ANAL AUGUST IS HERE!

It's that time of year when it's all about the rear. And yes, we've got all the gear! 'Butt' there's so much more to anal sex than just plugs, beads, and prostate massagers. Whether you are embarking on your first anal odyssey or are a certified Ass Master, we've got some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your anal adventure!

Let's Get Cheeky

Jumping right in to anal sex can be a bit tricky. Aside from the many taboos associated with this enjoyable orifice, anal sex can require a bit of safety knowledge, prepping (both physically and psychologically), and many times require some communication around personal preferences and of course, consent. And no, having or even desiring butt sex does not ascribe you to any specific sexual orientation, that's up to you to define.

We suggest beginning any butt stuff with three important mantras:

Relaxation, Communication, Lubrication

Relaxation is an important part of anal sex. We know it can be hard to let loose in our busy lives, or in a stressful environment, but relaxing the mind can also RELAX THE ASS. When our bodies are stressed or tight, it can be harder to relax the body and especially the muscles in the sphincter, which will allow for more pleasurable booty play. Try using breath work to increase blood flow, ease tension, and open your mind (and body) to enjoy your anal experience!

Need something more engaging? Try adding a little erotic ass teasing, butt massage, or spanking into the mix. The ass cheeks are full of nerves and so close to the genitals that a sexy spanking can get you excited. For some, role play is also a big part of setting the mood. You don't have to break out the Halloween costumes, just try creating a simple character or scenario with your partner to heighten arousal. These are just some tips, whatever you do to relax and get in the mood is up to you!

Communication is the foundation of all good sex. Establishing a dialogue around all sex is important, but especially around anal sex, as there may be areas of uncertainty when experiencing new areas of pleasure. A great start for any partner play is to discuss what's on your 'Yes, No, and Maybe' lists.

We have this handy chart which you can not only reference, but also incorporate as a fun method of foreplay. Fill it out with your partner and talk about what excites you, what you might be interested in now (or even at a later date), and what is strictly OFF LIMITS. Don't be afraid to add to the list and don't worry, you can always go back and update these lists later! (We hand these out at all of our  free in-store workshops too).

Booty Basics

Why anal play, you say?

One of the highest concentration of nerve endings is in the ass, and more specifically right around the anus and just inside. Using toys can feel amazing on those oft-neglected nerve endings around and inside the asshole. In addition, stimulation brings blood to the area, which generally makes for a healthier hole. And, last but not least, the anus is our equal-opportunity orifice in that everyone has one, and inside all of us is the potential to enjoy ass play! In the words of our friends at b-Vibe, everybody has a butt, so why not enjoy it!

b-Vibe's body-positive Everybody Has a Butt Campaign

The Pleasure of the Prostate

Prostate massage has health and erotic benefits that have been well documented for centuries. What was initially a routine medical check up had many patients realizing there was actually a lot of pleasure in the prostate. The posterior surface of the prostate is covered with a nerve bundle responsible for sexual arousal, and stimulation of this area via the rectum can generate orgasms of tremendous power. In addition, prostate massage is pleasurable and beneficial to physical health because it helps maintain the elasticity of the tissue and can reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Keep It Clean

Because our butts can harbor bacteria, we recommend using non-porous toys in your butt, like those made of silicone, stainless steel, or glass. If you want to play as safely as possible, try using a barrier such as  dental dams, latex or latex alternative gloves, and condoms. It can also help with peace of mind to have a light cleaning routine as part of your anal play. This can be something as simple as lathering your finger up with body safe soap and cleaning around the anus, or using anal wipes. If you want a deeper clean, try douching or using an enema kit. We offer plenty online and in-store!

Latex Gloves	Dental Dams	Non-latex Condoms

Pro tip: We also have non-latex glove and condom alternatives. If you are using an oil based lube DO NOT use latex barriers as oil degrades latex, opt for non-latex instead.

Lube it or Leave it

The ass does not self-lubricate. We'll say it again.... THE ASS DOES NOT SELF-LUBRICATE. Although you may feel relaxed and excited enough for butt sex, anatomically speaking, see above. There is a mucus membrane in the rectum that provides some very light lubrication at first, but with friction or movement it wears off and lube is essential for a pleasurable anal play experience. This means you'll have to invest in some lube for your anal adventure to enhance both pleasure and safety.

