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The best lubricants for sex and masturbation

A bedroom essential, TBH

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bottles of lubricant on a red and patterned background

Lubricant, AKA sex lube, is a bedroom essential. Let's get one thing straight: you can never be ‘too wet’ down there during sex, so whether you're playing solo or with a partner, adding a dollop of lube is always a good idea to help slide things along.

And it's not just a nice to have; lube can really level up your sex life — in more ways than one. Yes, it's sexy and slippery — so it keeps things comfy for people with vulvas during any penetrative activity — but it's also a part of safer sex. Using lube can help prevent vaginal tearing (crucial for preventing the spread of STIs and other infections), and stop condoms from ripping.

Then there’s the fact it can help with vaginal dryness, and really is a must for when experimenting with anal sex, as well as with most sex toys. But no matter the kind of sex you're having, we'd recommend always having some on hand — you never know when you need a moisture boost!

“Whether through penetration or external stimulation, the use of lube and reduction of friction means less chafing and more pleasure,” says Annabelle Knight, sex and relationships expert at Lovehoney. “It can also be used to add flavour to oral, provide extra sensations, and even delay ejaculation. While using lube is highly recommended during vaginal intercourse, it is absolutely essential for anal, as the anus doesn’t self-lubricate.”

Whether you're totally new to lube, or looking for a fresh formula to spice up your fornicating, keep reading for our sex writers' round up of the best lubes to shop now.

The best lubes at a glance

Choosing the best type of lube for you

There are so many lubes out there, from luxurious lubes by the likes of Coco de Mer and LELO, to tingling lubes, CBD lubes, and lubricants made especially for the back door.

But — a quick bit of sex ed for you — not all of it is created equal (AKA you can't use the same type for everything). So let’s settle this once and for all... what actually is the best lube?

Water-based lube

It can be a good idea to stick to water-based lubes, which tend to be kinder to the body as they don’t have as many chemicals in them, for most kinds of sex. Water-based lube is compatible with sex toys and condoms, making it the ultimate addition to any kind of sex (oral, vaginal, anal; solo or partnered; sex toys or manual).

We'll leave it to you to figure out what consistency you prefer, as some come in a more watery formula, while others are gel-like. There are tons of fun variations of water-based lube out there too, including flavoured formulas, CBD and aloe-infused varieties, and even hybrids mixed with silicone for extra grip.

Silicone lube

But, water-based formulas can dry out faster than other types, so if you're aiming for the anal region, you might want to use a silicone lube, which lasts for longer and has more slide.

Keep in mind, though, that silicone formulas aren't compatible with silicone sex toys — as the two degrade each other and make your buzzers less hygienic to use over time.

It is safe to use with condoms, which you should absolutely be wearing during penetrative anal sex, FYI!

Oil-based lube

While oil-based lube can be fun for manual sexploration (that is, fingers and no toys), you'll want to give it a miss when you're using a condom (or other safe-sex barriers like a dental dam) or sex toy.

If you’re unsure about the rules, and what to use where, check out our expert guide to the different types of lube and how to use them.

Now that’s all clear, get stuck into our pick of the best.

How we tested the best lube

best lube

Here at Cosmo, we have heaps of lube piling our desk on the worst of days (bet that paints a pretty picture!). So, ofc, we take it upon ourselves to test each one thoroughly, assessing features such as durability, consistency, whether it can be used with sex toys and condoms, as well as how easy it is to get lube out of the bottle.

Those we don't test ourselves (we're only a few small people, after all), we pass over to our willing friends, family, and colleagues — all who have vulvas or partners with vulvas — to get their seals of approval. Oh, and we read hundreds (if not thousands) of product reviews so we make sure we're getting as much input as possible.

Best lube to shop 2025

1
Best everyday lubricant

Liquid Silk Water-Based Lube

Water-Based Lube

Pros

  • Long-lasting formula
  • Suitable for vegetarians

Cons

  • It can be a bit watery

A dependable, convenient gem, Liquid Silk comes with an easy-to-use pump and can be easily popped on your bedside table for easy access. No one wants to be struggling with lids and bottles with slippy fingers in the throes of passion, let’s be honest.

Famed for being a perfect match for use with sex toys, it’s water-based, non-tacky, and doesn’t dry out easily. A little goes a looong way. It’s also a veggie-friendly brand, if that floats your boat.

