Lubrication can make sex a lot easier and much more pleasurable, and water-based lube is one of the most popular options around. But, when looking for lube, what are some of the things you should look out for? And, how do you find the best water-based lube for your situation?
In this article, we will dive deeper into the topic of water-based lubes, what they are and what the best options are for any situation you may find yourself in. So, without further ado, let’s get into it!
What is a water-based lube?
Water-based lube is a type of lubrication that is made on a water basis. This ensures it can be used in conjunction with toys and condoms, unlike silicone-based lube and oil-based lube. It’s because of this that water-based lube is the most used type of lube.
What are the advantages of water-based lube?
The first advantage is that it can be used alongside condoms and toys, without causing and wear and tear. Water doesn’t harm materials like silicone and oils can, and this is the reason why water-based lubes are better in this situation. This is extremely important if you want to practice safe sex.
Another big benefit is that it washes off easily and also won’t stain. This can be a disadvantage too if you are looking to use the lube in the shower, however, in general, people are very happy with these qualities of water-based lube. It protects your sheets and clothing and is easy to wash off after you are done having fun.
For more information on the different kinds of lube, check out our article on the best lubes!
How can I find the best water-based lube for me?
There are a few things you should keep in mind when looking for the right water-based lube for your situation. We will try and cover most of these things in this next section, and then provide you with a list of some of the best water-based lubes around.
For vaginal sex, anal or for toys?
There are certain water-based lubes that were created with anal sex in mind, and others created mainly to be used with toys. Depending on what you plan on using the lube on, you may want to choose one that was created to handle exactly what you plan using it for!
Taste and odor
Some lubes have a specific flavor, and some have a specific smell. In general, people prefer lubes that are odorless and tasteless. However, should you want one with a specific flavor then get one of those!
The effect on your skin
Some lubes are moisturizing, while others contain parabens and glycerine. These last two have been known to irritate your skin, so if you are sensitive to these sorts of things you may want to keep that in mind.
Extra effects
Some lubes may be numbing, while others are made to feel exactly like your body’s natural lubrication. Depending on what you are looking for you will get a different lube. Also, the price is something to keep in mind as it can differ quite a lot depending on the size of the bottle and an actual price per oz.
14 Best Water-Based Lubes Lubes:
Astroglide Liquid, Water Based Personal Lubricant
The Lube With Out-of-this-world Longevity
The Astroglide Liquid is a water-based lubricant made using purified water that’s perfect in a vast range of situations.
This water-based lube is suitable for use with all sex toys under the sun and is also compatible with latex condoms. This means you can enjoy slippery sex with peace of mind when it comes to STD’s and unplanned pregnancies!
If you’re looking for a lube that’s suitable for solo play, then this is a great option for you too. Even when it comes to anal, this lubricant comes in handy. It’s not as good for anal as a thicker lube in the form of silicone or oil-based lubricant but given the benefits that water-based lubes bring, it’s certainly worth considering.
The Astroglide Liquid is non-sticky and comes in an easy-to-use bottle. You can quite easily dispense the right amount of lubrication in the midst of sex due to the bottle’s easy-squeeze top.
It’s priced on the slightly higher end of this list and is PH balanced to ensure it doesn’t cause any extra irritation during use. All in all, a great water-based lube in a variety of different situations.
Pros: Suitable for all sex toys and latex condoms, great for solo play, suitable for anal, non-sticky, easy to dispense, PH-balanced
Cons: Can sometimes stain depending on the material it comes into contact with
ID Glide Water Based Lubricant
The “Easy Glide In” Water-based Lube
The ID Glide Water Based Lubricant is next, and it comes in a large bottle for better value while still providing quality lubrication.
This lube was rated as number one by Men’s Health in the past which demonstrates the quality that it provides. It’s clear and odorless which helps to prevent stains and nasty smells produced by some of the other water-based lubricants on the market.
If you’re looking for a lube that will last a long time without reapplying, then this is a great choice. The formula has been made to provide long-lasting lubrication while staying silky and slippery throughout.
The ID Glide Lube is great for use with sex toys as well as with a partner. It’s also a fantastic lube for improving the pleasure given and received in the bedroom. It’s slightly more expensive than the others on this list, but the large bottle size makes the price reasonable if you consider the amount of lube you receive.