Lube is a hygienic way to make things slicker, easier, and more comfortable. It's that extra element that helps you accomplish your goals. It also prevents breakage of safe sex barriers. But knowing WHICH LUBE to use for anal sex is key! Here is a good rule of thumb: When picking a lubricant for your ass, make sure to get something that will not absorb into the skin too quickly.

Silicone lube has a good slickness and lasting power for anal sex, but DO NOT use silicone lube with silicone toys as it will break them down over time. 'Butt', if silicone is YOUR JAM, make sure you use a condom over your silicone toy! Hybrid lubes combine the long-lasting qualities of silicone lube with the easy clean-up of water-based lube. Get your swirl on with a hybrid, but be sure to spot-test your silicone toys before using a hybrid to make sure it won’t damage them.

There are also long-lasting oil-based lubes which offer a creamier texture, but are not recommended for use with latex condoms. Watch the video below for more info and opt for a thicker water-based lube when in doubt!We suggest Sliquid Sassy a water-based lubricant that was formulated with a bit more thickness especially for back door fun. It's also Hypoallergenic, glycerin and paraben free, non-staining, non-sticky, vegan, cruelty free, latex and silicone friendly, and made in the USA!

We have a HUGE selection of lubes with varying thicknesses, but here are some of our top picks anal lube:

Fuck Water (Silicone)	Sliquid Sassy (Water-Based)	Sutil Rich (Water-Based)

Pro Tip: Don't forget to sanitize the lube bottle after anal play or try using lube with a pump for quicker, easier access and less clean up.

Power Bottom

Whether you're a beginner at butt stuff or America's Next Top Bottom, here are some bottom basics: Start small. Use your fingers to prepare the area before you try any toys, or even a rim job ( analingus), if you and your partner are into that. (Don't forget to reference our barriers page to play it as safely as possible!) Massage and rimming will help you loosen up and relax your sphincter muscles and give you an idea of toy sizing when you are ready. There are also many anal training kits which allow graduating in size at your own pace. b-Vibe makes a great  Anal Training kit with graduating size butt plugs, an anal enema, lubricant launcher, and complete guide to anal play.

b-Vibe Anal Training Kit: Perfect for Booty Beginners

Some even like to make anal prep routines their main play. There are a lot of ways to make enemas and anal douching a pleasurable experience for both solo and partner play. Try the Clean Stream Silicone Plug and Bulb Kit, Colt Shower Shot, or Anal Douche if this process is pleasurable to you. We even offer free workshops on that! 

Colt Anal Douche	Silicone Plug and Bulb Kit	Colt Shower Shot

For a different sensation altogether, try a stainless steel plug, anal beads, or rimming plug. NJoy makes a line of gorgeous stainless steel plugs and wands which offer weighted, hand or muscle controlled pressure to the prostate and anus. The stainless steel reacts nicely to heat and cold, so try experimenting with temperature play when you're ready. Vibrating or traditional  anal beads really stimulate the sphincter while inserted and even more so upon removal. You could say it's like a massage for your butt hole! Into rimming? b-Vibe makes an amazing butt plug with rotating beads around the base, which mimics the sensation of a rim job, while still getting that classic feeling of fullness from the plug.

Stainless Steel Plug	Rimming Plugs	Vibrating Anal Beads

Now that you have some toy options, try some new positions! Move around and see what feels comfortable to you, or try adding a position aid like the  Liberator Wedge, which can help prop you into the perfect position for deeper anal play.

The Wedge offers support, lift, and leverage for any position!

You can always start out by putting a pillow under your hips, which puts your spine in a 'C' curved position to keep everything in better place and keep your body more relaxed. Or really, try whatever you like:

Ass Master

Once you've mastered the booty basics, there are many ways to dive deeper into anal play. If you want to get right down to serious butt business, try some larger sized dildos and cock extenders, or even vibrating plugs and toys. Most plugs have a cone-shaped design and are intended to stay in place during play, and many are created for extended wear. If you like to tease and/or torment, or try new technologies, many plugs now feature wireless/ bluetooth remotes or have app controlled features. Now you can pleasure your partner with a plug from anywhere in the world!