TypeWater-based lube
Size250ml
Bottle typePump
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
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2
Best eco-friendly lube

YES Organic Water-Based Lube

Organic Water-Based Lube

Pros

  • Certified Organic
  • Skin-nourishing

Cons

  • Must be used within six months of opening

YES organic lubes are silky smooth with aloe vera for added moisture.

They’re also unscented, flavourless, and water-based, which means they wash off easily and can be used safely with any sex toys or condoms.

And for the environmentally conscious, YES is also Vegetarian Society-approved and Certified Organic by the Soil Association — so you can shag assured that your pleasure isn't hurting the planet.

TypeWater-based
Size150ml
Bottle typeSqueeze
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
3
Best luxury lube

LELO Personal Moisturiser

On Sale
Personal Moisturiser
Now 10% Off

Pros

  • Body safe ingredients
  • Discreet packaging
  • Dual-purpose; can be used as a moisturiser

Cons

  • Some users found it needed to be reapplied regularly

With sleek, minimal packaging that certainly doesn’t look like your standard sex shop lube, it makes total sense that this LELO lubricant refers to itself as a ‘personal moisturiser.’ Think of it as part of your downstairs self-care routine, why don’t you?

Perfect for every day use — whether you’re masturbating or hooking up with a partner, it’s water-based, glycerine-free, paraben-free, unscented and fortified with aloe for long-lasting moisture.

Plus, it looks chic AF on your bedside table.

TypeWater-based
Size150ml
Bottle typePump
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
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4
Best for massage and sex

Durex Play Massage 2 in 1 Soothing Personal Lubricant

Play Massage 2 in 1 Soothing Personal Lubricant

Pros

  • Fragrance-free with a pleasant, sweet taste for oral sex
  • Long-lasting formula
  • Infused with aloe vera to moisturise and nourish

Cons

  • Dries quickly and can go sticky

Ideal for giving your partner a good rub down pre-sexy sesh, this massage gel doubles up as a lubricant (we love a hard working sex product!).

Its formula is extra thick, long-lasting, and infused with aloe vera to ‘moisturise and nourish.’

It’s also condom-safe, non-greasy, and non-sticky. And because it’s fragrance-free, it doesn’t taste gross when used for oral sex, either — in fact, some testers report it having a sweet taste. (Delish!)

TypeAloe water-based
Size200ml
Bottle typeSqueeze
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
5
Most cost-effective

Lovehoney Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant

Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant

Pros

  • Long-lasting formula
  • Use-to-use squeeze bottle
  • Suitable for vegetarians

Cons

  • Flip cap and firm bottle can be tricky when there’s not much left

This water-based lubricant is easy to use, body safe, and comes in an extra-juicy 250ml bottle for extra mileage.

The handy pump top makes for a much easier experience, especially if you’re already hot and heavy. Plus, it’s one of the most affordable options with more bang for your buck. Simple — but super effective.

Lovehoney’s Enjoy lube is water-based, so it’s compatible with condoms, toys, and great for sex and solo play. It’s a simple and cost-effective option that’s easy to use, and a fave for good reason.

TypeWater-based
Size250ml
Bottle typePump
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
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6
Best natural lube

Durex Naturals Intimate Gel Lubricant

Naturals Intimate Gel Lubricant

Pros

  • Made from 100% natural ingredients
  • Suitable for vegetarians

Cons

  • Only 100ml

Durex is basically synonymous with condoms, right?

Well, that doesn’t mean it's given up on innovation in other areas: this is one of its newest additions to its lube range, and is less sticky than you might find in its basic range.

Crafted with 100% natural ingredients, this naturals gel is ideal for those with sensitive skin, as it's fragrance-free and tasteless — as well as safe to use with sex toys and condoms.

The only drawback is it doesn't last as long as other lubes on the market, so you'll just have to reapply!

TypeAloe water-based
Size100ml
Bottle typeSqueeze
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
7
Best silicone lube

HOWL Silicone Lubricant with CBD

Silicone Lubricant with CBD

Pros

  • Easy to apply, thanks to the pump bottle
  • Comes in a BB and XL size if you just can't get enough!

