Personal lubricants can seriously enhance sex and masturbation sessions. During solo or partnered play, lube reduces friction, which decreases discomfort and increases pleasure. But browsing through the shelves of your local drug store or sex shop can be daunting: Why are there so many options? What is the difference? Which one is best for me?
In truth, there isn’t one lubricant that will be perfect for every user. For instance, sexologist and Bloomi co-founder Rebecca Alvarez Story says water-based lubes, which typically have a pH value of 4.5, are compatible with vaginal pH. However, because anuses have a higher pH value, water-based lubes can sometimes cause irritation. Instead, silicone lubes could be best when engaging in anal play because it’s both slippery and doesn’t irritate the anus’ natural environment. Complicating things a bit more, all of the different types of personal lubricants — silicone-based, water-based, oil-based and hybrids — could still be harmful if they carry toxic ingredients like Glycerin, Octoxynol 9, Parabens or Phthalates.
If you’re somehow more stressed out about the lubes in your cart, sorry (we’ll get to the helpful stuff soon). Instead of stocking up and testing dozens of tubes and bottles, we’re sharing our favorite clean lubricants with you below.
Coconu
Coconu has water-based and oil-based lubricants made from natural ingredients. Its Water-Based Personal Lubricant ($24.99) uses organic coconut water to create a formula that is long-lasting, silky and sensuous. Meanwhile, its Organic Oil-Based Lubricant ($24.99) is one of the only USDA-certified organic lubricants on the market. Using coconut and sunflower seed oils, it protects and moisturizes dry or sensitive vaginal and anal tissues. As with any oil-based lubricant, it is designed for skin-to-skin contact and is not compatible with condoms or toys. Both products are vegan and 100% edible.
Good Clean Love
Good Clean Love is an organic, toxic-free sexual health brand specializing in personal lubricants and vaginal care. Its Love BioNude Lube ($11.99) is an unflavored, unscented and ultra-sensitive water-based lubricant. With no vulvar allergens, it won’t irritate sensitive tissues while it make sex more pleasurable. Similarly, its Almost Naked Organic Personal Lubricant ($11.99) is a water-based lubricant designed for sensitive skin. It has a long-lasting glide without any of the annoying sticky clean-up. Even more, infused with aloe vera, a touch of lemon and vanilla, this lube has a yummy, light organic flavor.
Sliquid
Sliquid’s natural and organic lubricants are fan favorites, and we totally understand why. Its Water-Based Lubricant ($18.90) is blended with certified organic botanicals to create a light, slippery consistency that mimics natural lubrication. The aloe vera-based blend is also safe to use with condoms and toys. Meanwhile, Sliquid’s Water-Based Gel Lubricant ($21.90) has a thicker consistency that enhances pleasure during vaginal or anal sex and lasts longer.
Bloomi
Bloomi is the leading, curated marketplace for clean intimate care and sexual wellness products. We inspire people to live healthier and more satisfying lives.
