Curious about anal play but not sure where to start? Butt plugs for beginners are the easiest, most comfortable entry point, and they’re one of the most popular toys for good reason. They’re simple, hands-free, and can make everything from solo play to partnered sex feel more intense.
The good news? With the right size, plenty of lube, and a little patience, your first time can feel amazing, not awkward. This guide covers how butt plugs work, how to choose your first one, and exactly how to use it safely.
What Is a Butt Plug?
A butt plug is a toy designed to be inserted into the anus and stay in place. Every butt plug has three parts:
- The tip: tapered to make insertion gentle and gradual.
- The neck: the narrow part your body closes around to hold the plug in place.
- The flared base: the wide end that stays outside the body.
That flared base is the most important safety feature. The rectum can pull objects inward, so never use anything for anal play that doesn’t have a wide base designed to stop it going too far.
Why Try a Butt Plug?
The anus is packed with sensitive nerve endings. A plug creates a pleasurable feeling of fullness that many people love on its own or combined with other play.
- For people with a prostate, a plug can press on the prostate for intense sensations. Explore prostate massagers if that’s your goal.
- For people with a vulva, a plug can add pressure to the G-spot area through the vaginal wall and intensify orgasms. Learn more in our G-spot guide.
- For couples, wearing a plug during sex adds a new layer of sensation for both partners.
- For anal sex prep, plugs help your body relax and get used to the feeling at your own pace.
How to Choose Butt Plugs for Beginners
1. Start Small, Seriously
Your first plug should be small and slim, roughly the width of one or two fingers at its widest point. You can always size up later. Starting too big is the number one reason people have a bad first experience.
2. Pick Body-Safe Silicone
Silicone is the best material for beginners. It’s smooth, flexible, non-porous, and easy to clean. Glass and stainless steel are also body-safe, but they’re firmer and heavier, which is better once you know what you like.
3. Look for a Tapered Shape
A gradual taper makes insertion easier than a sudden bulge. A slim neck helps the plug sit comfortably once it’s in.
4. Consider a Plug Set
Training sets include several sizes so you can progress step by step. They’re great value if you think you’ll want to explore further.
Beginner-friendly picks: the petite Booty Sparks Red Heart Gem Anal Plug (Small), the soft silicone Firefly Prince Small, and the versatile Maia Vibelite Sorra. See the full range of butt plugs.
What You’ll Need
- Lots of lube. The anus doesn’t make its own lubrication. A thick water-based gel like Wicked Jelle Anal Lubricant is ideal with silicone plugs. Not sure which type? Read water-based vs silicone lube.
- A towel to keep things relaxed and mess-free.
- Optional: a douche. Some people like to rinse beforehand for extra confidence. A simple bulb like the Ultimate Douche is all you need. Use lukewarm water only, and don’t overdo it.
- Time. Don’t rush it. Relaxation is everything.
How to Use a Butt Plug: Step by Step
- Get relaxed. Take a warm shower, breathe deeply, and get aroused first. Arousal helps your muscles relax.
- Start with your fingers. A well-lubed finger helps your body get used to the sensation before the plug.
- Lube generously. Coat the plug and the entrance to your anus. Then add a bit more.
- Find a comfortable position. Lying on your side with your knees pulled up, or on your back with a pillow under your hips, both work well.
- Go slow. Press the tip gently against your anus and breathe out as you push. Let your body open up at its own pace.
- Let it settle. Once the widest part passes, the plug will settle into place at the neck. Relax and notice how it feels.
- Remove gently. When you’re done, breathe out, relax, and slowly pull the plug out by its base.
Rule number one: pain means stop. Discomfort is a signal to slow down, add lube, or try again another day. That’s also why you should avoid numbing creams, as they hide the signals your body is giving you.
Butt Plug Safety Tips
- Always use a toy with a flared base. No exceptions.
- Don’t wear a plug for hours on your first go. Start with 10–20 minutes and build up.
- Never go from anal to vaginal without washing the toy or changing the condom first.
- Use water-based lube with silicone plugs to protect the material.
- Clean it after every use. Follow our guide on how to clean sex toys.
Ready to Level Up?
Once you’re comfortable with a small plug, there’s a whole world to explore: slightly larger sizes, vibrating anal toys, anal beads, or remote-controlled plugs you can hand over to a partner. Take it at your own pace. There’s no finish line.
Anal play is a normal, healthy part of many people’s sexual health and pleasure. Communication, consent, and patience make all the difference.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
- Going too big too soon. Size up gradually, one step at a time.
- Skimping on lube. If it feels like it’s dragging, add more. There’s no such thing as too much for anal play.
- Rushing. Your body needs time to relax. Tension makes everything harder.
- Using the wrong toy. Only use toys designed for anal play with a flared base.
- Ignoring your body. Stop if something hurts, and try again another day.
Ready for your first adventure? Browse our beginner-friendly anal toys and find the perfect plug to start with.
