Anal play is something many people are curious about and few people get clear information on. With patience, plenty of lube and the right toy, it can be comfortable and genuinely pleasurable. This guide covers the essentials.
The golden rules
- Go slowly. The muscles need time to relax. Rushing is the most common cause of discomfort.
- Use lots of lube. The anus doesn't produce its own lubrication. Reapply generously.
- Only use toys with a flared base. This is the one rule you should never skip. Toys without a wide base can slip inside and may need medical help to remove.
- Pain means stop. Pressure and fullness are normal; sharp pain is not.
Getting comfortable
Relaxation makes everything easier. Choose a time when you're not rushed. Many people find it helps to start with external touch and arousal first, and to breathe slowly and deeply while relaxing the pelvic floor. Being on your side or on your back with knees raised are comfortable positions for beginners.
Hygiene, simply
A shower beforehand is usually all you need. Keep nails short and smooth if using fingers. Never move a toy from anal to vaginal use without washing it thoroughly first (or changing the condom over it) — this helps prevent infections.
Choosing a lube
A thicker lube is often more comfortable for anal play. With silicone toys, stay with a water-based lube such as plusOne Aloe Glide; with glass toys, any lube type works. Our lube guide has a full compatibility chart. Avoid numbing lubes — discomfort is useful information.
Choosing your first plug
Butt plugs are designed to stay in place comfortably thanks to a narrow neck and a flared base. When choosing one:
- Start small. You can always size up later.
- Choose a body-safe, non-porous material — silicone or glass are ideal. See our materials guide.
- Check the base is clearly wider than the body of the toy.
Glass plugs
Glass is smooth, non-porous and has a pleasing weight that many people enjoy. It can be warmed in water for temperature play. The Rosé Crystal Glass Plug is a beautiful, easy-to-clean option. Always check glass for chips before use.
Vibrating and remote plugs
Vibration adds another layer of sensation and can help muscles relax. The Liaison Remote-Controlled Plug is soft silicone, USB rechargeable and comes with a remote — fun to share with a partner.
Step by step
- Warm up with relaxation and arousal.
- Apply lube generously to the toy and the outside of the anus.
- Press the tip gently against the opening and breathe out slowly as you begin.
- Go slowly; pause whenever you need to. Let the body set the pace.
- Once the plug is in, the narrow neck lets the muscles close comfortably around it.
- To remove, relax, breathe out and ease it out gently by the base.
Aftercare
Wash the toy with warm water and mild soap or toy cleaner, and dry it completely. Our cleaning guide covers glass and rechargeable toys. If you notice bleeding, ongoing pain or anything that worries you, speak to a healthcare provider.
Ready to explore? Browse our butt plug collection. Both plugs are also included in our curated sets — the Rosé plug in The Discovery Box and the Liaison plug in The Duet Box.
Quick answers
Why does an anal toy need a flared base?
The wide base stops the toy from slipping too far inside. Toys without one can get stuck and may need medical help to remove.
What lube is best for anal play?
Plenty of it, reapplied often. A thicker lube is often more comfortable; water-based works with every toy. Avoid numbing lubes.
Is discomfort normal?
A feeling of pressure or fullness is normal, especially at first. Sharp pain is not — stop, and speak to a healthcare provider if pain continues.
