Lubricant is a staple on many a bedside table, and when you go into the store, you'll see a huge variety of lubricant usually positioned right next to the family planning aisle. What's the big deal, though? And do you really need to be using lubricant? And if you want to choose some lubricant, how are you supposed to choose between all of the different kinds? To help educate you on some of the things you should know, here are the top 5 things you should know about sexual lubricant.

5. Different Types:

Contrary to popular knowledge, there are multiple types of lubricant. The most popular type is water-based lubricant. If humanly possible, start with a water-based lubricant. These are easy to clean up and can be used with any toys and are safe for latex. They may dry up more quickly than other types, but they're usually easy to reapply.

The next type of lubricant you may try is silicone-based lubricants. These stay slippery for longer, and if you're playing in the water, these are resistant to water. Silicone-based lubricants are also condom-safe, but be careful where you get the lubricant as it is much, much more difficult to clean up than water-based lubricant. Some silicone-based lubricants may also harm the silicone of a silicone toy, so keep that in mind. Some people love the long-lasting properties of silicone lubricant, though, and it has become a highly recommended type of lubricant for backdoor exploration.

Oil-based lubricants are not recommended for most people. They will destroy condoms, and they can stain sheets. In many women, the oils may also cause issue with their natural internal balance. Oil-based lubricants are best for solo male use or for massages that stay away from between the legs.

4. Ingredients Matter:

Not all lubricant is created equal. Just like some people have food allergies, some people will have irritation and sensitivity to certain types of lubricant. It has a lot to do with what ingredients are included in the lubricant. Similar to food products, the cheaper items tend to have cheaper ingredients that may irritate or bother some people. Many ingredient issues usually result in a yeast infection or irritation. If you're finding irritation after using lubricant, spring for a higher-quality bottle - in fact, you may have to go online in order to find good quality ingredients as your local stores may only sell certain varieties. (Click here to see a place to buy lubricant online.) If you're attempting to find a non-irritating lubricant, try to find one that doesn't include glycerin, non-oxynol-9, propylene glycol, preservatives, or parabens. While you're at it, also make sure to avoid any lubricants that claim "warming" or "cooling" benefits until you've figured out what ingredients are causing the irritation.

3. Watch Your Toys:

Like mentioned above, some lubricants can harm some toy materials. Never use oil-based lubricants with any types of toys. Silicone-based lubricants can sometimes harm silicone toys but is usually safe for other materials. For worry-free use, water-based lubricants can be used with any type of toy.

2. Lubricant Can Inhibit Conception:

If you're trying to get pregnant, some lubricants can inhibit conception. To avoid this, there are a couple conception-enhancing lubricants out there. Seek out one of those types of lubricants to use while trying to conceive to make sure that things that slick and slippery - and that no one ends up too sore from frequent trying!

1. It's Better!

Whether you think you need it or not, using sexual lubricant can enhance the time you spend in the bedroom. Many people feel like lubricant may only be good for those who need the extra "helping hand" with keeping things slick, but lubricant is for everyone! It makes things more slick, and if using any sort of toys or external items, it can make the difference between a mediocre experience and a very pleasurable one. When you and your partner don't have much time (like with the public quickie you've both been dreaming about) or you just want things to last longer in the bedroom, lubricant is the key to making it happen. Just like our bodies don't always focus when we want them to, our bodies may not produce the physical response you want (or may not be able to keep up with the action). This is where lubricant comes in, and it's designed to make everything feel even better.

Bet you didn't know some of that, did you? Now go out there, get some lubricant, and put some of your newfound knowledge to work - and enjoy it!