Sexual Wellness

13 best anal sex toys in 2026, approved by sexperts

Relax, use lube, and communicate.
Best Anal Sex Toys UK 2026
LELO

Featured in this article

Best anal sex toy overall
Smile Makers Collection The Neighbor
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Best vibrating anal beads
SORAYA Beads Anal Massager
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Best anal vibrator
Skins Bums & Roses Anal Vibrator
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Anal sex toys FAQs, answered:

Is anal play enjoyable the first time?

“I can’t emphasize this enough; anal play, even the first-time, should be enjoyable," urges Samantha Marshall, Head of brand at Smile Makers Collection. "Don’t let anybody tell you otherwise. Far too often, people with vulvas are taught to accept painful sex. Everything should be peachy, not ouchy!”

Naturally, enjoyment will build up each time you try and a large aspect of enjoying anal play is relaxing your body so you don't tense, but never allow pain to be the norm.

“And remember: anal stimulation doesn’t have to be penetrative,” Marshall continues. "Butt play can begin externally; from the perineum (the spongy area between the vaginal opening and anus) to between the butt cheeks. The anal entrance itself is rich in nerve endings, so shallow, gentle stimulation is often where the most comfortable and pleasurable exploration begins.

Are anal toys safe to use?

Short answer: Yes!

Long answer: “Yes, as long as you choose and use them mindfully,” explains Marshall. "It’s important to do your research and opt for body-safe materials, like high-quality silicone. Any anal toy should always have a flared base or handle to prevent it from slipping too far inside; that’s a non-negotiable safety feature.

"Hygiene also matters. Always clean toys before and after use to prevent bacteria from spreading. Using a dedicated toy cleanser, like Vibe Wash with its antibacterial formula, helps keep things fresh and supports good anal play hygiene.

"Just as importantly, listen to your body. Anal play isn’t something you have to enjoy, and it’s certainly not something to push through. If something doesn’t feel right, stop. We always recommend starting with solo exploration through masturbation; whether that’s clitoral, vaginal, vulval or anal. I always say, the butt is simply another erogenous zone to get curious about at your own pace."

Are vibrating anal toys better than non-vibrating ones?

“Better really depends on what you want, and what you are comfortable with," reveals Kate Moyle, UK sex expert at LELO. "The advantage of a vibrating anal toy is that it can be used to create a variety of sensations; and vibrations and intensity can be turned on or altered, at any point based on your preference.

"Really, it's about having options and vibrating toys can offer a layering of pleasure from both the pressure on the prostate and the vibration sensations, as the prostate is densely packed with nerve endings, and for some vibrations can help to relax the anal muscles.”

How do I use an anal toy on my partner?

“If you’re thinking about trying anal play with a partner for the first time, start with a conversation before you’re in the moment,” shares Marshall. “Talk openly about boundaries, expectations and any worries, and make sure you’re aligned on protection and hygiene. Feeling informed and respected is what allows curiosity to feel exciting rather than stressful.”

Marshall continues: "When it comes to partnered anal play, slow really means slow (yes, even slower than you think). Tune into each other’s bodies and communicate throughout. One of the most consistent things we heard during the development of The Neighbor was how intimate it felt to keep checking in, describing sensations and adjusting together. That ongoing communication can be incredibly connecting.

"Avoid going straight to butt play and instead build arousal with plenty of outercourse and other touch first. Feeling relaxed and turned on makes a huge difference. Many people also enjoy layering stimulation (for example, using a butt plug while stimulating the clitoris) as anal pleasure is often enhanced when paired with other sensations.

"Aftercare is just as important as the build-up. The experience doesn’t stop when anal stimulation ends. Check in with each other afterwards and talk about what felt good or what didn’t. The first time might not be what you imagined, and that’s okay, those conversations help set the tone for future play."

Aftercare is a necessity. Don't you dare reach for your phone when the deed is done. The three C's are: cuddles, communication and cleanup. Never skimp.

Can anal toys be worn for extended periods?

“There is no specific or exact guidance on how long anal products can be worn for, with some experts advising a break in use every 30 minutes or so and others advising no longer than two to three hours," explains Moyle. "What is well documented is that use should be gradually built up, both in terms of size of anal toy being used, and how long it is worn for as to not put too much pressure on the sphincter muscles.

"Safe use of toys is important and guidance around specifically using only toys designed for anal use with a flared base and a thinner neck of the toy for comfortable insertion and removal. Also making sure they are made from body-safe materials such as silicone, borosilicate glass, or stainless steel for hygiene and safe practice, and used with a lubricant designed for anal use which has thicker viscosity.”

Do you need lube when using anal vibrators?

Unlike the vagina, the anus doesn’t self-lubricate, so using lube is an absolute must when playing with anal sex toys. The type of lube you choose should depend on the material of your toys. If your toys are silicone — which many are — avoid silicone-based lubes, as they can damage the material. Instead, opt for a water-based lube for smooth, safe play.


Meet the experts:

Samantha MarshallHead of brand at Smile Makers Collection.
Kate MoylePsychosexual and relationship therapist, plus UK sex expert for LELO.