Water-based
The all-rounder. Body-safe, easy to wash off, and compatible with every toy and condom. Best first pick for most people. May need a top-up on longer sessions.
The Vibe Guide
Water-Based vs Silicone Lube: Which Is Right for You?
The short answer: water-based lube is the easy, do-everything choice — gentle, simple to clean, and safe with every toy and condom. Silicone lube lasts far longer and is brilliant in water, but isn't suited to silicone toys. Below we explain both in plain English, name a few body-safe favourites, and help you choose with confidence.
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A little lubricant makes almost everything feel better — more comfortable, smoother, and more relaxed. There's nothing clinical or awkward about it: think of lube the way you'd think of a good moisturiser. The only real decision is which type suits how you'll use it.
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The three types of lube, in plain English
Silicone-based
Long-lasting and ultra-silky. Doesn't dry out, and it's waterproof — ideal for the shower or bath. Not for use with silicone toys (it can degrade them).
Hybrid
A water-based blend with a touch of silicone — longer-lasting than pure water-based, while staying easy to clean. A middle ground worth trying.
Most popular
Water-based lube — the easy everyday choice
If you're not sure where to start, start here. Water-based lube feels natural, rinses off with plain water, and works with absolutely everything in your drawer. It's also the gentlest option for most bodies.
Water-based lube is best for:
- Using with toys — safe with silicone, glass, metal and every other material.
- Use with condoms — fully compatible with latex and non-latex condoms.
- Sensitive skin — look for glycerin- and paraben-free formulas, like Sliquid.
- Easy clean-up — wipes and washes away with water, leaves no residue on sheets.
The one trade-off: water-based lube can dry as it's absorbed, so you may want to reapply or add a splash of water to revive it.
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Our pick
A body-safe water-based favourite
A trusted, gentle starting point — and a great match for anyone with sensitive skin or new to lube.
Water-Based Lube
Sliquid Naturals H2O Lubricant 4.2oz
Sliquid’s original water-based formula is glycerin- and paraben-free — body-safe and beautifully simple. Brands we stock also include JO and other trusted names.
Longest-lasting
Silicone lube — silky, waterproof, long-lasting
Silicone-based lube is exceptionally slippery and stays that way. A little goes a long way, it doesn’t absorb into the skin, and it’s completely waterproof — making it the natural choice for the shower, bath or anywhere water is involved.
Silicone lube is best for:
- Long sessions — it won’t dry out, so there’s no need to reapply.
- Water play — works perfectly in the shower or bath where water-based washes away.
- A little extra glide — a luxurious, ultra-smooth feel from the first drop.
Important: avoid using silicone lube with silicone toys — over time it can break down the surface. Pair silicone lube with glass, metal or hard-plastic toys, or simply choose water-based when using a silicone toy.
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The one rule to remember
Lube & toy safety, simplified
Most toys you’ll find here are body-safe silicone — that means non-porous, easy to clean, and gentle on the body. The only thing to keep in mind is what lube to pair with them.
Silicone toy?
Use water-based lube. It’s safe, gentle, and won’t affect the toy’s surface.
Glass, metal or hard plastic?
Either type works — choose silicone for longer glide or water-based for easy clean-up.
Using condoms?
Both water-based and silicone are condom-safe. Just never use oil-based products with latex.
Quick decision
How to choose, in one minute
- New to lube, or not sure? Choose a body-safe water-based lube like Sliquid Naturals H2O. It works with everything.
- Want it to last, or playing in water? Reach for silicone — just keep it away from silicone toys.
- Sensitive skin? Look for glycerin- and paraben-free water-based formulas.
- Want the best of both? Try a hybrid — longer-lasting glide, still easy to wash off.
Find the right toy to pair it with
A little welcome
New here? Enjoy 5% off your order
Use code THEVIBE at checkout for 5% off. Every order ships free, in plain unmarked packaging, with discreet billing — Australia-wide.
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Good to know
Lube questions, answered
Water-based lube is a personal lubricant made mostly from water. It feels natural, is gentle on the body, washes away easily, and is compatible with every toy material and with condoms. It’s the most popular and most versatile choice — a great place to start.
Neither is “better” — it depends on how you’ll use it. Water-based is the easy all-rounder: gentle, simple to clean, and safe with every toy. Silicone lasts longer and is waterproof, but isn’t suited to silicone toys. Many people keep both on hand.
Use silicone lube with glass, metal or hard-plastic toys, but not with silicone toys — over time it can break down the surface. When using a silicone toy, choose a water-based lube instead. If you’re ever unsure of a toy’s material, water-based is the safe default.
Both water-based and silicone lubricants are condom-safe and work well with latex and non-latex condoms. The one type to avoid with latex is oil-based products, which can weaken the material.
Every order ships free in plain, unmarked packaging with discreet billing, Australia-wide. For full delivery and returns information, see our FAQ & Delivery page.
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Explore our full range of body-safe lubes, oils and sprays from trusted brands — or browse the wider collection. Shame-free advice, discreet from click to doorstep.
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