Reading time: ~7 minutes. Written for first-time users. Go slower than this guide says, not faster.
Before you buy: the 5-rule checklist
- Body-safe material. Medical-grade silicone, glass, or stainless steel only.
- Flared base. Non-negotiable. The widest part has to be wider than what goes inside.
- Beginner size. First plug: under 3.5 inches insertable length, under 1.25 inches at its widest.
- Smooth surface. Avoid texture, ribs, or bumps on your first plug.
- Buy lube at the same time. Water-based or anal-specific. With a silicone plug, water-based only.
Need help choosing? Our Ultimate Guide to Anal Toys walks through types and materials in depth.
What you'll need
- A body-safe butt plug (beginner size)
- Water-based or anal-specific lubricant
- Mild unscented soap or a dedicated toy cleaner
- A towel
- 15-30 minutes of uninterrupted time the first try
Prep (10 minutes)
1. Empty your bladder and bowels
Use the bathroom an hour beforehand if possible. You don't need an enema for a small plug.
2. Trim your nails
You'll be handling the plug. Short, smooth nails reduce any risk of micro-tears.
3. Get comfortable and warm
Cold rooms make muscles tense. The whole point is to be relaxed.
4. Wash the plug
Even if it's brand new. Warm water and mild soap, then dry it.
Insertion (5-15 minutes)
Step 1 — Choose a position
Three positions work well for first-timers: on your back with knees up; on your side with top knee bent; or standing with one foot on a stool.
Step 2 — Lube generously
Apply lube to the plug AND to your body. Use more than you think you need.
Step 3 — Relax
Take a few slow breaths. Breathing out as you insert helps the muscles loosen.
Step 4 — Insert slowly
Press the tip against your body and apply gentle steady pressure. Do not push hard. The plug should slide in over 30-60 seconds, not 5 seconds.
Step 5 — Pause
Stay still for a minute or two. Your body needs to acclimate. If there is sharp pain or anything that doesn't feel right, remove it.
While it's in
1-2 hours is a sensible max for any session, especially while you're new. Never sleep with a plug in.
Removal
- Find a comfortable position.
- Bear down gently while pulling the plug straight out by the flared base.
- Go slowly.
- If anything feels stuck, add more lube. Never yank.
Cleanup (5 minutes)
- Wash the plug with warm water and mild soap.
- For silicone, glass, steel: you can boil for 3-5 minutes for full sanitization.
- Air dry. Store separately from other silicone toys.
Common first-time problems
It hurts
Always means: not enough lube, going too fast, or the size is too big.
It won't go in
You're tensing up. Breathe out slowly, add more lube, try a different position.
Frequently asked questions
Is using a butt plug safe?
Yes, with body-safe materials, a flared base, and enough lube.
Can a butt plug get stuck?
Only if it doesn't have a flared base. That's the entire reason flared bases exist.
Will using a butt plug cause long-term damage?
No. Used correctly with proper lube, the rectum is designed for elastic stretching.
Do I need an enema?
For a small beginner plug, no.
Where to go from here
If this is your first plug, browse our non-vibrating beginner plugs in silicone. Once comfortable, explore the vibrating range or graduated training kits.
Free shipping on US orders over $85. 100% discreet packaging on every order.