We regularly hear two questions from our customers: “Which is the best lube?” and “How do I clean up lube?” The second question sometimes comes a little too late for the bedsheets… after the stain has already set. That is why we wrote this guide.
Shopping for lube means choosing between different formulas, textures and consistencies. There are liquids, thick gels, mix-it-yourself powders and creams. The deciding factor? Your plans! Is it for vaginal or anal sex, toy play, bating or fisting? They all give you different things to keep in mind.
So, let us answer those questions together, from finding your favourite glide to cleaning up!
Contents
What is the best lube for vaginal sex, anal sex and toy play?
Water-based lube: your best ally
Water-based lube is a useful starting point for penetrative sex, masturbation and toy play. It is compatible with most toy materials and washes away easily. A thicker gel can be particularly convenient for coating toys because it stays where you apply it rather than immediately running off.
During longer sessions, water-based formulas can lose their glide or become sticky. Keep the bottle nearby and add more as needed. Reapplying is perfectly normal and is not a sign that you bought the wrong lube.
Our pick:
S8 Waterbased Anal Lube 50ml (compatible with latex condoms)
Silicone lube: longer-lasting glide
Silicone-based lube generally stays slippery longer than water-based formulas. It also resists water, so removing it takes more than a quick rinse. That lasting glide is its main attraction.
Before pairing it with your favourite toy, check the toy manufacturer’s compatibility advice. Check your toy’s instructions before combining the two. Silicone lubricant can damage some silicone toys, and many manufacturers recommend water-based lube instead. A favourite bottle does not automatically belong on your favourite toy.
Our pick:
Swiss Navy Premium silicone-based anal lubricant 237ml (compatible with latex condoms)
Hybrid lube: another texture to explore
Water-and-silicone hybrids combine a water base with silicone for additional staying power. Some have a creamy feel, giving you another option beyond clear gels and silky liquids. They still contain silicone, so as with silicone lubes, follow your toy manufacturer’s compatibility advice.
Our pick:
Mister B FIST Extreme Lube pump bottle 200 ml (compatible with latex condoms)
A note on condoms: Water- and silicone-based lubricants are suitable for latex condoms. Oil-based lubricants can weaken both latex and polyisoprene condoms. “Non-latex” does not automatically mean oil-compatible, so always check the packaging.
What should I look for in a fisting lube?
Consistency and staying power are two features to look for. Thick water-based gels, powder lubricants and dense creams offer different textures. Choose a formula compatible with your gloves, toys and other equipment. Keep plenty of lube within reach for reapplication, and remember that lubrication does not replace preparation, patience or communication.
Powder lube: mix it yourself
Powder lubricants are mixed with water before use. They can make a large quantity of gel from a relatively small container, and some allow you to adjust the consistency within the manufacturer’s instructions.
Follow the product’s specific mixing ratio, preparation time and storage instructions rather than borrowing a recipe from another brand. Prepare it before the session, allowing the mixing or resting time stated on the label.
Our pick:
Fuck & Fist FF Powder 132g (compatible with latex condoms)
Creams and butters: thick and creamy
Creams and butters offer a dense texture, but their ingredients vary. Some are oil-based and should not be used with latex condoms. Keep these formulas away from latex gear too, and check compatibility with your gloves and toys rather than assuming that every material behaves the same way.
Other creams and butters use a water base or a hybrid formula. A hybrid may still contain silicone, so check the product description or label alongside your toy manufacturer’s guidance. Keep that compatibility advice in mind during play.
Our pick:
Fisting Butter 500 ml (oil-based; not compatible with latex condoms)
How do I remove lube from my body?
Start by wiping away excess with a paper towel. Water-based lubricant generally rinses off with lukewarm water. Silicone formulas may need mild soap and water on external skin; oil-based products have their own washing instructions, with some formulated for easier cleanup. Wash gentyl to avoid irritating your skin.
Treat sensitive areas gently. Do not put soap, shower gel or disinfectant inside your vagina or rectum. Avoid repeated douching in an attempt to remove every trace of lubricant: excessive rinsing can unnecessarily irritate the rectal lining. Your body does not need the same cleaning routine as your play sheet.
How do I wash sheets, jockstraps and play sheets?
Before getting messy, take a moment to prepare: protect the bed with a suitable waterproof sheet and add a washable towel or cotton sheet for comfort. Check the protector’s material and lubricant compatibility before use.
Afterwards, lift or blot away pooled lubricant before putting machine-washable sheets and towels in the washing machine. This is particularly useful with powder-based gels, which can make a spill even more slippery when water is added. Trust us!
For greasy stains on washable fabric, pretreat with a suitable liquid laundry detergent, following its directions. Wash at the temperature permitted by the fabric’s care label. Silicone marks can require another wash or a stain treatment specifically suitable for silicone or oil. Test treatments on a hidden area first. For future sessions, set aside some old sheets as “play sheets”. Think of the stains as souvenirs.
Inspect stains before tumble-drying. Heat can make remaining marks harder to remove. Air-dry and check the result before deciding whether another treatment is needed. The same applies to machine-washable clothing, including T-shirts, socks and fabric jockstraps.
What about toys, leather and latex gear?
Toys: Follow the cleaning instructions for each item. Many toys can be washed with warm water and mild soap, but powered or non-waterproof products may need wiping instead. Remove residue from grooves and textured areas, rinse as directed and dry thoroughly before storage. Do not store wet or moist toys as this can cause mould.
Leather: Blot spills promptly rather than rubbing them in. Use a cleaner appropriate for the leather type and test it discreetly first. Persistent or extensive staining is a reason to consult a leather-cleaning specialist, not experiment with stronger household cleaners.
Latex: Hand-wash gently in lukewarm water using the cleaner approved by the garment’s manufacturer. Rinse, avoid scrubbing or wringing, and allow it to dry completely away from direct sunlight and heat.
Ready to find your favourite?
Think about how you like to play, the texture you enjoy, the materials you use and how much cleanup you are prepared for. Trying a smaller bottle or tub first gives you room to discover your preferences before committing to a larger size. We sell lubes in a range of sizes to suit different budgets.
Once you have made your choice, enjoy the glide!
