How to Choose the Perfect Anal Sex Toy
Posted on 12/04/2023 and updated on 03/06/2025 by Eric
If you're looking to experiment with new kinds of pleasure, anal sex toys could be just what you're looking for. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll give your intimate life an electrifying boost by purchasing a new toy for your anal area. Read on to find out the most important factors to take into account when purchasing a new anal toy.
Don't forget to always respect your own boundaries, or if you’re with a partner, their boundaries as well. Communication is key when it comes to partner play. Always use a suitable anal lubricant and to follow the instructions in your toy’s user’s manual.
Our favourite anal toys
The perfect anal toy for beginners
If you want to enjoy the pleasures of anal play with complete peace of mind, you should take a cautious approach. Be gentle, give yourself time to learn and don't rush things. There are tons of models specially designed for beginners. Here's everything you need to know about anal toys for beginners:
- Material and texture: Choose a silicone anal toy to start with. This soft, silky material makes it easier to insert for a more comfortable anal experience.
- Design: A conical shape allows for gradual insertion. This will allow you to get used to the new sensations in a gentle way.
- Diameter: We recommend that you choose a toy with a diameter of no more than 1.00 inch. Above all, don't rush things, as you could injure yourself or experience discomfort. If you’d like, you can increase the size of your anal toy over time, as your level of experience increases.
A small butt plug
The main advantage of an anal plug is that it stays perfectly in place once inserted, making it ideal for beginners. You can wear your plug during sex, or else you can just wear it as you go about your day to get used to the sensations. Opt for a small model with a flared base for safety’s sake.
A small anal dildo
You can also go for a small anal dildo with a tapered end if you’d like to control the pleasure yourself. Choose a dildo with a suction-cup base to experiment with hands-free fun. That way, you can control the rhythm of your movements and the depth of penetration.
The LOVE Team recommends that you read our how-to guides before using your new dildo or butt plug. You’ll find all of our valuable tips and tricks to make sure you get the most out of your new beginner’s sex toy.
The perfect anal sex toy to surprise your partner
What could be more satisfying (and exciting!) than breaking out of your sexual routine by surprising your partner? You can use an original anal toy to do just that! Follow the LOVE Team’s advice to find the perfect anal toy to surprise and thrill your partner tonight.
A tunnel plug
A tunnel plug is a hollow butt plug. The tunnel in the middle of the toy allows you to observe your partner's inner walls during doggy-style sex. You’ll love taking in this rare view of your partner’s most intimate area.
A tail butt plug
Adorned with an attractive animal tail made of synthetic fur, this type of butt plug is perfect for those who want to experiment with a bit of role play in a gentle, naughty manner. Choose the animal that you like best (fox, rabbit, cat, etc.) to really wild out with your partner.
The perfect anal toy for fans of prostate play
There are many sex toys designed specifically for prostate stimulation (or P-spot). Want to experience incredibly intense orgasms? Read on to find the perfect prostate toy!
Manual or automatic prostate massager
Prostate massagers have a curved shaft for P-spot stimulation. These toys come in both manual and automatic models. Beginners may find it easier to start with a manual toy, as this makes it easier to control the intensity of the stimulation. Those who have already experimented with P-spot play will love the ease and effortlessness of an automatic model.
A prostate butt plug
A prostate butt plug delivers prolonged prostate pleasure. You can use a prostate plug with a partner for a highly exciting session for two, or simply wear it during solo play for even more pleasure.
An anal toy is the perfect way to discover prostate pleasure. Always choose a model that suits your level of experience to give yourself the time you need to get used to the new sensations. You'll soon find that you can't get enough of the intense pleasures your new toy has to offer.
An aesthetically pleasing anal sex toy
A jewelled butt plug
Adorned with a sparkling, colourful gemstone at the base, this anal plug will add a touch of luxury and romance to your partner play session. Available in a range of different sizes, it's sure to seduce your partner.
