If there’s one thing most sexually adventurous folks can agree on, it’s that lube makes sex better. Slicker, wetter sex allows you to go longer and deeper, makes it easier to orgasm, and can help make safe sex even safer. There are times, however, when lube can turn sex into a slippery, sticky mess and make it tough to keep a firm grasp on each other — and your toys! This is especially true for anal sex and vaginal penetration using larger insertables, because they require lots of lube applied in all the right places, and sometimes a squirt bottle just won’t cut it. That’s why lube launchers exist and are growing in popularity.
What are lube launchers?
Slicker, wetter sex allows you to go longer and deeper, makes it easier to orgasm, and can help make safe sex even safer.
Lube launchers are syringe-like devices designed to easily, quickly and efficiently insert a large amount of lube in or on the body. They are more accurate than application with a finger or pump bottle and allow for deep, even distribution. Because the anus isn't self-lubricating and is prone to chafing and tearing, lube launchers are particularly useful — and popular — for anal play.
How do you use a lube launcher?
A lube launcher consists of a cylinder that holds the liquid plus a plunger that fits inside to push the lube out. Its setup is similar to a syringe or tampon applicator. You can fill the applicator two different ways. The simplest is inserting the end of the lube launcher into a bottle of lube and slowly pulling the plunger up to suck the fluid into the cylinder. The drawback to this method is the risk of contaminating your bottle of lube. If you opt for this technique, always make sure your lube launcher is clean, and never double dip.
Alternatively, you can fill the stopper by removing the plunger and pouring lube directly into the cylinder. It’s important to hold your finger over the other end so lube doesn’t drip out. Put the stopper back in, turn the launcher upright, and remove your finger from the hole. Before application, push any remaining air out of the lube launcher. This method is best if you intend to go back for seconds or if you’re using a larger, specialty lube launcher.
Don’t forget to lube up the outside of your launcher for comfortable insertion! Once it’s inserted where you want it, simply push the plunger down. While most of the lube should be placed deep into the desired area, you don’t want it all to end up there. As you’re squeezing the plunger, slowly pull the tip of the launcher out. This will ensure the lube is deposited throughout the length of the rectum or vaginal canal.
Many basic lube applicators are made from low-price, rigid plastic and tend to be on the smaller side. Many are one-use-only disposable items. Those into anal play and deep vaginal stimulation can benefit from an upgrade. Premium launchers are often made from comfortable and hygienic silicone and hold much more than basic models, and they also have optional textures that leave them feeling more like a sex toy than a lube launcher.
While the silicone material of larger, deluxe launchers provides more comfort and easier clean-up, it is not recommended for use with silicone lube. Oil-based or water-based lubricants are recommended with silicone applicators. Because lube launchers are often used prior to intense anal exploration, specialized lube is a popular choice.
Basic lube applicators allow you to lubricate parts of the body you normally can’t access, but they also leave much to be desired. Premium versions take hygiene, comfort and pleasure into account without breaking the bank. In fact, silicone launchers that double as pleasure devices are reasonably priced — often only a few dollars more than starter models. It's a smart move to upgrade to a silicone lube launcher that doubles as a delicious love-making tool, and even smarter for retailers to stock multiple options with which shoppers can explore.
Rebecca Weinberg is the President of XR Brands.
