Intimate Essentials

Lubricant types: water-based, silicone-based, and specialty

Not all lubricants are the same. The type you choose affects sensation, compatibility with toys and condoms, and how long the lubricant lasts before you need to reapply.

Water-Based Lubricant

Water-based lube works with everything: all toy materials (silicone, glass, metal, TPE), all condom types (latex and non-latex), and all types of sexual activity. It is easy to clean (rinses off with water), non-staining, and comes in consistencies from thin liquid to thick gel. The only downside: it absorbs into the skin over time and may need reapplication with a few drops of water or more lube. Water-based lubricant is our top recommendation for beginners, daily use, and anyone who uses silicone sex toys, because silicone-based lube can damage silicone toys. Look for formulas labelled body-safe, pH-balanced, and paraben-free. Glycerin-free water-based lubes are the best choice for people prone to yeast infections, since glycerin can act as a sugar that feeds yeast.

Silicone-Based Lubricant

Silicone lube is very slick, long-lasting, and waterproof. A small amount goes a long way and does not absorb into the skin like water-based lube does. It is ideal for shower or bath play, anal sex (where extra cushioning and longevity matter), and any session where you do not want to pause to reapply. The key limitation: never use silicone-based lube with silicone sex toys. The silicone in the lube can bond to the silicone in the toy, making the surface permanently gummy and degraded. Silicone lube is safe with glass and metal toys, and with latex condoms. It is harder to wash off than water-based lube (soap and water works, but takes more effort). For anal play or extended sessions where stopping to reapply is inconvenient, silicone lube is the best choice.

Specialty Lubricants: Delay, Oral, Sensitive & Organic

Beyond the two main types, a growing range of specialty lubricants target specific needs. Delay lubricants contain a mild numbing agent (usually lidocaine or benzocaine) that slightly desensitises the penis, helping men last longer. Oral lubricants are flavoured, sweetened, and made to make oral sex more enjoyable. Look for sugar-free formulas to avoid yeast issues. Hypoallergenic lubricants are made without common irritants (glycerin, parabens, fragrances, propylene glycol) for people with sensitive skin or allergies. Organic and natural lubricants use plant-based ingredients like aloe vera and avoid synthetic additives, which is good if you prefer clean, minimal ingredient lists. Intimate gels are a thicker, richer type of lubricant often sold for vaginal comfort and moisturising. If standard lubricants have irritated you in the past, a hypoallergenic or organic formula is worth trying.

Toy cleaners and maintenance

Cleaning your sex toys properly is not optional. It protects your health and extends the lifespan of your collection.

Dedicated Toy Cleaner

A dedicated toy cleaner is the most convenient way to clean your toys. Unlike soap, which can leave residue, a quality toy cleaner rinses clean, kills bacteria, and is gentle on silicone, glass, metal, and TPE surfaces. Most are spray-on and wipe-off, which is great for quick cleaning when you do not have access to a sink. Look for fragrance-free, alcohol-free formulas to avoid irritation. Toy cleaner is especially useful for non-waterproof toys that cannot be rinsed under a tap: spray, wipe, and air-dry.

Antibacterial Soap (DIY Alternative)

A mild, fragrance-free antibacterial liquid soap with warm water works well as an alternative to dedicated toy cleaner for waterproof toys. Avoid harsh soaps with strong fragrances, exfoliants, or alcohol: these can irritate delicate skin and degrade silicone over time. After washing, rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth. Soap is not recommended for TPE toys, as it can be harder to rinse completely from the porous surface.

Condoms & Personal Care

Condoms are the only form of contraception that also protects against sexually transmitted infections. They are an essential for any sexually active person, regardless of other birth control in use. Latex condoms are the most common and reliable, but non-latex options (polyurethane or polyisoprene) exist for those with latex allergies. Personal care items like pH-balanced intimate wipes and gentle washes are made for the genital area specifically: regular soap can disrupt the body's natural pH balance. Use these products to stay fresh before and after intimacy without irritation.

How much lubricant to use

There is no such thing as too much lubricant. Start with more than you think you need and adjust downwards. For vaginal intercourse, apply a coin-sized amount to both yourself and your partner. For anal play, use a lot more: a generous squeeze applied to both the toy or body part and the anal opening. For masturbation with a stroker, apply lubricant inside the sleeve and to yourself. For external vibrator use, a few drops on the area you plan to stimulate is usually enough. If you feel any friction or drag at any point, pause and add more. Do not push through dryness. Water-based lube can be reactivated with a few drops of water or saliva if it starts to feel tacky.

Applying and reapplying

Apply lubricant before any contact begins. Do not wait until things feel dry. Warm the lube in your hands for a few seconds first if it is cold. Reapply whenever sensation changes from glide to friction. This might be every 5–10 minutes for water-based lube during extended sessions, or not at all for silicone lube during a typical session. For anal use, reapply more frequently; the rectum absorbs moisture faster than the vagina. After sex, rinse lubricant off with warm water. Water-based lube washes away easily; silicone-based lube needs soap. Do not use lubricant as a substitute for adequate foreplay or arousal. It is an addition, not a replacement.

How to use toy cleaner

After using a toy, spray or apply toy cleaner generously over the entire surface. Let it sit for 30–60 seconds to break down fluids and bacteria, then wipe clean with a lint-free cloth or rinse under warm water (for waterproof toys). For textured toys, use a soft brush or your fingers to work the cleaner into grooves and crevices. Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth before storing. For a deeper clean, boil silicone, glass, or metal toys for 5–10 minutes every few uses. Never boil electronic toys or TPE toys. Store toys separately in individual fabric pouches to prevent material reactions and lint accumulation.