Cons

  • It's kind of addictive — in a feels-O-so-good way

If you're partial to anal play, you'll know how annoying it is to have to constantly reapply lube to make sure you have enough slip down there. (In case you don't already know, lube is crucial during anal sex to prevent friction from building, tears or more serious injury!)

That's why silicone lube should be your go-to for backdoor play.

This one from HOWL is packed with CBD oil — AKA the non-psychoactive component of marijuana — to increase sensitivity and relaxation in your anal muscles, which aside from feeling totally delightful, is ideal for getting the train through the tunnel, if you know what we mean ;).

TypeCBD silicone lube
Size100ml
Bottle typePump
Sex toy compatible?Not with silicone toys, but works with metal and glass
Condom compatible?Yep
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8
Best on-skin feel

Coco de Mer Divine Glow Aqua Lubricant

Divine Glow Aqua Lubricant

Pros

  • Moisturising blend of aloe vera and ginseng
  • Bottle is perfect for your bedside table

Cons

  • High price point for a lube

Coco de Mer make seriously opulent lingerie and toys — like, proper boujee stuff. And now, they’ve launched the most gorgeous lube.

This indulgent, water-based lubricant comes in the most decadent bottle with a whole Garden of Eden theme. It would be a shame not to keep the bottle out, seeing as it’s so beautiful and doesn’t look at all like a sex product.

But the main attraction — the lube itself — is made with a heady blend of moisturising aloe vera and energy-boosting ginseng root, so you can keep going back to it for long-steamy sessions with yourself or a partner. Luxurious!

TypeWater-based
Size100ml
Bottle typePump
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
9
Best luxury lube

Ples'Jour Opal Silicone Lubricant

Opal Silicone Lubricant

Pros

  • Packaging is luxe as heck
  • Has the most unreal texture, and you can absolutely use it as a lipgloss or hair gel if you feel like it

Cons

  • The lid is a bit confusing — you need to pull, not twist

We know what we're about to say might sound confusing, but: ignore everything we said about not using silicone lube with sex toys (if you buy this one, that is).

This Ples'Jour lube is 100% silicone-based, but by some magic (stability testing — don't ask us to explain that, we're not scientists!), it can be used with silicone sex toys.

While it's on the pricier side, it's seriously luxurious, not least because it feels like silkiest of lipglosses (but, like, for the other kind of lips), but also because it comes in this cool AF bottle that is kinda phallic. J'adore Ples'Jour.

TypeSilicone
Size100ml
Bottle typePump
Sex toy compatible?Yes (!!)
Condom compatible?Yes
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10
Best affordable anal lube

Lovehoney Discover Water-Based Anal Lubricant

Discover Water-Based Anal Lubricant

Pros

  • Long-lasting formula
  • Vegan
  • Convenient pump bottle

Cons

  • Can dry out and need reapplying

Lovehoney’s best-selling lube now is an available in an anal-friendly formula too. Like we said, different types of sex require different types of lube so this simple, non-sticky option is an ideal affordable option.

Long-lasting, extra-glide, and water-based, this lube is an essential if you’re experimenting with butt stuff or if you’re a seasoned pro.

Vegan-friendly and compatible with latex condoms and all sex toys, it’s also a safe choice, in a handy 250ml pump bottle.

TypeWater-based
Size250ml
Bottle typePump
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
11
Best for dryness

Pjur Woman Nude Water-based Lube

Woman Nude Water-based Lube

Pros

  • Ideal for our sensitive vulvas out there
  • If it's good enough to pass Sinful's testing, it's good enough for us

Cons

  • Not the easiest to squeeze

Pjur literally created silicone lube — a huge flex, we know. But (perhaps controversially!) we'd recommend this nude water-based formula, which contains no glycerin, parabins, or preservatives, making it ideal for sensitive and dry skin.

It's also extra long-lasting, so no matter how dry you are down there, you won't need to reapply a million times in the middle of sex — just when you feel like you need it.

Pjur also has a ton of other formulas to choose from, so if this one doesn't float your boat, you have options, baby!

