WHICH LUBE IS BEST FOR ME: SILICONE OR WATER BASED?

We’ve been getting questions: Silicone or Water-Based? What’s the difference, and which one should I use?
 
Spoiler alert: It’s not about which is “better.” It’s about which is best for YOU.
 
Think of silicone and water-based lubes like wine and liquor—both fantastic, but totally different experiences. Some days, it’s a silicone vibe; other days, it’s water-based. And hey, sometimes you mix them (unlike wine and liquor, that’s just fine here).
 
Let’s break it down.

Silicone-Based Lubricants

Why They’re Fabulous:

  • Long-Lasting Glide: Silicone doesn’t absorb into your skin or dissolve in water, making it your go-to for extended play or shower fun.
  • Silky Smooth: Its texture feels like liquid luxury—imagine soft satin that never dries out. Just what the doctor ordered for anal or vaginal fun, a hot self-pleasure moment, or marathon sessions.
  • Newbie?: At one point, almost all of us have been new to anal sex, and silicone can help ensure maximum comfort for beginners. And who knows, you may love it so much you’ll never say the words “top only” again! 

The Ingredient Story:

Silicone-based lubes are made with synthetic ingredients (but don’t freak out lots of things we put on and in our bodies are “synthetic” - Aspirin, for example, is synthetic) and are safe for use on and especially in the body.  That said, we totally get some folks prefer more natural ingredients, if that's you you'll want to check out our Hydrating (BUM) Lube made with organic aloe!

Premium formulas have several high-quality silicones - our Silicone (BUM) Lube features four silicone ingredients giving you that rich silky texture. Most formulas begin with dimethicone; economy lubes might add one or two extra silicones like dimethiconol or cyclopentasiloxane skimping on silicone ingredients and adding fillers.  Those extra silicones are what make our formula so premium, we are attempting to offer an ultra luxury product at approachable prices. At the end of the day preference is personal and some folks might simply prefer the texture that comes with fewer ingredients - no shade or judgement from us - but do know that the fewer silicones in the formula the less you should be spending per ounce.

 
Pro tip: If the ingredient list has “trace” mentions, it’s like ordering a fancy cocktail and realizing it’s mostly ice. Also watch out for packaging and amount, if the container looks custom or fancy it's possible the packaging costs more than the lube inside which means you're getting less for more.

The Fine Print:

  • Clean-Up: You’ll need a little soap and water post-play
  • Potential Staining: Wash those sheets regularly (please), and silicone shouldn’t leave a lasting mark.

Water-Based Lubricants

Why They’re Fabulous:

  • Natural Feel: Mimics your body’s lubrication, creating a wet, natural vibe that’s ideal for vaginal play and oral fun (and of course anal too!)
  • Easy Clean-Up: Water-based lubes absorb into the skin and rinse right off. And yes, soap isn’t even required (but hygiene is still cute, so maybe wash up anyway).
  • Toy-Safe: Unlike silicone, water-based lubes are compatible with most materials—glass, silicone, rubber, you name it!


The Ingredient Story

Water-based lubes often start with—you guessed it—water; but why use just water when an organic ingredient that’s 99% water exists?  Keep in mind, just because it's a water base doesn't mean the lube is using natural ingredients.
 
That’s where aloe comes in, offering added hydration and a gentle touch for sensitive skin. 

Rounding out the supporting cast of our Hydrating (BUM) Lube are natural ingredients like mushroom extract and quinoa seed extracts which add to the hydration & lubricating effects. Cheaper options might use fewer, more synthetic ingredients, which can lead to quicker drying or stickiness and a less natural experience.  Again, we've got nothing against synthetic ingredients but if you're going to use a water base why wouldn't you have more natural ingredients?
 
Pro tip: If it feels like honey after 5 minutes, upgrade your lube game.

The Fine Print:

  • Shorter Glide: You’ll likely need to reapply during the all-night sexcapades, but this is by design and part of the sensory adventure (remember: a more natural experience, it’s not like your body gets wet once and is done)
  • Party of 1?: Will the water-based lube get you across the solo-pleasure finish line? Absolutely. Will it dry faster out in the open air compared to use with vaginal or anal play? Also yes. 

So, which one is better? Neither. The real question is, which one is right for you?
 
For Long-Lasting Play: Go silicone.

For a Natural Feel, or to put your toy collection to good use: Opt for water-based.

For Versatility: Stock both!

The truth is, you might love one for solo play and the other for a night of Netflix and chill. Experiment and have every ounce of fun while doing it. 

At (BUM), we pride ourselves on offering best-in-class lubes for every type of adventure. Whether you’re reaching for our Silicone (BUM) Lube or Hydrating (BUM) Lube, you’re getting a product designed for versatility, pleasure, and maximum YES.
 
Ready to Stock Up?

Whether you’re team silicone or team water-based, we’re here to make every experience a little smoother (and a lot more fun).

Both are on sale across our website and Amazon.
 
Can't decide which to get? Grab both and take advantage of free shipping plus 10% off your entire order for having 2+ items in your cart while shopping on our site. 

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