Butt plugs - a beginner's guide to help you choose

Exploring butt plugs for the first time? We've written a guide to help you choose the right one for you - a description of our toys followed by a guide on how to use them.

Here at John Thomas Toys, we have a wide range of platinum silicone toys - ranging from dildos, butt plugs, stretchers and depth trainers. There's something for everyone, as we have toys in realistic, non-realistic, fantasy, monster and animal designs. If you're looking to explore butt plugs for the first time, we know that our wide range can seem impressive, if a little overwhelming.

However, we are determined to make your first venture into butt plugs a fun one, and we've made a comparison of our entry-level toys for you to choose from.

Our smallest plugs start at 4 inches in length. The next length in our range is 5 inches, and lastly is a slightly bigger 7 inches.

Our Small sized plugs range from 4 to 7 inches in length. Left to right: Max, Pony, Calamari Bliss, Rhino, Pulled Lump, Bum Pleaser.

Four inch toys

Left to right: Max (Black), Pony (Caramel Swirl), Calamari Bliss (Lemon Coral).

Reverse sides of Max, Pony and Calamari Bliss.

At 4 inches are Max, Pony and Calamari Bliss.

These toys fit nicely in the hand, and have newcomer-friendly shapes. As these are our standard plugs, they feature a T-shape flare for comfort and security. Each of these have similar maximum girths, with Max being 16cm around the mid-section, Pony at 15cm around the knot and Calamari Bliss at 17cm around the bulb.

For those who enjoy realistic toys, the Max is ideal - as the toy features smooth ridges at the upper section which mimic the head of a penis.

In our animal category is the Pony, which has a hourglass shape and a flared tip. It also features realistic details at tip and small ridges around the top flare for added sensation.

Our Calamari Bliss comes under our fantasy and monster categories due to its rippling tentacles and gorgeous suction cup detailing. We love the amount of detail in this toy, and as each sucker on the tentacles is slightly raised, those that enjoy textured toys will be sure to enjoy this toy too.

five inch toys

At 5 inches is our Rhino and Pulled Lump. As you may have noticed, our Rhino looks a little different to the other toys in our selection. This is because it features a different style of base to our other plugs - it has a flared base and a small hole at the base which makes it compatible with vacuum-seal accessories, such as suction cups and strap-ons.

Vacuum hole base on Rhino, compared to our standard plug base, as seen on our Pulled Lump.

Left to right: Rhino (Blue), Pulled Lump (Gold).

Reverse sides of Rhino and Pulled Lump.

Both our Rhino and Pulled Lump are categorised as non-realistic butt plugs and stretchers, as their larger sizes are impressively big. However, their small sizes and smooth surfaces are approachable for new users.

Comparing maximum girths, the Rhino measures in at 17cm around , and the Pulled Lump at 17.5cm.

The Rhino features a consistent cone-like shaft with a tapered shaft and flared base, which secures the toy in place for longer play. Similarly, the Pulled Lump features a slightly bulbous, asymmetrical tip and a tapered shaft for comfort during longer play sessions. What makes this this toy stand out, however, is the "stretched" texture of the shaft, which adds a unique vein-like sensation to the toy.

Seven inch toy

Finally, at 7 inches, is our Bum Pleaser. As a comparison, we've photographed it here with the Pulled Lump.

Left to right: Pulled Lump (Gold), Bum Pleaser (Posy).

Reverse sides of Pulled Lump and Bum Pleaser.

Our Bum Pleaser and Pulled Lump share similar silhouettes, and make for great comparisons. If you've tried the Small Pulled Lump and would like something a little larger without going up to its next size, our Bum Pleaser might be what you've been searching for.

The Bum Pleaser features an entirely smooth surface and is fully symmetrical. Additionally, it is available in Super Soft and Soft, making this toy ideal for those looking for a slightly larger butt plug with a bit more "squish". The largest girth on this toy is 21.5cm.

Starting Your Stretching Journey: Small Size Butt Plugs

Welcome to the beginning of your stretching journey—where comfort meets curiosity. Our small-size butt plugs are designed to help you ease into training with confidence, control, and pleasure.

🐾 Why Start Small?

If you've tried mainstream plugs before, you may have noticed that while their maximum girth can vary, they typically return to a diameter of about one inch. This design helps your sphincter adapt to the presence of a foreign object without triggering the natural “reject/eject” response.

🦏 The Rhino: Your First Step

The Rhino is our most popular entry-level plug—and for good reason. With a tapered tip and a soft, body-safe texture, it’s easy to insert and comfortable to wear for extended periods. Although this starts at 5 inches - it is an ideal starter toy. Whether you're walking around or relaxing at home, the Rhino is ideal for beginners and remains a favorite across all size ranges.

🐴 The Pony: Forgiving and Pleasurable

At 4 inches, the Pony might look intimidating from above, but don’t be fooled. Its lower knot design makes it surprisingly easy to hold in place. It offers excellent training benefits, helping you build endurance and resist the urge to eject. A pleasurable experience from start to finish.

💥 The Chunkster: Bold and Effective

The Chunkster delivers a more intense bulge with a pronounced return girth. It’s a great choice for those ready to take the next step in training, offering longer hold times and a deeper stretch.

🐙 Calamari Bliss: True to Its Name

Don’t underestimate the Calamari Bliss. Though it’s just 4 inches, its wider return girth creates a unique sensation. The texture and shape offer a distinct experience during both entry and exit—pure bliss, just as the name promises.

🌊 The Pulled Lump: A Sensory Surprise

This toy offers deeper penetration and a little extra stimulation thanks to its striated texture. It’s a subtle but essential step in your journey. Wearing it out and about—even to work—can be a quiet confidence boost and a personal milestone.

🍑 The Bum Pleaser: A Final Beginner’s Challenge

Soft, forgiving, and deceptively intense, the Bum Pleaser is the final step in our beginner’s guide. Its bulbous end delivers sensations you haven’t felt before, while the return girth helps you stay in control. By this stage, your body should be well-trained to resist the eject reflex, allowing you to truly savor every millimeter.

🧘‍♂️ Take Your Time, Enjoy the Ride

Anal training is a journey, not a race. Each toy offers a unique experience, and every step is worth savouring. Plan your progression, listen to your body, and enjoy the sensations. Once you move forward, you won’t return to this stage—so make it count.

As always, make sure you use plenty of water based lube.

Our full range of colours and sizes can be found here.