How to Buy an Anal Sex Toy You’ll Love: 13 Types for Every Body, Level

Buying an anal toy should feel like shopping for the perfect pair of jeans: supportive, comfortable, flattering, and absolutely not a “guess and pray” situation. Yet here we are, staring at a page full of plugs, beads, wands, and gadgets that look like they were designed by a minimalist sculptor who also moonlights as a mad scientist.

This guide is your judgment-free, hype-resistant roadmap. We’ll cover what actually matters (safety, sizing, materials, lube, cleaning), and then walk through 13 types of anal sex toys so you can pick something you’ll genuinely enjoywhether you’re brand new, casually curious, or already on a first-name basis with your toy drawer.

The No-Drama Safety Rules (Read These Once, Thank Yourself Forever)

• Flared base or stop guardnon-negotiable. If it goes in the anus, it needs a base that prevents it from slipping in completely. “I’ll just be careful” is not a design feature.
• Use lube every time. The anus doesn’t self-lubricate. More lube = less friction = happier tissue.
• Go slow and size smart. The goal is “comfortably interesting,” not “immediately heroic.”
• Avoid numbing products. Pain is valuable information. Numbing agents can mask irritation or injury.
• Keep it clean and don’t cross-contaminate. If a toy goes from anus to vagina (or mouth), wash it thoroughly or use a fresh condomevery time.
• Stop if there’s sharp pain or bleeding. Light irritation can happen; persistent pain or bleeding is a sign to pause and consider medical advice.

Before You Click “Add to Cart”: 7 Questions That Save You Money (and Regret)

1) What’s your experience levelreally?

If you’re new, you’ll usually enjoy a small, tapered, flexible toy more than a chunky “best-seller” with the confidence of a bowling trophy. Many people buy too big on day one and then decide anal play “isn’t for them,” when really the toy was just… aggressively optimistic.

2) Are you shopping for internal stimulation, external stimulation, or both?

Some people prefer external vibration around the anus and don’t want insertion at all. Others like gentle internal pressure. Many enjoy a combo (like a plug that also vibrates at the base).

3) What material do you want against your body?

Non-porous materials (like high-quality silicone, stainless steel, or glass) are generally easier to clean and don’t trap bacteria the way porous materials can. If you’re unsure what a toy is made of, treat it like a mystery sponge: proceed with caution.

4) Do you want flexibility or firmness?

Softer can feel gentler for beginners, but firmer can provide more precise pressure. Neither is “better.” Think of it like pillows: some people want cloud, some want “supportive hotel.”

5) How much control do you want over intensity?

If you’re getting vibration, look for toys with multiple intensity levels and easy-to-find controls. Remote control can be funalso practical if you don’t want to play “find the tiny button” mid-moment.

6) How will you clean it, realistically?

The best toy is the one you’ll actually maintain. Smooth, non-porous, waterproof toys are typically easiest. If it has seams, textures, or charging ports that aren’t sealed, you’ll need a little more care.

7) Any health stuff to factor in?

If you’re dealing with hemorrhoids, fissures, pelvic pain, or recurring bleeding, consider checking in with a clinician first. It’s not about shameit’s about comfort and not turning a “maybe fun” plan into a “why did I do that” week.

13 Types of Anal Sex Toys (So You Can Pick Your Perfect Match)

1) Starter Butt Plugs (Small + Tapered)

Best for: beginners, sensitive bodies, “I’m curious but cautious” energy. Look for a slim tip, gradual taper, and a comfortable base. The win here is confidence: you can learn what sensations you like without feeling overwhelmed.

2) Classic Butt Plugs (The Everyday Option)

Best for: people who already know they like some internal sensation. These have the familiar teardrop shape and a broader “middle” for a fuller feeling. Prioritize a smooth finish and a base that sits comfortably.

3) Plug Training Sets (Graduated Sizes)

Best for: anyone who likes a step-by-step approach. These sets usually include 3–5 plugs that increase in size gradually. They’re a budget-friendly way to find your sweet spot without buying five separate toys.

4) Vibrating Butt Plugs (Internal + Base Vibes)

Best for: people who want “more sensation” without necessarily going bigger. Choose a model with multiple patterns and a base that targets external nerves too. Tip: you can often use it with vibration off while you get comfortable.

5) Remote-Control or App-Control Plugs

Best for: couples play, hands-free control, and people who enjoy customization. Look for reliable connectivity, easy-to-clean construction, and controls that don’t require a tech support ticket to operate.

6) Weighted Plugs (Stainless Steel or Glass)

Best for: those who like a sense of “presence” and steady pressure more than buzzy vibration. Weight can feel luxurious and grounding. Bonus: non-porous materials like metal or glass are often very easy to clean.

7) Inflatable Plugs (Adjustable Fullness)

Best for: experienced users who want adjustable girth without switching toys. These require extra attention to quality and safetychoose reputable brands, inspect valves, and inflate gradually. Not a first-toy recommendation.

8) Anal Beads (Graduated Sensation)

Best for: people who like a “stepped” feeling rather than one continuous shape. Look for beads that increase gradually, have a strong retrieval handle or base, and are made from body-safe, easy-to-clean material.

9) Prostate Massagers (Curved “P-Spot” Toys)

Best for: people with prostates who want targeted internal pressure. These toys often have a curve designed to reach the prostate and may include external vibration at the base. Comfort comes from shape, not force.

10) Slim Anal Dildos (Straight or Slightly Curved)

Best for: people who prefer a longer insertable length than a plug. Choose a slim diameter, a firm-but-smooth body, andagaina flared base or suction base designed for anal use.

11) Anal Wands (Curved, Firm “Spot” Tools)

Best for: those who like precise pressure in specific areas (often used by people who enjoy prostate-focused or targeted internal stimulation). Wands are usually firmer (metal or glass), which can feel more deliberate.

