Slip into Pleasure: The Only Lube Guide You’ll Ever Need

When it comes to better sex, lube is often the most powerful tool nobody talks about enough. It’s simple, affordable, and completely transforms how things feel — whether you're enjoying a slow, sensual massage, using toys, having penetrative sex, or exploring kinkier play. The right lube doesn’t just reduce friction. It enhances sensation, boosts confidence, and helps you relax into the moment without worrying about discomfort, dryness, or awkward stops. 

But not all lubes are the same. There are water-based lubes for everyday use, silicone lubes that last longer than you will, hybrids that blend the best of both, and sensation lubes that warm, tingle, or cool in all the right places. And then there are the ones you should avoid depending on what you're doing — because yes, using the wrong lube with the wrong toy or partner can lead to irritation, damage, or just a bad time.

This guide is here to clear up the confusion. Whether you’re brand new to lubes or already experimenting with different types, we’ll help you figure out what actually works, what not to do, and which products are worth keeping in your drawer. We’ll break down the essentials, share our personal favourites, and give you practical tips for getting the most out of every drop.

No shame. No fluff. Just real talk about pleasure, comfort, and making good sex even better. 

Why Lube Isn’t Optional (Even if You Think It Is) 

Let’s be honest — we used to think lube was just for when something wasn’t working. Like if things weren’t “wet enough” or if you were doing anal. But once we actually started using it properly, we realised we’d been missing a massive trick.

Lube isn’t a last resort — it’s a game-changer. It makes everything smoother, more comfortable, and a hell of a lot more enjoyable. It reduces friction, which means less chance of soreness or tiny tears (especially during longer sessions), and it helps you relax into the moment because you’re not worrying about things dragging or getting uncomfortable.

And no, using lube doesn’t mean you’re not turned on. That’s one of the biggest myths out there. Arousal and natural lubrication don’t always match up — especially for women — and things like hormones, stress, and even medication can affect that. Lube bridges the gap and lets you focus on the good stuff.

We use it for everything now. Toys, oral, massage, foreplay, full-on sex — even when it’s already feeling good, lube just takes it further. It’s one of the easiest ways to level up your pleasure, and once you get into the habit, it becomes something you want to use — not something you think you “need.”

If you’ve never used lube properly, or only reach for it when things feel dry, give it a proper go. Trust us — it’ll change how you feel about the whole experience.

Types of Lube & What They’re Actually For

There are loads of lubes out there, and if you’re not sure what you’re looking at, it can get confusing fast. Some are great for toys, some are best for anal, and some are designed just to mess with your senses in the best way possible. The trick is knowing which type to use — and when.

Water-Based Lubes
These are your go-to all-rounders. Safe to use with all sex toys and condoms, easy to wash off, and great for most kinds of play. The only downside? They can dry out a bit quicker, so you might need to reapply if you’re going for a while.

Silicone-Based Lubes
This stuff is super long-lasting and incredibly slick, which makes it perfect for anal or shower play. It doesn’t absorb into the skin as fast, so it just keeps going. But don’t use silicone lube with silicone toys — it can break down the material and ruin them.

Hybrid Lubes
These are a mix of water and silicone — kind of the best of both worlds. They feel smooth, last longer than water-based, and are usually still toy-safe, but always double-check the label to be sure. Great for people who want more glide but don’t want to go full silicone.

Oil-Based Lubes
These feel rich and natural — especially for massage or hand play — but they’re not compatible with latex condoms (they can cause them to break) and can damage silicone toys. They’re also harder to clean up. Best saved for external use only, and with the right partners and protection.

We actually learned the hard way that ingredients really matter. We bought a cheap lube once, and Sophie came up in a rash after just one use. Since then, we’ve always checked the ingredients and stuck to quality, body-safe formulas — especially if we’re using them regularly or internally.

Organic Lubes
Made with natural, plant-based ingredients and fewer synthetic additives. Great for anyone with sensitivities or who prefers a more body-safe, eco-conscious option. Just like with any lube, check if it’s compatible with your toys and condoms — natural doesn’t always mean risk-free.

Sensation Lubes (Warming, Cooling, Tingling)
These are the fun ones. Warming lubes heat up on contact or when you blow on them — perfect for slow, teasing play. Cooling lubes give a fresh, tingly feeling, ideal for contrast play. Tingling lubes are somewhere in between — they add buzz and heighten sensitivity, especially during clitoral or nipple play.

Just be careful with sensation lubes. Always patch test first, and avoid internal use unless the label says it’s safe — some formulas are only meant for external fun.

Common Lube Slip-Ups (and How to Avoid Them)

Lube sounds simple, right? Buy a bottle, slap it on, job done. But we’ve learned over time that there are a few easy ways to mess it up — and if you’ve ever had a toy drag, a condom slip, or a post-play itch, chances are you’ve been there too.

