Best lube for sex: how to choose the right lubricant for you

When it comes to penetrative sex and masturbation, using a high-quality lubricant can make a world of difference in pleasure and satisfaction. Gone are the days when lubricants were merely seen as a solution for vaginal dryness. These magical elixirs offer numerous benefits that contribute to better sexual encounters. Lube can intensify connections and sensations during intercourse and masturbation, reduce friction, prevent discomfort and injury, and elevate the enjoyment of intimate moments overall. ensuring a pleasurable time for all parties involved.

The best part is that anyone, regardless of their identity or stage of life, can revolutionise their sex life by incorporating lubricants. "Lube is your best friend", according to Lucy Rowett, Sex Coach at The Lowdown. "Don't be ashamed to need more than you think because hormonal changes result in more vaginal dryness. However, lube isn't just for when you're dry, it enhances everything and can help you keep lubricating naturally, too."

To ease your search for the lube for you we've scoured our Talk boards for expert advice and knowledge on personal lubricants (although, we’d recommend avoiding this advice). We've left no stone unturned, curating a straightforward and easy guide to the finest lubes out there. Don't forget to pick up a pack of the best condoms, too and for some extra sensations, here's our guide of the best vibrators to try that Mumsnetters swear by. Keep reading for our guide to the best lubricants, according to Mumsnet users.

Top five lubricants for sex: at a glance

• Best overall lube: Durex Play Feel Lubricant Gel, £13

• Best sperm-friendly lube for TTC: Pre-Seed Fertility Lube, £14

• Best tasting lubricant for oral sex: Ann Summers Strawberry Lickable Flavoured Lube, £9

• Best natural lubricant: Sliquid H2O Original Water-Based Lubricant, £20

• Best luxury lubricant: Liquid Silk Personal Lubricant, £9

Read next: Find the best condoms used by Mumsnet users

Read next: Find the best vibrators, tried and tested by Mumsnet users

What is the difference between water-based and silicone-based lubes?

Water-based lubes are easily washable, are compatible with most toys and condoms, and provide a natural feel. Although, they may dry out more quickly. Whereas silicone-based lubricants offer longer-lasting glides, and are ideal for activities in water. They’re not, however, easily absorbed by the body and users may experience stickiness with some lubricants.

"Avoid any lube that has glycerine in– which is usually found in cheaper water based lubes– because it turns to sugar on contact with oxygen over a period of time," says Lucy Rowett, "and you do not want to be dealing with a yeast infection, too."

Are lubes safe to use with condoms?

Not all lubricants are compatible with condoms - like the Yes Plant Oil Based option listed above. If you’re using condoms, make sure you choose lubricants that are specifically labelled as condom- or latex-compatible to ensure they won’t compromise the integrity of the condom.

"Water based lube is great for every kind of sexy play", shares Lucy. "It’s compatible with condoms and all toys, but it does dry out quickly so it’s not best for any kind of anal play.

"Oil based lube is great too, but it isn’t compatible with condoms and can cause them to rupture."

Can lubricants cause allergies or irritations?

Some individuals may have sensitivities to certain ingredients used in lubes. It’s important to choose hypoallergenic and non-toxic lubricants where possible, as they are free from common irritants like parabens, glycerin, or fragrances. A good hypoallergenic option in our roundup that is recommended by Mumsnet users is the Sliquid H20 Original Water-Based Lubricant from Lovehoney.

How do I choose the right lube for me?

When choosing from the different types of lube available, you should consider factors like your preferences, sensitivities, and the type of sexual activity you’ll be engaging in. Water-based lubricants are the most versatile and suitable for most people, while silicone-based ones offer longer-lasting lubrication (making them a good option for anal sex).

According to Lucy, "it’s important to use a lube that you like the feel of more than anything else, otherwise you won’t use it."

Can lube be used with sex toys?

Yes, many lubricants are safe to use with sex toys. In fact, using lubrication with sex toys can enhance the overall experience and make it more pleasurable. Lubes reduce friction, provide a smooth glide, and can make insertion or penetration more comfortable.

It's important to choose one that is compatible with the material of your sex toy. Water-based lubes are generally safe to use with all types of sex toys, including those made of silicone, rubber, or other materials. However, it's always a good idea to check the manufacturer's guidelines or instructions for your specific sex toy to ensure compatibility with lubricants.

How we chose our recommendations

Recommendations from real Mumsnet users

Mumsnetters have certainly put lube brands through their paces when in the bedroom, with many Mumsnet users sharing experiences (both good and bad) of the lubes they’ve personally tried and tested.

First up, we sought out the trusted opinions of Mumsnet users to get their feedback on their favourite lubricants, as well as the brands that they have tried, rated, and would recommend to their friends.

We also looked out for any negative reviews, where Mumsetters highlighted products that they felt were poor quality, too sticky, ineffective, or simply failed to do the job.

Expert opinions

We then cross-checked our recommendations with the lubes praised by sex experts to ensure we were bringing you the best products that are rated across the board.

Authentic consumer reviews

Finally, to bring you our definitive list of the best lubes, we thoroughly investigated genuine, in-depth customer reviews on retailer sites such as Ann Summers, Boots, Lovehoney, and Amazon, and independent sites to get broader consumer experiences regarding the products on our shortlist.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful reviews like this one.

About the expert

Lucy Rowett is a certified sexologist and sex coach who is passionate about helping women let go of sexual shame and hangups. She uses a combination of mind-body tools with evidence-based sexuality education. Her speciality is working with people who come from faith backgrounds who are struggling to let go of sexual shame and enjoy pleasurable relationships again.

About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she commissions, writes, and edits to bring parents content designed to make life easier. After birthing and breastfeeding two babies in two years, Rebecca knows first-hand how hard it can be to reignite intimacy. From condoms, to lubes, to sex toys - she’s on a quest to find the best ones, with the help of Mumsnet user recommendations.

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, walking the dog, or hiding from her neighbour as she attempts to buy condoms during her weekly “Big Food Shop”.