Pros: #1 rated by Men’s Health, odorless, long-lasting lubrication, silky feeling, compatible with sex toys, value pack
Cons: Contains glycerine
Sliquid H2O Original Water-Based Lubricant
The Hypoallergenic Lubricant That’s Both Odorless and Flavorless
The Sliquid H2O Original Water-Based Lubricant is a great option if you want a lube that was made with care and with the body in mind.
This water-based lubricant is hypoallergenic, flavorless and odorless. This ensures it can be used by people with sensitive skin, and you won’t be struggling with nasty tastes or smells during sex. However, that’s not all…
It’s 100% vegan-friendly, making it a great option for all you animal-addicts and environmental enthusiasts. Save the planet while having fun in the bedroom! It can’t get much better than that.
This lube is compatible with all sex toys and body types! Truly an all-around performer.
It’s priced in the middle of the pack and with all the features and pro’s, it’s a great option for this list.
Pros: Hypoallergenic – great for sensitive skin; 100% vegan; Compatible with all sex toys
Cons: Some customers have reported the lube being a little runny and drying up easily
Gun Oil H2O Water-Based Lubricant
The Water-based Lube With a Vast Amount of Special Properties
The Gun Oil H2O Water-Based Lubricant is a special edition to this list and has a wide range of special properties which make it a great contender for one of the best lubes around.
This water-based lube contains both ginseng and guarana extract to boost sexual stimulation and give a boost to the sex. Aloe Vera is also an ingredient of this special lube and provides a healing effect which improves the health of the skin.
This lube is scent- and taste-free and stimulates the natural moisture production your body already has. This water-based lube is easy to clean and an absolute pleasure to use in the bedroom. It is priced in the middle of the pack and is a great addition to every bedroom arsenal.
Pros: Contains ginseng and guarana extract which improves sexual stimulation; Aloe Vera extract provides a healing effect; Odorless, flavorless and easy to clean
Cons: Not ideal when looking for a flavored lube
System JO H2O Water-Based Lubricant
The Animal-Friendly Water-based Lube That Doesn’t Get Sticky
The System JO H2O water-Based Lubricant is another great addition to the list and certainly not one for you to leave out when making your purchasing decision.
This water-based lube is animal-friendly and doesn’t contain any animal-based glycerin or byproducts. It’s also safe to use with all condoms and toys, which makes it the ideal addition to your bedside counter.
This lube doesn’t go sticky or gooey like some other water-based lubes do and is also easy to wash off. This makes it a joy to use in the bedroom and a joy when you’re done with it too! No more troubles scrubbing your toys and yourself and still feeling the residue for hours after cleaning.
This long-lasting water-based lube is one of the more expensive ones on this list. However, it is of great quality and will ensure a pleasurable experience. A great option for your next lube purchase.
Pros: Animal-friendly water-based lube; Doesn’t go sticky; Easy to clean and safe to use with all condoms and toys; Long lasting
Cons: A little more expensive than some of the other lubes
Adam & Eve Lube
The Best Selling Water-based Lube for All Shapes and Sizes
This best-selling water-based lubricant is one of the most sold lubes on this list, and for good reason!
The Adam & Eve Lube is a basic lube which goes down a charm with their clients. It provides extraordinary lubrication which ensures a very easy insertion.
This lube was made to last, and it lasts longer than most other water-based lubes. This makes it a very user-friendly option, as no one wants to be reaching to re-apply every 2 minutes. It’s also compatible with both condoms and toys, this means all your needs are covered with just 1 lube.
This easy-to-clean lube is also one of the cheapest water-based lubes on this list. This lube truly provides fantastic value for money.
Pros: High-quality lubrication; Long lasting lube; Compatible with toys and condoms; Easy to clean
Cons: Dry’s a little quicker than some of the other lubes on this list
Doc Johnson TitanMen Water-Based Lube Glide
The Versatile Lube in a Big Bottle
With its larger bottle, the Doc Johnson TitanMen Water-Based Lube Glide is one to remember on this list of the best water-based lubricants.
