Anal play can be an intensely erotic experience for men and women of all shapes, sizes and sexual orientations! If you're interested in exploring anal play, there are a lot of ways - and a lot of toys! - to get the job done. Here we look at a range of different toys based on what you like and your level of experience.

All Experience Levels

Lube up! When it comes to anal play, it’s important to always have a good silicone-based or a hybrid water/silicone-based body glide on hand. These types of glide are usually thicker than water-based formulas, and will help to make your anal experience more pleasurable. If you’re going to play with silicone toys (which aren’t compatible with silicone-based glide), look for an extra-thick water-based formula. (We like Sasha Grey Love Spit .)

For Beginners

Experience Some Good Vibes!

One great way to ease into anal penetration is with a small bullet and controller. Turn it on and use the petite bullet to massage around the exterior of your own or your partner’s anal opening until you feel the muscles relax.

Plug It In

Anal plugs are a beloved staple. They can help prepare you for anal sex or penetration with a larger plug. They also provide a uniquely pleasurable "filling" sensation that many people find intensely arousing. It’s worth noting that if you’re going to put something up your butt, it must have a flared base or something to stop the toy from slipping in too deep. A tapered silicone plug is a crowd-pleasing favorite for beginners and experts alike. An anal training kit is another great option because it allows you to work your way up to more advanced levels of anal penetration.

Intermediate

Fun With Anal Beads

Anal beads are a great way to take your play to the next level. The sensations produced by the movement of anal beads can cause intense arousal. Some people experience pleasure during insertion while others enjoy the sensation of the beads being pulled out when reaching orgasm because it can enhance climax. Many anal beads are organized with smaller beads at one end and progressively larger beads along the cord, so you can work your way up.

Medium Plugs

Not too big and not too small, medium anal plugs fall right in the middle. These plugs will hit the sweet spot for intermediate players looking for something a bit more filling.

Rim Job

Rimming, or anilingus , is when you kiss, lick, and/or penetrate your lover's anal opening with your tongue. After taking a shower and getting nice and clean, try combining regular oral sex with a little extra action down south. You can even use a lickable flavor enhancer to turn your lover into a delectable sweet treat.

Please Your Prostate

For males, the prostate (often called the male G-spot) naturally swells when aroused. So, begin with whatever routine you prefer to get yourself turned on. Then elevate your legs and gently massage the anal entrance. Apply lubricant to your fingers once your muscles are nice and relaxed for an easy, smooth insertion. You’ll recognize the prostate as a small, chestnut-sized bump situated approximately two inches inward.

Often, fingers are not long enough to massage the prostate comfortably. This is where a prostate massager comes in. High-quality massagers are ergonomically designed to naturally align with the prostate once inserted. They are ideal for beginners and experts alike.

Advanced

Large Plugs

You know by now that plugs are a staple of anal play. They come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes. If you’re ready to take it to the next level, get a large a nal plug.

Pegging

Pegging, the act of a woman using a strap-on attachment to have anal sex with a man, is another great way to stimulate the prostate. The best type of toy, or "attachment," you can use with your strap-on will depend on your preference. These toys come in an endless variety of shapes and sizes. Curved attachments will usually reach the prostate easier. (Get more pegging tips and toys in He Wants Me to Peg Him. Now What?)

Very Advanced

Extreme-Sized Insertables

Extreme in size and creativity, extra-large dildos and plugs are designed for the most experienced anal connoisseurs out there who prefer larger-than-life backdoor action. They aren't for the faint of heart!

Want to get started? Read What You Need to Know About Anal Sex first.