What is water based lube?
Water based lube is a lubricant whose main ingredient is water. It feels natural, rinses off easily and is generally safe to use with condoms and most sex toys. Because its lightweight, many people choose water based formulas for comfort during intimate play.
Why choose water based lube for anal sex?
- Easy to reapply its simple to add more as needed without making things sticky.
- Compatible with condoms and most silicone toys.
- Wide range of textures from silky gels to thicker formulas made for anal play.
Quick buying checklist (for people in the UK)
- Look for formulations described as long-lasting or specifically for anal use if you need extra glide.
- Check for paraben-free or gentle ingredients or fragrance-free options such as Ann Summers Strip Bare 100ml if you have sensitive skin, or warming options such as Ann Summers Heat Wave 100ml, flavoured options such as Ann Summers JO Vanilla 1oz Water-Based Lubricant, or tingling options such as Durex Play Tingle 50ml.
- Consider specialised options for example, relaxing or desensitising formulas if you want help with comfort.
- Choose travel-friendly sizes if you need something portable, or larger bottles for home use.
Product picks from our range (quick links)
- Mister B LUBE Extreme Desensitising Water Based Lubricant, 100 ml a medical-class water based option with relaxing and desensitising properties, suitable for anal sex and larger toys.
- Lube Life Water Based Flavoured/Unflavoured silky smooth glide that complements natural lubrication.
- LUBIDO Original Water Based Paraben Free Intimate Gel Lube 100ml paraben-free, long-lasting and travel friendly.
- Lubido Aloe Infused Anal Ease Water Based Gel Lube 250ml waterbased, long lasting and infused with aloe for added soothing.
- Cobeco Body Lube 50 ml hydrating and moisturising water based anal lube.
- Ann Summers Core Pleasure Lubes Set water based, vegan and safe to use with condoms (multi-pack).
- Durex Play Water Based Feel Lubricant, 50ml compact, condom-safe everyday water based lube.
- EasyGlide Anal Water-Based Lubricant 150ml a water-based formula designed for anal use and longer glide.
- Waterglide Anal Lubricant 150ml water-based anal lubricant, 150ml.
- Doc Johnson Anal Glide Natural Lubricant Pump Dispenser, 175 ml a pump-dispense water-based option for home use.
- Rocco essentials water lube 50 ml compact, travel-friendly water-based lube.
How to use water based lube safely
- Apply a generous amount to the entrance and any toys or condoms before starting.
- Reapply as it absorbs or dries water based formulas can need topping up during long sessions.
- Avoid using with oil-based products (they wont mix) and patch-test if you have sensitive skin.
- Rinse off with warm water and mild soap after use; water based lube cleans easily.
Tips for anal play
- Start slow and use plenty of lube a thicker water based gel can be more comfortable for anal sex, or Pjur Analyse Me Comfort Water Glide (pack).
- If you want reduced sensation for relaxation, consider a product specifically described as relaxing or desensitising for example Shots Fist It numbing 500 ml or Rocco Siffredi Anal Relax Cream 50ml.
- Combine lube with patience, communication and appropriate toys sized for your experience level (e.g. a small silicone anal plug).
Video-friendly summary (30 6 seconds)
- Intro line: 2ater based lube is water-first, easy to clean and toy-friendly.
- Show 3 quick pointers on screen: 2afe with condoms, 2op up during use, 2ood for most toys.
- End with product shots or quick links to one or two recommended bottles for anal play.
When to choose something else
If you want an extremely long-lasting single application for deep or prolonged sessions, silicone-based lubes can last longer (for example Ann Summers Silicone Gel 100ml) or Touche9 Anal Silicone 150ml but they may not be suitable for some silicone toys. Oil-based lubricants are not compatible with condoms and can be harder to clean.
Where to buy
We stock several water based options suited to anal sex and toy play see the quick product picks above for links and descriptions to help you decide.
Short safety reminder
If you have persistent irritation, stop use and consult a healthcare professional. For general sensitivity issues, try a small patch test first.
