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This topic sits within a broader set — you can view the entire Lubricants list here.

Water-Based Lubricants
Albert Richer

When diving into the world of water-based lubricants, research suggests that customer preferences are shaped by several key factors: texture, compatibility, and price point. For instance, industry reports show that brands like Sliquid and Aloe Cadabra frequently earn high marks in customer reviews for their silky finish and organic ingredients, making them popular choices for those seeking a natural option. Conversely, data indicates that products with added fragrances or flavors can lead to mixed reviews, as many consumers report irritation or discomfort. Interestingly, market research indicates that around 30% of users prefer lubricants that are glycerin-free, as these tend to be better tolerated and less likely to cause yeast infections. On the other hand, brands like Astroglide often appear in expert evaluations for their long-lasting formula, but reviews point out that some consumers find them a bit too slippery—like trying to hold onto a greased watermelon during a summer picnic! For budget-conscious shoppers, options like KY Jelly are widely recognized for their affordability while still delivering on performance. When diving into the world of water-based lubricants, research suggests that customer preferences are shaped by several key factors: texture, compatibility, and price point.

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1
Expert Score
9.8 / 10
323
23

Astroglide Personal Lubricant

Astroglide Personal Lubricant
2418 reviews

Pros

  • Water-based
  • Long-lasting
  • Easy to clean
  • Compatible with toys
  • Suitable for all genders

Cons

  • May need reapplication
  • Not suitable for use in water

Expert Take

Astroglide is a trusted name in personal lubricants, and this product truly delivers. It's versatile, suitable for all genders, and safe for use with toys. We love that it is water-based, which makes it easy to clean and gentle on the skin, and that it comes in a value size which provides excellent value for money.

Astroglide Water Based Lube is a premium liquid personal lubricant designed to enhance comfort and ease in intimate activities. Suitable for both men and women, it's safe for use with toys and comes in a value size of 12 fluid ounces. This lubricant is long-lasting, easy to clean, and mimics the body's natural moisture.

Versatile, long-lasting, and toy-friendly personal lubricant.

2
Expert Score
9.7 / 10
205
60
TOY SAFE
HYPOALLERGENIC

Astroglide Ultra Gentle Sex Lube

Astroglide Ultra Gentle Sex Lube
438 reviews
TOY SAFE
HYPOALLERGENIC

Pros

  • Water-based
  • Long-lasting
  • No drip formula
  • Safe for toys
  • Ultra gentle

Cons

  • Not flavored
  • May dry out with extended use
  • Price per ounce

Expert Take

Astroglide Ultra Gentle Gel Personal Lubricant stands out for its exceptionally gentle formula, making it a great choice for those with sensitivities. Its long-lasting, no-drip formula ensures an enjoyable experience without interruptions. Plus, being safe for use with toys, it's a versatile addition to anyone's intimate care collection.

Astroglide Ultra Gentle Gel Personal Lubricant is a high-quality, water-based lubricant designed for both vaginal and anal sex. This 7oz package provides long-lasting lubrication that stays put without dripping, making it ideal for use with toys or partners. It is formulated to be ultra gentle, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

Water-based, ultra gentle personal lubricant for intimate use and compatible with toys.

3
Expert Score
9.5 / 10
555
63
VALUE
EASY CLEAN-UP

Astroglide Ultra Gentle Gel Lube

Astroglide Ultra Gentle Gel Lube
24659 reviews
VALUE
EASY CLEAN-UP

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Free from parabens and glycerin
  • Safe for use with toys
  • Suitable for both men and women
  • Easy to wash off

Cons

  • Small bottle size
  • May need reapplication

Expert Take

Astroglide Ultra Gentle Gel Lube is a favorite because of its hypoallergenic formulation and its suitability for both genders. Its water-based formula makes it easy to wash off, and it's safe for use with toys, making it a versatile choice for any intimate moment.

Astroglide's Ultra Gentle Gel Lube is a water-based, hypoallergenic personal lubricant that is free from parabens and glycerin. It is safe for use with toys and is designed with both men and women in mind, making it a versatile addition to any intimate setting.

Hypoallergenic, water-based lubricant ideal for intimate use by both genders and safe for toys.

