Do I need to lubricate a DIY cube?

[mikerodeman]

I just got my first DIY cube and was wondering if DIYs also need to be lubricated.

 

[Rpotts]

most people prefer their cubes to be lubed. The best lubes include CRC, lubix and maru lube. Not all cubes NEED lube to be good, but most are better with lube.

 

[mikerodeman]

Thank you! I wasn't sure if it harmed it or something...I'm new to DIY cubes haha

 

[kat]

Worst case, you can just wipe it off with a cloth. Takes some time, but silicone based lube can't harm your cube permanently

 

[ninjabob7]

That's not entirely true. The propellant in silicone spray is petroleum based and will soften the plastic. If you disassemble, wait a few minutes before reassembling because you will leave fingerprints in the soft plastic. If you just pop out an edge, play with the cube for a few minutes to keep the pieces from fusing together.
It's not as scary as it sounds. Of course, silicone lubricants that aren't sprays (Lubix, shock oil, Maru) are safe.

 

[Sa967St]

It depends on the kind of cube. Some are perfectly fine without any(i.e. Alpha 2).

 

[Erzz]

Lubing will almost always make it at least a little better though.