How to choose an anal plug?

Comment choisir son plug anal ?

What is an anal plug?

An anal plug is a sex toy specifically designed for anal stimulation and wear. Unlike a dildo, it has a flared base to prevent it from being sucked into the rectum, and a tapered shape to facilitate insertion. It can be worn for an extended period to prepare for anal penetration or simply for pleasure.

Materials: which one to choose?

1) Medical-grade silicone (THE BEST CHOICE)

Pros:

  • 100% body-safe and non-porous
  • Soft and comfortable
  • Easy to clean
  • Durable
  • Retains body heat
  • Water-based lubricant compatible

Cons:

  • Medium/high price
  • Do not use with silicone lubricant

2) Metal (stainless steel)

Pros:

  • Very hygienic
  • Pleasant weight (full sensation)
  • Temperature play
  • Easy to insert (smooth surface)
  • Indestructible
  • All lubricant compatible

Cons:

  • Rigid surface
  • Cold on initial contact
  • High price

3) Borosilicate glass

Pros:

  • Non-porous and hygienic
  • Temperature play
  • Aesthetically beautiful
  • Ultra-smooth surface
  • All lubricant compatible

Cons:

  • Fragile
  • Rigid
  • High price

4) Latex/Rubber

Pros:

  • Very flexible
  • Accessible price

Cons:

  • Porous
  • Potential allergies
  • Odor
  • Limited lifespan

⚠️ WARNING: Avoid cheap porous materials (jelly, PVC) - dangerous for your health.

The different types

1) Classic anal plug

Simple tapered shape with a flared base.

Ideal for:

  • Beginners
  • Extended wear
  • Discovering anal stimulation

2) Vibrating anal plug

With an integrated motor for vibrations.

Ideal for:

  • Prostate stimulation (men)
  • Heightened sensations
  • More intense orgasms

Things to watch out for:

  • Check for waterproofing
  • Battery or rechargeable
  • Bulkier

3) Inflatable plug

Inflates once inserted using a pump.

Ideal for:

  • Progressive training
  • Adjusting size based on comfort
  • Experienced users

4) Tail plug

Plug topped with a decorative tail (fur, silicone).

Ideal for:

  • Roleplay (pet play)
  • Aesthetic appeal
  • Couples

5) Tunnel/hollow plug

Hollow plug allowing for visibility or insertion through it.

Ideal for:

  • Advanced practices
  • Experienced couples
  • Visual play

6) Jeweled plug

Metal plug with a crystal/jewel on the base.

Ideal for:

  • Aesthetics
  • Discreet wear under clothes
  • Gifts

7) Prostate plug

Specific curved shape to stimulate the prostate.

Ideal for:

  • Men
  • P-spot stimulation
  • Prostatic orgasms

Which size to choose?

Absolute beginner

Diameter: 2-2.5 cm
Insertable length: 6-8 cm

Start SMALL. Better too small than too big.

Experienced beginner

Diameter: 2.5-3.5 cm
Insertable length: 7-9 cm

After a few weeks of practice.

Intermediate

Diameter: 3.5-4.5 cm
Insertable length: 8-10 cm

Regular practice for several months.

Advanced

Diameter: 4.5-6 cm
Insertable length: 10-12 cm

Confirmed experience.

Expert

Diameter: 6+ cm
Insertable length: 12+ cm

Intensive and regular practice.

💡 ESSENTIAL TIP: Go slowly. The anus requires gradual training. Buying a kit of plugs in increasing sizes is often the best option for beginners.

How to choose based on your needs?

To get started with anal

  • 3-plug kit (sizes S/M/L)
  • Soft silicone
  • Simple and smooth shapes

For extended wear

  • Ergonomic shape with a thin neck
  • Flat base (comfortable for sitting)
  • Soft silicone
  • Lightweight

For prostate stimulation

  • Curved shape
  • Preferably vibrating
  • Length 8-10 cm

For aesthetics

  • Metal jeweled plug
  • Elegant design
  • Discreet wear

For intense sensations

  • Metal (weight)
  • Powerful vibrations
  • Medium to large size

ESSENTIAL safety rules

ALWAYS check for a flared base

An anal plug MUST have a wide base that prevents it from being sucked inside. This is NON-NEGOTIABLE for safety.

Use PLENTY of lubricant

The anus does not self-lubricate naturally. Generously use a water-based lubricant (or silicone with metal/glass).

Go progressively

  • Start with fingers
  • Spend time on foreplay
  • Insert slowly
  • Breathe and relax
  • Listen to your body

NEVER force it

If it hurts, STOP. Pain is not normal.

Impeccable hygiene

  • Wash before AND after use
  • Avoid moving from anal to vaginal without cleaning

How to care for your anal plug?

Cleaning

Before and after EVERY use:

  1. Wash with warm water and mild pH-neutral soap
  2. For silicone: can be boiled for 3-5 min
  3. For metal/glass: cleaning with alcohol is possible
  4. Dry completely
  5. Store in a clean pouch

Sterilization

  • Silicone: boiling water
  • Metal/glass: boiling water or sterilizer
  • Latex/TPE: antibacterial cleanser only

Compatible lubricants

  • Silicone: WATER-based lubricant only
  • Metal/glass: All types
  • Latex: WATER or silicone-based lubricant (no oil)

FAQ

Does it hurt?
No, if done correctly with lubricant and progressivity. Pain signals that you need to slow down or stop.

Can you wear a plug all day?
Yes, but start with 30 minutes, then increase gradually. Use a plug with a thin neck for comfort.

Do you need to prepare (enema)?
Not mandatory but recommended for mental comfort. An anal douche is sufficient.

Can you sleep with one?
Not recommended for beginners. If experienced: small size plug, thin neck, soft silicone.

Can women use an anal plug?
Absolutely! The anus is an erogenous zone for all genders.

Does it really prepare you for anal sex?
Yes, regular use of plugs helps to relax and train the sphincter muscles.

Rédigé par

Théo

Éducateur dans l'âme et allié LGBTQ+ convaincu, j'écris sur la sexualité depuis que j'ai réalisé qu'elle était encore trop souvent réservée aux mêmes. À 29 ans, je me suis spécialisé dans les sextoys pour hommes, la sexualité inclusive et les pratiques en couple. Passionné de voyages et de danse, j'aborde ces sujets avec autant de sérieux que de légèreté — parce que le plaisir, c'est pour tout le monde.

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