We all know that anal lubricant is essential for having great anal sex or for getting the most arousing fun out of our anal toys. That just leaves one burning question—what lubricant do I get for anal play? While there are lots of lubricants on the market that are great for typical sexual escapades, when you add anal sex into the equation, you want anal lubricant. Anal lubes are specially formulated for use during anal activities—they’re thicker than regular lubricant, don’t require so many reapplications during anal play, and these qualities mean they’re the best types of lubricants on the market for making anal play safe, enjoyable, and arousing.

Oil-based lubricants aren’t recommended for anal sex—their formulation can break down the latex in condoms, definitely a bad thing when you’re talking about anal sex. Water-based anal lubricants like Maximus and silicone-based lubes such as System JO are fine lubricants for your anal needs, so what do you need to bear in mind when selecting a type of anal lubricant?

Your primary concern should be whether anal toys will be involved. Specifically, sensual aids that are made out of silicone. If this is the case, go for a water-based anal lubricant. A silicone-based lubricant will break down the sensual aid’s material composition, rendering it deformed and useless in a hurry. Also, while silicone-based anal lubricant are longer lasting than their water-based cousins, they can also be a bit sticky and require a little extra effort to wash off. Water-based lubricants have their own drawbacks, chiefly in that being water-based; they’ll wash away or dissolve quickly if used during anal sex in a tub or shower.

Ultimately, both water and silicone-based anal lubes will do the job you want and make anal sex comfortable and enjoyable. Which one is the best depends on what kind of anal activities you want to engage in. So go ahead and get both—you’ll be covered for any kind of anal play you care to indulge in.