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How Do I Choose the Right Size Anal Plug

By June 20th, 2025Sex Toy Tips9 min read

Anal Plug SizeChoosing the right size anal plug is important for comfort, safety, and a pleasurable experience. If you’re wondering how to choose the right size, you’re not alone—many people have questions about finding the best fit for their needs.

We hope this guide gives you the confidence and encouragement to explore anal play at your own pace, whether you’re new or experienced.

People have different bodies, and anal plugs come in different sizes to suit everyone, so you can find an option that matches your comfort level and experience.

This guide will walk you through the key considerations, from choosing the right size based on the signals your body sends.

Finding a good fit can lead to more pleasure and fun, making your experience both enjoyable and safe.


Key Takeaways

  • Start Small: For beginners, always choose a smaller plug with a maximum diameter like an average finger (0.75-1 inch or 1.9-2.5 cm).
  • Choose Slim Plugs: Consider slim, tapered plugs for easier and more comfortable insertion, especially if you are new to anal sex toys.
  • Use a Gentle Approach: Always be gentle, start slow, and respect your body’s limits to ensure comfort and safety.
  • Listen to Your Body: Any pain means the plug is too large or you need more lubrication/relaxation. You want a feeling of pressure or fullness, not stretching or pain.
  • The Importance of Lubrication: Always use a generous amount of water-based lubricant to ensure smooth and comfortable penetration.
  • A Flared Base: Ensure the plug has a wide, non-insertable base (flared or T-shaped) to prevent it from being accidentally “lost” internally.
  • Steer Clear of Unsafe Materials: Avoid porous or unsafe materials like PVC/Jelly; choose non-porous, body-safe options.
  • Hygiene is Crucial: Clean the plug thoroughly with warm water and soap before and after each use.
  • Pay Attention to Sensations: Notice the different sensations you experience to discover what feels best for you.
  • Gradual Progression: If you wish to size up, do so slowly and incrementally, allowing your body to adapt.
  • Relaxation Aids: Deep breathing can help relax muscles and ease penetration.
  • Consult a Professional: If you experience persistent pain, bleeding or have concerns, seek medical advice.

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What Features Determine Anal Plug Size?

When choosing the right size and design, it’s important to consider your comfort, safety, and the type of anal play you’re interested in. The best butt plug size will be based on your experience level, personal needs, and what feels most comfortable for you.

Personal Experience Level:

  • Beginners: It is recommended to start with smaller plugs to allow the body to adjust and the muscles to relax. Some beginners may even prefer a plug that is a bit smaller than the average recommendation for extra comfort. A good starting point is often a plug with a maximum diameter like an average finger (around 0.75-1 inch or 1.9-2.5 cm).
  • Experienced Users: Those with more experience may comfortably use larger sizes, having trained their muscles for relaxation and expansion.

Plug Design and Shape:

  • Tapered vs. Bulbous: Many plugs are tapered, with a narrower tip for easier insertion and a wider base. Bulbous designs have a more pronounced, rounded, widest point. Some plugs are designed for straight insertion, which can add comfort and convenience.
  • Gradual vs. Abrupt Curves: Plugs with gradual curves are generally easier to insert than those with abrupt changes in diameter.
  • Base (Crucial for Safety): Always make sure the plug has a flared or T-shaped base that is wider than the widest part of the insertable portion. Avoid plugs with a small base, as they may not be safe and could lead to the butt plug being lost inside the rectum. A good base should also provide a secure grip for easy removal and better control.

Material:

  • Silicone: Silicone toys are generally soft, flexible, and body-safe, making them a safe and popular choice for beginners.
  • Glass or Metal: This firm material is best for experienced users confident in their sizing. Metal butt plugs, in particular, are durable, easy to clean, and great for temperature play. While metal plugs are non-porous and easy to sanitize, they can be more rigid and less comfortable than silicone or glass options.
  • PVC/Jelly: Avoid these materials, as they can be porous, difficult to clean, and may contain phthalates that are harmful to the body.

Ultimately, the ideal size and design will depend on your unique preferences and comfort. Don’t hesitate to explore different options and experiment with various sizes during anal play.


How to Find the Right Size Anal Plug

Choosing the right size is a process of exploration. A plug should be inserted comfortably and without pain, making sure that the experience is smooth and enjoyable.

