🎵 Let’s talk about sex, baby. Let’s do it naturally 🎵 Okay, I’m done. But for real, this is a much-requested topic from my readers (even though I’m sliiiightly embarrassed to write about it, no lie). You’d be shocked at some of the ingredients in intimate products on the market though. So today I’m going to share natural swaps for allllllll things sexy time.
This post contains affiliate links.
It’s no secret that our private parts are very sensitive areas of our bodies. And for us ladies, the vagina is actually a veryyyyyyy absorbent and delicate area. So it’s extremely important that we’re using natural products without harsh chemicals. Now let’s get it on! (with the blog post, I mean…)
Better-for-You Condoms 🍆
Condoms are just condoms, right? Well, there are sooooo many ingredients found in conventional condoms that you probably want to avoid. We’re talking parabens, carcinogenic nitrosamines, talc, inflammatory spermicides, and synthetic latexes like polyurethane. No thank you! Some better condom options:
- Glyde: Glyde makes ethical, fair trade, vegan, non-GMO, natural rubber latex condoms. They have a good variety of sizes and options, too. They also make organic flavored condoms if that’s your thing! [$7-15]
- Lola Ultra Thin Lubricated Condoms: Lola uses a low odor, natural rubber latex condom that is also vegan and gluten-free and has cornstarch powder instead of talc. They currently just have one size/style. [$11]
- Lovability: They definitely have some fun branding and packaging! These come in one size but are meant to fit all. They’re made of natural latex, hypoallergenic silicone oil, and are vegan. Lovability uses no spermicides, dyes, fragrances, or chemical irritants. They make an organic lube as well. [$9-15]
- Sustain: This is probably one of the more popular natural condom brands and you’ll likely find it in stores, too. It’s vegan, fair trade, sustainably-produced natural latex. They have lots of options for count and sizes. Sustain also donates 10% of profits to support women’s health organizations in the United States. [$10-13]
Looking for Latex-free Condoms?
I have not come across a good natural option yet so please let me know if you have a recommendation! Most non-latex condoms are made from synthetics. The good news is that companies such as Glyde (who also makes latex-free condoms) have discovered that people who thought they had a latex sensitivity can successfully use their condoms without a problem; basically, because they have realized it was all the added chemical ingredients in conventional condoms causing reactions. Not the latex itself. Something to keep in mind!
That being said, if you have a serious latex allergy then synthetic is probably the route you want to take!
If you’re up for an adventure, you could also look into lambskin condoms 🐑 which are made from lamb intestines and are latex-free. Yes, it’s a real thing and is also approved by the FDA (but does not prevent STIs). I’ll just leave that there, this is not something I’ve looked into or tried! I suppose that’s as natural as it gets 😂
Related Post: Tampons, Pads, Menstrual Cups…Oh My! Are There Toxic Chemicals in Your Feminine Products?
Natural Lubes + Intimate Oils 🍑
Okay before we jump into lubes (a phrase I never imagined myself saying), I think it’s important to note oil-based (OB) vs. water-based (WB) lubes. If you are using condoms, you’ll definitely want to stick with water-based (or aloe-based) lubricants because oils (even natural ones like coconut) can break down latex and make it susceptible to tearing. Which is no bueno if you’re trying to avoid getting pregnant. Capisce?
If you use condoms, stick with water-based (or aloe-based) lube because oils can break down latex and make it susceptible to tearing.
Right now, the Food & Drug Administration doesn’t typically require testing of personal lubricants for us humans. Let that sink in! Aside from that, some nasty ingredients you might find in conventional lubes: synthetic fragrance, parabens, petrochemicals, propylene glycol, synthetic colorants/flavors. A lot of these can throw off pH balance, too. Here are lots of better options:
Water/Aloe-Based Lubes:
- Aloe Cadabra: Mayyyyyyybe TMI but this my top pick for an oil-free lube! You can get it on Thrive Market, too. Aloe Cadabra uses organic aloe and has lots of different scent/flavor options like peppermint tingle and piña colada. [$11]
- Coconu: They have two options depending on your preference – coconut oil lube and coconut water lube, both with clean ingredients. [$25]
- Good Clean Love: This is a popular brand that you can possibly find in stores like Target. It’s vegan and they also make a bunch of other intimate products and lubes. I met the founder Wendy at ShiftCon a few years ago! [$6-12]
- Lola Personal Lubricant: An aloe-based lube that comes in a sleek package with a one-handed pump system. [$13]
- Lovability Hallelubeyah: I love the name! This is another one that I like a lot. It’s water-based and not sticky. It’s organic and made with purified natural kiwi vine extract which gives a slick but not sticky feeling 🥝 [$15]
- Sliquid: Another brand with a big variety. They’re vegan, have an Organics collection, and are aloe-based. [$8-13]
Oil-Based Lubes:
If you’re going the oil route, you can totally just use some organic coconut oil! But if you want to take it up a level:
- Agent Nateur Holi(sex) Intimate Oil: Very clean ingredients in this one and smells incredible! You can use it as a massage oil as well. My top pick for an oil-based lube. [$45]
- Chagrin Valley Intimate Oil: If you’re going for top-notch ingredients and zero-waste packaging, this is for you. Amazing organic ingredients, vegan, and comes in either a glass or aluminum bottle. [$10-17]
- Province Apothecary Lover’s Oils: This kit comes with two different oils and they both use extremely pure and organic ingredients. [$34]
- Rosebud Woman Arouse Stimulating Serum: Definitely a luxury oil! But it has lots of natural ingredients like maca, ashwagandha, and musk rose oil. It’s designed to generate feelings of suppleness, warmth, and tingling around the intimate area. [$75]
Related post: “How to Use the Fertility Awareness Method for Birth Control & Best BBT Thermometer“
Natural Washes, Organic Lingerie, & Eco-Friendly Toys
WASHES: So, I know you might be looking for feminine washes and wipes here too. But I really don’t recommend them because your vagina is actually self-cleaning. And a lot of these washes (even the more natural ones) can really disrupt your microbiome and suppress beneficial bacteria. It sounds simple, but just opt for some water in the shower to clean! 🚿
You’re probably rolling your eyes at me now, but if you do find yourself out of whack down there, I love this Momotaro Multi-Use Salve. It’s a topical balm formulated with soothing and healing organic ingredients like echinacea, tea tree, goldenseal, and calendula. These have been shown to gently relieve symptoms associated with yeast/BV infections and irritation.
SUSTAINABLE LINGERIE: For organic bras and underwear, my favorite is Pact. They have some cute bralettes and thongs, made with organic and fair-trade cotton. Great brand!
ECO-FRIENDLY TOYS: And lastly, if you’re in the market for some toy ideas…check out The Eco Hub’s guide!
Related Podcast Episode: Tips for Having a Zero-Waste Period
That’s all for now, folks. Let me know if you have any other recommendations that I missed or questions. I know this topic can be a bit taboo but it’s SO crucial that we’re choosing safer alternatives when we can. Even in the bedroom!
looking for
organic setting spray
Hi Susan, it’s not 100% organic but Ilia has a clean setting spray! Here’s a link to it.