TypeWater-based
Size100 ml
Bottle typeSqueeze
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
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12
Best all-rounder

ID Glide Water-Based Lubricant

Water-Based Lubricant

Pros

  • Extra long-lasting formula
  • Number one rated lube by Men’s Health
  • 500ml bottle
  • Vegan-friendly

Cons

  • Obviously looks like a bottle of lube

Housed in an uber-sized 500ml bottle, water-based lube is not only long lasting on your bedside, but long-lasting when it's applied too.

Made from a totally vegan-friendly formula, it's odourless and colourless so that it’s as unobtrusive as possible (no one wants a lube that gets in the way!).

You'll be pleased to know that it also won't stain your sheets — so just make sure you don't, either.

TypeWater-based
Size500ml
Bottle typePump
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
13
Best 2-in-1 set

Bondara Lubricant and Cleaner Care Kit

On Sale
Lubricant and Cleaner Care Kit

Pros

  • You won't have to worry about restocking on either
  • We love being able to save on a sexy set

Cons

  • Cleaner isn’t suitable for skin, only use on your toys

Let’s face it, lube can be sticky and messy — most fun things are. So this two-in-one kit is ideal for playtime and cleanup. Bondara’s water-based lube is a brilliant and gentle all-rounder, great for masturbation, sex, and compatible with toys and condoms.

Once you’re done, use the spray cleaner and a damp cloth to give all your toys — and any surfaces — a thorough clean. Pro tip: the cleaning spray is also really good for wiping down the lube bottle and lid to stop it from getting blocked and holding you up the next time you try to use it.

TypeWater-based
Size150ml
Bottle typeSqueeze
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
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14
Best cooling lube

The Oh Collective Joy Jelly

Joy Jelly

Pros

  • Water-based
  • Powering cooling sensation

Cons

  • The tingling is pretty powerful, so you don’t want to use lashings of this stuff

A personal fave of ours, this vegan, water-based lube contained menthol for a cooling and tingling sensation — to add a layer of stimulation to your sexy time.

But don't worry, it won't cause any unwanted nasties, as it's totally pH balanced, to keep your genitals happy.

Plus, it's safe to use with your condoms and silicone sex toys, and it comes in this dinky clear pump bottle so it's easy to reach for on your bedside.

TypeWater-based
Size100ml
Bottle typePump
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
15
Best flavoured lube

Durex Play Saucy Strawberry Lubricant

On Sale
Play Saucy Strawberry Lubricant

Pros

  • Adds a new dimension to oral sex
  • pH-friendly

Cons

  • A little bit too sweet for some

Looking to up your oral sex or 69ing game? Try some flavoured lube to take the sensations to a new level.

This Durex lube both tastes and smells just like strawberries and still functions as a super slick, water-based lube to add some extra lick to your head game.

Don’t worry though: It’s safe to swallow, non-staining, body-safe, and can be used with condoms and toys. Mmmmm.

TypeFlavoured water-based
Size100ml
Bottle typeSqueeze
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
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16
Most night-stand worthy

SEX BRAND Hyaluronic Lube

Hyaluronic Lube

Pros

  • Vegan
  • pH optimised

Cons

  • The screw-nozzle is not the easiest to use

SEX BRAND believes sex can save the world (samesies), and they’re on a mission to bring it back to the basics.

Formulated specifically to not cause any harm to your sensitive bits, this water-based lube contains hyaluronic acid (yup, like the kind you put on your face) to leave your skin nourished, and is pH optimised to match your natural acidity balance.

Plus, the toothpaste-tube packaging is giving us AKT deodorant vibes — so, seriously chic...

TypeWater-based
Size50ml
Bottle typeSqueeze
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
17
Most aesthetic bottle

Gentil A Quiet Night In

A Quiet Night In

Pros

  • The bottle is pretty enough to leave out on your bedside table
  • Contains zinc and bearberry leaf, which could help stave off pesky UTIs

Cons

  • Ships from down under (Australia, that is — get your mind out of the gutter!)

When a woman somewhere in the world makes lube, we all cheer in the Cosmo office. Okay, fine, not really — but we do celebrate women's wins, especially when they come at the benefit of our own vulvas.

This water-based lube contains not only aloe vera, making it suitable for sensitive skin, but it also a ton of natural ingredients — all delicately balanced to help the flora of your vulva flourish.

Sounding like something you want to get some action with? You can even get a 20% discount code on Gentil if you sign up to Club Cosmo now. Woah!

