When in doubt, the best lube for anal play is thick lube. “Silicone-based lubes are considered top-tier for anal play because they stay on for longer periods of time compared to water-based lubes, which are more-easily absorbed into the body, ” Soper explains. That said, if you're adding silicone toys into the mix, avoid silicone-based lube—it can cause deterioration, which can both ruin your toys and create a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.