Anal Toys for Every Experience Level: A Guide to Getting Started and Levelling Up

Choosing an anal toy should be based on what feels comfortable for your body and the type of stimulation you’re interested in exploring. For beginners, that may mean starting with a small plug, anal beads or a progressive training set. More experienced users may want to experiment with additional weight, vibration, rotation, expansion or a fuller sensation. Experience levels are simply a useful way to narrow down your options. You don’t need to move to a larger toy unless you genuinely want to, and progressing can mean exploring a different shape or function rather than increasing the size.

Below, we’ve selected anal toys for beginner, intermediate and advanced users, followed by practical advice on choosing, using and caring for them.

Beginner anal toys typically have a smaller diameter, smooth surface and tapered tip to make insertion feel gradual and manageable. A straightforward design can help you focus on relaxing, becoming familiar with the sensation and understanding what feels pleasurable before introducing extra size or movement.

The b-Vibe Snug Plug 1 is a small, approachable option for anyone exploring anal play for the first time. It has a slim 2cm diameter and a smooth shape that widens gradually, helping insertion feel more manageable. Its flexible neck allows the plug to sit comfortably once inserted, while the extended handle provides a secure base and makes removal easier. The plug contains a small amount of weight, which creates a subtle feeling of fullness without the intensity of the heavier toys in the Snug Plug range. Its seamless silicone exterior is also waterproof and easy to clean.

Who it suits: First-time users who want a small, high-quality plug that can be worn during solo or partnered play.

The Romp Luster Anal Training Kit includes three silicone plugs in progressively larger sizes. Training kits can be particularly useful when you’re unsure which size will feel comfortable. You can begin with the smallest plug and stay at that size for as long as you like before deciding whether to explore the next one. Each plug has a tapered tip, narrow neck and flared base. The flexible silicone construction can also feel more forgiving than a rigid glass or metal toy. Because the plugs don’t vibrate or rotate, you can focus on becoming comfortable with insertion, removal and the sensation of wearing a plug.

Who it suits: Beginners who want several size options and the ability to progress gradually with one set.

The Excellent Power Bead Delight Silicone Anal Beads 3 Pack provides a different sensation from the continuous fullness of a butt plug. The set includes three strands with progressively larger bead sizes. You can begin with the slimmest option and move to another strand when you feel comfortable. Each bead creates a small change in pressure as it’s inserted or removed. There’s no need to insert the entire strand, particularly during your first few experiences. Begin with one or two beads and gradually explore more at your own pace. The flexible silicone strands include retrieval rings, giving you control over both insertion and removal.

Who it suits: Beginners who are interested in gradual, rhythmic stimulation rather than wearing a stationary plug.

Intermediate anal toys suit people who already feel comfortable using a smaller plug or other beginner toy. These options may introduce additional weight, targeted internal curves, vibration or rotation. Always check the measurements carefully, as added functions don’t necessarily mean the toy will be small.

The b-Vibe Rocker Plug uses weight and body movement to create targeted internal pressure. Its curved, angled head is designed to apply stimulation internally, particularly during prostate play. The plug also contains an internal weight that shifts slightly as you move, creating a more dynamic sensation than a standard stationary plug. An external section at the base provides additional contact around the perineal area. Because the intensity is controlled through your own movement, you can keep the sensation subtle or make it more noticeable by changing position.

Who it suits: Users who are comfortable with smaller plugs and want to introduce weight and targeted pressure without relying on vibration.

The Nexus G Play+ Medium Rechargeable Vibrating Butt Plug combines a curved silicone shaft with six vibration modes. Its shape is designed to apply targeted internal stimulation depending on how the toy is positioned. The wide external base keeps it safely anchored, while the rechargeable motor removes the need for replaceable batteries. The shaft is approximately 3.5cm wide, making it more suitable for someone who already feels comfortable using a smaller plug. Once inserted, begin with a lower vibration setting and increase the intensity gradually.

Who it suits: Users who are comfortable with medium-sized plugs and ready to introduce internal vibration.

