What You Need to Know About Butt Plugs and Dildos in 2025

You may ask what makes a butt plug different from a dildo. Both butt plug dildos make things more fun, but they are made for different reasons. A butt plug has a wide base to keep you safe. Dildos like Luminous Dildos or Finger Dildos are made to move more. Many people now try clear dildo toys or different buttplug shapes. This shows the industry is growing fast.
Check out these 2025 stats:
Statistic Description
Value / Percentage
Global sex toys market value (2025)
$32.72 billion USD
Dildos market share in global sex toys industry
> 24%
Picking the right butt plug dildos helps you not make mistakes and have a better time.
Key Differences

Design & Shape
When you look at a butt plug and a dildo, you notice clear differences in their shapes. A butt plug usually has a tapered tip. This shape helps you insert it more easily, which is great if you are new to anal play. The body of a buttplug often gets wider after the tip, giving you a feeling of fullness. Some plugs have a bulbous or curved design to target special spots, like the prostate. Every butt plug has a flared base. This wide base keeps the toy from slipping inside your body, which is very important for safety.
Dildos come in many shapes, but most are longer and straight or slightly curved. They do not always have a flared base. Some dildos have realistic shapes, while others look more artistic or abstract. You might see dildos with textures, ridges, or even vibrating features. These designs help you enjoy different sensations during anal play.
Tapered tips on butt plugs make insertion easier.
Bulbous bodies give more fullness and pleasure.
Flared bases keep the plug safe and easy to remove.
Curved shapes can target the prostate.
Unique textures and shapes let you try new experiences.
If you think about using dildo as a buttplug, you must check for a flared base. Without it, the toy can get lost, which is dangerous.
Measurement & Size
You measure a butt plug and a dildo in different ways. Butt plugs are shorter and focus on girth or circumference. This design gives you a feeling of fullness without going too deep. Dildos are measured by length and girth. They come in many sizes, from small to very large.
Here is a table to help you compare:
Toy Type | Length (inches) | Width (inches) | Girth (inches) |
---|---|---|---|
Butt Plugs | 2.5 – 5 | 1 – 1.5 | 4 – 6+ |
Dildos (Small) | 2.5 – 4 | ~1 | ~3.1 |
Dildos (Medium) | 4 – 7 | 0.75 – 1.5 | 3 – 4.7 |
Dildos (Large) | 8+ | 2+ | 6.3+ |
Butt plug dildos are shorter because the rectum is sensitive and can be injured by long toys. The focus on circumference gives you the pressure and fullness many people enjoy during anal play. Dildos, on the other hand, are made for deeper penetration and thrusting. If you are using dildo as a buttplug, remember that the length and lack of a flared base can make it unsafe.
Intended Use
You use a butt plug and a dildo in different ways. A butt plug is made to stay in place. The narrow neck and flared base keep it secure, even if you move around. This makes it perfect for wearing during daily activities or for longer sessions of anal play. Some people use a buttplug for training, starting with small sizes and moving up as they get more comfortable.
Dildos are made for in-and-out motion. You use them for thrusting, which gives a different kind of pleasure. Most dildos do not have a flared base, so they are not always safe for anal play unless designed for it. Some new butt plug dildos combine features, like vibration or thrusting, to give you more options.
Tip: Always choose toys with a flared base for anal play. This keeps you safe and makes removal easy.
Buttplug designs focus on staying in place and giving you fullness. Dildos focus on movement and penetration. Knowing these differences helps you pick the right toy for your needs and keeps your anal play safe and enjoyable.
Butt Plug Dildos Safety

