Hi - I'm Martha! I'm a journalist and product tester at JoyNights. I love to share my ideas and personal sex life experience so that others can learn from my experiences.
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Hi - I'm Doris! I've spent decades working in the adult industry, including at several sex toy manufacturers as well as a large brick & mortar sex shop. I love reviewing read more
Last updated: June 14, 2024
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When it comes to exploring anal sex, a lubricant is essential. Unlike the vagina, your anal canal doesn’t self-lubricate when turned on. As a result, anal sex can be painful and uncomfortable. The excessive friction can also tear the delicate anal tissue increasing the risk of infections.
However, choosing the best anal lube can be daunting due to the various options available. In this post, we have reviewed the best 12 anal lubes based on the active ingredients, allergic reaction, flavor, ease of cleaning, bottle type, and volume. Doc Johnson A Play Hybrid Anal Lubricant, is one of the most popular and all-purpose lubes great for both anal play and toys.
"An extremely smooth hybrid lube that can be used for classic anal play and toys.Blend of water and silicone.Can be used with natural rubber latex and polyisoprene condoms."
More features: can be used with natural rubber latex and polyisoprene condoms; soft creamy texture; made in the USA
Doc Johnson A Play Hybrid Anal Lubricant is a perfect blend of silicone and water lubricants, making it long-lasting and comfortable for use. This lube is made with a soft creamy texture enhancing your anal sex experience. Feel free to use it with your favorite anal toys since it won’t damage them. This product was our editor’s choice because it doesn’t contain sugar, paraben, or glycerin. Additionally, you can use it with condoms.
This type of anal lube is best suited for people who are always on the move. It comes in 4oz bottles making it easy to pack in any bag size and carry around. Moreover, it enhances privacy since nobody will know what you are carrying.
What makes it special?
You can use it with sex toys
Smooth
The shape and nature of the bottle prevent the lube from leaking
Easy to clean
What cons did we find?
You may need to apply it often during sex to maintain lubrication
It is not suitable for people with sensitive skin
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8728 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: enriched with clove flower extract and Vitamin E; hypo-allergenic; non-absorbable; made in the USA
The Swiss Navy Anal Lube enhances your sexual experience while taking your health into consideration. Clove is one of this lube’s major ingredients and helps make anal sex more enjoyable. It also contains Vitamin E that offers a velvety feeling during sex. The Swiss Navy Anal Lube received the best anal silicone lube nomination since you can use it for a long without worrying about reapplication. Also, the bottle with a leak-proof locking pump, making it travel-friendly.
Swiss Navy Anal Lube is suitable for people with sensitive skins since it is hypoallergenic. It is made with high-quality ingredients, and its pH is well balanced to reduce irritation.
Why did it make our list?
Easy to clean up
It is compatible with sex toys and condoms
Long-lasting
What is not ideal about it?
The lube's scent is too strong
It has a minor numbing effect
Quite expensive
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8536 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: extra-thick formula; hypoallergenic, non-toxic, odorless, and flavorless; condom-safe
If you are looking for the best water-based lubricant, consider Sliquid Sassy Water-Based Anal Lubricant. Unscented, non-staining, and unflavored, this lube is everything you’d want in an anal sex lube. Another thing we love about this product is that it’s unscented and does not contain any desensitizing ingredients, making it safe for customers. Additionally, the lube is long-lasting, eliminating the need for reapplication during sex.
All Sliquid anal lubes like Sliquid H2O contain similar ingredients, including purified water and plant cellulose. However, this product is thicker, like gel offering more padding. This makes your sexual experience more fun.
What are its best features?
Non-staining
Easy to clean
It is suitable for people with sensitive skin
Non-scented
It comes in discreet packaging
It can serve you for a long time
What could be improved?
The lube does not cling well to silicon toys
Quite expensive compared to other products of a similar size
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4090 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: safe for all toys and latex; thick and non-drip formula
With years of experience in the sexual pleasure world, Wicked manufacturers carefully developed Jelle Anal Lubricant to satisfy the unique needs of anal sex. This incredibly slick, water-based lubricant remains in place, is extra long-lasting, never sticks, and offers excellent glide. After trying out several anal lubes, the Wicked Jelle Heat Warming Anal Lubricant received the best warming anal lube since it is strong and offers the best sexual arousal.
Wicked Jelle Heat Warming Anal Lubricant is made with a non-drip formula, preventing it from dripping during application. This feature is important since it minimizes wastage. Additionally, lubes made with a non-drip formula reduce the mess on your clothing or bedding during sex.
What makes it stand out?
