Anal toys: what to look for before you buy

Anal toys have one rule that matters more than any other, and a handful of details that decide whether a toy is a good buy or a waste of money. This guide covers what to check on the product page, whichever shop you buy from.

The one rule: a flared base

Anything that goes in the anus needs a flared base, a ring or a handle wider than the toy itself. The rectum isn't a closed pocket: muscles can draw a toy further in, and without a base you may not be able to get it back out. That's the most common reason anal toys end up in hospital.

So: no improvised objects, no bullet vibrators on their own, and no toys "designed for vaginal use" unless the base is wide enough to stop at the entrance.

Material matters more here

Anal toys meet bacteria, so the material needs to clean properly. Look for silicone, glass, stainless steel or ABS plastic, which are non-porous and wash clean. Porous materials such as jelly, TPE or PVC can't be fully cleaned; if you use them, keep them for yourself and use a condom over them.

The types, briefly

• Butt plugs sit in place: a tapered tip, a wider body, a narrow neck and the flared base. Good for wearing during other things.
• Anal beads are a string of balls that get bigger along the length, for in-and-out play. Pick one-piece silicone over beads on a cord, which can't be cleaned.
• Prostate massagers are curved to reach the prostate, a few centimetres inside on the side towards the belly. Some vibrate, some don't, most have an external arm that presses the perineum.
• Anal dildos and vibrators are for thrusting, and still need the base.

What to check on the product page

• Base: flared, a ring or a handle, and wider than the widest part of the toy.
• Insertable length and widest diameter: start small and tapered. You can always size up.
• Material: named, and non-porous.
• For vibrating toys: whether it's waterproof, how it charges, and how loud it is.
• One piece: seams and joins are where dirt collects.

Using them well

• Lube, then more lube. The anus doesn't make its own. Use a thick water-based gel with silicone toys, or silicone lube with glass, steel or ABS. Our lube guide goes through the options.
• Go slowly. Relaxed muscles are what make it comfortable. Breathe out as you insert.
• Skip numbing creams. Pain is information.
• Never go from anus to vagina without washing the toy or changing the condom.
• Wash after every use with warm water and mild soap or a toy cleaner, and store toys separately.

Where to buy

Range varies a lot: some shops have a few plugs, others a full anal and prostate section with sizes clearly listed. Our where to buy anal and prostate toys page lists the shops with the best range, plain packaging and the returns rules you should know before you open the box.