What is a butt plug?

What a butt plug is

A butt plug is a toy designed to be inserted into the anus and stay in place. It has a tapered tip, a wider middle, a narrow neck and a flared base that stops it from slipping inside.

People of every gender use them for the feeling of fullness, as part of foreplay, to get used to anal play, or for prostate stimulation. See our guide to prostate massage.

Plugs are usually worn rather than moved in and out, which is the main difference from a dildo.

Choosing a first plug

Start small: a beginner plug of about 2.5 cm (one inch) wide at its widest point is plenty. Body-safe silicone is the best material, as it is soft, smooth and easy to clean.

Glass and steel plugs feel firmer and can be warmed or cooled. Some plugs vibrate, and some come in sets of sizes for gradual training.

Always check the base is wide and flared. Never use anything without one for anal play.

How to use one safely

Use lots of lube, and more than you think: the anus does not make its own. Water-based lube is safe with all toys; avoid silicone lube with silicone toys. See our lube guide.

Relax, take your time and insert it slowly, breathing out as you do. If anything hurts, stop. Mild pressure is normal, pain is not.

Start by wearing it for a short time, 10 to 20 minutes, and build up gradually. Never move a toy from anal to vaginal use without washing it.

Cleaning and care

Wash it before and after every use with warm water and mild unscented soap or toy cleaner. Silicone, glass and steel plugs can usually be boiled for a deeper clean.

Dry it fully and store it in a pouch. Replace any toy that becomes cracked or damaged.

Our guide to choosing, using and cleaning sex toys has more, and adult shops covers where to buy.