What does a Butt Plug actually do?
A butt plug is a versatile adult toy designed to stretch and stimulate the anus. This can serve multiple purposes: as preparation for larger toys or anal play, or simply as a means of enjoying anal stimulation on its own.
The shape of most butt plugs is crafted to stay securely in place during use, offering hands-free pleasure or a unique sensation when worn for extended periods. Whether you’re a beginner exploring new sensations or experienced in anal play, a butt plug can add variety to your experience.
In this guide, we explore the 'why' behind what a butt plug actually does, the types of plugs to choose from if you're a complete beginner, the main uses of plugs and even how to establish and maintain a cleaning regime for your plug collection.
What are the main uses of butt plugs?
Stretching
For those new to anal play, stretching is a common reason to use a butt plug. Smaller, tapered plugs are ideal for gently introducing the body to the sensation of something entering the anus.
The gradual increase in size helps relax the anal muscles, making future experiences more comfortable and enjoyable. Consistent use can also help build tolerance, allowing for the use of larger toys or more advanced play down the line.
Tip: Start small, pair with plenty of lube, and take your time to avoid discomfort.
Stimulation
Some people use butt plugs purely for the pleasurable sensations they provide. Butt plugs can stimulate sensitive nerve endings in the anus and perineum, heightening arousal during solo or partnered play.
For those with a prostate, certain designs are crafted to apply pressure to this area, amplifying pleasure further. Experiment with different materials, shapes, or vibrating options to discover what kind of stimulation you enjoy the most.
Preparation
Butt plugs can also prepare the body for anal sex or other forms of anal penetration. Warming up with a plug helps relax the sphincter muscles and reduces discomfort when transitioning to larger toys or a partner. Inflatable plugs can be particularly useful for this purpose, as they allow gradual stretching.
Preparation doesn’t just ease the experience—it makes it safer and more enjoyable!
What butt plugs should you consider buying as a first-time user?
PVC & Rubber Plugs
Beginner-friendly PVC and rubber plugs are soft, flexible, and affordable. They’re great for those just starting out, as the material is gentle and non-intimidating. Many come in tapered shapes, allowing for easy insertion and gradual stretching.
Glass Plugs
Glass plugs may sound intimidating, but they’re surprisingly beginner-friendly. Made from body-safe borosilicate glass, these plugs are smooth and non-porous, which makes them easy to clean. They also retain temperature, so you can experiment with warm or cool sensations.
Vibrating Plugs
Vibrating plugs add an extra layer of sensation, perfect for beginners looking to combine stretching with gentle stimulation. With adjustable settings, you can find a vibration intensity that suits your comfort level.
Steel Plugs
Steel plugs are ideal for those who enjoy weight and firmness. Although more advanced, smaller steel plugs with tapered designs can still work for first-timers. Their non-porous surface ensures easy cleaning and smooth insertion.
Inflatable Plugs
Inflatable plugs let you control the size, making them a flexible option for beginners. Insert the deflated plug and gently inflate it to your comfort level, perfect for gradual stretching and preparation.
Anal Beads
Anal beads are another excellent starting point. Their gradual size increase helps you adjust at your own pace. Pulling the beads out during climax can intensify the experience, making them a versatile choice for exploration.
Are butt plugs safe to use regularly?
Yes, when used correctly, butt plugs are safe for regular use. On the topic of what a butt plug actually 'does', regular usage is part of using a plug, and the reason why they're so popular because they can be worn for longer periods of time (imagine trying to do your weekly shop with an 8 inch dildo clenched between your legs?!).
Our advice here is the same as it is for anyone using a plug for the first time. Don't keep the plug in for too long to begin with, or push past any limits where there is even the slightest bit of discomfort. Build-up to wearing larger plugs for longer. This is a marathon, not a sprint.
How Should You Use Butt Plug For The First Time?
Playing with a butt plug can be a fun and exciting way to explore new sensations, either alone or with a partner. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure your experience is pleasurable, safe, and satisfying:
1. Start Slowly and Use Lube
Lube is your best friend when it comes to anal play. Always use a generous amount of silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth insertion and minimise discomfort. Start with a smaller plug, especially if you’re new to anal stimulation, and take your time inserting it. Rushing can cause discomfort or even injury, so patience is key.
