Butt Plugs 101: The Complete Guide To Butt Plugs and Using Them For Anal Play

Think butt plugs are for a certain gender, genitalia, or orientation? Think again. This fun, versatile toy can give pleasure to pretty much anyone that feels like exploring new sexual territory and switching up their routine.
Read on to learn about how to choose a butt plug, how to use a butt plug, and anything else you've ever wanted to know about this underappreciated toy.
Who Can Use Butt Plugs?
Repeat after me: butt plugs are for everyone. If you have a vagina, a butt plug can provide an intensely pleasurable sensation by putting pressure on the back of the vaginal wall. If you have a prostate, butt plugs are perfect for stimulating it. The anus is also surrounded by sensitive nerve endings that are full of pleasure potential.
They are also an excellent way to push your sexual boundaries, get out of your comfort zone, add some spice to your sexy time (whether solo or with a partner), and welcome entirely new levels of pleasure.
What Are Butt Plugs?
Butt plugs feature a self-explanatory name: they plug the butt. They are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Butt plugs are usually shaped with narrow tips that get wider toward the middle and then narrow again at the base.

A flared bottom, ring, or pull cord prevents the butt plug from getting lost inside you. People often use butt plugs as preparation for penetrative anal sex. As the anus does not self-lubricate, it is crucial to warm it up slowly with smaller objects (think butt plugs or fingers) and ample lube. Relaxation is also key for any type of anal play.
What Should I Know When Buying a Butt Plug?
Along with choosing a butt plug with a flared base, it is key to make sure your toy is high-quality and safe for the use in and around body and not a "novelty item". Cheaper toys may be less regulated and feature low quality materials that could leach chemicals into your body.
It is also helpful to start small and work your way up to larger sizes as you get more comfortable and experienced with butt plugs. It is recommended to opt for butt plugs made from nonporous materials such as stainless steel, borosilicate glass, or silicone as opposed to hard plastic or acrylic butt plugs.
What Can Butt Plugs Be Used For Aside From Anal Play?
Along with anal sex warm up and anal play, butt plugs are also used:
As part of dominance and submission play
For double penetration during vaginal sex with a dildo or penis (insert the butt plug along with plenty of lube and wear it during vaginal sex or while stimulating your clit with your fingers or a vibrator)
While receiving oral sex
As a complement to masturbation
LUBE, LUBE, and MORE LUBE!
Regardless of how you choose to use a butt plug, the importance of lube cannot be stressed enough.
Since the rectum does not self lubricate, using lubrication makes the experience far more comfortable and safer. When choosing a lube, look for lubricant designed specifically for anal play.
An high-quality, anal specific lube will feature:
A pH specifically designed for compatibility with the anal region
Long lasting slip and comfort
No skin damaging chemicals
Compatibility with latex, polyisoprene, and natural rubber condoms
A thick, long-lasting texture
Compatibility with silicone sex toys
A velvety, smooth texture
No odour, taste, or stickiness
No need to wash off after
An ingredient list designed to support the more delicate, vulnerable tissues of the anus
How Do I Insert a Butt Plug?
Here's the breakdown on the best way to insert a butt plug comfortably and safely:
One word: LUBE
Don't neglect foreplay (oral, clit stimulation, finger stimulation, anything you enjoy)
Relax, breath deeply, and get comfortable
Start with something small such as a lubed finger to help get warmed up comfortably (use your finger or your partner's to circle the anus before gliding it gently in and out and adding another finger once comfortable)
Once you've worked up to a couple of fingers, cover your butt plug in lube and gently and slowly slide it in (it can be helpful to be bent over in a doggy-style position but it may take some experimentation to find what works best for you)

How Do I Take Out a Butt Plug?
To easily and safely remove a butt plug, take slow, deep breaths as you or your partner gently holds the base and slides it out. Removal is sometimes easier after an orgasm as the pelvic floor will relax.
How Do I Clean a Butt Plug?
After butt plug play, wash your hands and your butt plug with warm water and soap. Have your partner wash their hands as well. If you have a vagina, be especially careful to avoid bacteria transfer from the butt to the vagina or vulva as this can lead to infection.
Silicone plugs can even be tossed in the dishwasher and some other materials can be boiled for disinfection. Always check with the directions and the manufacturer's label for proper cleaning instructions.
What Is the Best Butt Plug for Me?
Choosing a butt plug comes down to your interests and comfort level, and I am here for any questions you might have. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about butt plugs or how to choose the right butt plug for you.
I also invite you to join my private Facebook group dedicated to all-things-sex and pleasure. This safe, non-judgmental space is a great way to connect with like-minded women, ask questions, and feel accepted.
Wishing you self-exploration, self-love, and fun!