The Doc Johnson TitanMen Water-Based Lube Glide is a vegan-friendly lube which is PETA certified. This lube is great for both toys and condoms, making it a one-size-fits-all solution to your lubrication needs.
This water-based lube is dye and odor-free. This prevents staining and ensures you can enjoy the lube without experiencing any strange smells.
This lube comes in an easy to dose pump bottle and is priced at the high-mid price range. This makes it a great lube if you’re looking for a large bottle of great quality lube.
Pros: Vegan-friendly lube that’s PETA certified; Can be used in conjunction with both condoms and toys; Dye free and odor free lube; Larger bottle with pump-action dispenser
Cons: Some of the reviews state it’s not great for anal
Pjur Aqua Water-based Personal Lubricant
The Luxury Personal Lubricant
If you want to lube up in luxury, then the Pjur Aqua Water-based Personal Lubricant is the ideal option for you!
This water-based lube provides long-lasting lubrication and is ideal if you are looking for a lube that will make sliding in a breeze. Due to the high level of lubrication, you only need a few small drops to get a great effect.
The Pjur Aqua Water-based Personal Lubricant is safe for all skin types and is a great option if you have sensitive skin. If this wasn’t enough, this water-based lube is also compatible with condoms and toys, which makes it a dynamic addition to your bedroom trinkets.
This lube is priced in the high-mid price range and is great if you are looking for a high-quality lube that will last.
Pros: Provides a high level of lubrication; Compatible with all skin types; Can be used with condoms and toys
Cons: May be a little expensive for your liking
ID Xtreme H2O Thick Water-Based Lubricant
The Thick Water-based Lube Made With Endurance in Mind
A lube made with quality and endurance in mind, the ID Xtreme H2O Thick Water-Based Lubricant is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to the best water-based lubes.
This lubricant boasts a long-lasting lubrication with just a small amount of lube. This makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced bedroom dwellers. No more reaching to re-apply every few minutes, just enjoy while this lube takes care of it.
This lube can be re-activated by just a small drop of water, making it even more long-lasting. The flip-top lid makes dispensing easy and prevents you getting the lube everywhere when you do have to re-apply. This water-based lube is compatible with all toys and condoms, so no worries there either!
It’s priced in the middle of the pack and with the quality this lube offers it’s truly a steal!
Pros: Long lasting lubrication; Easy to reactivate with a drop of water; Lid that makes dispensing easy; Compatible with all toys and condoms
Cons: Can get a little sticky if you don’t wash it off after use
Lovehoney Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant
Basic Long-Lasting Water-based Lubricant
The Lovehoney Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant is next. It’s a basic lube with a few advantages over other varieties.
The first thing you’ll notice about this water-based lubricant is that it comes in a large container with a pump-action lid. This makes it great for easily dispensing as well as ensuring it lasts you for a long time.
The formula lasts for a reasonable amount of time and provides high-quality lubrication. It’s suitable for use with all sex toys as well as latex condoms, ensuring it’s versatile and can be used in a range of different situations.
The Lovehoney Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant keeps things simple and is priced on the lower end of this list.
Pros: Basic lubricant, large bottle, easy-dispense pump, quality formula
Cons: Does contain glycerin and parabens
Wicked Aqua Fragrance-Free Personal Lubricant
The Long-lasting Odorless Personal Lube
Another lube that comes with all the features, the Wicked Aqua Fragrance-Free Personal Lubricant is a wonderful addition to this list.
This water-based lube is compatible with all sorts of latex. This makes it the ideal lube to use in conjunction with condoms or toys of all shapes, sizes and materials. If that wasn’t enough, it’s also extremely long-lasting too which means you can enjoy it for a longer time than with normal lube.
The Wicked Aqua Fragrance-Free Personal Lubricant is vegan and paraben-free! This means it doesn’t have a negative impact on your skin and doesn’t have a negative impact on animals either. It’s also odorless which is usually a real plus point when it comes to lube.
This lube is priced in the low-mid section of this list and is great value for money!
Pros: Condom and sex toy compatible; Long lasting lubrication; Vegan and odorless lube; Paraben-free
Cons: Does contain glycerin so if you react badly to it then it’s not the best option for you
Fifty Shades of Grey Silky Caress Lubricant
The Moisturizing Lube Inspired by the Novel
A lube that was inspired by the novel, the Fifty Shades of Grey Silky Caress Lubricant is just as stimulating and exciting as the storyline.
