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The 8 Best Water-Based Lubricants
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Not all lubes are created equal — and the best water-based lubricants have achieved "best" status for a reason. Yeah, it may seem easier to walk into a store and grab the first thing you see off the shelf, but a little extra research could save you possible discomfort and intense clean-ups in the future. A great water-based lube is a solid investment for a multitude of reasons.
While oil- and silicone-based lubes might last longer than water-based lubes, they come with their fair share of disadvantages. Oil-based lubricants can ruin your sex toys, are a huge pain to clean up, will stain your clothes and sheets, and they break down the latex in your condoms, which could render them ineffective. And silicone lubes can make oral pretty unpleasant and shouldn't be used with silicone toys. Water-based lubes, on the other hand, are often non-sticky, safe for oral, and they work well with toys and condoms.
The reason water-based lubes don't last as long is that they're water-soluble, which happens to make cleaning them up a breeze. But, with any lubricant or sex toy, it's important to read your labels — especially if you have any specific sensitivities. Being conscious of what you're putting on (and in) your body can help prevent irritation and make it easier to find the lube that works best for you.
1. An All-Natural Option That's Free Of Glycerin
Most water-based lubricants contain glycerin, which can cause infections if not cleaned off properly — but the Isabel Fay Personal Lubricant is free of glycerin and parabens, if that's something you're concerned about. It's made from high-quality ingredients that won't stain or get sticky, and it comes in a discreet bottle that's easy to use.
Positive Amazon review: “I've only been familiar with using silicone based lubricants, but I didn't like the sticky feeling that they left afterwards, nor did I want to degrade any silicone toys I own. That being said, I decided to buy a natural water based lubricant instead and I'm honestly so glad that I did. It's silky smooth and lasts a long time after being subjected to lots of friction, and cleans up so nicely. I really like the discreet pump bottle and design of the label, and will definitely be buying more.”
2. A Water-Based Lube That's Perfect For Sensitive Skin
Because it's pH balanced, has totally natural ingredients, and is free of dyes, fragrances, petroleum, and parabens, this mostly organic personal lubricant is a great option for sensitive skin. It moisturizes and lubricates with aloe vera and Vitamin E. A win on all fronts!
Positive Amazon review: “I have tried about everything. Most lubes cause irritation, tearing, and infection. The Aloe Cadabra lube is the first one I have found that I can use often and have no problems. I feel clean and moisturizer afterwards, with no irritation whatsoever. There is no smell and it tastes great! Me and my partner both give this a huge thumbs up!!!”
3. This Warming Lube That'll Heat You Up In Just The Right Way
Bring the heat to couple or solo play with this warming lubricant from Wicked Sensual Care. This water-based lubricant is a total blast, and not just because the sensations it delivers will leave you tingling in more ways than one. Since it’s fragrance- and paraben-free, it’s gentle on sensitive skin, and unlike other glycerin-based lubes that can end up feeling tacky after use, this one stays smooth as silk.
Positive Amazon review: “This stuff is the real deal. I have tried a few warming lubes, and this one works the best, the quickest, and cleans up the easiest. A little goes a long way too.”
4. This Lube That Feels As Natural As Possible
Extensively tested to ensure safety with condoms as well as toys, this personal lubricant is made to feel as natural as possible. Even better, it's non-irritating, unflavored, fragrance-free, non-staining, and the bottle even has a locking, spill-proof pump mechanism to prevent messes.
Positive Amazon review: “Worked like a charm. Flavorless & feels legit. Clean up didn’t suck and for the cost you get a pretty large tube.”
5. Non-Sticky Flavorless Lubrication That Works Well For Oral
Whether it's used to combat vaginal dryness or just to enhance things a bit, this water-based lubricant is another favorite. It combines pleasure and comfort with a super smooth consistency that leaves skin feeling soft instead of sticky. It's also got a gorgeous and relatively discreet bottle, and reviewers love that it's natural as well as flavorless.
Positive Amazon review: “This is a fantastic lube. It provides everything you are hoping for in a lube, but none of the nasty stickiness or residue that you get from other lubes. It literally is tasteless and odorless, so it's great for oral play too.”
6. The Lube That Lasts For A Really, Really Long Time
If you and your partner tend to go at it for a while, you need something that's going to keep things slick. With a silky smooth feel and an unbelievably easy clean-up, Nooky Lube is one of the most popular water-based lubricants available. It is colorless, has no taste, and is free of parabens.
Positive Amazon review: “This product is great. Long lasting & it works well with sensitive skin.”
7. A Reliable Option That Tastes Like Strawberry Candy
If you're looking for something with a flavorful kick, Passion Lubes Strawberry Lubricant has a fruity flavor that actually tastes pleasant. On top of that, it's also long-lasting, body-safe, non-staining, and doesn't get sticky.
Positive Amazon review: “Doesn't get tacky too quickly, taste is good (not overwhelming & not too much of an aftertaste).”
8. A Lube That's Great For Anal Sex Or Toys
Because it's free of alcohol, parabens, fragrances, and triclosan, this personal lube works for vaginal sex as well as anal and toy play. It stays slick for a long time, won't cause any irritation, and doesn't stain clothing or sheets, either.
Positive Amazon review: “For the amount you get, and the quality of said lube, it will certainly last you for a while. This water based lube will last for a while when applying it and does not dry out easily. Safe for toys and is an easy clean up.”
