Beyond the toy itself, a handful of accessories make the difference between a good experience and an uncomfortable one: the right lubricant, a proper cleaner, and simple storage. None of it is complicated, but almost none of it is optional either.
Even with full arousal, most bodies benefit from added lubrication for comfortable, friction-free sex or toy use. The type matters. Water-based formulas are compatible with every toy material and every condom type, which makes them the safest default. Silicone-based lubricants last longer but will degrade silicone toys over time, so they should be reserved for skin-to-skin contact only.
Dame's Aloe Lube is a water-based formula built around organic aloe vera and plant-derived extracts, including hemp seed, quinoa seed, and green tea extracts. It's formulated to match the vagina's natural pH and is free of glycerin, parabens, sugar, and added hormones, which matters because glycerin in particular can feed yeast and increase infection risk for people prone to it. A 4 fl oz bottle runs $19 and is compatible with all toy materials, including silicone.
| Water-Based (e.g. Alu) | Silicone-Based | Oil-Based | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toy compatibility | All materials | Not for silicone toys | Degrades latex, avoid with toys |
| Condom compatibility | Latex and polyisoprene safe | Latex safe | Not latex-safe |
| Longevity | Reapply as needed | Long-lasting | Long-lasting |
| Best for | Everyday use, toys, sensitive skin | Water play, extended sessions | External massage only |
A mild, unscented soap or a dedicated toy cleaner is the other non-negotiable. Skip antibacterial soaps and anything fragranced, both of which can irritate sensitive tissue on the next use. For 100% silicone toys with no electronic components, occasional boiling offers a full sterilization option that a wipe-down can't match.
A breathable fabric pouch, the kind that comes standard with most Dame products, keeps a toy clean between uses without trapping moisture the way a sealed plastic bag does. Keeping separate toys in separate pouches also prevents silicone-on-silicone contact, which over time can cause the material to degrade or feel tacky.
Some people benefit from an arousal serum applied externally before sex, designed to gently increase blood flow and sensitivity in the clitoral area. These are a supplement to, not a replacement for, adequate time and stimulation, but they can be a useful addition for people navigating lower sensitivity, whether from hormonal changes, medication, or general variation.
None of these accessories are exciting on their own, but they're the difference between a toy that lasts years and stays comfortable to use, and one that causes irritation or breaks down early. Getting the basics right is what makes everything else about sexual wellness products actually work the way they're supposed to.
What ingredients should I avoid in a lubricant? Glycerin, parabens, added fragrances, and warming or tingling agents are the most common irritants. Glycerin in particular can increase the risk of yeast infections for people prone to them.
Is Alu the same product as Aloe Lube? Yes. Alu is now Dame's Aloe Lube. Both refer to the same water-based, pH-matched formula.
Can I use the same lubricant with all my toys? A water-based lubricant like Dame's Aloe Lube is compatible with all toy materials, including silicone. Silicone-based lubricants should not be used with silicone toys, since they can degrade the material over time.
How often should I replace toy storage bags or pouches? Fabric pouches can be washed and reused indefinitely as long as they stay dry and clean. Replace one if it develops a persistent odor or visible wear.
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