The Intimidator	Vibrating Snug Plug XL	VixSkin Colossus

The Size Queen friendly  Intimidator, b-Vibe's Vibrating Snug Plug XL, and the VixSkin Colossus cock extender.

We've mentioned both the pleasure and health benefits of prostate massage above, but if you want to take prostate play to the next level, try combining penile and prostate stimulation at the same time for what's been reported as EARTH SHATTERING ORGASMS. There are even toys now that target the prostate, penis and perineum (aka the 'taint') all at the same time! Our suggestions? Start with a simple prostate massager like the Aneros Helix Trident, then graduate to the We-Vibe Vector, which targets the prostate while teasing the perineum with vibration and added remote for hands-free fun. Bring it home with Fun Factory Bootie Ring, which stimulates the penis, perineum and prostate all at once! P-P-P-Perfect!!!

Aneros Helix Trident	We-Vibe Vector	Bootie Ring

Fisting is also a really fun alternative to toys, although we do have toys for that too! A good pair of latex gloves serve as a great barrier for those who like to take their ass play by the hand. (There are also non-latex glove options!). Before you go all in though, we suggest forming your hand (hands if you want to try double fisting), into a 'duck-bill' shape for easier entry into the anus. And duh, don't forget the  lube! For a full recap on the intimate art of fisting, check out our Tips for Fisting Blog and try the following for more fisting fun!

Oxballs Rosebud	Non-Latex Gloves	Oxballs Fist Pump

The  Oxballs Rosebud (1 & 2) springs open once inserted for extra stretch, MidKnight Nitrile Latex-free gloves, and the Oxballs Fist Pump, for those who don't like to get their hands dirty.

The Pleasure of Pegging

Is your bedroom buddy begging for a pegging? We don't blame them! We highly encourage this pleasurable form of anal play. With the proper pegging gear, you can thoroughly enjoy all the pleasures of perineum, prostate and all around anal play. Pegging is the art of anal penetration, most commonly with a strap-on dildo.

Naturally, these toys tend to be slimmer in size, but really anything goes depending on your level of pleasure. You can even graduate in size at your own pace as many brands offer multi-pack  dildos for pegging, or pegging beginner kits. Our Tantus Bend Over Beginner Kit is a great place to start as it includes the Silk dildo in both the medium and large sizes, an adjustable and machine washable harness, interchangeable rings, and a bullet vibe for optional vibration.

Tantus Bend Over Beginner Kit

There are also bigger dildos and harnesses to accommodate even the most experienced size queens as well as vibrating options. It's always a good idea to ask your partner where they are at size wise and go from there!

VixSkin Spur	Deuce Harness	Vixen Mistress with Vibe

The VixSkin Spuris curved for both g-spot and p-spot play, the Spareparts Deuce harnes has two holes for double penetration, and try the Vixen Mistress for optional added vibration!

What What Can I put in my Butt?

Do yourself a favor and don't ever google what happens if something gets 'lost in your butt'. Or maybe do so you won't forget that NOT EVERYTHING IS SAFE TO GO IN YOUR BUTT. Trust that you DO NOT want this to happen to you, or you may need to have it surgically removed.

Anatomically speaking, if the inserted object passes through the sphincters, the rectoanal canal can create a vacuum of sorts, sucking your toy up beyond retrieval. A good rule of thumb for anal sex toys is 'without a base without a trace.' Invest in anal toys that have a flared base large enough to not get sucked up into the anal vortex during play (yes, it's real). If using anal beads, make sure they have an adequate handle on the end, not only for better function during play, but to ensure that they don't get lost up there.

ALWAYS USE ANAL TOYS THAT HAVE A FLARED BASE OR HANDLE.

Here are some things to NOT put in your butt:

Want to learn more?

Join us for a FREE WORKSHOP! The Pleasure Chest offers free Pleasure Ed. workshops every week in their LA, NY and CHI stores. Check our events page and brush up on everything from Booty Basics, Pegging, and Enema Play to Advanced Anal, Power Bottoming and straight up Ass Worship this August! All of our workshops are open to adults 18+ of all genders, ages, sexual orientations and relationship statuses.

Looks like Anal August is going to be busy! Don't worry, we can Power Bottom through it together!