The most important items in my toy box are a good massage oil and a lubricant with a nice consistency. There are significant differences in how they feel and their effects.
I mainly use a water-based lubricant, a silicone-based lubricant, various massage oils, and also oil-based lubricating creams.

A water-based lubricant can be used for almost everything. A high-quality lubricant has a good consistency, is odorless, tasteless, and safe for sex with condoms and sex toys. My favorite water-based lubricant is Mister B Lube.

However, this lubricant is not suitable for massages as it tends to dry out quickly. During sex, it feels great at the beginning. But if the fun lasts longer, it needs to be reapplied as it tends to dry out quickly and become sticky over time. Therefore, for masturbation and longer-lasting activities, other lubricants are more suitable.

PROS
– Compatible with condoms/sex toys
– Easy to clean with water (water-soluble)
– Feels great (for the first few minutes)
– Affordable

CONS
– Dries out quickly and becomes sticky
– Needs to be reapplied
– Gets absorbed during anal sex
– Some contain PEG derivatives

I generally do not use lubricants with cooling, warming, or tingling effects. With these lubricants, it is often entirely unclear which ingredients cause these effects. I also find the frequent warning not to get these gels in the eyes to be concerning.

Silicone-based lubricants have the longest durability during play, feel incredibly smooth, and are a great all-rounder. They do not become sticky even after prolonged use and are also suitable for massages.

I prefer the silicone-based lubricant Mister B Glide for prostate massages, as it lasts much longer, does not require repeated application, and is compatible with condoms. Silicone-based lubricants do not contain water and are not absorbed by the anal tissue during use.

The downside is that they can damage and dissolve the surface of sex toys (except for those made of glass and metal), which is a significant health concern. Additionally, they cannot be removed with water and soap. A special silicone cleaning agent is recommended.

PROS
– Smooth, silky consistency
– Usually, one application is sufficient
– Compatible with condoms
-  Particularly suitable for the anal area

CONS
– not to be used with every sex toy
– difficult to remove (not water-soluble)
– Slightly more expensive

Regarding massage oils, one must try out different options. Most men prefer odorless oils. That's why I use almond oil. Just be cautious not to buy oil that is too thick, as they are less suitable for massages. While essential oils smell good, they are not suitable for intimate areas. You'll notice this when it starts to burn.

I particularly like coconut oil because it feels excellent on the skin. The scent always reminds me of summer, the beach, and sunscreen.

However, massage oils can be a nightmare for clothing and bed linen, especially coconut oil, which loses its pleasant scent after a few hours. Natural oils that remain on clothing can become rancid over time and leave difficult-to-remove stains. 

After a massage, it's advisable to shower, or at home, wash the clothes as soon as possible.

PROS
– Does not dry out
– Very skin-friendly
– Almond oil is odorless
– Coconut oil feels godd on the skin

CONS
– May cause condoms to break
– Can make latex porous
– Difficult-to-remove stains on clothing/bed linen
– Avoid products containing paraffin

Oil-based lubricants have a creamy consistency and never dry out, which is particularly important for anal play to avoid injuries. However, the oil also makes silicone gloves and condoms porous.

I prefer the lubricating cream Boy Butter, which has an extremely long-lasting glide without drying out. It is oil-based, providing lubrication without being sticky or dripping. It is made from coconut oil and organic silicone, which is also found in hair conditioners. The cream has a homogenized texture like real butter and is hypoallergenic, making it safe for all toys. It can be easily washed out of bed linen or clothing with water.

PROS
– Never dries out
– Very long-lasting glide
– on-sticky
– Hypoallergenic
– Safe with sex toys
– Water-soluble

CONS
– Makes condoms porous
– Slightly more expensive

As a general rule of thumb, lubricants should be used up within three months after opening. While they do not need to be stored in the refrigerator, it is advisable to protect them from direct heat or sunlight. A cool cupboard is ideal. Massage oils can last up to a year when stored in a light-protected manner.