TypeWater-based
Size100ml
Bottle typeSqueeze
Sex toy compatible?Yes
Condom compatible?Yes
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What are the different types of lube, and how do I use them?

There are four main types of lube: water-based, oil-based, silicone, and natural.

Typically, water-based — which has a light, natural feel — is the best all-rounder, as it can be used with all sex toy materials and most can be used with condoms (Annabelle Knight, sex and relationships expert at Lovehoney, says be sure to check on the latter, as not all condoms are lube-friendly).

Oil-based lubes tend to include extra ingredients for skin-softening, such as aloe vera or Vitamin E,” continues Knight. “This means that they are perfect for solo external play, but should never be used internally or with condoms, and only with glass or metal sex toys.”

Silicone lube is the longest-lasting lube that you can get and is also waterproof (making it a great shower companion). It’s great for solo, vaginal, and anal sex, but don’t use with silicone or real-feel toys as it can damage them. It’s usually okay with condoms but always check the label.”

Finally, natural or organic lubes use natural ingredients and, says Knight, “are therefore perfect for anyone who’s environmentally conscious or for those with sensitive bodies.” She adds: “These vary widely in formula so check the label to see what it’s suitable for.”

“Aside from these, there are many other types of lubes which could be fun to try, such as warming and tingling lubes, which are designed to cause tingling-like sensations and awaken nerve-endings to enhance your response to touch. Always read the label when using lube to check whether you may be allergic to any of the ingredients and if in any doubt speak with a medical professional.”

And what’s the best way to use all of these? “Simply dab a small blob of lube to yourself, your toy, and/or your partner, and you’re ready to go,” says Knight. Obviously, small is subjective, so start with a 10p-sized amount if you're not sure!

Which lube is right for me?

“Firstly, contrary to what you may think, or what may be shown in popular culture, lube is for everyone, or at least everyone engaging in a sexual act — whether that be masturbation, penetration, oral sex, or anything else,” explains Knight. “So, depending on your plans and needs, if you experience discomfort during penetration due to friction and chafing, then a standard lube can help to reduce this. You can also use standard lube for oral sex, but it might not taste too nice for the giver, which is why there’s a whole range of flavoured lubes out there to enhance the pleasure.”

“If you’re looking to have some anal play, go for an anal lube which tends to be thicker and lasts longer than ordinary lube. You can usually find water-based lube specifically catered for anal sex, like the Lovehoney Discover range. Silicone-based lube is also a popular option for anal sex, as it allows both parties to experience more sensation as it doesn’t need to be as thick.”

Why trust Cosmo

Since we launched in the UK in 1972, our editorial team has been all over changes in the sex space. That includes any and every innovation in sex tech — of which there have been many — meaning our sex writers are authorities on all things sex toys and lube in the UK.

And, ofc, we're constantly testing sex products, as well as consulting our team of sex experts and therapists to get their take on how to use each product correctly — all for you!

Headshot of Megan Wallace
Megan Wallace
Former Sex and Relationships Editor

Megan Wallace (they/them) is Cosmopolitan UK’s Former Sex and Relationships Editor covering sexual pleasure, sex toys, LGBTQIA+ identity, dating and romance. They have covered sexuality and relationships for over five years and are the founder of the PULP zine, which publishes essays on culture and sex. In their spare time, they can be found exploring the London kink scene and planning dates on Feeld. 

Headshot of Honey Wyatt
Honey Wyatt
Senior Sex and Relationships Ecommerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health and Men’s Health

Honey is the Senior Sex and Relationships E-commerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health and Men’s Health. She covers shopping guides and reviews of the best sex toys; deals events — including Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday; and sex, dating, and LGBTQ+ trends.

Her journalism career started in 2020 when she started Sextras, a podcast and digital magazine about sex and relationships. Find Sextras on Spotify or Substack, where she writes and chats about everything from positive masculinity and how to practise sex magic, to why the latest kink or porn category is blowing up.

She has an MA in Magazine Journalism from City, University of London, and previously reported for HR magazine. Her features also appear in Glamour, Refinery29, The Independent, and more.

When she's not asking everyone she meets invasive questions about their sex and dating lives, you'll find Honey singing around her flat, teaching herself a new craft, or working her way through a new '90s/'00s box set with her flatmate.

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