Silicone Lube vs Silicone Toys [We Tested It]

Are you wondering if you can use silicone lube with your silicone sex toys? You’re not alone.

We’ll dive into lab tests examining the effects of silicone lube on silicone toys in both the short and long term. You’ll learn why silicone lubes might degrade certain toys and which materials are safe to use together. Plus, we’ll explain the many benefits of silicone lubes and why they remain a top choice despite these concerns.

Ready to find out if silicone lube is right for your toys? Keep reading to get the full scoop!

Is Silicone (or oil) Lubes Safe for Silicone Toys?

No! Silicone and oil lubricants and silicone toys are generally incompatible due to the risk of chemical degradation and damage to the toy’s surface.

As evidenced in the lab tests below, it is challenging to determine precisely when a silicone sex toy becomes unsafe after contact with silicone lube. This uncertainty arises because silicone sex toys vary in quality.

High-quality, medical-grade silicone sex toys are more durable and safer than those made from lower-quality materials or silicone blends. However, the sex toy industry is relatively unregulated, so even products labeled as medical-grade silicone may contain inferior materials. Therefore, it is crucial to use water-based lubricants, which are safe for all toy materials and do not pose the same risks as silicone or oil-based lubricants.

Lab Test: The Use Of Silicon Lubes on Silicone Toys

To understand the effects of silicone lube on silicone sex toys, we conducted our own lab test. We observed the changes after one day and after two months, documenting the condition of the silicone dildo with photographs before and throughout the test. Here are the results.

Day 0 – The day we started the project

Step 1: Silicone dildo in hand
Step 1: Silicone dildo in hand
Step 2: Silicone Dildo in Glass
Step 2: Silicone dildo in glass
Step 3: Silicone dildo in glass with silicone lube
Step 3: Silicone dildo in glass with silicone lube

Day 1 – The day after we started

Step 4: Took the dildo out of the glass. We couldn't really see any difference after 1 day.
Step 4: Took the dildo out of the glass. We couldn’t really see any difference after 1 day.
Step 5: As you can see (if you zoom in), the silicone lube has not yet been absorbed by the dildo. So far, it looks okay, although the chemical interaction has already begun.
Step 5: As you can see (if you zoom in), the silicone lube has not yet been absorbed by the dildo. So far, it looks okay, although the chemical interaction has already begun.

Day 60 – The silicone dildo took a lot of damage

Step 6: As you can see, the dildo has absorbed a significant amount of silicone lube and has swollen to approximately 1.5-2 times its original size from day 0.
Step 6: As you can see, the dildo has absorbed a significant amount of silicone lube and has swollen to approximately 1.5-2 times its original size from day 0.
Step 7: When I took it out of the glass it felt sticky in a weird way (almost like it's about to melt).
Step 7: When I took it out of the glass it felt sticky in a weird way (almost like it’s about to melt).
Step 8: The final result after 60 days: Comparing it to the same silicone dildo in a different color, it's easy to see that the pink dildo has swollen and that a chemical reaction is ongoing. In other words: Don't use silicone lube with silicone toys.
Step 8: The final result after 60 days: Comparing it to the same silicone dildo in a different color, it’s easy to see that the pink dildo has swollen and that a chemical reaction is ongoing. In other words: Don’t use silicone lube with silicone toys.

Why Does Silicone Lube Not Work With Silicone Toys?

Chemical Interaction: Silicone lubricant can act as a plasticizer, which is absorbed into the silicone toy, causing it to swell. Over time, this exposure can result in the toy becoming tacky or sticky. In extreme cases, the toy might lose its cohesive strength and start to disintegrate. This occurs because plasticizers interfere with the weak bonding between polymer chains. Prolonged exposure and the effectiveness of the silicone lubricant as a solvent exacerbate this effect. The chemical interaction leads to material degradation, making the toy porous and impossible to sanitize properly, potentially leading to infections after use.

What happens when Silicone Lube is mixed with silicone toys

Can I Use Lubes with My Sex Toys?

Many people mistakenly believe that silicone-based lubricants will damage all their sex toys. However, this isn’t entirely true. Silicone-based lubes are fine on toys made of hard materials like hard plastic, aluminum, ceramic, steel, granite, wood, marble, and glass.

If your sex toy is made of or contains silicone, it’s best to use water-based lubricants. Water-based lubes are specifically tested to be safe on most sex toy materials and surfaces, and they clean up easily. Silicone-based lubricants can deteriorate softer sex toys made of silicone, jelly, or CyberSkin due to the way silicone molecules interact with other silicone products.

To be 100% sure we always recommend people to use water-based lubes for sex toys. Then you don’t have to be uncertain about whether the material is okay for silicone lube or not.

We have tested a lot of lubricants. So if you’re interested in finding the best water-based lubes. Then take a look at this best-in-test review.

Can I Use Lubes with My Sex Toys

Why Should I Buy Silicone Lubes?

Even though it might seem like silicone lubricants are a no-go, they offer a range of benefits that make them a top choice for many seeking a reliable and enjoyable lubrication experience. Here are the top 5 reasons why you should consider investing in silicone lubes:

1. Longer Lasting

One of the most significant advantages of silicone lubricants is their longevity. Unlike water-based lubes that may need frequent reapplication, silicone lubes provide a longer-lasting glide. This can enhance your experience by reducing interruptions and maintaining a smooth, silky feeling. Since silicone lubes last longer and require less frequent application, a little goes a long way. This can also make them a more economical choice, providing better value for your money.

2. Silky Smooth Sensation

Silicone lubes leave your skin feeling incredibly smooth and silky. This texture can enhance pleasure and comfort, making intimate moments more enjoyable. The unique formula of silicone lubes ensures they don’t get sticky or tacky, which is a common complaint with other types of lubricants.

3. Waterproof Properties

Silicone lubricants are naturally waterproof, making them ideal for use in wet environments. Whether you’re enjoying a steamy shower or a romantic hot tub session, silicone lube won’t wash away easily. This means you can stay slick and comfortable, even during water play. However, remember to be cautious, as the waterproof nature can make surfaces slippery.

4. Ideal for Sensitive Skin

Silicone lubes are often hypoallergenic and free from irritating ingredients, making them suitable for people with sensitive skin. They typically contain fewer additives compared to other types of lubes, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.

5. Can Be Used For Massage

Beyond intimate use, silicone lubes can also be used for massage and personal care. Their long-lasting and smooth properties make them perfect for full-body massages, leaving your skin feeling nourished and moisturized.

If you’re looking for top-quality silicone lubes, we’ve lab-tested over 30 options and selected the absolute best. Check out our round-up review of the best silicone lubes here.