Do It Yourself (DIY) Lube!

By Teen Health Source

Did you know that you can make your own lube in your kitchen?

Lubricant, also known as lube, is a gel-like substance that’s intended to reduce friction, making sex acts feel smoother and more comfortable. Lube can make all kinds of sex feel much better, on your own, with a partner, with toys — you name it! Buying lube can be pretty easy (you can buy lube in many drugstores) but for many reasons it can also be tricky for some people (like if you don’t have a lot of money, are under 18 and not able to buy lube from sex stores, can’t access a sexual health clinic for free samples, etc.).

If you are unable to get lube that is made specifically for sexual purposes, there are a few things you could try to make on your own!

As a general disclaimer though, it’s always a good idea to do a skin patch test before using your DIY lube. This is where you test out the homemade lube on a different area of your body that your butt or your genitals, just to make sure that you’re not going to have an allergic reaction or anything to it (which can really ruin a romantic mood). A good place to test is on the inside of your elbow. Keep in mind that you know your body best, and some of these products may not work for you, but there are still lots of options!

Planned Parenthood Toronto [Link] and many sexual health clinics offer free lube samples, but if that’s not accessible for you, here are some alternatives:

Aloe Vera

• Always make sure to use 100% pure aloe vera, available at most pharmacies or drug stores or from your own plant if you have one.
• Avoid store-bought aloe vera gels with alcohol.
• Pure aloe vera is also compatible with condoms, as it has no oils or any properties that can break down latex!

Coconut/Olive/Avocado Oil

• Can be a great option for masturbation.
• Ideally using organic, unrefined, no sugar oils is best.
• Cannot be used with condoms, as oil-based lubes break down condoms and reduce their effectiveness.
• Can cause urinary tract infections (UTI’s), especially if people are prone to them, but it can be helpful to pee right after sexual activity to try to reduce this! 

DIY Water-Based Lube Recipe

• You can make your own lube by mixing 1 cup of water to 4 teaspoons of corn starch for a great home-made water-based lube.
• Slowly bring the mixture to a boil in a saucepan on a low to medium heat, and then stir frequently for about 30 seconds, and it should be set to go.
• Condom Friendly!

Here are some links with more ideas and strategies for DIY lube:

• Bustle – 3 Natural Alternatives To Lube Because Your Household Items Will Help You Improvise [Link]
• Scarleteen – Lube 101: A Slick Little Primer [Link]
• Lube Zone – How to Make Your Own Lube for Sex [Link]

Check out our Making Safer Sex Sexy info page for information on non-DIY lube [Link].

If you have questions about this topic, feel free to contact one of our peer educators. [Link]

Last Updated: April 2020