Why do condoms break?

If you’re in the moment and the only condom you can find is the one you forgot about, stuffed at the back of your drawer, make sure you check the expiration date. 

We know it’s the last thing you want to think about in the heat of the moment, but expiration dates are there for a reason. I mean, you wouldn’t eat an out-of-date meal so why put your future and health in the hands of an out-of-date condom? 

How long do condoms last? Durex ones tend to have a shelf life of 5 years, but once the condom reaches its expiry date, it won’t be as effective and is more likely to break; fact.

On that note, you might as well stock up on condoms now.

Like your favourite drink, your condoms should be stored in a cool, dry place. Leaving them stashed in a hot car or on your bedside table in direct sunlight, can leave the material susceptible to breakages.

To ensure they’re well protected, find a place in your bedroom where you can keep your condoms safely tucked away.

If you decide to keep one in your wallet, don’t leave it in there for too long as the friction from opening and closing it can cause the latex to deteriorate.

If things are a bit dry down there, not only can it be uncomfortable but it can also cause the condom to break. 

To keep your condoms intact, make sure you use lubricant or buy ones that are pre-lubricated, like Durex Extra Safe Condoms. You can find out how much lube each type of Durex condom has, by checking the icon on the front of the pack.

Adding lube will protect your condom against the kind of friction that can cause tears and will leave you and your partner free to enjoy the action, anxiety free. Lube also makes sex feel better for many women.

If you like a bit of friction during sex but want to stay safe, try using a ribbed or dotted condom with a separate lube for extra sensation.

Just like your favourite pair of trainers, condoms come in a variety of sizes to help make them more comfortable. How big do you want? Check the front of the box find the perfect fit for you.

How tight should a condom be? Not so tight that you feel the friction and tension which could cause it to split or tear. If the condom you are using doesn’t cover the entire shaft comfortably, try Durex Comfort XL Condoms. 

That said, a condom will not be effective if it’s too loose because it could slide off. If you’re not sure what your condom size or style is, then try a few different types to work out what feels good for you.

We know those new stiletto gel nails are banging, but sharp nails, rings and piercings do not mix well with condoms, so always be super careful when you’re putting one on or get your partner to do it. 

And this might be a no-brainer, but condom wrappers were not designed to be opened with your teeth.

When it comes to Durex, when you see the logo, it is always the right side up. Durex condoms come with a foil finish that is easy to differentiate by touch, where the logo side has a glossy finish and the flip side is matte, you will be able to smoothly find your way in the dark. Our new condom packaging also comes with four tearable corners, compared to two previously, reducing the odds of fumbling and ripping the condom.  

A condom won’t be effective if it hasn’t been put on the right way. Taking your time to put on a condom properly is essential to help reduce any tears or slippage that you might face. And, it’s not a good idea to put a condom on in the dark. You need to be able to see what you’re working with… 

To put a condom on correctly, start by squeezing the tip with the forefinger and thumb of one hand so there’s no air trapped inside and then roll down gently with your other hand.

It’s important to leave some room at the tip, otherwise you could create a balloon effect after ejaculation and the condom might break. 

If you’re nervous or over excited and have shaky hands (it happens to the best of us) get your partner to help. One team, one dream. 

You should never ever double up on condoms, either. This is a bad urban myth and actually makes the condom less effective. 

Want more details about condom sex? If you’re still worried that you’re not doing it right, here’s a 7-step guide about how to put on a condom.