Butt plugs or anal plugs are a great way to introduce anal play into your sex life. It can be intimidating to try something new in the bedroom, which is why we offer butt plugs in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate any experience level. Beginners will find the perfect toy for their first foray into anal stimulation, while seasoned users have plenty of options to keep things fresh.

What is a Butt Plug?

A butt plug is a sex toy used for anal stimulation or to prepare the user for anal sex. Since butt plugs need to be designed for easy insertion, they usually come in conical or cylindrical shapes. Butt plugs have flared ends to prevent them from sliding too far into the anus.

Why Use a Butt Plug?

Butt plugs can be a turn-on for men and women. They’re used to stimulate the prostate gland in men or tease a woman’s G Spot from behind. Butt plugs are also an option for anal training—stretching out the muscles around the anus before a penis is inserted. There are even butt plugs with tails and bejeweled plugs that add more kink to your experience.

Types of Butt Plugs

Sex toy designers have created butt plugs from many different materials. Here are the most common types of butt plugs:

Jelly butt plugs are soft and flexible—perfect for beginners or those looking for a gentler experience.

Silicone butt plugs are both firm and flexible, allowing them to hug your curves. This is a quality that many people appreciate when it comes to anal play.

Glass butt plugs provide solid stimulation and unmatched durability. You can warm or cool them prior to insertion for different sensations, and glass is easy to clean.

Metal butt plugs can be warmed prior to use, which can make them easier to insert. Like glass, metal is easy to clean.

Plastic butt plugs are hard and lightweight. They also tend to be more affordable than exotic materials.

The simplest anal plugs can be used to stimulate the prostate gland and G Spot, or to expand muscles to prepare for sex. Some butt plugs have textures or a vibrating bullet built in for added anal arousal, while butt plug tails come with a furry extension that lets your wild side out to play.

How to Find the Best Butt Plug

Here are the major things you should consider when shopping for a butt plug:

Size: Pay close attention to size when looking for a butt plug. A large butt plug can provide stronger sensations, but going too big can make the toy painful to use. A small butt plug might not deliver the stimulation you’re looking for.

Material: Butt plugs can be made of a jelly-like rubber, plastic, silicone, glass, or metal, and each has advantages and disadvantages. A softer material may be easier to insert while a harder one could provide stronger sensations. Think about what you want out of a butt plug before making a purchase.

Lube and safety: Anal play requires lube for safe insertion and comfortable movement. Order anal lube with your butt plug and apply it every time you play with your new sex toy.

Care and Cleaning: It’s extremely important to thoroughly wash your butt plug after every use. Bacteria can cause infections and put your health at risk. Glass and metal butt plugs are the easiest to clean, but other materials are safe so long as they’re washed with soap. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to the care and cleaning of your anal plug.

Tips for Your First Time Using a Butt Plug

Anal play can be an exciting change of pace. Here are tips for using a butt plug for the first time:

1. Apply a generous amount of anal lubricant to the butt plug, including the sides. Put some lube on your anus, as well. When it comes to butt plugs, friction is the enemy.

2. Take time for foreplay. Have your partner rub the area around your anus with a fingertip in order to relax the muscles.

3. Easy does it. Start with slow, gentle movements—there’s no reason to rush things.

4. Communicate during sex. Let your partner know what feels good and don’t hold back if you’re in pain. This is supposed to be fun, after all.

5. Keep it clean. Wash the butt plug shortly after use to get rid of bacteria.

If you're new to butt plugs or anal toys in general, Adam & Eve has a great Guide to Anal Toys.