How to Use Anal Beads
Posted on 15/05/2025 and updated on 03/06/2025 by Eric
Are you looking to switch things up in the pleasure department and maybe discover some new sensations? Anal beads are fun little sex toys that allow you to up the ante every time you insert another bead. Take a look at our detailed guide to find out how to choose the right one, how to practice safe play and, of course, how to get the most pleasure out of everything this toy offers, regardless of whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro in the world of anal stimulation.
1. Choose the right set of anal beads
The hardest part about anal beads is choosing the right toy for you, once you’ve managed that, the rest is easy. Opt for a non porous, easy to clean material like silicone or glass- this will help avoid any irritation and limit bacteria build-up. If you’re a beginner, choosing a set that has 3 beads of gradually increasing size (ranging from eight to twenty millimetres in diameter) will allow you to enjoy increasing sensations in a more gentle way. Make sure that the stem of the toy has a good balance between flexibility and stiffness so that it hugs your curves but doesn’t bend upon insertion. Make sure your toy has a ring or a handle at the end- this is paramount to ensure you keep full control of the toy and to make removing it risk free. Some models possess a vibrating function, however this isn’t a necessary add on for first timers. We recommend you start off simple and work up to more sophisticated options if you feel the desire to.
Our favourite anal beads
2. Lube up your beads
The anus does not produce natural lubrication, for this reason, your comfort depends on a good dose of lube. Use a water-based lube as it’s compatible with silicone, then coat your toy as well as your anus in the lube. Make sure to keep the bottle within arm’s reach, as adding an extra drop of lube here and there when needed will make the experience easier and more pleasant.
3. Get into the right position
Get yourself into a position that favours relaxation and keeps at least one of your hands free. Lie on your back with your knees together if you want full visual control, or on the side in a foetal position if you’re looking for maximum relaxation. On all fours (doggy style) makes accessing the anus extra easy and increases sensations when pulling the toy back out. Give each of these positions a go to help you figure out which one works best for you.
4. Don’t be stingy about foreplay
The more relaxed your body is, the more ready your sphincter is. Enjoy some sensual touches, kisses and maybe a gentle massage to increase overall arousal. Introduce a lubed-up finger- maybe two if you feel at ease- into your hole so you can get a feel for how relaxed the area is and to slowly prepare you for what comes next. Whilst performing these actions make sure to breathe deeply; abdominal breathing helps to release tension in your body.
5. Insert one bead ever so gently… then the next one
Place the first lubed-up bead against your anus and let your sphincter ‘absorb’ it, rather than forcing it in. Take a small break in between each bead insertion to give yourself time to listen to your body; if you begin to feel a stinging or slight burning sensation, carefully take the beads back out, add some extra lube, relax and try again when you feel ready to do so.
6. Play around with different rhythms and sensations
Once you’ve got all of the beads (or however many you feel comfortable with) inserted, try contracting and relaxing your anal muscles, this will allow you to feel each bead individually. When paired with vaginal or anal play, you can intensify orgasm by gently pulling on the beads. Play around with speeds: slowly extracting the beads keeps pleasure steadily rising, whereas pulling the beads out quickly during or just before the big moment creates more of a ‘firework’ effect.
7. Take the beads out safely
When you decide the time is right to take the toy out, pull gently on the stem, bead after bead, ensuring to do this on an exhale to facilitate the process. Never force things: if one of the beads is being a little stubborn, take a break, breathe, add some more lube and try again, moving as slowly as needed. Once finished, take a quick look at your toy, making sure it’s still completely intact with no cracks or missing beads.
8. Clean your beads and take care of them
After use, ensure to clean your toy with warm water and a gentle soap or an antibacterial cleaner specially designed for sex toys.
Thoroughly dry your toy then store it away in a bag made from breathable material.
Avoid keeping it in plastic as this will trap in humidity.
Make sure to check-up regularly on the state of the silicone. If it becomes sticky or starts to tear, these are signs it’s time to get a replacement toy. If you want to keep the surface of your toy soft, once it’s fully dry give it a quick dust with some cosmetic-grade talcum powder.
Anal beads offer a gentle, fun dip into the world of anal exploration. Our best tips for maximising pleasure and minimising potential risks? Carefully choosing the right toy for you, not skimping on the lube, taking things one step at a time and respecting your body’s signals. The only thing left to do is to give it a go! Make sure you pay attention to your body throughout the experience, and of course, savour every little beaded drop of pleasure.