Top 17 Lubricants for Comfortable Partnered Sex, Smooth Foreplay, and Solo Moments

Many people with vulvas experience varying levels of natural dryness at different points in their cycle, making intimate moments sometimes uncomfortable. Whether you enjoy more intense physical play or find that friction causes irritation, chafing, or soreness, lubricant is an indispensable accessory that can greatly enhance comfort and pleasure.

Lubricants, often referred to as lubes, come in liquid or gel forms designed to reduce unwanted friction and ease any kind of tension during partnered sex, solo play, or fun with sex toys. Having a reliable lube on hand can reduce the risk of discomfort and create smoother, more enjoyable experiences for everyone involved.

Choosing the right lubricant depends on what kind of activities you have planned and your skin sensitivity. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types and when they work best.

Water-based lubricants are versatile and excellent for most sexual activities, including use with sex toys. They are usually gentle on sensitive skin because many are made with natural ingredients. However, water-based lubes may dry out quicker during sessions, which means you might need to reapply occasionally. They wash off easily with warm water, making cleanup simple. When shopping, look for pH-balanced water-based lubes to support the natural vaginal environment and avoid additives like parabens and glycerine that can irritate or cause infections.

Silicone-based lubricants offer a thicker, more luxurious feel and last longer than water-based options without drying out. They are ideal for activities like anal sex, where extra glide is often needed. These lubes also don’t disrupt vaginal pH or microbiomes, lowering irritation and infection risk. The only drawback is they aren’t compatible with silicone sex toys since they can degrade the toy surface. Silicone lubes can be used safely with condoms.

Oil-based lubricants are a throwback to ancient practices and work great for sensual massages and foreplay. However, they can trap bacteria, potentially leading to infections like thrush or bacterial vaginosis. They are also not safe to use with latex condoms or silicone toys. Plus, oil-based lubes can be messy and stain fabrics and clothing.

Hybrid lubricants blend water and silicone bases to offer a combination of smooth glide and easy cleanup, catering to those who want longevity without sacrificing convenience.

Knowing your sexual preferences and the types of play you enjoy will help you narrow down your lubricant choices, but there are other factors to consider to find the perfect match for your needs.

Look for lubes labeled hypoallergenic or formulated for sensitive skin, especially if you experience irritation easily. Silicone lubes should include ingredients like dimethicone or cyclomethicone, which are gentle and effective without upsetting vaginal health.

Avoid products with added fragrances or flavorings unless you specifically want those for sensory variety, as these can often cause irritation. Particularly in water-based lubes, steer clear of parabens and glycerine since they may disrupt your natural vaginal microbiome.

Consider the type of bottle or applicator that will work best for you. Pump bottles are convenient for hands-free use, while squeeze tubes give you more control over the amount dispensed. If you travel frequently, look for compact containers that comply with security regulations, usually under 100ml.

Think about whether you want a simple lubricant or one that offers extra sensations like warming, cooling, or tingling. Some lubes include natural ingredients like peppermint or cinnamon for exciting tingly effects, or CBD oil to enhance sensitivity and relaxation.

At Women's Spot, we take a thorough approach to testing lubricants, starting with examining their texture, scent, and taste by trying them on the hand. Then our diverse team of testers, representing a wide spectrum of sexual orientations and experience levels, puts the products through their paces in real-life scenarios.

We test the lubes during different forms of play — solo sessions, partnered intimacy with and without condoms, and with various sex toys — to assess performance and comfort.

Our team values factors like long-lasting glide, skin friendliness, ease of cleaning, and packaging design to bring you honest recommendations that cater to many preferences and needs.

From budget-friendly options to high-end formulas, we explore a variety of products to help you find the one that fits your lifestyle and enhances pleasure.

Whether you are just starting to explore lubricants or are a seasoned user, our curated list simplifies your choices by highlighting top lubes for specific uses like anal play, toy compatibility, hydration, vegan formulas, and more.

Below you will find a detailed selection of the best lubricants, catering to different preferences, budgets, and purposes — from solo play to passionate couples’ sessions.

1. LELO Personal Moisturizer is praised as an all-rounder. It is unscented, suitable for sensitive skin, and enriched with aloe vera for deep hydration. Its elegant, discreet packaging also makes it travel-friendly.

2. Bondara Water-Based Anal Lubricant is perfect for beginners and budget-conscious users seeking a reliable anal lube. It’s vegan and includes a gentle numbing component, reducing discomfort for smoother entry.

3. Lovehoney Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant offers excellent value with large bottles and rave reviews. It’s thicker than many water-based lubes, providing plenty of lasting moisture and an easy-to-use pump.

4. Smile Makers Generous Gel is made especially for use with sex toys. It’s silky, odorless, and compatible with condoms, helping you make the most of your toy sessions.

5. Ples’Jour Opal Silicone Lubricant is a premium product known for its non-sticky, shiny texture. It is pH-balanced and suits both vaginal and anal use, making it ideal for lube lovers who seek luxury and performance.

6. Überlube Silicone Lubricant is designed for travel with a refillable, eco-conscious mini bottle. It is odorless, tasteless, and provides a long-lasting glide without stickiness.

7. Creamy Realistic Lubricant mimics the look and feel of natural lubrication but offers extra slipperiness for those who want a realistic experience during solo or partnered play.

8. Dame Aloe Lubricant combines plant-based ingredients with organic aloe vera to provide soothing moisture. Its compact bottle fits well in your bathroom or travel kit.

9. Hanx Vegan Lubricant is ideal for oral, vaginal, and anal sex, appreciated for being non-sticky and safe with most condoms and toys. It’s highly rated by people who experience dryness from menopause.

10. Coco de Mer Divine Glow Aqua Lubricant features premium ingredients like ginseng and aloe vera. It comes in beautifully designed, discreet packaging perfect for keeping at hand for intimate moments.

11. Lovehoney Glow Warming Lubricant enhances sensitivity with warming effects that build gradually, adding excitement and increasing pleasure for all genders and sexual orientations.

12. Lubido Hybrid Lubricant combines water and silicone bases for a long-lasting, thick glide that’s especially good for anal play and whenever you want durable slipperiness without stickiness.

13. SITRE Water-Based Sex Gel is a glycerin-free option that feels smooth and moisturizing. Containing a high level of aloe, it protects against discomfort and can double as a skin moisturizer.

14. Satisfyer Water-Based Cheeky Cherry Lubricant adds a flavorful twist for oral, vaginal, or anal play with a pleasant cherry taste. It’s a fun choice for those who want to spice up their intimate routines.

The full list rounds out with more carefully chosen lubes, varying from budget-friendly to premium, water-based to silicone, flavored to natural — ensuring there’s something suitable for everyone’s desires and needs.