Butt Plugs for Beginners: Who, What, How & Why...

If you’re interested in exploring some anal fun, butt plugs are one of the best toys to get you started. Read on for my beginners guide to butt plugs and some recommendations of my favourite plugs to buy.

What are butt plugs?

As the name suggests, they are little pleasurable plugs that you put in your butt. Unlike other sex toys that are made for in and out penetration, they are meant to stay inside you whilst you do…. other things 😉.

Butt plugs exist in all shapes, sizes and varieties – there are vibrating ones, smooth ones, big ones, small ones, bumpy ones, ribbed ones… you name it, butt plugs have got it.

The defining factor of all plugs is that they are tapered for easy insertion and comfort. They generally have a narrow tip, a wider middle, and a slim base with a small handle, flare or ring on end to stop the plug from going too far into your anus.

Who are they for?

Butt plugs are for anyone! They can be enjoyed by any person with an anus, regardless of gender, sexual orientation or genitalia. Hooray for inclusive sex toys! 🌈

Why should I use one?

Lemme hear you say butt pleasure….Yes I’m talking about anal orgasms. Your anus is an erogenous zone and home to lots of lovely nerve endings that feel great with a little stimulation.

For people with penises and prostates, plugs can be used to help stimulate the prostate and experience that p-spot orgasm. For people with vulvas they can apply pressure to the back of your vaginal wall and help with G spot stimulation, and they can also be used at the same time as vaginal penetration to experience double penetration without needing to invite a third party.

You can use them with a partner whilst engaging in penetration or oral sex, during solo play while you’re masturbating, in the shower, while you’re cleaning - wherever and whenever you want! Butt plugs are also commonly used as a part of anal training to prime your anus for bigger things such as anal sex, pegging or anal gaping.

How do you use a butt plug?

Butt plugs can be used with or without a partner. Whether you’re using it alone or with someone else, you should always start warming yourself up. Start with whatever foreplay you usually like whether it’s kissing, rubbing, massage, watching some adult movies, or something more x-rated.

When you’re ready to move on to the butt and you’re suitably aroused, you can start by massaging around the anus before slowly sliding a lubed up finger inside. Once you’re comfortable with one finger, you can try adding another. Once you’re comfortable with this, grab some more lube, slather the butt plug in it and then slowly slide it inside.

When inserting the plug, ensure that you’re relaxed and breathing deeply; the key to pleasurable anal play is relaxation. Once the plug is inside you can leave it there whilst you engage in other sexual activities. There’s no thrusting or in-and-out motion with butt plugs, they're intended to provide stimulation from staying in one place and from providing a feeling of “fullness”. When you’re ready to remove it, take a deep breath and gently slide it out.

Do they hurt?

Using butt plugs should not cause any pain if you’re aroused, use enough lube, don’t start too big and go slow. If you do experience pain, remove the plug, try warming up with some finger stimulation again and try a smaller plug. The key is to take it slow and relax.

Anything important that I need to know?

Lube, lube, lube. Lots of lube! Unlike vaginas, the anus doesn’t naturally make lubrication so it’s super important to use lots of lube when it comes to butt play. Be sure to choose the right lube for your plug - there are silicone-based, water-based and oil-based lubes available but the ingredients of oil and silicone based lubes may cause damage to some types of sex toys, so I would recommend going with a water based one.

Cleaning! As with all of your sex toys, you must wash and disinfect them before using them. Use soap and water or a toy cleaner and store your plug in a clean dry place. If you want to share a plug with your partner, please be aware that sex toys can also transmit certain STIs. Aside from cleaning them in between each use you can also use condoms on your sex toys for safer sex.

When it comes to butt play, preparation is also an important part of sexual hygiene. This can be as simple as using warm water and a wash cloth to clean the external areas of the anus. You can read more about pre- and post- sex hygiene habits in Sexual Health 101: Sex Hygiene Habits for Vulva and Penis Owners.

What butt plugs do you recommend?

Babeland: Colours Anal Trainer Set
The Colours Trainer Kit includes a variety of sizes so you can choose the right one for you. The small and medium plugs are perfectly sized for beginners looking to ease into anal penetration. The larger size is better for those who prefer a little extra girth. These plugs have a rounded tip which makes the insertion easier and more comfortable.

Lovehoney: Pure Pleasure Sensual Glass Butt Plug
This glass butt plug gently applies pressure to internal erogenous zones for enhanced pleasure. Its smooth tapered shaft and flared base means beginners can relax into some butt play in total confidence and comfort.

Wildflower: Cheeky Textured Butt Plug Kit
In this cheeky butt plug kit, each plug has its own individual texture and a sturdy base with a suction cup for secure adult play with maximum pleasure. Each package includes two plugs – a large one and a small one – giving you variety or the choice to work your way up to the larger size.

B-Vibe rimming plug petite
The Rimming Plug Petite is a small vibrating butt plug that can introduce anyone to anal play and at the same time experience the sensation of rimming with the rotating beads located at the base of the plug. Made from 100% body-safe silicone, vibration helps to relax the anal sphincter.

So, if you've been curious about butt plugs or you've been on the fence about them - I hope this has helped you decide to give them a go!

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