Glass butt plugs and dildos
Glass anal plugs and dildos can be considered as works of art in their own right. These mouth-blown glass sex toys have different colours and textures, so you’re bound to find the perfect model for you. You can also experiment with temperature play by dipping your toy into hot water (to warm it up) or cold water (to cool it down). Glass toys are also hypoallergenic for more sensitive users. They are easy to clean and can be used with all types of lubricants.
With the help of your sophisticated anal toy, you’ll add a touch of beauty to your intimate sessions!
The perfect anal toy for fans of BDSM
An anal spreader
You can use an anal spreader to achieve extreme anal dilation. Select the right diameter for you (up to 4.00 inches!) for intense results. If you like playing with anal plugs but want something a little bit more powerful, an anal spreader is the perfect choice. Make sure that you take your time when playing with your anal spreader to get used to the sensations and avoid hurting yourself.
An anal hook
This anal toy has a small hook that can be inserted into the anus. The other end can be connected to another bondage accessory, like a lead. In a Dom/sub relationship, the dominant partner can control the movements of their hook-wearing sub.
Communication, trust, and consent are essential ingredients in enjoying these kinds of intense experiences. Check that you’re not crossing your partner’s boundaries every step of the way.
Choose the right material for your toy
The material your toy is made from can have a significant influence on your experience, affecting things like how comfortable you feel during penetration, or the types of sensations you get from your toy. Each material has its benefits, adapting to different uses and needs. In this section we’ll detail the most common materials you’ll come across when choosing your anal toy, as well as some advice on how to choose the perfect one that meets your needs.
Silicone
Silicone is well-loved by many for its extreme softness, it's also supple, hypoallergenic and feels very pleasant against the skin. It’s a great choice for beginners as its elastic properties make insertion easier and more comfortable. Some extra benefits: it’s easy to clean and comes in a multitude of textures and colours. Be careful, however, not to use silicone based lubes alongside silicone toys as this risks damaging them.
TPE/TPR
Just as soft and flexible as our first option, TPE/TPR (thermoplastic elastomer) recreates a natural skin feel. It’s a budget friendly option, ideal for anyone looking to dip their toes into the world of anal play without spending too much money. One thing to look out for with TPE/TPR: this is a porous material so make sure to give your toys a real good clean after every use.
Metal
Robust, heavy and a great conductor of heat, metal is the perfect choice if you’re on the hunt for unique sensations, with its firmness allowing for particularly intense stimulation. For even more sensations, you can heat up or cool down your metal toy before use. Hypoallergenic, non-porous and super easy to maintain, metal toys are great for more experienced fans of anal play, or for those specifically after more varied and powerful play time.
Glass
Often considered to be the most elegant option, glass (borosilicate glass) is non porous, hypoallergenic and super easy to clean. Its super smooth surface promotes fluid, comfortable penetration, and just like their metal counterparts, glass toys can be heated or cooled to make play even more exciting. They’re also extremely visually pleasing, charming with their refined shapes and artistic looks. This option, however, needs to be approached with caution, although glass toys are very resistant, they can break if they land on a hard surface when dropped.
Anal lubricant: an essential ingredient
- Slipperiness: Unlike the vagina, the anus does not lubricate itself. Anal lubricants are therefore more slippery than conventional lubricants, helping to prevent irritation during anal penetration.
- Thicker consistency and longer-lasting glide: Anal lubes are thicker than regular lubes, so you won’t have to reapply as often during sex. That means you can just concentrate on pleasuring yourself and your partner!
- Compatibility: Not all lubes are compatible with certain sex toys. Do not use silicone-based lubricants with silicone sex toys, as this may damage your toy. A water-based or hybrid lubricant will work perfectly in this case.
Remember to check out our buyer’s guides for dildos, butt plugs and prostate massagers. You'll find expert advice for choosing the toy of your dreams.
And don't forget to read our how-to guide How to use an anal douche for a clean and comfortable experience every time!