4
Expert Score
9.4 / 10
313
9
RATED
BEST BUDGET PICK
BEST FOR THE MONEY
LONG-LASTING
CONDOM COMPATIBLE

Astroglide Personal Water-Based Lube

Astroglide Personal Water-Based Lube
41625 reviews
RATED
BEST BUDGET PICK
BEST FOR THE MONEY
LONG-LASTING
CONDOM COMPATIBLE

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Safe for condoms and toys
  • Non-sticky
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Travel-friendly size

Cons

  • May need reapplication
  • Not flavored
  • Could cause irritation in some users

Expert Take

Astroglide Water-Based Lube stands out because of its high-quality, long-lasting formula that works well for a wide range of users. Customers appreciate its non-sticky and hypoallergenic properties, making it comfortable and safe for use. Plus, its travel-friendly size ensures that you can take it wherever you go.

Astroglide Water-Based Lube is a premium, long-lasting personal lubricant that enhances the comfort and ease of intimate activity. This lubricant is safe for use with condoms and adult toys, making it suitable for both men and women. It's travel-friendly and offers superior lubrication.

Astroglide is a versatile, water-based personal lubricant safe for condoms and toys.

5
Expert Score
9.2 / 10
368
17
EASY TO FIND EVERYWHERE
BEST AVAILABILITY
NON-STAINING
PH BALANCED

K-Y Ultragel Personal Lubricant

K-Y Ultragel Personal Lubricant
2662 reviews
EASY TO FIND EVERYWHERE
BEST AVAILABILITY
NON-STAINING
PH BALANCED

Pros

  • Water-based
  • pH Balanced
  • Paraben-free
  • Non-sticky
  • Non-staining

Cons

  • May require reapplication
  • Not suitable for silicone toys
  • Some users may experience sensitivity

Expert Take

This K-Y Ultragel Personal Lubricant stands out for its water-based formula that is pH balanced and paraben-free, making it a safe and effective option for most users. Customers love it for its non-sticky, non-staining properties that offers a natural feel, enhancing comfort during intimate moments.

The K-Y Ultragel Personal Lubricant is a water-based, pH balanced lubricant that is paraben-free and designed to be non-sticky and non-staining. Packaged in a 4.5 fl oz bottle, this lubricant is perfect for enhancing comfort and ease during intimate activities, and is compatible with latex condoms.

Water-based, pH balanced personal lubricant that is paraben-free, non-sticky, and non-staining.

6
Expert Score
9.1 / 10
531
90
PARABEN-FREE

TROJAN H2O Personal Lubricant

TROJAN H2O Personal Lubricant
9132 reviews
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
TOP TRUSTED SCORE
PARABEN-FREE

Pros

  • Hydrating formula
  • Non-sticky
  • Free from fragrances and parabens
  • Ideal for sensitive skin
  • Easy to wash off

Cons

  • May need reapplication
  • Not suitable for use with silicone sex toys
  • Less durable compared to silicone-based lubricants

Expert Take

The TROJAN H2O Closer Water-Based Lubricant stands out because of its high-quality, hydrating formula that provides a non-sticky, comfortable experience. Customers love it because it's free from parabens and dyes, making it a safe choice for those with sensitive skin. Plus, it's easy to wash off, adding to the overall convenience and satisfaction.

TROJAN H2O Closer Water-Based Lubricant is a high-quality lubricant designed for superior comfort and pleasure. Hydrating in nature, it delivers a pure, clean, and non-sticky experience. The product is free from fragrances, parabens, and dyes, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Water-based, non-sticky personal lubricant for increased comfort and pleasure.

7
Expert Score
8.9 / 10
262
87

K-Y Water-Based Personal Lubricant

K-Y Water-Based Personal Lubricant
19100 reviews

Pros

  • Water-based formulation
  • Suitable for both genders
  • Compatible with sex toys and condoms
  • Non-greasy texture
  • pH-friendly

Cons

  • Small size (2 oz)
  • May require frequent reapplication
  • Not suitable for use in water

Expert Take

This K-Y Jelly personal lubricant is loved for its water-based, non-greasy formulation that enhances intimacy and is compatible with both sex toys and condoms. It is pH-friendly, making it safe for sensitive skin, and its universal suitability for both men and women makes it a versatile choice.

