What’s the Best Lube for Anal Sex?

Here’s why you need lube for anal sex

If you’re already an anal sex fan, you’ll know that using lube is essential for safe, sensual butt play. And you don’t just have to take our word for it…

Sarah Mulindwa is a specialist sexual health nurse with 15 years’ experience under her belt. She says, “Taking care of yourself and each other when you’re trying anal is so important — and lube is an essential part of that.”

“A high-quality lube for anal sex will be thicker and longer lasting,” Sarah continues. “Not only does it add that sexy, slippery feel, but helps to keep things comfortable, minimizing the risk of tearing.”

Studies by the Centre for Sexual Health Promotion found that “ratings of sexual pleasure and satisfaction were significantly higher when… lubricant was used during anal intercourse, compared to sex without a lubricant.”

Even the World Health Organisation is a fan, calling the use of lube a sexual ‘self-care’ practice – we love to see it! According to the WHO’s peer reviewed literature, these are the reasons people use lube:

More pleasure, for you and your partner

Less dryness, pain, or discomfort

Lower risk of anal or vaginal tearing

Easier to feel aroused and ready for sex

Lower chance of condoms breaking, and making condom use more enjoyable

And these benefits absolutely apply to anal sex as well as good ol’ vaginal sex. Not only that, but don’t need to be playing with a partner to benefit from giving yourself a drizzle of anal lube. If you’re up for trying anal masturbation, or using anal sex toys like butt plugs or prostate massagers on yourself, lube’s only going to make things wetter and better.

What’s the best lube for anal?

Our selfless team of product testers have worked tirelessly to figure out which of our anal lubes is the best of the best. They’ve tried them out during solo anal play, with partners and using anal sex toys — and crowned their faves in the five categories below.

Drum roll please: here are the lubes that came out on top!

Best pump-action water-based anal lube

Our bestselling Lovehoney Discover is water-based (like most lubes out there), so it’s non-staining and easy to wash away, “No taste or smell, but it has a nice slip and slide effect for excellent anal fun,” says one reviewer. A water-based lube like this one is also handy because it’s compatible with all toys and condoms. Plus: Discover comes in a range of sizes, so you can grab one for both your bedside table and your weekend bag — it’s also thicker and longer-lasting than regular lube.

Pros:

A super-smooth staple for anal lovers

Cons:

Some people find it needs a few applications, though most are ready to go after just one

Best long-lasting silicone anal lube

The combination of jojoba and high-grade silicone helps relax your anus, making it easier to slide right in. Don’t worry though, there’s no lidocaine or benzocaine here, so you can use it regularly without risk of numbing.

“It lasts long, has an oily feel, not sticky, and no smell. It allows everything to glide and slide perfectly,” says a reviewer. As a silicone lube, it’s likely to stay slippery for longer than most water-based lubes — and it’s perfect for sex sessions in the shower, because it doesn’t wash off easily without soap.

Pros:

Gently relaxing and super slick for easier penetration

Cons:

Watch out for staining, and check your toys are compatible with silicone lube

Best vegan anal lube

Stick to your ethics while staying slippery: Sliquid Sassy sex lube is a great vegan option for your butt-fun escapades. It’s organic, too — using natural plant cellulose instead of the usual glycerin to create a comfortable cushioning effect during anal penetration. It’s also water-based, so it’s ready to use with all your toys and condoms.

“This is by far my favourite lube I’ve ever used,” says Ash, a Lovehoney reviewer. “I’ve tried other lubes and spit to see how they worked for me and nothing is as pleasant as this lube. And it lasts FOREVER.”

Pros:

Perfect for plant-based anal fans

Cons:

Some customers find it a little pricey

Best travel-sized anal lube

This sleek, discreet little bottle is perfect for stashing in your overnight bag. It might be small, but this lube’s got plenty of staying power; its thick, water-based formula helps to create a silky-smooth glide during play. It’s compatible with everything in your sex-toy collection as well.

“Almost like a silicone-based lube when used but safe for toys,” remarks ChockM, noting the silky texture. “Not sticky and lasts a long time.”

Pros:

Pocket-sized lube; perfect for long-lasting, on-the-go fun

Cons:

We only stock this product as a mini right now, so try another brand if you need to size up

Best lube for fisting

Designed to coat your fist quickly and easily, this lube comes in a wide, 1000ml tub; just dunk and go. This is our best anal lube for playing with larger dildos and vibrators, according to reviewers.

“It is without a doubt the best lube I’ve used and it doesn’t run out too quickly,” says Typical F. “Extra thick is no lie, it’s so much better to use for ‘heavy duty’ toys than its runnier counterparts and my bum’s proper happy.”

We also stock a version of this product that contains menthol; this creates a gently soothing sensation for extra support when you play.

Pros:

A heavy-duty, water-based formula for advanced anal players

Cons:

Some people find it can be a bit messy — so have a towel at the ready

What else can I use as lube for anal?

If you’re wondering what anal feels like without the right lube, it’s not fun! Make sure anal play stays pleasurable and safe by using specially formulated anal lubricant.

The World Health Organisation recommends avoiding oil-based lubes if you’re using condoms, because they “can cause breakage and slippage”. The WHO also advises against using cooking oil, body lotion, butter, coconut oil, or baby oil, since many household products like these have a “damaging effect on latex condoms”.

Like Sarah, we’d always recommend using lube that’s specially formulated for the activity at hand. If you’re thinking about other options, be sure it’ll give you the slickness and support you need for anal sex – to keep your delicate anal area free from injury or infection.

Can you use Vaseline as anal lubricant?

The WHO names Vaseline as a product to avoid during sex too, because it can damage condoms. It can also stain sheets and increase the risk of infection. Stick with water-based lubricant or silicone-based lubricant instead, and make sure it’s designed for anal use; you’ll have a whole lot more fun.