Water-based vs. oil-based lubricant: An ultimate guide on what you need to know

Looking to enhance your comfort and pleasure with a personal lubricant? With an array of options available, choosing a lube can quickly become daunting. The most popular lubes are water-based, but you might have also come across some oil-based formulas. 

But is one type of lube better than the other? Are both options compatible for use with condoms or sex toys? And what if you’re conscious about the ingredients you put on – or in – your body? Here’s what you need to know about water- versus oil-based lubricants. 

Water-based vs. oil-based lubes: the key differences 

When it comes to water- or oil-based lubricants, one isn’t necessarily better than the other. Each option can be better suited to specific occasions, so understanding the key differences between the two is crucial. 

“The key difference between water- and oil-based lubricants is their compatibility and clean-up. Water-based lubricants are versatile, safe for use with toys and condoms, and easy to clean. In contrast, oil-based lubricants are long-lasting and great for external use but can damage condoms, toys, and fabrics and are difficult to clean,” according to Rhiannon John, sexologist at Bedbible.

Pros and cons of water-based lube

One of the biggest benefits of water-based lubricant is its versatility. It won’t ruin your favorite vibrator or sheets. It can be used with condoms. It has a pretty thin texture and natural feel. In other words, it tends to be a crowd-pleaser and a safe bet. “It’s great for various types of sex and is safe for vaginal use,” says John. 

But it does have downsides. It can dry out fast and require frequent application. Because it washes away easily, it’s also not very effective for water-based activities like shower sex, adds John. 

Bloomi’s Smooth water-based lube is a great option for sex, use with toys and even solo play, too.

Pros and cons of oil-based lube

Oil-based lubricant is a little less mainstream, but finding the right one can be a game-changer for your sex life. It lasts way longer than a water-based formula. As John puts it, it also provides a “luxurious texture,” which makes it ideal for a sexy massage or external masturbation.

Try Bloomi’s best-selling Delight Oil-Based Lube, which is safe for internal use too – but more on that later.

However, oil-based lube also has significant limitations. “It’s incompatible with latex condoms, diaphragms, and most toys, as it can degrade their material. It’s difficult to clean and prone to staining sheets and clothing,” according to John. 

It’s worth noting that oil-based lube is also incompatible with polyisoprene condoms, and some formulas are also incompatible with polyurethane condoms. 

Which lube type is right for you? 

Water-based lubricant therefore tends to be the best choice when using condoms or sex toys. “It's also the best option for easy clean-up and preventing stains,” notes John. 

You can’t go wrong with a water-based lube, provided that you look for a non-sticky and fragrance-free formula, which can be unpleasant or irritating. However, if you want to have fun in the shower or hot tub, water-based lube isn’t a good idea. 

If condoms, diaphragms or toys aren’t involved, oil-based lubricants can offer next-level sensations in terms of texture and feel. You should typically never use them internally and they are best reserved for erotic massages. 

That said, some newer oil-based lubes contain ingredients that are gentle enough to be used during penetration. For example, Bloomi’s version is made with organic coconut oil, organic cocoa butter and sea buckthorn oil. 

If you’re wondering whether to grab a water- or oil-based lube, it depends on the context. Safe sex should obviously be a priority, and not being able to use toys might be a dealbreaker for you. But if those two factors aren’t a concern, you may end up loving the experience of an oil-based formula. 

When in doubt, nothing stops you from using both options for different forms of play.