In an ideal world, everyone is having exactly as much sex as they would like, however, not everyone is so fortunate. You might have a condom in your wallet that’s been waiting for that perfect moment for a few weeks, months, or maybe even a few years. But now is the chance to finally get down to business. The question you might be asking yourself is: do condoms expire and how long do condoms last before they expire? The good news for you is that this guide has been specially created to answer all of your burning questions. Read on now to learn all about condoms and their expiry dates.
This guide will cover:
- Why Do Condoms Expire and What Is the Shelf Life?
- Where Is the Expiration Date?
- How to Store Condoms?
- Can You Still Use Expired Condoms?
- What to Do with Expired Condoms?
Why Do Condoms Expire and What Is the Shelf Life?
Learning how are condoms made and how long do condoms last before they expire can give you a better idea about their durability. Condoms are comprised of materials such as latex, lambskin, polyurethane, and polyisoprene. Like any material, condoms degrade and become brittle over time. This can be sped up by prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, poor storage conditions, temperature, and moisture. Additionally, UV lighting can degrade condoms in just a few hours. Broadly speaking, male condoms can last up to five years, but it depends on the type:
- Latex condoms typically last between four and five years before they expire, unless they contain spermicidal lubricants.
- Polyisoprene condoms can last between three to five years
- Polyurethane condoms expire after four to five years
- Lambskin condoms have the shortest expiration date of two to three years
If you are looking to ensure that your condoms last the full shelf life, and you have better safe sex, then it’s worth following the right storage suggestions.
Where Is the Condom Expiration Date?
You can find the condom expiration date in two places. In the first instance, you can look at the box itself. Secondly, you should be able to find it on the condom wrapper itself. It will usually be expressed as a year followed by a month. You might also be able to find the manufacturing date. With that said, the expiry date itself might not be a strong enough indicator of expiration if there are other issues with your condom. If you see any of these problems with your condoms, throw them out:
- The wrapper is torn
- The wrapper is discolored
- The wrapper is leaking lubricant
- The condom has holes or tears
- The condom is dry, stiff, or sticky
- The condom gives off a foul odor
A good suggestion would be to already check the expiry date of the condoms when you purchase them. Throughout your condom usage, you should be constantly checking for signs of potential issues and practicing proper condom storage and usage.
How to Store Condoms?
Follow our tips below for specific guidance on condom storage.
- Proper temperature: They should definitely be in a place under 100 degrees to prevent them from burning up. Additionally, keep the condoms away from fluorescent lights, electric motors, and any chemicals.
- Handy spot: Seeming as you want to be using condoms in the bedroom, it’s certainly recommended to put them in a quick-to-reach and handy spot, so you don’t have a break in intimacy.
- A dry bag: Find a dry and cool bag to store the condoms in so you know that they are free from any outside elements.
- Wallet storage: As for the infamous condom in the wallet, it’s not a good idea. This is because wallets can get rather warm by being close to our bodies, which can damage the condom by weakening the material. In addition, credit and debit cards can cut into the condom, puncturing it with little holes. If you are on the go, it might be better to store them in a toiletry bag, or an empty tin or coin purse.
By following these tips, you will be able to significantly prolong the shelf life of your condoms! It’s recommended to follow all these points to maximize their safety. Read the storage conditions on your condom’s packaging for better results.
Can You Still Use Expired Condoms?
Not only do condoms expire, but using them is dangerous. While you could still technically use an expired condom, you shouldn’t risk it under any circumstances. This is because expired condoms reduce protection against STDs and pregnancy considerably. It’s not only because they are more brittle and less effective in general, but because there is an increased risk of the condom breaking. Learn more about why condoms break today!
Additionally, if you want to use a condom with spermicide inside, it’s likely that this aspect of the condom will no longer work. We would recommend exploring each other’s bodies in ways that don’t involve penetration, including cuddling, kissing, hugging, oral sex, and mutual masturbation. You might even find it sexier than regular penetration!
What to Do with Expired Condoms?
Considering that you shouldn’t be using expired condoms for sex, it makes sense to throw away your expired condoms in the trash. Make sure you are using the right recycling bin for condoms in your state.
