How to Use Lube: A Beginner’s Guide

It's a well-known fact that people who use lube have better sex. Not only does it ease penetration, but it can also make external play much more enjoyable. So, what’s not to love?

Contrary to popular misconceptions, lube can be used by everyone, not just those whose bodies struggle to produce natural lubrication. Even if you feel that your body is doing a great job without any assistance, you might be missing out on a whole load of extra pleasure without knowing it.

Additionally, it’s crucial to remember that the anus does not self-lubricate, so lube is an absolute must for all anal adventures (pro tip: make sure you’re picking up the best lube for anal toys too - more on that below).

So, if you’re new to the world of lubricants, find out everything you need to know about how to use lube and how to choose the right lube below...

How to Use Lubricant

Lube has multiple uses in the bedroom, from making penetration easier to adding some extra flavour to your fun.

If you’re a complete lube novice, take a look at our beginner’s guide to lube below. You’re sure to be an expert in no time.

What is Lube Used For?

Lube has the capacity to improve your sex life in ways you probably haven’t even thought of yet. There’s a whole lube world out there to explore, but these are just some of the pros:

1. Lube reduces friction between the things you're rubbing together, which means less chafing and more pleasure. No matter what sex act you're doing or what toy you're playing with, reduced friction is a blessing your orgasms will thank you for.

2. Lubes are a safe way to amp things up in the bedroom, whether that's adding a hint of sweetness to oral sex with flavoured lube or bringing a little extra tingle to your touches. Plus, lube is designed to be body-friendly so it can join you in places where whipped cream or chocolate sauce can't (and the clean-up will be much easier).

3. Lube is ready as soon as you are, so you can heat things up at a moment's notice, especially if you need an extra helping hand in doing so. If you’re using condoms, lube will also help to give sex with a condom a smoother, easier feel (just make sure you’re choosing a lube that’s safe to use with a condom).

How to Use Lube: Choose the Right Lube for You

First things first when it comes to choosing a lube: you’ve got to make sure it’s safe and appropriate for the activities you plan on getting up to. Don’t know your water-based lubes from your silicone lube? 

What are the Different Types of Lube?

Wondering whether you can use coconut oil as lube? Or maybe you heard an urban myth that you can use olive oil as lube too? The answer is, of course, no. You should always prioritize using specially-formulated sex lubricant for your erotic escapades as it’s designed to be safe for your body. So, if you’ve been tempted to use Vaseline as lube or perhaps you fancied testing out whether you can use moisturizer as lube too, remember to stick to designated sex products, which are much safer.

There are many different types of lube out there, and they’re each ideal for different types of play. Follow our handy guide below to find out which type of lube is right for you…

Water-Based Lube

Water-based lube is the best all-rounder and has a light, natural feel which is perfect for both sex and sex toys. It's safe for solo play, vaginal sex, and anal sex (but consider using an anal-specific lube instead), and it’s compatible with all sex toy materials. If you’re wondering whether you can use lube with condoms, you will largely be safe as most water-based lubricants are also condom-safe. However, some aren't, so be sure to check the label.

Silicone Lube

Silicone lube is the longest-lasting type of lube you can get and it's also waterproof, so it's perfect for sex in the shower. Silicone lube is excellent for solo sessions, vaginal sex, and anal sex, but it should never be used with realistic-feel sex toys or silicone sex toys. Just like water-based lube, silicone lube is usually condom-safe, but always check the label to be sure.

Oil-Based Lube

Oil-based lube tends to include skin-softening ingredients, like aloe vera, vitamin E, and almond oil, which makes it excellent for solo external play. It's not recommended to use oil-based lube internally (so not in the vagina or anus), and you shouldn’t use it with condoms either. Sex toy-wise, oil-based lube is only compatible with toys made of glass or metal.

Flavoured Lube

Flavoured lube offers an exciting addition to oral sex and foreplay, enhancing the overall sexual experience. With a variety of flavours available, ranging from fruity to decadent, flavoured lubes introduce a new dimension to intimacy. It's an opportunity to elevate pleasure further. Most flavoured lubes are water-based, ensuring versatility and compatibility with various materials. Explore our selection of flavoured lubes here.

Anal Lube

Anal lube, akin to flavoured lubes, may come in different base materials, commonly water or silicone-based. Notably thicker, anal lube provides prolonged, cushioned glide during anal intercourse and play. If you're seeking the best lube for anal toys, explore our comprehensive range of anal lubes.

Organic Lube

Organic lube is gaining popularity, particularly among environmentally conscious individuals and those with sensitive bodies. However, since organic lube formulations can vary significantly, always check the label to ensure suitability for your desired sexual activity. Browse through our organic lube options here.

Warming & Tingling

Warming and tingling lubes introduce additional stimulation, offering a quick and easy way to spice up your sex life. These stimulating lubes and gels are designed to awaken nerve endings and enhance your sensitivity to touch. Before applying a warming or tingling lube to sensitive areas, it's advisable to test a small amount on the inside of your lip to gauge its intensity. Explore our range of warming and tingling lubes here.

Additionally, discover our full collection of lubes to find the perfect product for your needs.

Shop all lubricants here