Water-based lubricants

Why water-based is the default. It works with everything: silicone toys, latex condoms (always confirm on the specific label), and all skin types. If you're buying your first lube or replacing an old one, water-based is the safe answer — silicone lube lasts longer but shouldn't touch silicone toys, which is most of what we sell.

Thin, medium, or thick — texture is the real difference between bottles. Thin formulas like Sliquid H2O feel closest to natural moisture and suit everyday use. Mid-weight formulas with hyaluronic acid, like Sutil Luxe and Intamo's Smooth Operator, hold their glide noticeably longer. Thick, cushiony formulas like Sutil Rich provide the most padding and staying power — a popular choice for anyone dealing with dryness, and during menopause when extra comfort helps. There's no "best" tier; there's the right tier for the job in front of you.

Match the formula to the job. For toys: any water-based formula here is safe on every material we sell. For condoms: water-based is the compatible choice — check the condom box and the lube label, as we always say, because manufacturers publish the pairing. For anal comfort: use a formula built for it, like Pjur Back Door or Analyse Me — deliberately thicker, because that's what the job needs. For sensitive skin: glycerin-free and paraben-free formulas (Sliquid H2O, Sliquid Oceanics) or the organic, pH-balanced YES formula are the gentle end of the shelf.

Read the ingredient list — three things worth knowing. Glycerin-free: many people prefer to avoid glycerin, and several of our formulas leave it out entirely. pH-balanced: formulas matched to the body's natural pH tend to feel comfortable longer. Hyaluronic acid: the same moisture-holding ingredient used in skincare, here for a longer-lasting, silkier glide — it's what separates Sutil Luxe from a basic bottle.

How much to use, and when to reapply. More than you think, less than a mess: start with a coin-sized amount and add as needed. Water-based lube absorbs into the skin over time — that's normal, not a defect. Reapply freely, or revive what's there with a few drops of water. If you're reapplying constantly, don't fight it: move up a thickness tier.

Does lube expire? Yes. Every bottle we sell carries an expiry date — check it, the way you would sunscreen. An open bottle also meets air and fingers, so store it capped, cool, and out of the sun, and if the texture, colour, or smell ever changes, replace it. A bottle is not where to economize on something going on the most sensitive skin you own.

What NOT to use instead. Household substitutes are the most common lube mistake we see asked about. Oils — coconut, baby oil, massage oil — degrade latex condoms, cling to skin and toys, and are harder for the body to clear. Petroleum jelly and lotions aren't made for internal use at all, and lotions often carry fragrance exactly where you don't want it. Saliva dries in seconds and carries its own drawbacks. A purpose-made water-based lube costs a few dollars more than improvising, and it's better at the job in every measurable way.

The Canadian angle. Sutil is made in British Columbia — clean formulas, made here, and the reason it anchors this collection. More homegrown picks live in our Made in Canada collection.

Still deciding between water-based and silicone? Short version: water-based for toys and versatility, silicone for longevity and water play — never silicone lube on silicone toys. The full comparison is in our guide.