When it comes to choosing the right toy for anal play, you want to above all, make sure it’s safe. Look for products labeled food-grade or medical grade. Also look for products labeled Phthalate-free. Make sure you do your research and read the reviews on any anal toy you purchase, because unfortunately just because they look and appear to be labeled the same, doesn’t make it so. And yes, read the little book that comes with it too. 

What Are They Made Of:

1. Silicone- These anal toys are said to be some of the more safer, softer toys because silicone is both non-porous and hypoallergenic. Silicone toys can vary in flexibility and firmness and can be a comfortable choice for beginners. When selecting silicone products make sure they are high quality, 100% silicone. This material can be comfortable for more long-term wear. Lubes to Use: If you’re using silicone, skip the silicone based lube, you want to use a nice water based lube instead. Silicone lubes can deteriorate a silicone toy and make it easier for bacteria to form. We definitely don’t want that, especially when it comes to anal toys. 
2. Jelly- A blend of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and rubber, these malleable toys are known to contain Pthlatates. Jelly toys are also porous and will need immediate cleaning to keep them safe for play. Lubes to Use: Do not use with oil based lubes, opt for a water or silicone lube instead.
3. Glass- Anal toys aren’t just made from any glass, they are made from borosilicate glass(Pyrex). This glass is non-toxic and non-porous. Obviously, glass toys will be hard and rigid and may not be as comfortable for longer use. The ability of glass toys to hold both heat and cold, make it great for sensation play. Always make sure to inspect your glass toys before and after each use for cracks, because although it’s a durable material, it’s not invincible. Lubes to use- Water, oil or silicone, it’s whatever your pleasure with glass anal toys. 
4. Rubber- A soft, porous material, that while flexible doesn’t have near the bend of a silicone or jelly toy. When selecting a rubber based toy, use caution if you have a latex allergy, as some rubber blends may contain latex. Lubes to Use- Avoid oil based lubes here. Water or silicone based lubes are better for rubber.
5. Metal- Smooth and sturdy, metal anal toys can offer a more intense experience. All metals are not created equal, so you’ll want to make sure you select a high quality safe metal, such as surgical steel. Lubes to Use: It’s user’s preference when it comes to choosing a lube for a metal anal toy, since they’re compatible with oil, silicone and water based lubes.

How to Keep Them Clean:

All toys should be inspected during cleaning for any cracks, damage or deterioration to prevent injury and bacterial growth.

For non-porous toys: Heat resistant non-porous anal toys can be boiled for 10 minutes and then cooled to be cleaned. For those with a less heat resistant constitution, clean with a mild antibacterial soap and warm water.

For porous toys: Never use any abrasive substance or material when cleaning a porous surface, as it could damage it and allow bacteria to form more easily. Use a mild antibacterial soap and warm water to clean. Porous materials can not be sanitized. Remember any toy made from a porous material can become a bacteria hangout, so using condoms and immediate proper cleaning is especially important for these types.

Different types of Anal Toys:

-Anal Dilators

-Tail Plugs

-Inflatable Plugs

-Jeweled Plugs

-Training Plugs

-Prostate Massagers

-Anal Hooks

-Anal Beads

-Vibrating Plugs

This is by no means a comprehensive guide to anal toys, just a some of the most common materials, some general guidelines on how to keep them clean and some different types of anal toys you might find or want to explore.

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