that if your body is behaving 'normally', you should always be 'wet enough.' We also never see lube being applied during porn, which enforces the idea we shouldn't be using it,' she adds. 'But the truth is, lube makes all sexual interactions more pleasurable and more comfortable.'
Not sure where to start? 'There is no 'right amount' of wetness for vaginas,' says Gigi. 'In fact, even if you get the wettest you possibly can be, lube can still enhance the experience.'
Best Lubricants for Men at a Glance
We’ve splashed a few of our favourites here — keep scrolling for the full list.
Best all-rounder: Smile Makers Generous Gel Lubricant, £7.95
Best on a budget: Lovehoney Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant, £12.99
Best premium lube: LELO Personal Moisturizer, £27.90
Best for edging: Roam Solo Cream, £9.99
Best for backdoor: Liquid Silk Personal Water-based Lubricant, £12.99
What Exactly is Lube?
Lube is a gel-like product that can be used during sex. 'It's a blend of ingredients which form a slippery substance used to reduce friction and enhance comfort and pleasure during intimate activities,' says Alex Griffiths, founder of sexual wellness brand Roam.
These days lube tends to come in bottles or tubes that look discreet on your nightstand. But horny humans have been trialling different ways to fight off friction for thousands of years, using everything from olive oil to smashed-up yams.
Exactly when and how you choose to use lube is entirely up to you, but it can upgrade pretty much any type of sexual encounter including solo masturbation, vaginal and anal sex and experimenting with sex toys. That said, matching the type of lube with your sexual activity of choice will help.
The Types of Lube
While high street stores might only dedicate a lone shelf to the stuff, there are actually quite a few different types of lube on the market — all of which come with their own benefits.
If you're planning on using lube with sex toys (masturbators, cock rings, prostate massagers), we'd suggest sticking to a water-based lube to avoid damaging their silicone outer.
Water-Based Lube
The one most of us are familiar with — water-based lube is a great all-rounder that'll work whether you're flying solo, trying a new sex toy or penetrating your lover.
These tend to contain more natural ingredients and rinse off easily with hot soapy water or toy cleaner (this 250ml bottle of Lovehoney's Fresh Toy Cleaner will last you months and comes with a handy spray nozzle).
Silicone-Based Lube
Often a little thicker and longer-lasting than its water-based rivals, silicone lube is the preferred option for anal sex.
Some silicone varieties are also considered 'waterproof', meaning you can use them while having sex in the shower and they won't instantly disappear down the plughole.
Oil-Based Lube
Fancy an erotic massage as a prelude to sex? Oil-based lubes are great if you enjoy a rub down as part of foreplay.
But be warned: oily lubes don't work with latex condoms (for risk of rips and tears), and are a little messy. Plus they can trap bacteria, leading to blocked pores and, in some extreme cases, infections.
Hybrid Lube
After something thick, slick and long-lasting but also colourless so it won't stain your sheets?
Luckily brands have caught on to the fact that we all have different needs, so you can now purchase hybrid lube that ticks all the boxes.
Lubido's Hybrid Lube is water-based but comes with a touch of silicone, giving it a gel-like consistency that'll see you through hours of adult entertainment.
How we test and choose the best lube
Simply put, it started with a quick squirt and ended with a detailed discussion about consistency, smell and lasting power — via some very personal testing.
Our (extremely willing) volunteers are aged between 24 and 42 and identify as female, male or gender-neutral. They also sit at very points on the sexuality and neurodiversity spectrums. If we're totally honest, not everyone on our team had regularly used lube before — however, post-experiment, over 90% keep a bottle within easy reach .
While some got down with sex toys, others roped in their partners for some help with their personal testing. They applied as much as instructed on the back of each bottle, although this was typically one to two pumps of the wet stuff. The resultant list below showcases the lubes that scored highly with our testers across feel, performance and value for money.
17 Best Lubes Recommended by MH for 2025
From fruity flavours to slick silicone gels, here's our pick of the best sex lubes to pop on your nightstand.
Personal Moisturizer
The modern man can do it all, so surely we should expect the same of our lube?
LELO's water-based formula doubles up as full-body moisturiser (aloe vera is super hydrating), so you can treat those calves after Crossfit and when the moment arises. It's also unscented, not at all greasy and won't ruin your bedsheets.
One review raved, 'Finally we have found a lube that doesn’t feel like lube but more natural when applied.'
Play Perfect Glide Silicone Lube
If you're after a lube than can go the distance, this slick silicone formula from Durex is up to the job.
It's velvety smooth and fragrance-free, and our testers found it particularly good for P-spot play and anal sex.