It keeps your toys lubricated for longer hours
Non-sticky
The lube does not degrade your toys
Easy to clean
It makes anal sex enjoyable
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
It burns when used in large amounts
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5290 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: contains jojoba; slippery feel; latex condom friendly
If silicone lubes are your thing, pjur Backdoor should be your number one choice. This lube is specifically designed for comfortable and enjoyable anal sex. It offers intensive glide ability, and you can use it for a long time without reapplying. After careful consideration, we gave this lube the best anal toy lube nomination since it doesn’t dry up too quickly after applying it to the toys. Moreover, this product doesn’t degrade your anal sex toys allowing them to serve you for a long time.
pjur Backdoor Anal Silicone Lube doesn’t contain benzocaine or lidocaine. Therefore, you can use it daily without experiencing any problems. This product also allows you to use it with the pjur Backdoor Anal Comfort spray.
What do we love it for?
It lasts for a considerable amount of time
Rubs off easily
Lasts long
It offers relaxation
The small bottle can serve you for some time
What were we disappointed with?
The lube stains your sheets
Cleaning up the lube can be difficult
The lube's numbing effect can prevent you from enjoying your sexual experience
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4153 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: contains canola oil and Eugenol; not compatible with latex condoms; can be used with polyurethane condoms; intended for advanced users
Use the NEW K Creme Numbing to widen your anal canal and enjoy your anal sex experience. This special oil-based formula is ideal for handwork, fists, and all toy sizes, depending on your preference. We gave this lube the best numbing anal lube since it comes with an ingredient known as Eugenol that numbs the anus and the surrounding areas, allowing you to play for longer and explore further and deeper. It is also silky enough to intensify every sensation and thick enough to remain in place. When it heats up, it simply keeps getting better.
K Numbing Cream totally numbs your anal canal and the surrounding areas allowing your partner to penetrate any depth. However, you need to be extra careful since you may get hurt if your partner penetrates too deep. As a result, this lube is only ideal for experienced players who know their bodies’ depths and angles. If you are a beginner, you can check our list to find other beginner-friendly anal lubes.
What do we love it for?
You can use it with anal sex toys
Easy to clean with soap and water
Long-lasting
Smooth
Rich numbing effect
Stays slick when having sex
What were we disappointed with?
It is not compatible with latex condoms
Has a strong scent
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9111 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: not latex compatible; can be used with polyurethane condoms; odorless
Boy Butter Lube is a must-have for people exploring anal sex for the first time. This vegetable-based anal lube spreads easily, enhancing your sexual experience. It also lasts longer, meaning you don’t need to keep reapplying. The anal lube qualified for the best oil-based anal lube nomination because it’s easy to clean. All you need is soap and clean water. Also, Boy Butter Lube does not stain your bedding. Therefore, you don’t have to spread a towel on your bed the next time you want to have some quality time with your partner.
Other than being an anal lube, Boy Butter Lube comes in handy when you want to pleasure yourself. You can also use it as a body lotion since the lube easily penetrates into your skin. Finally, massage therapists also find this product useful.
Why is it special?
It remains slick when having sex
Long-lasting
Easy to clean
You can use it with anal sex toys
What are the flaws?
The plastic bottle is too stiff
It gums up during sex
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3866 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: desensitizing effect; thick formula; made in the USA
Doc Johnson Rear Entry Desensitizing Anal Lube can help you prepare for anal sex. The lube is thick and sticks on sex toys when having sex. We gave this lube the best anal desensitizing lube since it is thick and can last longer when having sex. This way, you can enjoy your sexual experience without worrying about reapplying.
If you are on vacation with your loved one, Doc Johnson Rear Entry Desensitizing Anal Lube is the best lube to buy. This product comes in a small 1.7 oz bottle allowing you to conveniently pack it in your vacation bag since it doesn’t take up too much space.
What do we love it for?
It makes anal sex less painful
You can use it with anal sex toys
It sticks on sex toys
Easy to clean up
Good for first-time users
What were we disappointed with?
The lube doesn't numb for too long
It is very thick and sticky
The bottle leaks everywhere
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2696 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: silky smooth formula; hypoallergenic and natural; safe for sex toys; made in the USA
Enhance the duration of your intimate moments with the Fleshlube Slide. This lube is thick and doesn’t dry up too quickly, allowing you to enjoy the moment without worrying about reapplying. In case the lube begins drying up, all you need to do is splash some water in the sweet spot and continue having fun. After trying several lubes with Fleshlight girls, this product was our best.
Fleshlube Slide is best suited for people who derive pleasure from having sex with Fleshlight girls. It makes it easy to slide in, and you can easily clean it up. Moreover, it won’t damage your favorite sex doll since it’s water-based.
Why are we impressed?
