The chances are you’ve got a bottle of this tucked away in a bathroom cabinet or a bedroom drawer. Most of us do. I won’t slip around the topic any longer, I’m talking lube.

Those lotions and potions that make time alone or with your partner/s extra fun, and, sometimes, functional. Lubricants can be naughty, they can extend your arousal, and they can be an important part of safe sex toy use. But with so many different kinds on the market now though, how do you know what to use?

We’ve decided to break down the secrets of lube, for your pleasure.

Two of the most common lubricants on the Australian market are water-based and silicone lubes. You may be familiar with these, however they’ve come a long way since a well-loved jar of Vaseline.

Why Choose Water Based?

Water based lubes like Femplay’s Gold 100g are slick and not too thick. They’re also ideal for use with condoms and toys, ensuring the life of your silicone vibrators. As an added bonus, water based lubes are ideal for men’s toys too, as they are safe to use with cyberskin such as Fleshlights and cockrings.

Paraben-Free and Glycerin-Free lube is a popular feature among the water-based lubricants currently. While the science is still out about whether parabens pose a direct threat to health, we do know that some women find glycerin based lubricants drying and irritating, particularly for those with histories of UTI’s and skin sensitivity. So for those seeking a natural non-irritating slickness, products like JO’s Certified Organic 100% Natural Lubricant could be right for you.

Why Choose Silicone Based?

Unlike the water based lubes, silicone based lubricant lasts as long as you will. These thicker fluids are ideal for longer sessions in the bedroom, and more full-on fun. Pjur Back Door is just one example of a high quality silicone lube with your pleasure in mind; with a hint of relaxing jojoba, this lube provides lasting lubrication for incredible anal sex.

Can’t Decide?

JO Hybrid brings together the best of both worlds. Long lasting, smooth and 100% latex safe, this is a great all-purpose lubricant for pleasure seekers. It is a great place to start and once you feel comfortable and confident you can explore a little more.

Looking for something interesting in a lube?

Although lubes are an essential part of sexual activity they don’t have to be boring. The straight laced scientists in the lab have shown their fun side and developed flavourds to add some interest in lubes. There’s a lube for you too. Flavored lubes like the fresh and fruit Devine Nectar range engage more than just your sense of touch it also provides you with the sense of smell. Another twist to tradition lubes and gels are for oral activities such as menthol gels which provides tingling coolness that allows for oral action to go on for longer – and ease back on the gag reflex!

If you’re looking for a harder and longer ride, an energising lubricant like Pjur’s Ginkgo lube will help the man in your life keep a harder erection with natural ingredients that are condom safe.

What NOT to Use:

You know we love to experiment, but be wary of what strange tips and tricks you try when it comes to lubrication. It’s best to avoid using Vaseline and cooking oils as substitute lubricants, and if you must bring goodies like Nutella and Peanut Butter into the bedroom – we hope it’s for some cheeky fun and not because you’ve misplaced the KY.

Avoid these household solutions to steer clear of nasty bacteria, any risk of skin aggravation, and crunchy peanut butter chunks where they really should not be!

Now that we’ve demystified the sexy, slippery world of lubes, it’s time to go try some. It’s not uncommon to have several different kinds of lubes at home, ready for whatever kind of action you’re up for. The key is to experiment until you find the perfect O-inducing mix for you!