1. Using the wrong lube with toys or condoms
This is a big one. Silicone lube + silicone toys = bad idea. It can degrade the toy’s surface, making it sticky or unsafe. Same goes for oil-based lubes and latex condoms — they can literally make them fall apart. If you’re ever unsure, water-based is your safest bet.

2. Not reading the label
It sounds obvious, but seriously — always check the ingredients. Some lubes (especially cheap ones) are packed with perfumes, parabens, or even sugars, which can cause irritation or throw off your pH. If it’s going inside you, it needs to be gentle, body-safe, and preferably unscented.

3. Thinking lube is only for “problems”
We said this earlier, but it’s worth repeating — using lube doesn’t mean you’re not turned on. In fact, the right lube can make good sex even better, especially with toys, longer sessions, or different types of play.

4. Skipping the reapply
Even good lubes can dry out, especially water-based ones. If things start feeling sticky or draggy, don’t power through — add more. A quick reapply can save the mood and keep things feeling good for longer.

5. Not doing a patch test
Especially with sensation lubes or anything new, always do a little patch test first. Rub a small bit on your inner wrist or thigh and wait a few minutes. It’s a simple step that can save you a very unsexy reaction later.

💦 Best Lubes for Every Body – Our Top Picks & Why We Love Them

Let’s be honest — not all lubes are created equal. Some feel cheap, some dry out too fast, and some just don’t give you that silky, glidey feel you’re after. We’ve tried loads, and these are the ones we keep going back to.

ID Glide Lubricant 1oz 💧
Our classic go-to. It’s water-based, lightweight, and works brilliantly for almost every kind of play — solo, couples, toys, you name it. It doesn’t get sticky or tacky, and it’s easy to clean off. Honestly, if you're only picking one lube to start with, this is a safe choice.

EXS Premium Strawberry Lubricant 100ml 🍓
A fun one for oral and foreplay. This flavoured lube smells amazing and adds a bit of cheeky sweetness to the mix without being overpowering. Plus, it’s still safe for other kinds of play — rare for a flavoured option!

Gun Oil H2O Water-Based Lubricant 💦
This one gives you that ultra-smooth, long-lasting feel — ideal if you’re after something thicker than the average water-based formula but still totally toy-safe and condom-friendly. It feels amazing and doesn’t need constant reapplying.

ID BackSlide Anal Formula 1oz 🍑
When it comes to anal, this is our top pick. It’s thicker, cushions more, and keeps everything smooth and comfortable for longer sessions. A bit goes a long way, and it really does make a difference.

ID Sensation Warming Lube 2.2oz 🔥
A little heat goes a long way! This lube adds a warm, tingly edge to foreplay and sex. Great for teasing and contrast play — just remember to patch test if you’ve got sensitive skin.

💡 Quick warning from experience: We once bought a cheap lube online, and Sophie came out in a rash. Lesson learned — never compromise on quality when it comes to what’s going on your bits.

✨ Bonus Tips for Maximum Slip & Satisfaction

Lube might seem simple — squirt, spread, go — but trust us, using it right can take things from “yeah, that was nice” to “holy shit, what just happened?”

Start with more than you think. You can always wipe some off, but it’s way harder to get into the zone if things start dragging or chafing. Especially true for anal or toy play — friction is not your friend.

Warm it up. No one likes a surprise cold squirt. Either rub it between your hands first or try one of the warming lubes (like we mentioned earlier) for an extra layer of sensation.

Reapply as needed. Even the best lubes might dry out a bit depending on what you’re doing. Keep the bottle nearby and top up as you go — it’s not a mood killer, it’s just smart.

Choose the right lube for the job. Water-based for toys and quick clean-up. Silicone-based for marathon sessions or shower fun. Flavoured for foreplay. Thick formulas for anal. One lube doesn’t fit all — trust us.

Patch test if you’re sensitive. We’ve had a bad reaction from a cheap lube once and never again. If you’re trying a new brand or sensation lube, just do a little test on your wrist or inner thigh first.

Store it properly. Keep your lube in a cool, dark place — no one wants to squeeze out a bottle that’s gone gloopy or weird.

🎯 Final tip: Don’t save lube for “just in case.” Make it a regular part of your play. It’s not just for when things feel dry — it’s for turning good sex into great sex.

💭 Final Thoughts – Lube Isn’t Optional, It’s Essential

We used to think lube was just for when things were a bit dry — a backup, not a must. But honestly, once you start using the right lube for the right moment, it completely changes the game.

Whether you’re exploring new kinds of play, adding toys into the mix, or just want things to feel smoother, wetter, and more intense — lube makes it all better. It’s not about “fixing” anything. It’s about enhancing pleasure, comfort, and connection.

And if you’ve ever grabbed a cheap bottle and regretted it (rash, sticky mess, weird smell — been there), you’ll know why we only stock lubes we’d happily use ourselves. We’ve tested loads, made mistakes, and found our favourites so you don’t have to.

So whether you’re brand new to lubes or just looking for something better — don’t skip it. Choose wisely, use generously, and enjoy every slippery, satisfying second. 💜