The Feltt's Lube Guide

by The Feltt March 26, 2021

Lube is a must for more pleasurable, safer sex--it helps to reduce friction between bodies, sex toys and barriers, and reducing friction helps to avoid damaging sensitive tissues and increases pleasure.

There’s a bit of lube stigma out there that suggests that using lube means that you aren’t aroused, and sometimes, while that may be the case, everyone is different and self-lubrication levels don’t always match levels of arousal.

What kind of lube to get will come down to personal preference and end usage, and all bodies change over time. We recommend having several types in rotation for different needs and activities.

Some things to consider:

According to Healthline: “A normal vaginal pH level is between 3.8 and 4.5, which is moderately acidic. However, what constitutes a “normal” pH level can vary slightly based on stage of life. For example, during reproductive years (ages 15 to 49), vaginal pH should be below or equal to 4.5. But before menstruation and after menopause, a healthy pH tends to be higher than 4.5.” The average pH of the rectum is neutral, at 7. If your lube stings, burns or itches, it may just be the wrong pH for your vagina or anus and finding the right one may take a bit of trial and error.

Water-based lube

Water-based lubes are the most versatile type of lube as they are compatible with most common sex toy materials (silicone, stainless steel, glass) and condoms (both latex and non-latex).

We carry water-based lubes in several different viscosities—light, medium and rich. Hathor/ SUTIL’s Luxe Body Glide is light viscosity and pH balanced for the vagina, and their Rich Body Glide has a thicker, richer feel and is pH balanced for the anus though still in range for the vagina. Somewhere in the middle is the brand’s Original Lubricant Pure, as well as the popular, medically-developed and inexpensive Slippery Stuff.

Shop Hathor/ SUTIL and Slippery Stuff.

Silicone lube

Looking for something that doesn’t require a lot of reapplication? Silicone is the longest-lasting option because it isn't water-soluble and doesn't absorb into the body. For this reason it’s great to use in wet situations where a water-based lube would just wash away (be cautious though, silicone makes tiling and slick surfaces super slippery). Many folks also love silicone lube for anal play.

There’s a general consensus that silicone toys should not be used with silicone lube. Some tests have shown that silicone lube may interact with silicone toys in a way that compromises the structure of the toy. Best to play it safe? Probably. But silicone with stainless steel or glass toys and latex condoms? Go for it!

We stock Überlube, a luxe, multi-purpose silicone lube that can also be used for hairstyling and to prevent chafing (if you're athletic).

Shop Überlube.

Oil-based lube

Oil-based lubes can be contentious. They’re associated with higher rates for infections as they tend to not dissipate or absorb as rapidly as other substances. Oil can harbour bacteria and cause irritation in some people. Oil-based products are also not compatible with latex condoms and may stain your sheets.

Hygiene

Lube tubes are handy for delivering lube easily and directly to needed areas. They also help to keep things hygienic during activities that include both vaginal and anal play.