12) External Anal Vibrators (No Insertion Needed)

Best for: anyone who wants anal pleasure without penetration. A small, soft vibrator used externally can be surprisingly intense because the area is nerve-rich. Great for beginners, partners, or anyone who simply prefers outside stimulation.

13) Combo Toys (Internal Plug + External Stimulation)

Best for: people who want a “two-for-one” designinternal pressure plus external vibration against the perineal/perianal area. These are popular because they can deliver a lot of sensation without requiring a big size.

How to Choose the Right Size (Without Guessing Wrong)

Diameter matters more than length for comfort. Beginners usually do best with a smaller diameter and a tapered tip. If a listing shows measurements, look for “diameter” (or circumference) and “insertable length.” A toy can be long but still beginner-friendly if it’s slim; a short toy can be intense if it’s wide.

Pro tip: If you’re torn between two sizes, start smaller. You can always size up later. The opposite plan is… expensive and emotionally humbling.

Materials 101: What “Body-Safe” Usually Means in Practice

Most sex educators and health sources emphasize non-porous materials because they’re easier to clean thoroughly. Common non-porous options include high-quality silicone, stainless steel, and glass (when properly made). ABS plastic is also often treated as non-porous when manufactured well.

Porous materials (often described as “jelly,” some TPE/TPR blends, or “soft skin” textures) can be harder to sanitize. If you use them, many experts recommend using a condom over the toy and being extra careful with cleaning and storage.

Lube: The Secret Ingredient Your Future Self Will Thank You For

Anal play is a lube-forward activity. Don’t be shy. For toys, many guides recommend water-based lube as the safest all-around choiceespecially if the toy is siliconebecause some silicone lubes can degrade silicone toys over time. If you’re using condoms, make sure your lube is condom-compatible.

If you try oils, do your homework: some oils can weaken latex condoms. When in doubt, water-based keeps the math simple.

Cleaning & Storage: The Part Nobody Brags About, But Everyone Needs

Cleaning basics

Wash toys after every use (and before sharing). Many health resources suggest mild soap and warm water for non-porous toys, following the manufacturer’s directionsespecially for motorized toys. If you share toys, consider condoms for easier cleanup and additional protection.

Storage basics

Let toys dry completely before storing. Store them in a clean pouch or separate containers so materials don’t rub together or collect dust. If it’s rechargeable, keep track of the charger like it’s a tiny, expensive pet.

Shopping Red Flags (AKA “Back Away From the Checkout”)

• No clear material listed (or vague wording like “premium soft gel” with no specifics).
• No mention of a flared base for anything intended for anal insertion.
• Super cheap bundles that promise 12 toys for the price of lunchespecially if they don’t list materials, care instructions, or a reputable brand.
• Numbing lubricants marketed as “making it easier.” They can make it harder to notice irritation.

Conclusion: Buy the Toy, Not the Hype

The best anal sex toy isn’t the one with the most reviews or the flashiest settingsit’s the one that matches your body, your comfort level, and your vibe. Start with safety (flared base, body-safe materials), choose a size you can relax into, and treat lube and cleaning like part of the experience, not an optional add-on.

And remember: “beginner” isn’t a stage you graduate fromit’s a strategy you can return to anytime you want comfort, control, and a really good time.

Bonus: of Real-World Experiences (What People Usually Learn After the First Purchase)

Experience #1: The “I bought the biggest one because I’m brave” moment. A lot of first-timers assume the path to enjoyment is size. Then their body politely disagrees. What typically works better is choosing a smaller, tapered toy that feels comfortable to insert and remove, and using enough lube that friction never becomes the headline. People who switch to a smaller size often say the whole experience transforms from “tense and awkward” to “oh, this is actually pleasant.” The moral: bravery is great; smart sizing is better.

Experience #2: The surprise of external stimulation. Many shoppers think anal pleasure equals insertion. Then they try a small vibrator externally and realize the area is nerve-rich and responsive without penetration at all. People often describe this as a confidence boost: they can explore sensation, arousal, and relaxation before deciding whether they want internal toys. It’s also a common favorite for partner play because it’s simple, low-pressure, and easy to communicate about (“a little to the left,” “softer,” “hold it there”).

Experience #3: The “material matters more than I thought” upgrade. Someone starts with a toy that feels sticky, has a strong odor, or is hard to clean. Eventually they try a higher-quality silicone toy or a non-porous metal/glass option and suddenly cleaning is easier, the texture is smoother, and the whole thing feels more premium. People often say this is when they stop thinking of the toy as a novelty and start seeing it as a personal-care itemlike upgrading from a disposable razor to a good one.

Experience #4: The “I didn’t know I needed a base that comfortable” lesson. Bases vary a lot. Some are too narrow, too rigid, or shaped in a way that pokes when you move. Many people report that once they find a base shape that sits comfortably against their body, they can relax moreand relaxation is a huge part of comfort and pleasure. This is also where reading measurements and looking at photos from multiple angles pays off.

Experience #5: The “vibration is not automatically better” discovery. Vibrating toys can be amazing, but some people find vibration too intense at first. They often prefer steady pressure (like a weighted plug) or a toy with vibration they can turn on later. Plenty of folks end up enjoying both: pressure for a slow, grounding feeling; vibration for an extra kick when they want it. The point is choice, not “max settings or bust.”

Experience #6: The confidence curve is real. Many people report that the second or third try is dramatically better than the first. Not because they “pushed through,” but because they learned what helps: more lube, smaller size, a calmer pace, and clearer communication (even if it’s just with themselves). Buying the right toy is part of that curveso is letting the learning process be normal, not a performance.