This water-based lube from the sensual care collection is a lube to watch on this list and is sure to cover your lubrication needs. It offers a smooth feel which makes it an extremely pleasurable lube to use and being official fifty shades merchandise isn’t a bad thing either.
This lube is moisturizing and great for massages too. You can use it both sparingly and royally depending on if you are just wanting to add a little lubrication or give a full body massage.
This lube is priced in the middle price bracket which makes it an ideal water-based lube for Fifty Shades of Grey fans!
Pros: Official Fifty Shades of Grey merchandise; Moisturizing lubrication; Great water-based lube for massages
Cons: Some people find the color a little off-putting
KY Jelly
The High-Quality Lube That’s Compatible With All
Next on the list is the KY Jelly water-based lube and it’s another fantastic lube that comes packed with benefits.
This lube is world-famous and that also means its reputation precedes it. The KY Jelly is extremely thick which means it provides high levels of lubrication. This makes it ideal for any situation you may find yourself in.
This water-based lube is compatible with both condoms and sex toys and gives a nice silky feel. This makes it the ideal all-purpose lubricant for in the bedroom, or anywhere else for that matter. The KY Jelly comes in a handy packaging which makes it easy to dispense without getting it everywhere and without losing the bedroom vibe.
This odorless, flavorless and non-irritating water-based lube is priced in the high-mid price range but it of superb quality. A great buy if you prefer quality over quantity.
Pros: Odorless, flavorless and non-irritating lubricant; Provides great lubrication; Compatible with condoms and sex toys; Handy packaging
Cons: Not the best lube for oral
Doc Johnson Ultra Lube Thick Water-Based Lubricant
The Extra Thick Lube Made to Last
Another extra-thick addition to this list, the Doc Johnson Ultra Thick Water-Based Lubricant is another multi-purpose water-based lube that will satisfy your needs.
This lube is extra thick and provides high-levels of lubrication. Also, it provides long-lasting lubrication which gives it double the power of a standard water-based lube. The handy bottle makes it easy to dispense too, so no more struggling with getting it open or spilling your lube all over the place!
The Doc Johnson Ultra Lube Thick Water-Based Lubricant is compatible with both condoms and sex toys. This just adds to the all-purpose nature of this wonderful lube.
This water-based lube is one of the cheaper lubes on this list. This makes it a great lube to try out, or a good option if you are looking for a cheaper option.
Pros: Extra thick lube that’s long-lasting too; Handy bottle; Compatible with condoms and sex toys; Great price
Cons: Some say it gets a little sticky if you don’t wash it off after use
FAQ’s
How should I store my lube?
Water-based lubes should be stored in a cool dry place, inside the air-tight packaging in which it came. This prevents the lube from drying out or any problems occurring with the lube.
Can I use water-based lube together with condoms?
Yes. Water-based lube can usually be used in conjunction with all toys and condoms. If this is not the case it will be stated in the product description, or otherwise on the packaging of the product.
However, in general, all water-based lubes can be used together with condoms.
Can I use water-based lube when using my sex toys?
Yes. If this is not the case, it will be stated in the product description, or on the packaging of the product.
What is the best way to apply lube before, or during, sex?
There are a few things you can do to improve the experience your partner (or you) have when applying the lube. The first is to warm it up in your hands before applying.
When you apply the lube without warming it up a little, the cold feeling may be uncomfortable. By warming it up to body temperature before applying you prevent any uncomfortable feeling.
All that being said, sometimes cold lube works wonders too! However, don’t take our word for it, check out this article by Womens Health for more tips for using lube!
Another tip is to apply it sparingly. Obviously, you need to use enough for it to have any effect, however, applying too much can be annoying and cause a mess. Luckily water-based lube can easily be washed off!
Summary
We hope, after reading this article, you are in a much better place to choose the best water-based lube for you. We have gone into a variety of different things that are important and have listed some of the best lubes on the market right now.
Hopefully, you have managed to find an ideal lube for your situation in our list of the best water-based lubes, and we wish you a lot of fun!