This 2 oz K-Y Jelly Water Based Lube is specifically designed to enhance intimate experiences. It's non-greasy, pH-friendly, and compatible with both sex toys and condoms. The lube is suitable for both men and women, offering a smooth, natural feel.

Non-greasy, pH-friendly lubricant compatible with sex toys and condoms.

8
Expert Score
8.8 / 10
508
57
EXPERT TRUSTED
TOP EDITORIAL PICK
TRAVEL-FRIENDLY
NON-STICKY

LubeLife Travel Size Water-Based Lube

LubeLife Travel Size Water-Based Lube
168200 reviews
EXPERT TRUSTED
TOP EDITORIAL PICK
TRAVEL-FRIENDLY
NON-STICKY

Pros

  • Unisex
  • Toy-Safe
  • Non-Staining
  • Easy Clean-Up
  • Travel-Friendly Size

Cons

  • Small Volume
  • May Require Frequent Reapplication

Expert Take

Its versatility and ease of use make this product a favorite among customers. The non-staining formula and easy clean-up make it a hassle-free option, while its toy-safe feature adds an element of convenience.

LubeLife's Water-Based Lube is a personal lubricant designed for both men and women. It's a toy-safe, non-staining solution that's easy to clean up, making it a convenient choice for couples.

Versatile, toy-safe, and easy-to-clean personal lubricant.

9
Expert Score
8.6 / 10
339
75

K-Y Yours + Mine Couples Lube

K-Y Yours + Mine Couples Lube
28089 reviews

Pros

  • Enhances intimacy
  • Safe for use with condoms and toys
  • Two different formulas for his and her pleasure

Cons

  • Small bottle size
  • More expensive than single lubes

Expert Take

The K-Y Yours + Mine Couple's Lube is special because it is designed to cater to the different needs of both genders, enhancing the intimate experience for both partners. Customers love this product for its ability to add an extra level of pleasure and for its compatibility with condoms and sex toys.

K-Y Yours + Mine is a pair of personal lubricants designed for couples, with one water-based formula for her and a glycerin-based one for him. Each set includes two 1.5 fl oz bottles, allowing both partners to experience enhanced pleasure and intimacy. The water-based formula is safe for use with condoms and sex toys.

Couple’s personal lubricants set including water-based and glycerin-based formulas.

10
Expert Score
8.5 / 10
260
13
BEST
BEST RELIABILITY
MOST LOVED CHOICE
SILKY SMOOTH
HYDRATING FORMULA

Silky Smooth Water-Based Lube

Silky Smooth Water-Based Lube
106 reviews
BEST
BEST RELIABILITY
MOST LOVED CHOICE
SILKY SMOOTH
HYDRATING FORMULA

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Non-staining
  • Travel-friendly
  • Condom and toys compatible
  • Suitable for all genders

Cons

  • Small size for frequent users
  • Brand is not specified

Expert Take

This lubricant stands out because of its silky smooth texture and long-lasting formula. Customers love it because it's travel-friendly, compatible with condoms and toys, and suitable for all genders, making it a versatile option for enhancing intimacy.

This 4 Fl Oz liquid personal lubricant is perfect for men, women, and couples. It's a non-staining, long-lasting, travel-friendly lubricant that's compatible with condoms and toys. It's appreciated for its silky smooth texture that mimics natural lubrication, ensuring a comfortable and pleasurable experience.

Non-staining, long-lasting, and silky smooth water-based personal lubricant.

Product Comparison

Product Water-Based Price Volume (Fl Oz) Hypoallergenic Compatible with Toys Long-Lasting
1 Astroglide Personal Lubricant
Yes $15.00 Yes No Yes Yes
2 Astroglide Ultra Gentle Sex Lube
Yes $7.00 Yes Yes Yes Yes
3 Astroglide Ultra Gentle Gel Lube
Yes $3.00 Yes Yes Yes No
4 Astroglide Personal Water-Based Lube
Yes $6.00 Yes Yes Yes Yes
5 K-Y Ultragel Personal Lubricant
Yes $10.00 Yes No No No
6 TROJAN H2O Personal Lubricant
Yes $10.00 Yes Yes No No
7 K-Y Water-Based Personal Lubricant
Yes $3.27 Yes No Yes No
8 LubeLife Travel Size Water-Based Lube
Yes $6.99 Yes No Yes No
9 K-Y Yours + Mine Couples Lube
Yes $15.00 Yes No Yes No
10 Silky Smooth Water-Based Lube
Yes $5.00 Yes No Yes Yes
1