The BMS M-Lady Light Up Rotating Anal Plug combines vibration with internal rotation. It offers several speeds and functions, allowing you to experiment with different combinations of movement and vibration. Its rotating mechanism creates a more active sensation than a standard vibrating plug without requiring a dramatic increase in size. The rose-shaped external base keeps the plug secure and includes an LED light for an additional visual detail. The toy is rechargeable and finished in soft silicone.

Who it suits: Intermediate users who want to move beyond standard vibration and explore internal rotation.

Advanced anal toys may be wider, longer, heavier or designed to expand after insertion. These products are better suited to people who already understand how their body responds and can comfortably use smaller and medium-sized toys. Take plenty of time to warm up and never treat the maximum size as a goal you need to reach.

The Nexus Tornado Plug Large combines a substantial shape with both rotation and vibration. It measures approximately 4.6cm across at its widest point and offers multiple rotation speeds and vibration modes. This creates a broader range of internal sensations than a conventional vibrating plug. The included remote allows you or a partner to adjust the settings without reaching for the base of the toy. It’s rechargeable, waterproof and finished with a silicone exterior.

Who it suits: Experienced users who want a fuller plug with strong rotation and vibration functions.

The b-Vibe Snug Plug 7 is an extra-large, heavily weighted plug designed for highly experienced users. It measures approximately 6.35cm in diameter and weighs around 600 grams. Its tapered shape allows for gradual insertion, but the overall size and weight create a significantly more intense experience than a standard plug. The flexible neck allows the weighted body to move slightly as you change position, creating additional internal pressure. Its wide external handle provides a secure base and assists with controlled removal.

Who it suits: Highly experienced users who already know they enjoy significant girth, weight and prolonged feelings of fullness.

The b-Vibe Expand Plug allows the wearer to increase the sensation of fullness after the toy has been inserted. The internal shaft offers several levels of expansion, so you can adjust the size gradually during use rather than inserting a larger fixed-width toy from the beginning. It also includes internal vibration and an external motor in the base, providing stimulation around the perineal area. The expansion and vibration settings can be controlled directly from the toy or with the included remote.

Who it suits: Advanced users interested in adjustable fullness, internal vibration and external stimulation within one toy.

Using an anal toy comfortably comes down to preparation, patience and proper care, so remember to: 

• Start slowly: Begin with external touch rather than moving immediately to penetration. Apply lubricant around the anus and allow your body time to relax. When you feel ready, position the tapered tip of the toy at the opening and apply gentle, steady pressure. Slow breathing can help the muscles relax naturally. A feeling of pressure or fullness can be normal, particularly when you’re new to anal play. Sharp or persistent pain is a reason to stop.

• Use plenty of lubricant: The anus doesn’t produce its own natural lubrication, so a generous amount of anal lubricant is essential. Apply lubricant to both the body and the full insertable section of the toy. Add more whenever the area begins to feel dry or uncomfortable. Water-based lubricant is suitable for most toy materials and is generally the easiest option when using silicone toys. Silicone lubricant provides a longer-lasting glide but may not be compatible with every silicone product, so check the manufacturer’s instructions first.

• Only use toys with a secure base:  Anything inserted anally should have a wide flared base, handle or retrieval ring. This helps prevent the toy from travelling too far inside the body. Don’t use an ordinary dildo or vibrator for anal penetration unless it has a base specifically designed for anal use.

• Clean toys before and after use: Wash anal toys before and after every use according to the manufacturer’s care instructions. The correct cleaning method will depend on the material and whether the toy contains a motor. Waterproof silicone toys can generally be washed with warm water and a mild, unscented soap or a purpose-made sex toy cleaner. Motorised toys that aren’t fully waterproof should be wiped carefully without submerging the charging port or controls. Allow the toy to dry completely before storing it in a clean pouch or separate container. Never move a toy directly from anal to vaginal use. Clean it thoroughly first or replace the condom covering the toy with a fresh one.

There’s no correct pace or progression when it comes to anal play. Some people prefer small, simple plugs, while others enjoy experimenting with vibration, weight, rotation or a fuller sensation. Begin with a toy that matches your current comfort level, use plenty of lubricant and take your time. The right option should feel approachable, safe and suited to the kind of stimulation you want to explore.

Discover Pleasure Chest’s complete collection of anal toys, including butt plugs, anal beads, training kits, prostate toys and vibrating options for every experience level.