Easy to clean
You can use it with a sex doll or sex toys
It lasts longer
Suitable for people with sensitive skin
What negatives must you be aware of?
The lube is too thick
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4620 people in the past 30 days
8.8
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.7
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: light numbing effect; smooth and sleek feel; made in the USA
Cleanstream Relax Anal Lube is a lube that offers a light numbing effect, reducing the pain and discomfort that may come with anal play. The silky-smooth liquid also helps to keep friction at bay, preventing injuries. This texture also makes it possible to glide anal sex toys regardless of their size. We gave this product the best lube for anal play since you can use it with any type of condom. Moreover, the lube is made with a body-safe formula allowing you to enjoy sex without worrying about infections.
Since Cleanstream Relax Anal Lube is compatible with all types of condoms, it is suitable for couples who are new to their relationship and are trying sex for the first time. This way, you can protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases until you establish trust with your partner.
What makes it special?
Easy to clean
It does not cause staining
You can use it with all types of condoms
It is compatible with sex toys
What cons did we find?
It does not cling well on silicone toys
The numbing effect is too little
The bottle often leaks
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9991 people in the past 30 days
8.7
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: long-lasting extra glide formula; compatible with latex and polyurethane condoms and all sex toys
If you are looking for a water-based lube, Lovehoney Discover Water-Based Anal Lubricant is the best option in the market. This lube lasts longer during sex, and its water-based formula doesn’t stain your sheets or clothes. Additionally, the lube is compatible with all condoms without worrying about breakage. Gay couples will find this lube amazing since it is thicker than most water-based lubes but is not as sticky as silicone lubes.
The main feature that sets this product apart from other Lovehoney products is that it is extra thick, allowing you to enjoy the moment. Also, Lovehoney Discover Water-Based Anal Lubricant comes in a gel form.
Why did it make our list?
Easy to clean
You can use it with all types of condoms
Long-lasting
It doesn't burn
It comes with a pump
What is not ideal about it?
It gets tacky when it dries
The pump top does not work sometimes
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4859 people in the past 30 days
8.5
Customer Feedback
Based on cross-platform reviews
8.0
Brand Reputation
Based on web analytics & content of negative reviews
More features: smooth and slick feel; made in the USA
The last item on our best anal lube list is Cal Exotics Anal Lube. This lube boasts all the features you would want in an anal lube. It is smooth and silky with superior lubricity making anal sex less painful and enjoyable. For the best experience, we recommend applying it around the opening of your anus. You can also apply a small amount of the lube inside the anus with your finger. If you are using a sex toy, apply the lube to the entire shaft. This lube is best suited for women, especially those with sensitive skin since it doesn’t cause reactions.
The main feature that sets this lube apart from the others is its color. Cal Exotics Anal Lube is clear, making sex feel more natural and fun since it looks like the natural vaginal lubricants.
What are our favorite features?
The lube is clear
Easy to apply
Easy to clean up
Long-lasting
What could be better?
The bottle leaks easily
You need to use a lot of energy to squeeze the lube out of the bottle
Things to Consider
There are different types of lubes in the market, offering different features and experiences. When it comes to buying an anal lube, it’s a matter of personal preferences and needs. However, there are several factors that you should consider before settling on one to avoid making mistakes, as discussed below.
Why Is It Recommended to Use a Lube During Anal Play?
Using lube during anal sex is advisable since the anal canal does not secrete fluids that could facilitate penetration. As a result, your partner may feel pain during sex, making the whole experience unpleasant. When using a lube takes, sliding in becomes easier.
Besides making anal sex more comfortable and less painful, lube also reduces the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases like HIV. This is because the chances of a condom slipping off or breaking when using a lube are minimal.
Different Types of Anal Lubes: Pros and Cons of Each
Here are the different types of anal lubes, together with their pros and cons.
Silicone-Based
Silicone anal lubes are made by mixing silicone oil and a thickener. When using this lube, you will notice that it feels different since the skin doesn’t absorb silicone. This feature allows you to spice things up since you can explore different things without limitations.
For people with sensitive skin, this is the best lube to use. Moreover, you can use it with condoms and sex toys like anal vibrators. If you are looking for the best anal vibrator to use with silicone lube, check the nearest sex store or order online. Nevertheless, you should not use silicone-based lubes with silicone sex toys since it damages them.
Pros:
It is good for long-lasting anal play
Body-safe
Cons:
It can ruin silicone sex toys
Cleaning up the lube from your bedding or clothing can be difficult
Water-Based
This anal lube comprises water and natural thickeners such as gum that give it a smooth texture. Water-based lubricants are the most popular since they are readily available and cost-effective.