When starting out, inserting the plug gently and with care is important to avoid discomfort. The right size feels snug but not overwhelming, providing a pleasurable experience during use.

Finding the right size can lead to an awesome experience. However, if the size is chosen wrong, it can cause discomfort or even injury, so always pay attention to your body’s signals.

Starting Small is Key:

For your first anal plug, go for a smaller size. This makes it super easy for beginners to get comfortable, minimizes discomfort, and allows you to learn how your body will react.

Be cautious not to wear a plug for longer periods when first starting out—begin with short wear sessions and gradually increase if desired. Also, if the plug is not sized correctly, there is a risk that it may slip out unintentionally, which can cause discomfort.

As mentioned before, for beginners, a common starting range for the widest diameter is between 0.75 inches (1.9 cm) and 1.25 inches (3.2 cm).

  • The “Finger Test”: Many find that the diameter of their index or middle finger, when relaxed, can be a good initial guide for a starting plug size.

Listen to Your Body (The Most Important Rule):

  • No Pain: Any sharp or persistent pain signals that the plug is too large or that you need more lubrication and relaxation. Remove it immediately if you feel pain.
  • Comfortable Fullness: The goal is feeling comfortable fullness or pressure, not stretching or pain.
  • Easy to Insert: With good lubrication and relaxation, inserting a plug should be smooth, without excessive force.
  • Gradual Progression: If you wish to size up, do so incrementally. Don’t jump from a very small plug to a very large one. A gradual increase allows your muscles to adjust over time.
  • Wear and Duration: Some plugs are specifically designed for comfortable long-term wear, with features like a flared base and ergonomic shape. However, avoid using any butt plugs for extended periods, as this can lead to irritation, discomfort, or even inflammation. Always listen to your body and remove the plug if you notice any unusual feelings.
  • Lubrication is Non-Negotiable: Always use a generous amount of water-based lubricant if using silicone or latex anal plugs (Oil based and silicone lube is not recommend). However, Oil-based and silicone lubricants are fine if you’re using glass or stainless steel plugs. Always reapply as needed during use. The more lube, the better!
  • Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, a warm bath, or simply taking your time can help relax the anus muscles and promote easier insertion.

Safety Tips

Safety is important when choosing and using anal plugs.

  • Hygiene: Always clean your butt plugs thoroughly with warm water and soap (or a sex toy cleaner) before and after each use. Porous materials like PVC are harder to clean and should be avoided.
  • Body-Safe Materials: Stick with body-safe materials like silicone or metal and reputable brands to ensure safety and comfort.
  • Never Force It: Forcing a plug can lead to injury, including tears or damage to the anal lining.
  • Proper Base: As mentioned, ensure the butt plug has a sufficiently wide, non-insertable flared base to prevent it from being drawn fully into the rectum, which could require medical assistance to remove.
  • Sensation: Some plugs can pack a stronger feeling than others, so use them with care and start with smaller sizes if you are a beginner.
  • Storage: Store butt plugs separately to prevent cross-contamination, especially if made of different materials.
  • Consult a Professional: If you experience persistent pain, bleeding, or have any concerns about using anal plugs, talk with your healthcare provider.

Final Thoughts: Find Your Comfort Zone

Choosing the right size anal plug is important if you want to get the most pleasure out of it. Also, the perfect butt plug can really enhance your sex life by adding new sensations and excitement to backdoor play.

Anal plugs come in many varieties, making it extremely easy to find one that fits you well.

Don’t hesitate to discuss anal play and plug use openly with your partner—communication is key to finding what feels best for both of you. There is nothing wrong with talking about anal sex play.

There are also plugs specifically designed for prostate and G spot stimulation, featuring curves that target the prostate for enhanced pleasure.

Understanding the anatomy of the anus and vagina is important, as stimulation of the anus can affect nerve endings connected to the vagina, leading to new hieghts of pleasurable and powerful orgasms.

Always start small, use plenty of lubrication, and most importantly, listen to what your body is telling you. Pleasure is good, Pain is bad!

The perfect size butt plug is the one that provides a feeling of comfortable fullness without any pain or discomfort, allowing for a pleasurable and safe experience.

 

William Bell

William Bell is a full-time blogger and our resident expert on safe sex products and overall sexual wellness. His articles are based on countless hours of online research, user feedback, and product review regarding all aspects of contraceptives and adult sexual aids to help consumers make an informed choice regarding the sexual wellness products they purchase.