We Won Silver in the Clean + Conscious Awards 2026
We're so excited to share that our Intimate Lubricating Serum was recognised with Silver in the 2026 Clean + Conscious Awards, in the Best Intimate Care/Sexual Wellbeing category.
Back in May, we shared the news that we'd been named a Finalist - one step in a judging process that, this year, assessed over 600 products across more than 130 categories, shortlisted by a panel of 93 respected voices from across the conscious living space. From there, finalists moved through final hands-on judging by the Expert Panel, and we've now come out the other side with Silver.
What the judging actually involves
These awards recognise brands and small businesses setting the standard for clean, conscious business. Judging is rigorous - every product is independently assessed for its ingredients, sustainability, ethical practices, and social impact before an Expert Panel reviews it hands-on.
As Emily Fletcher, the Awards' founder, put it when this year's finalists were announced: finalists represent something bigger than products - they represent people choosing to do business differently, prioritising health, sustainability, ethics and positive impact, even when it's not the easiest path.
What the Expert Panel noticed
Reviewers picked up on the details we obsess over.
On the formula: rich, slippery and non-greasy, with cushioning that doesn't fade fast and washes off easily once you're done. No added fragrance, nothing to think about beyond how it feels.
On the bottle: reusable Violet Miron glass that’s discreet enough to sit on a bedside table without a second glance.
And on the substance behind it: developed with cosmetic chemists, made to GMP standard here in Aotearoa, independently MyMicrobiome certified - a standard to pursue. As one reviewer summed it up: “a small brand behaving like a grown-up one”.
What this means for us
These values are at our core, and since the beginning we've been working hard to do right by both people and planet - this award feels like real evidence that it shows.
Recognition of the intimate care and sexual wellbeing category itself also matters to us beyond our win. Intimate health deserves to be taken seriously, talked about openly, formulated for thoughtfully, and included in the broader conversation about conscious living… So this feels like a genuine step forward for the space we work in.
What the experts had to say
What I like most about using this product is the ingredient profile, with so many organic and thoughtfully selected oils that feel gentle and nourishing on the skin. I also appreciate that it has no noticeable smell or added fragrance, which makes it feel very clean and simple to use. The glass bottle is another lovely touch and feels really considered, and I especially love that it’s made locally in Wānaka. I didn’t realise at first, and it’s so nice being able to support beautiful NZ made products like this. The texture is really smooth and easy to apply, and it feels beautifully velvety on the skin. I also noticed it lasted longer without drying down as quickly as others, which I really liked. What impressed me most about Maebl is how considered and intentional their approach feels across formulation, sustainability, and education. There’s a strong focus on evidence informed development, working with cosmetic chemists and manufacturing locally in New Zealand under high quality, GMP compliant standards with full traceability. I love their commitment to transparency, microbiome friendly and cruelty free formulations, and thoughtful packaging choices like reusable glass and recyclable materials. Beyond the product itself, it’s particularly meaningful to see their focus on education and reducing stigma around vulvovaginal health through clear, respectful, evidence based information. Overall, it feels like a brand that is genuinely grounded in care, integrity, and ongoing improvement.
The non-greasy finish is a standout feature of this product. The formula feels thick and smooth, providing excellent slip and long-lasting lubrication without disappearing quickly during use. I liked that the formula is not water-based, allowing it to maintain its performance without the need for frequent reapplication. Despite its rich texture, it washed off easily after use. The packaging also feels well considered, with a sleek, classy bottle that looks discreet and fits nicely on a bedside table. Overall, this is a product I’d happily purchase again once I’ve finished the bottle. I appreciate the brand’s evidence-based approach to product development, particularly their commitment to GMP manufacturing, transparent formulation practices and clear ingredient communication. The inclusion of independent microbiome certification also demonstrates a thoughtful approach to developing products that support intimate health. I also like that the brand takes a considered approach to sustainability, with reusable and recyclable packaging, responsibly sourced ingredients and a willingness to acknowledge that sustainability is an ongoing journey. It’s great to see Maebl is investing in education to help reduce stigma around intimate health and empower consumers to make informed decisions.
First, the bottle. It looks like a serum you’d be happy to leave out on the shelf, and no one would ever guess what it’s for. That discretion is half the appeal. The texture surprised me. Thicker than expected, a slippy gel rather than an oil slick, fragrance-free and not sticky in the slightest. It cushions and stays put. Considered, from the formula to the glass. The rigour is the draw. Developed with cosmetic chemists, made to GMP in New Zealand, and MyMicrobiome certified, which almost nobody in this space bothers with. Violet Miron glass you’re meant to reuse, vegetable-based inks, even free local delivery. A small brand behaving like a grown-up one.