Let’s reclaim the mantra of it’s not the destination, it’s the journey from the depths of #basic Pinterest boards and hand it over to our rear ends. Why? Because the butt needs a little bedroom rebranding. There’s a common assumption that being down for butt and anal play means taking a full battering ram to the behind (here for it, don’t get us wrong) but that’s only one way to explore the full pleasure rectum spectrum that our bums can offer during sex and foreplay. You can opt for a gentle rectal or cheek massage, get into a little spanking and flogging, invest in a gorgeous dildo and a bejeweled plug, or you can simply take your lightly lubed finger on a Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Think of “butt stuff” like a different level in Mario Cart: all the surprises, hurdles, and joys of reaching this new level are relative depending on your experience — and every facet of the experience is why we play the game in the first place. Grab your headlamp and get ready to explore. We’re going in with a selection of the best beginner sex toys and accessories for the “butt stuff” you’ve always wanted to give a go.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Tracy’s Dog Shrooms Butt Plug Vibrator

The best way to start your anal journey is to go slowly and increase size over time. Tracy’s Dog’s three-size anal vibrators allow you to start small and level up whenever you’re ready. Use with or without any of the nine vibration patterns to increase pleasure.

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Tracy’s Dog Shrooms Butt Plug Vibrator, $, available at tracy’s dog

Unbound Babes Nudge

The perfect beginner’s plug. This baby has an ample handle and a max of 1.3 inches in girth and 4.5 inches in depth. The slender, tapered shape makes it perfect for a nudge in and around the rear.

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Unbound Nudge, $, available at Unbound Babes

Blush Novelties Sassy Anal Beads

Drumroll for the anal beads, please! Unlike plugs (which, well, stay plugged) stringed anal beads are meant to be gently inserted and exerted, which is why it’s so wonderful to find a set with such varied bead size. With ten graduations, this is a set into which beginners can truly grow; even before insertion, try gently sliding the beads up and down the outside of the anus to relax and stimulate.

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Blush Basic Sassy Anal Beads, $, available at Amazon

Lovehoney Basics Beaded Butt Plug

Same, but different pretty much wraps up the distinction between your classic butt plug and a beaded plug. This pretty (and pliable) little number fits in the palm of your hand and is a great gateway to anal beads with its four graduated sizes and flared base (which prevents over-insertion). Again: bring the lube.

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Lovehoney BASICS BASICS Beaded Slimline Butt Plug, $, available at Lovehoney

Maude Cone (Medium)

A sleek design – and show-stopping silhouette, if we may say so – makes this medium-sized plug both a chic accessory for your bathroom shelf and a great way to take your anal play to the next level by taking it to the shower or tub (why yes, you can bring some sex toys the bath). Once you’re comfortable, turn up the vibrations with three gradual intensities.

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Maude cone, medium, $, available at Maude

Unbound Babes “Tsk” Whip and Paddle

Anal toys don’t all have to be insertable. Sometimes you need a little prep to get you more comfortable back there, and this double-headed whip and paddle is a great way to start getting cheeky.

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Unbound Babes Tsk, $, available at Unbound Babes

Booty Sparks Red Heart Gem Plug Set

Unassuming in size but not style, a gem-handled metal plug is such a boudoir classic. The material is also slightly weighted, which makes for a deeper sensation. Plus, it looks totally adorable, too, if that’s important to you.

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Booty Sparks Booty Sparks Red Heart Glass Anal Plug Set, $, available at Adam and Eve

Shots America Glass Doubler

This baby turns an impressive look, but it’s actually designed with newbies in mind; the glass is “borosilicate” which means it’s perfect for temperature play, easy to clean, and hard to shatter. The double-headed wand is perfect for endless variations of anal and vaginal play.

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Shots America Shots America Chrystalino Doubler Wand, $, available at Amazon

Liberator Wedge

Easing into anal play is a reminder of how pleasurable it can be to pump the breaks and take your time in the bedroom. We’re big fans of sex furniture as it quite literally supports that ethos; a solid “wedge” provides a comfy sitch to throw your bum to the sky for extended periods.

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Liberator Jaz Original Wedge Pillow, $, available at Amazon

Lelo Personal Moisturizer Lubricant

Lube, lube, lube! A little anal penetration prep goes a long way (note: you may also consider having some wipes on hand) and gets a little help from a water-based lube. This solution from Lelo is our favorite for newbies because it’s hypoallergenic, moisturizing, and infused with ginseng — and it’s damn chic.

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LELO Lelo Personal Moisturizer Lubricant, $, available at Adam and Eve

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