One review raved, ‘Outperforms any other lube I've used.’ Need we say more?
x Bijoux Indiscrets Finger Play Gel
A quick PSA: we all need to get back to fingering. Yes, playing with tongues, toys and toes (no judgement here) is great, but second base can be a really good way to get you both in the mood — and doubles up as an intimacy booster.
LELO obviously got the memo and decided to make a gel-style lube for this exact purpose. Again, it's packed with aloe vera to ensure long-lasting hydration and a refreshing (but not too intense) coconut scent.
Suitable for penis and vulva-havers, this will work whoever you're playing with. And it's away-day friendly, thanks to that 30ml squeezable tube.
Solo Cream
There’s a thin line between pleasure and chaos when it comes to lube — we all like the extra moisture, but nobody wants to lose control and slip all over the place.
Thanks to its balm-like consistency Roam’s Solo Cream is supple but sticky enough to maintain a modicum of friction, making it ideal for edging. Plus, the mix of coconut and shea means it smells great.
But it’s the little added extras that sold us: brail on the side for those who can’t read the tiny text and a square-shaped bottle that won’t roll under the bed.
Play Massage 2-in-1 Sensual Personal Lubricant
Feeling fruity? This ylang ylang scented lube from Durex works as a massage oil and lubricant, so you can surrender to sensory play while rubbing one out with its aromatic and non-sticky sheen.
Again, it’s water-based so it’ll work for self-pleasure sessions with your sex toys, or oral, anal and vaginal sex if you’re with company.
Silicone Lube - Flavourless
Never know much lube is enough? Stress no longer as this luxury bottle from Uberlube takes away the guesswork thanks to a single-hand-use measured pump, leaving you the perfect amount every time – even in low light. It's also odourless, unscented and doesn't stain fabrics.
x Bijoux Indiscrets Anal Play Gel
We've told you before and we'll tell you again – unlike vaginas – the anal canal is not self-lubricating. So, if bum fun is on the menu tonight, you're going to need plenty of lube and, often, the thicker the better.
LELO’s Anal Play Gel is the perfect balance between thick and slick without feeling sticky or overwhelming. That's thanks to the water-based formula that’s packed with aloe vera to maximise hydration.
The clever designers also chucked in some chamomile and arnica to help relax the skin — ideal if you’re wanting to limit resistance on the way in (and out).
Glow Warming Lubricant
If your sex life needs heating up and you fancy a spot of temperature play using a warming lube is a great way to get the fire started.
This Glow Warming lube from Lovehoney is available in a pocket-friendly 100ml size and delivers a tingling sensation wherever it touches.
Again, it’s water-based, meaning you can use it on your entire sex tech collection, and during protected penetrative sex (wrap it up, guys).
Just remember to use it sparingly. This lotion does take a minute to start working, but the temperature will very quickly start to rise... as will your member.
Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant
In the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, we know that getting multiple bangs for your buck is key. So, you’ll be pleased to hear that this 500ml bottle of Lovehoney’s best-selling water-based lube lasted one tester a whole six months.
The motion lotion itself is rather simple and hasn’t changed much since it hit those virtual shelves — a sign the brand got it right the first time round.
Thick, slick and slow to go tacky, this lubricant is great whether you’re entering through the front or backdoor — or playing with your favourite sex toy. And no, it won’t stain your sheets either.
Personal Water-based Lubricant
We've said it before but a quick reminder: silicone lube is your best bud when heading in the tradesman's entrance.
Enter: Liquid Silk, one of the slipperiest water-based lubes we've come across. This one is also well-suited to lengthy self-pleasure sessions.
Another fan labelled it the ‘best lube on the market’, so it’s only fair you give it a go.
Swirl Green Apple Flavoured Lubricant
Done with the sickly-sweet strawberry flavour? Sliquid heard our cries for something a little fresher, and its Green Apple flavoured water-based lube is exactly that.
After a quick taste test, we can confirm this one is as tart and tangy as your favourite Pink Lady — and does the job of dealing with any unwanted friction. Although it’s best served with a side of oral sex.
The squeezy bottle makes for easy application, plus it’s vegan and veggie-friendly too. Score.
Play Feel Lube
Most of you will recognise this lube from the high street – usually sat next to the condoms. It works a treat if you're after a budget-friendly lube that'll bring on some added slip n' slide.
Lightweight and long-lasting, this water-based formula is not sticky, greasy or likely to pill. It also has a clean, fresh scent, a flip lid that's one-hand friendly, and thanks to the 100ml size, can be stored in the overhead locker.
Just add a generous dollop onto your fingers, sex toys or disco stick and get moving.