Since this lube’s main component is water, the skin absorbs it, meaning it dries up quickly during sex. However, if you want it to last longer, consider getting a lube that contains a moisturizer like aloe vera.
Pros:
Compatible with all types of condoms
You can use it with all types of sex toys
Easy to clean up
Cons:
You need to reapply frequently during sex
Oil-Based
Oil-based lubes are mainly made up of plant oils like olive oil. Some manufacturers also use synthetic oils to make this lube.
One of the best things about this lube is that it lasts long during sex, eliminating the need for reapplication.
However, oil-based lubes can tear condoms, increasing the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases. It can also stain your fabrics, making them difficult to clean.
Pros:
Great for foreplay
It lasts for a long time
Cons:
You can’t use it with latex condoms
Difficult to clean up
Other Considerations When Picking an Anal Lubricant
Other than the type of lube, there are other factors that you should consider when buying an anal lubricant. Read on to understand.
Active Components
The anal canal and the surrounding areas are extremely sensitive. Therefore, you should consider the ingredients used to make the lube before using it. When it comes to anal sex, we recommend products that don’t contain sugars, parabens, and glycerin, like Doc Johnson A Play Hybrid Anal Lubricant.
Allergen-free
Some people usually experience allergic reactions when they use anal lube. The common allergic reactions you may experience include pain, swelling, burning, and itching.
To know if you are allergic to a certain type of lube, test it first. The best way to test it is to apply it to your wrist and see if you will experience any reaction. Although the skin in your wrist is not similar to that in the anal region, it might help.
Flavored lubes smell nice, allowing you to spice up things in the bedroom, especially for those people who think including food in sexual escapades is sexy.
For couples who use condoms during oral sex, flavored lubes can help dull the latex taste.
Numbing Lubricants
Anal sex is painful and uncomfortable, as discussed earlier, especially if you are trying it for the first time. For this reason, it is important to use lube like Doc Johnson Rear Entry Desensitizing Anal Lube to numb your anal canal and the surrounding areas to prevent you from feeling pain during penetration.
Besides using a numbing cream, you can also use the best anal training kits to prepare your anal canal for the first anal penetration.
However, the numbing effect can sometimes prevent you from enjoying sex. Also, numbing lubes won’t let you know when you are overdoing it, leading to injuries.
Warming Lubricants
Warming lubricants increase blood flow in the walls of your anal canal and awaken the surrounding nerve endings, making it sensitive to touch. If you want to enhance your sexual arousal, consider getting a warming lubricant like Wicked Jelle Heat Warming Anal Lubricant.
Before you start using this lube, it is important to know if it contains ingredients like glycerin which may cause irritation.
Easy Cleaning
After sex, it is important to take a shower to wash away the lubricant residue and avoid infections. All you need is clean water and soap. Alternatively, you can use an anal douche to clean up your butt. The best anal douche flashes out all the lubricant making you feeling fresh and clean.
Other than cleaning up your body, you should also clean your sex toys, bedding and clothes to avoid stains.
Generally, washing away water-based lubricants is easy compared to oil-based and silicone-based lubricants.
Bottle Type and Volume
When buying lube, the bottle type matters since it determines how easily you can get the lube out. It is important to buy a bottle with a pump since it allows you to get the lube out easily. A good example of a lube bottle with a pump is Lovehoney Discover Water-Based Anal Lubricant.
The volume of the bottle is also an important consideration. Get a lube bottle with a large volume since it can serve you for a long time without needing regular replacement.
Some people practice anal sex without lube. However, it is not advisable since it can be painful and uncomfortable. In worst cases, it can lead to injuries increasing your chances of getting infections.
If you are trying anal sex for the first time, it is important to use numbing lubes to protect you from too much pain. You should also look for lube that spreads easily.
We included these products in our list because they make anal less painful, allowing you and your partner to enjoy quality time. These lubes are also smooth, making them easy to spread. Finally, you can use the lubes with your favorite sex toys and spice things up in the bedroom.
References
1.
Preparing for Anal Sex Is a Must — Here's How to Do It Right
We’re talking safety, cleanliness, a lot of lube, and some major arousal to help make anal sex more pleasure than pain. Here's how to prepare.
Guide to the best lubes for sex: How to pick the best one for you - Flo
Finding the best lube for sex can be challenging. There’s just so much choice. Here, an expert explains the pros and cons of different types of lube.
Female Sexual Arousal: Genital Anatomy and Orgasm in Intercourse - PMC
In men and women sexual arousal culminates in orgasm, with female orgasm solely from sexual intercourse often regarded as a unique feature of human sexuality.
Injuries to the anal region can be the result of changes in bowel function or sexual activity. Learn when to seek urgent medical attention and how to relieve any pain.
