Which lube with which toy (and which condom)
Water-based, silicone-based, hybrid and oil-based lube, matched to toy materials and condoms in one simple chart.
Lube makes almost everything more comfortable. The only tricky part is matching it to your toy and, if you use them, your condoms. Here is the simple version.
The four types of lube
- Water-based: the all-rounder. Safe with every toy material and every condom type. Can dry out, so top up as you go.
- Silicone-based: silky and long-lasting, good in the shower. Safe with latex condoms. It can damage some silicone toys, so check the toy brand’s advice.
- Hybrid: mostly water with a little silicone. Check the label for toy compatibility, as you would with silicone lube.
- Oil-based (including massage oils, body lotion and petroleum jelly): great for massage, but not with latex condoms.
Quick match chart
| Toy material | Water-based | Silicone-based | Oil-based |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone | Yes | Check brand advice | Check brand advice |
| Glass, stainless steel, ABS plastic | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| TPE / jelly | Yes | Check brand advice | Check brand advice |
When in doubt, use water-based lube: it works with everything.
Lube and condoms
The NHS says not to use oil-based lubricant with latex condoms and to use water-based or silicone-based lubricant instead. NHS Inform adds that oil-based products such as body oil, lotion and petroleum jelly can also damage polyisoprene condoms and make them more likely to burst. Water-based lube is safe with all condom types.
Good habits
- Patch-test a new lube if you have sensitive skin, and stop if it stings or itches.
- If dryness is an ongoing problem rather than a one-off, the NHS has a page on vaginal dryness and when to see a GP. Our dryness and discomfort guide covers it too.
- Compare lubes side by side in our lube and aftercare table.
