The Beginner's Guide to Anal Toys

Should I Use Anal Lube?

Every good anal story starts with a lubricant, right!? For next-level pleasure, we definitely recommend choosing a quality lubricant for anal play. Plenty of lube is always essential when it comes to playing in this region – so why not use a long-lasting anal lube? We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much more comfortable and sexy backdoor sensations can feel with anal-specific lubricants.

What is the Difference Between Anal Lube and Water-Based Lube?

Anal lubes are thicker than water-based lubricants, more slippery, and last longer, taking anal play to a whole new level! Whereas water-based lubes tend to dry up or get sticky, anal lubricants keep play slick the entire time. The viscosity of anal lube also helps to protect delicate tissue in and around your bum. Just remember, anal lube is amazing with steel or glass toys – however, you MUST switch to water-based when using anything silicone (check condom directions for compatibility)!

What are they?

Anal beads are a set of beads or balls, attached together by a flexible material, and usually in a series from small to large, which makes them easier to insert. Anal beads are worn during playtime or lovemaking, and then pulled out at various speeds depending on what sort of effect you’re after. Usually this is done just at the point of climax to intensify orgasm.

Who can use anal beads?

Everyone! Anal beads can be used solo or with a partner, by a man or a woman (although it may be more intense for a man because of their prostate). Beads are a great introduction to anal sex for beginners, as it can show you how pleasurable anal play can actually be. Anal beads also come in various sizes, perfect for beginners or the more experienced.

Keep quality in mind when choosing your next anal toy. Cheap materials are porous and absorbent – potentially sponging up bacteria and lube, whilst at the same time leaching toxins. Let's be honest, you don't want that kinda thing going on with your new anal toy. Choose the good stuff and it'll love you back.

What are they?

Butt plugs are designed to be inserted into the bum for sexual pleasure, and are in some ways, similar to dildos. However, the design of butt plugs are different to that of dildos: plugs are shorter and have a flanged end to keep the plug in place. Basically, a plug has been designed to stay in for the duration of use, whereas a dildo is used to simulate intercourse (the in and out motion).

Should I give it a go?

Definitely! The anus has a high concentration of nerve endings so even shallow insertions feel delicious. Inserting a plug during sex feels great for a woman! Plugs provide incredible feelings of fullness, and make orgasmic contractions feel stronger and more intense. A female wearing a plug is also pleasurable for a male partner during intercourse, as it creates a subtle pressure on his shaft. Plugs can arouse the prostate too (located up the front wall of the anus), which when stimulated, produces orgasms more intense than those from penile stimulation alone.

What would I use it for?

Great for men (prostate stimulation) and women (G-spot stimulation), the probe is a toy for all occasions. Their sleekness is perfect for replicating the movement of intercourse, and probes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials based on your needs. It's the perfect toy to pinpoint the pleasure zones of men and women.

What are anal vibrators?

Unlike plugs and probes, anal vibrators  are designed to produce a variety of sensations, with a range of movements. They rotate, vibrate, and pulse – all at different speeds. Anal vibes have very powerful motors to ensure that vibrations are able to travel through the strong muscles of the rectum and sphincter. Although good for men and women, men find them particularly pleasing since they deliver great sensations straight to the prostate (the male G-spot). 

What different types are available?

You can choose from vibrating prostate massagers, anal beads, probes, and even vibrating butt plugs. What you choose will be determined by what you like. Men might prefer vibrating prostate massagers, while vibrating anal probes are often small and slim enough for both experienced users and novices.

What are they?

A man's prostate gland is as potent as a woman's G-spot. Located in his anus, the prostate, when stimulated, can result in strong and intense orgasms for men. A prostate massager is designed to slip up the rectum and massage this very spot. The toys' shape is similar to a finger and has a slightly curved head to reach the gland. Some prostate massages vibrate for extra sensations.

What's the big deal about the prostate?

Ah, great question. Prostate orgasms are a lot more intense than the orgasms you experience from just penile stimulation, so it's worth knowing where and what this little love button is!

The prostate is a male gland that is roughly the size and shape of a walnut. Located just beneath the bladder and in the front of the rectum, the prostate can be stroked and massaged during sex, which will give the man super intense and powerful orgasms. So powerful, in fact, that it is even known as the male G-spot!

What is Anal Douching?

Though many of us might identify the term ‘douche’ as derogatory slang, the meaning of the word actually derives from a Latin word meaning ‘pour by drops’. This is a more accurate nomer since douching is the act of sending a pressurized jet of water into either the vagina or bum for the purpose of cleansing. While douching was once primarily promoted for vaginal hygiene, it is now popular for cleansing the anus before engaging in backdoor pleasuring.

Should I Douche and How Often?

Anal douching is a matter of personal preference. Some couples might prefer a planned, prepped, and more tidy exchange (though no matter how well you douche, bits of feces are still likely to sneak out), while others thrive on the raunch of a spontaneous experience. Then there are some who find the prep as stimulating as the sharing itself!