What Are Butt Plugs? Beginners Guide
So, what are butt plugs? What are they made of and who are they for?
People try butt plugs for many reasons: to intensify orgasms, to warm up for anal sex, for the pressure they provide, or simply for the novelty and different sensations they bring to solo or partnered play.
Some plugs are designed to be worn for short periods during daily life or during foreplay, while others (especially larger sizes) are used for heavier anal play. Sex toy guides and experts point out that the toy’s shape – tapered tip, slim neck, or flared base explains how the plug stays (comfortable and safely) in the body.
In a nutshell, butt plugs are sex toys designed to be inserted into the anus to create a feeling of fullness, pressure or added stimulation. Unlike dildos, butt plugs are usually tapered with a narrow neck and a flared base –designed specifically for safety.
Types of Butt Plugs
So, you now know what are butt plugs - next comes the different types of plugs.
Anal sex toys come in many shapes, sizes, and materials. The main types you’ll typically see in an adult shop are:
- Beginner-friendly: Small, slim, and made from soft silicone – this is a great option for first timers.
- Standard: A step up in size and girth that are typically used by experienced users.
- Vibrating plugs: vibrating butt plugs add internal vibration for extra stimulation and often include multiple speed or pattern settings.
- A sex therapist explains that if the sex toy doesn’t have a flared base, it shouldn’t go near your anus. Without one, there’s a good chance that a toy can get stuck in the anal canal. A flared base is good enough to anchor the sex toy properly.
- When it comes to size, be sure to focus on the width. Girth is what people need to work on, not length. You can always train your way to “bigger is better.”
- When it comes to material, focus on non-porous material to minimise spreading bacteria or infections. Sex toy aficionados recommend medical-grade silicone, stainless steel, or glass.
Anal Training 101
Whatever your reason for trying butt plugs, it’s best to do it safely and comfortably as possible. We’ve gathered expert advice on how to do it the right way when experimenting for the first time.
“If you haven’t tried any kind of butt play yet, you’re going to want to engage in a tactic called – anal training,” says Janet Brito, PhD, a certified sex therapist told Women’s Health Magazine. “That’s where butt plugs can come in.”
Essentially, anal training comes down to testing the waters. When trying anything new, start small and gradually work your way up to larger girths or tips (such as a dildo, strap-on, or penis). “You want to get your body used to these sensations and teach it that it’s something good and pleasurable, because our bodies aren’t naturally used to things going in there,” says Lisa Finn, a sex educator and product expert.
Using Butt plugs Safely for butt sex
Safety is straightforward when you follow the basic rules. When you start learning new tricks, it’s best to start with some practical tips. Follow these guidelines for safe play and ultimate pleasure:
- Choose the right sex toy: Start with a small body-safe silicone plug with a flared base.
- Use lots of lubricant: the anus does not self-lubricate. Water-based lube or silicone-based lube helps with insertion and overall comfort.
- Go slow and steady: Relax, breathe, and insert the toy gradually. Stop right away if you’re feeling uncomfortable.
- Hygiene: Clean your anal toys (before and after use) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For added convenience, you can also use one of Luvland’s toy cleaners.
- Listen to your body and partner: Consent and communication are key when it comes to couples play. Let the person know how you feel and encourage them to do the same.
Butt Plugs for Guys
Anal play isn’t limited to one gender; people of all sexes use anal toys. For example, butt plugs for guys stimulate the prostate (often known as the male “G-spot”), which can produce intense orgasms when stimulated the right way.
small Butt Plugs for Women
Women may enjoy the feeling of internal fullness, along with clitoral or vaginal stimulation during sex when using a plug. As with any sex toy for women, choosing the right size and type makes a huge difference. Just remember, using the right lube is just as essential as it is for sex.
Non-Vibrating vs Vibrating Butt Plugs
If you’re choosing between a standard plug and a vibrating butt plug, think about the type of sensation you want. Vibrating plugs provide rhythmical internal stimulation, which can be great for solo play or to complement other forms of stimulation. Non-vibrating plugs are simpler, often cheaper, and focus on sensation of fullness and pressure rather than movement.
Recommended Products: Luvland’s Butt Plug Range
What Are Butt Plugs for Beginners?
If you’ve decided to experiment with anal toys, remember the basics: start small, use plenty of lube, choose a flared base, and always clean your toys. Buy from reputable retailers like Luvland, where you’ll find a wide range of butt plugs and the right accessories - silicone-based lubricant, water-based lubricants and sex toy cleaners.
If you’re curious but feel a bit nervous, talk openly with your partner about what you’d like to try, or consider watching porn as together – it might give you both new ideas and show you how to use the anal toy safely. Rest assured, if you’re exploring solo, you don’t need company to watch you’re the X-rated stuff.
