Tell me more about … Anal rimming (anilingus)

Tell me more about … Anal rimming (anilingus)

So… what is rimming?

Rimming (aka anilingus) is oral stimulation around the anus. Some people are into it, some aren’t, and both are totally normal. It’s just one option on the menu.

Consent first (keep it low-pressure)

This goes best when you ask before you’re already in the moment.

Easy ways to check in:

• “Are you into rimming, or not your thing?”
• “Any hard no’s?”
• “Want to use a barrier (dental dam)?”
• “How should I check in—‘green/yellow/red’?”

And remember: consent is ongoing. If someone hesitates, gets quiet, stiffens up, or seems unsure—pause and check in.

Hygiene: simple beats intense

You don’t need a whole spa day. Most people keep it comfy with:

• A quick shower/rinse beforehand (gentle soap externally is fine).
• For that extra level of cleanliness, a douche can be used to clean inside the anus.
• Clean hands and trimmed nails if hands might be involved.
• A rain check if anyone has mouth sores/cuts or anal irritation/bleeding.

One extra tip that’s easy to miss: some sexual health guidance recommends avoiding brushing/flossing right before or after oral sex, since it can irritate gums and create tiny openings for infection.

The easy safer-sex upgrade: Barriers

If you want the simplest “safer” tweak:

• Dental dams are made for oral sex and can be used over the anus during oral-anal sex.

Toy talk: sex toys that can pair well with rimming (and how to do it safely)

1) External vibrators (beginner-friendly)

A small vibrator used externally around the area can be an easy add-on because it doesn’t require internal play or complicated technique.

What to look for:

• Nonporous, easy-to-clean materials (commonly silicone, glass, stainless steel)
• Something with simple controls (especially if you’re new)

2) “Rimming” / tongue-style toys

Some toys are designed to imitate a licking sensation. They’re popular for people who like the idea of rimming but want:

• a hands-free option, or
• something more predictable and less “in the moment”

Safety rule that’s worth stating clearly in your blog:

• If a toy touches the anus, don’t put it near anyone’s mouth afterward. Treat “mouth stuff” and “butt stuff” as totally separate lanes.

3) Butt plugs (only if you actually want internal play)

Some people like adding a plug while keeping the focus on external/oral sensation.

Two non-negotiables:

• Use toys made for anal use
• Choose one with a flared base / wide base so it can’t slip in

4) Prostate massagers (for people with prostates)

These are shaped differently than straight toys and are intended for internal prostate stimulation. Same rules apply: body-safe, easy to clean, and designed for anal use with a secure base/handle.

5) Remote-control / app-controlled toys (good for communication)

These can be nice for couples because they naturally encourage:

• checking in about intensity
• slow changes rather than sudden surprises

Wash toys between uses (and between body areas)

If a toy goes from one person to another, or from one body area to another, treat that as a “reset moment”:

• wash it
• or swap condoms (ideally both)

It is always a good idea to use an antibacterial cleaner when cleaning your toys. We carry a wide range of cleaners in store to suit any toy.

Don’t do butt → vagina without a wash/condom change

Even if nobody has an STI, moving from anal use to vaginal use without cleaning can raise the risk of irritation/infection.

Use plenty of lube for anal toys

If any internal anal toy is involved, lube helps reduce friction and discomfort (and makes it less likely you’ll push past your body’s “nope” signals).

If something hurts, stop

Pain isn’t a “push through it” situation. Stop, check in, and switch gears.

Quick FAQ

Is rimming “safe”?
Nothing is zero-risk, but you can make it safer with barriers, smart hygiene, and not doing it when anyone has sores/GI illness.

Do I need toys for this?
Nope. Toys are optional. If you do use them, prioritise cleaning, condoms for sharing, and anal-safe designs (hello, flared base).

How do I bring up toys without making it weird?
Try: “Want to keep it simple, or would you be into adding a vibe or a plug?” Then respect the answer either way.

 

At the end of the day, just have fun with it and play safe!