Sex Toy Care Kit
PSA: clean your sex toys after every use — and no, a quick rinse under the tap doesn’t count.
So if you need lube and a toy cleaner, Fleshlight has you covered. The lube itself ticks all the boxes: it’s water-based, hypoallergenic (ideal for sensitive skin) and comes in a 100ml bottle that’s perfect for chucking in your carry-on.
Next, the antibacterial cleaner, which is fitted with an easy-to-use spray lid and suitable for use on your latex, SuperSkin and silicone sex toys.
Also included in this pack is the Fleshlight Renewer Powder, designed to restore your masturbators to their original softness. As this would set you back £9.99 on its own, this set is a total steal.
Sterile Lubricant Sachets
Sure, lube is great. But carrying a bottle of the wet stuff around isn't always feasible. Luckily, ElectraStim stock wallet-friendly sachets meaning you'll never be caught with your pants down again.
More jelly-like than some offerings, this water-soluble lube is thick and slick. And with 10 per box, each sachet comes in at just 99p – serious bang for your buck.
A reminder that while this lube might be sterile, you do still need to clean your toys after every use.
Adaptogenic Lubricant
While we hate to jump on a hype, there may be some benefits to using products packed with CBD.
Research suggests it may help alleviate pain and encourage relaxation — ideal for those who find penetrative play a little uncomfortable.
Roam's bestseller includes 250mg of adaptogens (herbs and plants that supposedly help our bodies manage stress and restore balance), as well as agave, aloe and jojoba to make a refreshing and hydrating pleasure milk.
And for the eco-conscious, the bottle itself is also recyclable. Score.
Cucumber & Yuzu Flavoured Lubricant
Don’t be put off by the fact that this comes in a rather dinky 50ml decanter, because this lube tastes just like a Hendricks and Tonic. That’s due to the combo of cucumber and yuzu — delish.
Made from 100% natural ingredients, it won’t irritate her/him or you — and does the job of banishing all friction during foreplay.
A heads up that it is designed to create a ‘natural wetness’, so isn’t the most moisturising option, but that’s easily fixed with a few extra pumps.
Generous Gel Lubricant
Looking for a bottle you can proudly leave on your bedside? Singaporean pleasure purveyor Smile Makers knew what it was doing when designing this Generous Gel. Yep, they avoided the ‘S’ and ‘M’ word so you can leave this is plain sight.
Although they say it’s what’s inside that counts — and that’s no issue here, as the rich water-based lube does the job of killing off any friction during foreplay, thanks to it being silky rather than sticky.
You might be interested to know that this one also includes Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate: a natural plant extract known for its skin-healing properties. So, this’ll help if you happen to like it fast and furious.
What Are the Benefits of Using Lube for Sex?
You're probably thinking it's a simple answer to that question: some added slip n' slide. However, there are some serious psychological and relationship benefits too.
'Lube is important for dialling up the pleasure and improving the connection for couples inside and outside of the bedroom,' says Griffiths.
'It reduces discomfort and improves sensation which will boost intimacy and allow you to connect with your partner on a deeper level, which helps you both reach climax too.'
But isn't the vagina self-lubricating? Yes, but it's not as simple as that. 'It is a given that lube is needed for anal sex but lube for female ‘front’ pleasure is equally as important,' says Griffiths.
'It is really common for women to experience dryness, regardless of how turned on they are. This is dependent on many factors including hormones, diet, stress and medication, so using lube can help women who need an extra helping hand to get wet and help to reduce friction during sex.
'However, lube is not just for those who struggle to get wet. It has been shown that using lube can enhance female pleasure and make your partner more likely to climax.' One of the many goals, right?
Top Tips for Using Lube
From how to make it a normal part of your routine to some clever ways to ramp up the sensations, Griffiths shares some slick tips for using lube to your advantage.
Tip 1: Make It the Norm
'Do this by making lube more visible in your everyday environment and routine,' says Griffiths. 'Start by proudly displaying it on your bedside table so it's there when you’re in the mood or to remind you to invest in intimacy [solo or partnered]. It is always sexy for couples to show that they want to connect with one another.'
Wise words.
Tip 2: Trial and No Errors
'When applying lube, there is no such thing as a right or wrong amount as this varies for individuals,' advises Griffiths. 'Start by applying 3-4 pumps to your desired area and see how it feels. You can always add more and explore different areas with it.'
Tip 3: Feel the Cold
Enjoy a foray into temperature play?
'Why not freeze your water-based lube in ice-cubes for your next at-home date night?' asks Griffiths. 'Start by melting it in your hands and communicate what does and doesn't feel good with your partner.'
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