Things That Are Safe To Use As Lube

So, there I was, mid-episode of my favorite Netflix series, when I realized I'd run out of... well, you know, the slippery stuff. I mean, who hasn't been there, right? Panic set in, but then I remembered my friend swearing by coconut oil. "It's natural, it's in my kitchen, it's gonna be fine," I thought. Spoiler alert: it wasn't. My poor, unsuspecting sheets were not prepared for the coconutty chaos that ensued.

And that, my friends, is how I learned the hard way that not everything you find in your pantry or under your sink is safe to use as lube. But don't worry, I've done the research (and the washing) so you don't have to. Let's dive into the world of safe, slippery substances, shall we?

Water-Based Lubricants: The OG

Let's start with the most obvious (and safest) choice: water-based lubes. These are your everyday, run-of-the-mill lubes that you can find in any sex shop or even some pharmacies. They're safe to use with condoms, they're easy to clean up, and they won't stain your sheets (unlike my coconut oil fiasco).

But here's the thing, water-based lubes can dry out a bit faster than others, so you might need to reapply mid-action. And if you're using silicone toys, be careful, as water-based lubes can break down silicone, leaving your toys a bit... wonky.

Silicone Lubricants: The Long-Lasting Ones

If you're looking for a lube that's going to stick around (literally), silicone-based lubes are your friend. They're super long-lasting, they won't dry out, and they're safe to use with condoms. Plus, they're great for shower sex - bonus!

However, they can be a bit trickier to clean up, and they're not the best choice if you're using silicone toys (they can break down the material, remember?). And they can be a bit pricier than water-based lubes, but a little goes a long way, so you'll get your money's worth.

Oil-Based Lubricants: The Slippery Slopes

Now, let's talk about oil-based lubes. They're great, they're slippery, and they last a long time. But here's the catch: they're not safe to use with latex condoms. Oil can break down latex, leading to unwanted... surprises. So, if you're using condoms, steer clear of oil-based lubes.

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They're also not the easiest to clean up, and they can stain your sheets (looking at you, coconut oil). But if you're not using latex condoms and you're looking for a long-lasting lube, oil-based lubes could be your jam.

Natural Lubricants: The Kitchen Sink

So, you're thinking, "I've got olive oil in my kitchen, why not use that?" Well, you could, but it's not the best idea. While some natural oils like olive oil or coconut oil might seem like a good idea, they can be a bit too... well, oily. They can also mess with your pH balance, leading to infections. Plus, they're not safe to use with latex condoms, and they can stain your sheets.

But if you're dead set on using a natural lube, there are some options out there that are specifically designed to be body-safe. Just make sure to do your research and choose one that's been tested and approved by reputable sources.

Lube Don'ts: The Things You Should Avoid

Alright, so we've talked about what you can use, but let's quickly touch on what you shouldn't use. And no, I'm not just talking about coconut oil (though I really, really wish I wasn't).

Water-Based vs Silicone Lube: Which Should You Use? | Condoms.uk

Anything with sugar in it (like honey or certain lubes) can lead to yeast infections. Anything with alcohol in it can cause irritation and dryness. And anything with glycerin in it can mess with your pH balance and lead to infections. So, steer clear of these ingredients if you want to keep things... well, balanced.

And finally, a quick note on personal lubricants that come in those little packets. They're convenient, sure, but they often contain ingredients that can be irritating or harmful. So, if you can, opt for a bottle of lube that you know is body-safe.

The Bottom Line: Know Your Body, Know Your Lube

At the end of the day, the best lube is the one that works for you. It's all about knowing your body, knowing what you're comfortable with, and choosing a lube that's safe and enjoyable for you. And if you're not sure, don't be afraid to ask a healthcare provider or a trusted source. They're there to help, after all.

So, there you have it. The lowdown on lubes, from water-based to oil-based, and everything in between. Now, go forth, be safe, and have fun. And remember, if it's not safe for your sheets, it's probably not safe for you. Trust me, I learned that the hard way.