Condoms and lube
In this article
What's the lowdown?
Condoms and lube are safe to use together, as long as you use water-based or silicone-based lubes with latex condoms
Never use oil-based lube with latex condoms as it can cause the condom to break
Put the lube on the outside of the condom, after it’s been rolled onto the penis
Don’t put the lube on the penis before putting the condom on as it could cause the condom to slip off
Can you use lube with condoms?
Yes! Most condoms are already lubed. They come coated with a thin layer of silicone-based or water-based lube to enhance comfort, so make sure you check the ingredients list carefully before using. This pre-applied lube may not be enough for people.
If you are using lube with condoms, then make sure you avoid anything that’s oil-based as it can break down latex condoms and increase your chance of pregnancy1. When we say “oil-based” this includes, but is not limited to; baby oil, vaseline and hand cream.
To reduce the chance of the condom breaking, which could lead to pregnancy or even an STI, make sure you use a silicone or water-based lubricant instead1.
The best condom safe lube would be water-based lubricant or silicon-based lubricant, as this works with both latex and non-latex condoms. So if you’re unsure of what to use – just remember you can’t go wrong with water-based lube.
How to use lube for condoms?
We have a great article to help understand why using lube is so great and would recommend having a read of that in addition to this one.
You should apply lube to the outside of the condom, or inside the vagina or anus – depending on the sex you’re having. It’s important that you don’t put the lube on the penis before putting the condom on, as this could cause the condom to slip off during sex.
If you feel any friction you can always re-apply more lube to the outside of the condom, but always start with just enough. Using extra lube is highly recommended for anal sex, to help prevent the condom from breaking or falling off.
Water based lube and condoms
What are the benefits of using water based lube?
- Generally made from safe ingredients
- Can also hydrate dry skin
- Comfortable glide and has the feel of natural vaginal lubrication
- Easy to clean and non-staining
- Great for people experiencing vaginal dryness or pain during sex
The only cons are that water-based lube can dry out more quickly than other lubes, and so may have to be reapplied often. It’s always important to check the ingredients list, though, in case it does contain something that causes you irritation.
Silicone lube and condoms
What are the benefits of using silicone based lube?
- Safe and effective to use with all condom types
- Longer-lasting than water-based lube
- Ideal for reducing friction
- Apparently, the texture of silicone lube may be more pleasurable than any other types2
Be aware, though, that silicone lube can stain sheets (more washing… yay…) and some people have reported irritation if not washed off properly after vaginal intercourse2. Our top tip would be to use fragrance-free soap and warm water to wash off properly.
Coconut oil and condoms
What are the benefits of using coconut oil?
- Coconut oil can be used with polyisoprene or polyurethane (non-latex) condoms
- It has a nice smell!
- Okay to use for masturbation
There’s a reason there’s practically no benefits here… Because oil-based, like coconut oil, can reduce condom efficacy by up to 90%. Hence why you should stay clear of them and try to use water-based lube instead. It can also cause pH imbalances in the vagina, which could lead to infections.
Is lube needed for condoms?
Lubricants can add extra pleasure to intercourse, because it can help reduce any possible friction which in turn lessens the chance for the condom to break or split during sex2. Other bonuses include; preventing irritation and chafing – because they’re honestly the last thing you want during sex.
Should you put lube inside a condom?
Apply lube to the outside of the condom, or directly to the area you’re focusing on, but just make sure you’re not putting it on before rolling the condom on, as this can cause it to slip off mid-way through.
If things start feeling a little dry, just reapply to the outside of the condom. Just start with a small amount and add more as needed.
Can lube break condoms?
If you don’t use the correct lubes for the type of condoms that you use, then yes. So if you’re not looking to get even accidentally pregnant, then make sure you are aware of those golden lube rules!
The best lube for condoms
We would recommend the Yes Organics Water Based lube (*affiliate link). Our Dr. Fran has been OBSESSED with it for years and recommends it to literally everyone who is looking for a good option to combat vaginal dryness or painful sex. It’s also vegan and doesn’t dry out quickly like other lubricants can do.
Have you used this product before? Let us know!
Ellie Jones
Social Media Lead, The Lowdown
Ellie started as a social media intern for The Lowdown during her gap-year and now works as their social media and marketing lead. She has a strong passion for women's health including; how women's health is impacting our environment and women's rights across the world.
Our medical review process
This article has been medically reviewed for factual and up to date information by a Lowdown doctor.