Flared Base Importance
You need to pay close attention to the base of any toy you use for anal play. A flared base is not just a design choice. It is a safety feature that keeps you safe for inserting into the anus. The anus does not have a natural stopping point. If you use a toy without a flared base, it can slip inside and get lost. This can lead to serious injury and may require a doctor to remove it. The flared base acts as a barrier. It is wider than the rest of the toy, so it cannot pass all the way into your body. Always choose toys designed for anal use with a flared base. If you are thinking about using dildo as a buttplug, check the base first. Never use a toy without a flared base for anal play.
Tip: Never ignore the base. A flared base keeps you safe and makes removal easy.
Material & Smoothness
You should always check what your butt plug dildos are made from. Safe materials help prevent injury and infection. Toys made from 100% silicone, glass, or stainless steel are best. These materials are smooth and easy to clean. They do not have tiny holes where germs can hide. Some toys use jelly rubber or latex, but these are porous. Porous toys can trap bacteria and are harder to clean. If you use a porous toy, use a condom over it, especially if you share it.
Smoothness matters too. The surface of your toy should feel even and free of sharp edges. A smooth toy slides in and out of the anus more easily. This lowers the risk of cuts or discomfort. ISO 3533, a global safety standard, says toys designed for anal use must have smooth surfaces and flared bases. If you are using dildo as a buttplug, make sure it is smooth and made from a body-safe material. Avoid toys with rough seams or sharp points.
Cleaning Tips
You must clean your toys before and after every use. This keeps you healthy and helps your toys last longer. Here are some simple cleaning steps:
Wash toys with soap and water or a special toy cleaner.
Let toys air dry before you put them away.
For nonporous toys like silicone, glass, or steel, you can boil them for up to 3 minutes if they do not have motors.
Do not boil toys with batteries or mixed materials.
Remove batteries before cleaning motorized toys. Keep the battery area dry.
Store toys in a clean, lint-free bag or box.
If you use a porous toy, use it only for yourself or cover it with a condom if you share.
Note: Always check the packaging or the maker’s website to learn the best way to clean your toy.
Regulations in the U.S. do not fully protect you from unsafe toys. Many toys are sold as “novelty items” and do not have to meet strict safety rules. Some companies follow ISO 3533, which sets standards for safe design and materials. Look for toys that meet these standards. If you are using dildo as a buttplug, make sure you know what it is made from and how to clean it.
You can enjoy anal play safely if you choose toys with a flared base, made from safe materials, and keep them clean. Always use toys designed for anal use. Never risk your health by using dildo as a buttplug if it does not meet these safety rules.
Choosing a Butt Plug
Beginner Tips
If you are new to anal play, picking your first butt plug can feel confusing. You want to make sure you start safely and comfortably. Here are some tips to help you choose the right one:
Pick a small size with a gentle taper for easy insertion.
Choose non-porous, body-safe materials like silicone, glass, or metal.
Always look for a flared base to keep the plug from slipping inside.
Think about the shape—some give steady pressure, others allow more movement.
Decide if you want a plug for short sessions or longer wear.
Use plenty of lube because the anus does not self-lubricate.
Insert the plug slowly and gently.
Clean your toy before and after each use.
Listen to your body and stop if you feel pain.
What to Avoid
Many beginners make mistakes when choosing or using a buttplug. Knowing what to avoid helps you stay safe and comfortable. Here is a table showing common mistakes and how you can prevent them:
Common Mistake | Explanation | How to Avoid |
---|---|---|
Choosing wrong size | Picking a plug that is too big can cause pain and discomfort. | Start with the smallest size and move up slowly. |
Insufficient lubrication | Not enough lube can cause pain or injury. | Use plenty of lube that matches your plug’s material. |
Rushing the process | Inserting too quickly can hurt you. | Take your time and insert slowly. |
Improper cleaning | Dirty toys can cause infections. | Clean your plug after every use with soap and water or toy cleaner. |
Overuse without breaks | Wearing a plug too long can cause irritation. | Take breaks and remove the plug if you feel pain or discomfort. |
Anxiety about cleanliness | Worrying too much can cause stress. | A quick external clean is usually enough; enemas are optional. |
Comfort & Fit
You want your experience to feel good, not painful. Always check the size and shape before you buy. A plug that is too large or the wrong shape can cause discomfort. Try different shapes to see what feels best for your body. Use soft, stretchy clothing if you plan to wear a plug for a longer time. Take breaks and reapply lube if needed. If you ever feel pain, remove the plug right away.
📝 Tip: Your comfort matters most. Start small, go slow, and listen to your body every time you use a butt plug.
You now know the key differences between butt plugs and dildos. Butt plugs have a flared base and focus on fullness, while dildos offer more movement and length. Always pick toys with safe materials and a flared base for anal play.
Start small and use plenty of lube.
Clean your toys before and after use.
Remember: Your comfort and safety come first. Choose what feels right for you and enjoy exploring at your own pace.