Butt plug size guide and anal training set: from XS to L

For the very first time, a plug with a maximum diameter of 2.5–3.0 cm is the safest starting point. The anus is surrounded by the sphincter muscle, which needs to adapt gradually to penetration. Using a size that is too large straight away increases the risk of irritation or small tears. Always start one size smaller than you think you need, and only move up when it is completely pain-free.

The size guide below gives indicative diameters per experience level. Note: size codes differ between brands, so always use the diameter in cm as your reference.

As a rule of thumb: increase the diameter by no more than 0.5–0.7 cm per step and allow plenty of time between steps; this can take weeks or months depending on the body.

An anal training set (also called an anal training kit) typically contains three plugs of increasing size, usually XS/S, M, and L, in the same material and shape. This makes it easier to train consistently without switching between different types of plug.

A training set is useful if you:
- want to let the anal muscles gradually adapt to penetration;
- want to train regularly and need a clear progression line;
- prefer not to buy multiple plugs separately in different materials.

Browse Intimico's anal kit collection for sets assembled with safety and size progression in mind. If you are completely new to anal play, we recommend reading the anal beginners guide before purchasing a training set.

The material of your plug determines how it feels, how you clean it, and whether it is safe for the body. Use only non-porous, body-safe materials. Porous materials such as jelly, PVC, or TPR/TPE contain microscopic cavities where bacteria, fungi, and harmful substances (such as phthalates) can harbour even after cleaning.

Medical-grade silicone:
- Flexible, feels slightly body-warm, softer on insertion.
- Non-porous, phthalate-free, hypoallergenic.
- Cleaning: warm water with mild soap, or disinfectant spray. Boilable (no motor or batteries).
- Important: use water-based lubricant only on silicone plugs. Silicone lubricant degrades the surface, making it porous and increasing the risk of bacterial contamination.

Borosilicate glass (Pyrex):
- Hard, smooth, heavier; can be warmed or cooled to body temperature.
- Fully non-porous, sterilisable (boiling or dishwasher).
- Compatible with water-based and silicone lubricant.
- Always check for cracks or chips before use.

Surgical steel (stainless steel 316L):
- Hard, smooth, and heavy; provides extra pressure sensation.
- Fully non-porous, sterilisable.
- Compatible with water-based and silicone lubricant.
- Beginners sometimes choose steel because the clearly defined base prevents loss.

Unlike the vagina, the anus produces no natural moisture. Lubricant is therefore not optional but mandatory. Without sufficient lubricant, friction increases significantly, which can cause irritation, small tears (fissures), or pain.

Water-based lubricant:
- Safe on all material types, including silicone.
- Dries faster; reapply during longer sessions.
- Easy to wash off, safe with condoms.
- Ideal for beginners and training sets.

Silicone-based lubricant:
- Longer lasting, thicker, particularly well suited for anal use.
- Do NOT use on silicone plugs: the chemical affinity degrades the surface.
- Safe on glass and steel.

Numbing gel or cream: never use during anal training. Pain is an essential signal from the body indicating that you are going too fast or that irritation is occurring. Suppressing pain risks causing unnoticed small tears or injury. Build up more slowly and use more lubricant instead.

See also Intimico's lubricant overview for a comparison by type.

Consistency and patience matter more than speed. Follow these steps:

1. 1Prepare: Use the toilet and shower if desired. Make sure you have a relaxed environment and enough time.
2. 2Start with finger practice: Insert a well-lubricated finger before using a plug. This helps relax the sphincter and gives you a sense of the feeling.
3. 3Always start with the smallest size (XS/S) first: Even if you think you have some experience. Going too large too soon increases the risk of tears.
4. 4Apply plenty of lubricant: Apply lubricant to both the plug and the anus. Reapply as soon as you feel resistance.
5. 5Insert slowly with pauses: Use the tip of the plug to apply light pressure, exhale, and let the muscle relax before continuing.
6. 6Listen to your body: Light pressure or a full feeling are normal. Sharp or persistent pain is a stop signal. Carefully remove the plug and wait.
7. 7Build up wearing time: Start with a few minutes, then build up gradually over sessions.
8. 8Only then move to a larger size: Only progress to size M when S is fully pain-free and comfortable over multiple sessions.

The anus has a suction effect and can draw a plug inward if it has no adequate stop. This is one of the most common reasons for emergency visits to a doctor or emergency department related to anal toys.

Every butt plug must have:
- A wide, flared base (T-bar or disc shape) that is wider than the maximum diameter of the plug, so it cannot be pulled further in, or
- a retrieval cord or ring that remains outside the body.

Never buy a plug without a clear stop. Also verify at the time of purchase that the base is firmly attached to the plug and does not detach. This applies to all sizes, from XS to L.

Thorough cleaning after every use is essential to prevent bacterial infections and fungal growth.

Silicone plugs (without motor):
- Boil in water for 3–5 minutes, or
- wash with warm water and mild soap, rinse thoroughly.

Glass and steel:
- Boil, dishwasher (top rack), or soak for 10 minutes in a 10% bleach solution, then rinse thoroughly.

In general:
- Dry completely before storing.
- Store plugs separately in a cloth pouch or individual compartment to prevent cross-contamination and surface damage.
- Check before each use for cracks, chips, or damage. Never use a damaged plug.

See also Intimico's silicone butt plugs overview for material-specific cleaning tips.

Anal play is safe when you follow the guidelines above. There are however situations where it is wise to consult a doctor or medical professional:

• Persistent or recurring anal pain after use.
• Bleeding that does not stop after a few hours or involves more than a small spot.
• The feeling that an object has not been fully removed: go to a doctor or emergency department immediately.
• Existing conditions such as haemorrhoids, fistulas, anal fissures, or inflammatory bowel disease: always seek medical advice first before starting with anal toys.

Moderate pressure or discomfort that disappears once you stop and apply extra lubricant is normal while learning to relax. Never ignore sharp, persistent, or increasing pain.