Can You Use Coconut Oil As Lube?

By: Syeda Khaula Saad

The perfectly stocked nightstand usually comes with a few essentials: your favorite condoms, your go-to toy, and lots of lube. But for some people, that top drawer has something a little more... tropical — a jar of coconut oil.

Coconut oil has long been hyped as a “natural,” “healthier” alternative to store-bought lube — even Gwyneth Paltrow once told her Goop disciples to slather it on. But is this pantry staple really as great in bed as it sounds?

Let’s rewind a bit. The Ancient Greeks used olive oil as lube. Other cultures tried everything from mashed yams to plain old spit. Then came Vaseline — a slippery innovation that, while terrible for sex (please stop using Vaseline as lube), paved the way for the lubes we actually should be using today.

So it makes sense that you might reach for your trusty tub of coconut oil before getting down to business. But here’s the thing: we now know better.

WHAT'S SO WRONG WITH COCONUT OIL?

People love coconut oil because it feels moisturizing and seems gentler than whatever’s on the drugstore shelf. Especially for those with sensitive skin, it can feel safer to go “all-natural.”
But here’s the not-so-sexy truth: coconut oil can wreck your condom.

Yup — latex breaks down fast when it comes into contact with oil. In just 60 seconds, your condom can lose its effectiveness almost immediately, leaving you open to STIs and surprise pregnancies. (This is exactly why water- and silicone-based lubes exist.)

Even if you’re having a solo-session, coconut oil can still mess things up. Its high pH doesn’t play well with your vagina’s naturally acidic environment, making yeast infections and irritation way more likely. Some people even have allergic reactions to it.

Oh, and did I mention it stains? I’m all for messing up some sheets, but coconut oil will not wash out easily.

WHAT SHOULD YOU USE INSTEAD?

Coconut oil is great for cooking, deep conditioning, and smelling like vacation — but maybe not for sex. We’ve come a long way since the olive oil days, and modern lubes are made specifically for your body (and your condoms).

If what you love about coconut oil is how “natural” it feels or tastes, you don’t have to give that up. #LUBELIFE has options that fit whatever vibe you’re going for — from clean and simple to flavored and fun. There’s something for everyone — and no ruined sheets required.

• If you like coconut oil because it’s cheap… All of #LUBELIFE’s lubes are super affordable, with 4oz options starting at just $6.99.
• If you like coconut oil because it tastes good… Try one of #LUBELIFE’s flavored lubes like Watermelon or Piña Colada
• If you like coconut oil because you don’t like the texture of most lubes… #LUBELIFE's Jizzy Juice Cum Lubricant may be the feeling you’re looking for
• If you like coconut oil because you think you need a thicker lubricant… You might like #LUBELIFE’s Ultra Slick Thick Silicone Lube
• If you like coconut oil simply because you love coconuts… Our Coconut Hybrid Lubricant may be the perfect fit