2. Experiment With Different Positions
Finding the right position can make insertion and play more comfortable. Many people find lying on their side, squatting, or getting on all fours helps relax the muscles and makes it easier to guide the plug in. If you're with a partner, they can assist, turning the experience into an intimate moment of trust and connection.
Again, start slow and work your way up to using a plug for longer periods of time. Whatever you do, don't force the plug regardless of position. And if in doubt, take it out (and then add even more lube).
3. Incorporate It Into Solo Play
Butt plugs aren’t just for preparation, they can add an exciting dimension to solo sessions. The fullness and pressure provided by the plug can heighten arousal and even enhance orgasms. Try pairing it with your a vibrator or dildo for an extra layer of stimulation.
4. Add Vibrations or Temperature Play
If you’re ready to level up, consider experimenting with vibrating butt plugs. These provide extra stimulation and can be adjusted to your desired intensity. Alternatively, with materials like glass or steel, you can try temperature play. Warm the plug in hot water or cool it in the fridge (not the freezer!) before use for unique sensations.
5. Make It a Part of Foreplay
Incorporating a butt plug into your foreplay routine can help set the mood and build anticipation. Your partner could insert or remove the plug, or tease you with vibrations... using smaller plugs can often be another form of foreplay turned up to the max, and it's certainly worth exploring.
Are butt plugs safe?
Yes, butt plugs are safe to use when handled properly, but it’s essential to follow best practices to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
This typically come downs to three main points concerning safe usage.
Choosing Body-Safe Materials
The first step in ensuring safety is selecting a plug made from high-quality, body-safe materials such as silicone, glass, stainless steel, or medical-grade PVC.
Avoid porous materials that can harbour bacteria or degrade over time, or anything that has negative reviews relating to safety concerns, or even a decline in quality when sex toy-specific cleaning agents (or simply soap and water) are used post-use.
Choosing The Correct Size
Beginners should always start with a small, tapered plug. Never choose a plug that’s too large for your comfort level, as this can cause unnecessary strain or injury. Always ensure the plug has a flared base to prevent it from being fully inserted, which could require medical assistance to remove.
This also why we don't recommend experimenting with any sex toys or household objects that are not flared or approved for use as a toy. Whether you're trying to emulate something you've seen before that looked enjoyable or you're just curious, it's simply not worth the potential risks involved (and the inevitable hospital trip!).
Using Lube, Lube And More Lube
Oh, did we say use lube? Anal tissue is delicate and doesn’t produce natural lubrication. Using plenty of water-based or silicone-based lubricant reduces friction, making insertion smoother and more comfortable.
We stock a range of anal lubes and condoms so that you can not only ensure you're as lubed and ready as your toy, but you can take extra precautions with a condom if with the sex toys you're using if you're worried about losing lubrication during use.
How do I Clean a Butt Plug?
It can be tempting to pop-out a smaller plug toy, leave it and worry about the cleaning later, but proper hygiene is critical. Make sure you wash your plug before and after each use with warm soapy water or a dedicated toy cleaner.
For non-porous materials like glass and stainless steel, you can sterilise them by boiling or using an alcohol-based cleaner.
Whichever method you choose, it helps to have a cleaning routine in place so that it becomes second nature once you're done with any sex toy. These aren't the types of toys you want to leave uncleaned until the next use...
These days you can pick up reputable toy cleaners which are relatively inexpensive and come in spritz formats, so they're super easy to use and don't smell like a strong cleaning agent.
Rounding things off
So, hopefully you've now got a better idea of what butt plugs actually do, and how to approach using one for the first time if you're intrigued and are looking to expand your sex toy collection.
We recommend starting off slow, either with a dedicated beginners plug or a kit so that you can get used to the stretch of a plug across various sizes, without venturing too far outside of your comfort zone.
Take a look at our full range of butt plugs to see the sheer variety of anal fun that awaits!
