How to Choose a Lubricant: Formula, Feel and Bottle Size

Faced with a shelf of lubricants that all promise a smooth feel? Start with three choices: the formula you need, the texture you prefer and the amount you will use. Then check the exact product instructions before adding it to your basket.

This guide helps you build a shortlist for a first purchase or find the right replacement for a favourite. Browse Durio's lubricant range alongside it.

1. Start with what you will use it with

If you are buying a lubricant for a toy or to use with condoms, compatibility comes first. Read the lubricant label and the instructions for the other product. A familiar brand name does not mean every formula in its range has the same compatibility.

For example, Astroglide's current Water-Based Liquid information specifies natural rubber latex condoms. Lovense's Lush 2 guide calls for water-based lubricant and advises against silicone-based or oil-based formulas. These are instructions for those particular products, so check your own model and packaging.

2. Compare the formula and the feel separately

A liquid and a thicker gel can serve different preferences even when both are water-based. Read the manufacturer's texture description rather than judging by the bottle colour.

3. Choose a bottle size you can finish

For a first purchase, a smaller bottle lets you try the texture without committing to a large amount. Once you know the exact formula suits your preferences, compare larger sizes by price per millilitre.

To compare value, divide the current price by the labelled volume. Also check the pack quantity: a small sachet, a single bottle and a multipack are different purchases. Follow the storage instructions and the expiry or period-after-opening information on your own bottle.

Three shopping routes to consider

A plain, fragrance-free water-based option

Lovense Water-Based Lubricant 100 ml is an option to compare if you want an unfragranced formula in one 100 ml bottle. Lovense describes this formula as glycerin-free and paraben-free. Check the product information and your other items' instructions before pairing them.

An unflavoured formula with a published ingredient list

Sliquid Naturals H2O 4.2 oz offers an unscented, unflavoured water-based choice. The manufacturer's information lists its ingredients and describes compatibility with several toy materials. Choose H2O by its exact name: other Sliquid ranges have different formulas and effects.

Replacing an Astroglide favourite

Compare Astroglide formulas and sizes if you already know the product you want to replenish. Match the full formula name on your previous bottle, then check the size. Liquid, Gel and silicone-based products are separate choices.

Open each product page for its current price and availability. These are shopping options to compare, not a promise that one formula will suit everyone.

Before you check out

• Match the exact formula, size and pack quantity.
• Check ingredients and compatibility for the products you plan to use together.
• Keep flavour or warming effects out of your shortlist unless you want them.
• Read the label when your order arrives, as formulations and packaging can change.

Still deciding between two options? Send us their product names and tell us which details you want to compare. You can also find your match or look up a previous order.

See how your order is packed and billed. Available delivery options are shown as you order.

Product information sources

Checked 13 September 2026: Lovense Water-Based Lubricant, Lovense Lush 2 instructions, Astroglide Water-Based Liquid and Sliquid Naturals H2O.