Astroglide Personal Lubricant

Water-Based
Yes
Price
$15.00
Volume (Fl Oz)
Yes
Hypoallergenic
No
Compatible with Toys
Yes
Long-Lasting
Yes
2

Astroglide Ultra Gentle Sex Lube

Water-Based
Yes
Price
$7.00
Volume (Fl Oz)
Yes
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Compatible with Toys
Yes
Long-Lasting
Yes
3

Astroglide Ultra Gentle Gel Lube

Water-Based
Yes
Price
$3.00
Volume (Fl Oz)
Yes
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Compatible with Toys
Yes
Long-Lasting
No
4

Astroglide Personal Water-Based Lube

Water-Based
Yes
Price
$6.00
Volume (Fl Oz)
Yes
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Compatible with Toys
Yes
Long-Lasting
Yes
5

K-Y Ultragel Personal Lubricant

Water-Based
Yes
Price
$10.00
Volume (Fl Oz)
Yes
Hypoallergenic
No
Compatible with Toys
No
Long-Lasting
No
6

TROJAN H2O Personal Lubricant

Water-Based
Yes
Price
$10.00
Volume (Fl Oz)
Yes
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Compatible with Toys
No
Long-Lasting
No
7

K-Y Water-Based Personal Lubricant

Water-Based
Yes
Price
$3.27
Volume (Fl Oz)
Yes
Hypoallergenic
No
Compatible with Toys
Yes
Long-Lasting
No
8

LubeLife Travel Size Water-Based Lube

Water-Based
Yes
Price
$6.99
Volume (Fl Oz)
Yes
Hypoallergenic
No
Compatible with Toys
Yes
Long-Lasting
No
9

K-Y Yours + Mine Couples Lube

Water-Based
Yes
Price
$15.00
Volume (Fl Oz)
Yes
Hypoallergenic
No
Compatible with Toys
Yes
Long-Lasting
No
10

Silky Smooth Water-Based Lube

Water-Based
Yes
Price
$5.00
Volume (Fl Oz)
Yes
Hypoallergenic
No
Compatible with Toys
Yes
Long-Lasting
Yes

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How We Rank Products

Our Evaluation Process

The 'How We Choose' section for water-based lubricants outlines a thorough research methodology that evaluates products based on key factors such as ingredients, pH balance, viscosity, and compatibility with various materials. Specific considerations for this category include sensitivity to ingredients, ease of cleanup, and overall safety for diverse user preferences. Rankings were determined by analyzing customer feedback, ratings from reputable sources, and price-to-value ratios, ensuring a comprehensive comparison of the ten selected products. This approach provides consumers with reliable insights based on extensive data and objective analysis.

Overall scores reflect relative ranking within this category, accounting for which limitations materially affect real-world use cases. Small differences in category scores can result in larger ranking separation when those differences affect the most common or highest-impact workflows.

Verification

  • Products evaluated through comprehensive research and analysis of ingredient safety and effectiveness.
  • Rankings based on a thorough analysis of customer feedback and expert reviews in the lubricant category.
  • Selection criteria focus on key factors such as pH balance, viscosity, and compatibility with various materials.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions from other affiliate partners.

Frequently Asked Questions About Water-Based Lubricants

What makes a water-based lubricants the "best"?

We evaluate products based on quality, performance, value for money, user reviews, durability, and ease of use. Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect the latest market offerings and user feedback.

How often do you update your water-based lubricants recommendations?

Our team continuously monitors the market for new products and updates our recommendations quarterly. We also adjust rankings based on user feedback and new testing results.

What if I'm looking for a specific type of water-based lubricants?

Our top 10 list covers the most popular and highly-rated options. If you have specific requirements, check our detailed product descriptions and pros/cons to find the best match for your needs.

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Score Breakdown

0.0 / 10

What This Award Means