So, you bought some condoms…now what? Unless you are planning to use the entire box immediately, it is important to know how to store your condoms safely. Whether you’re bringing them on-the-go and meeting up with your sneaky link, keeping them in your house to use with your partner, or traveling and don’t know what will happen, we got you covered. Read on to discover the best way to store your condoms. We promise the answer is not in your wallet (and advise against keeping them in there)!
Key Takeaways (TL;DR) Condom Storage Tips
- If condoms are stored incorrectly, they can break, tear or warp because of friction, temperature changes, and punctures.
- So, storing condoms in a cool, dry place free from sharp objects is critical for your sexual health.
- Some great places to store condoms include on your nightstand, in your underwear drawer, and in your custom condom carrying case.
- No only do these storage spots keep your condoms safe, they also ensure you're ready anytime the moment arises.
How to Store Condoms
Condoms are rigorously tested and 98% effective against unintended pregnancy and STIs, however improper condom storage can lead to breakage, microtears, or dryness, impacting the safety. So, some important tips to follow when it comes to condoms include:
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Keep condoms in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperature changes and moisture. This means not leaving them in the hot car or humid bathrooms.
- Do not throw loose condoms in a bag, wallet or pocket. Friction, sharp objects, or bending can damage condoms inside the foil leading to a reduction in its effectiveness.
- Store condoms in a nightstand drawer, on a shelf in its original box or in a condom carrying case.
- When bringing a condom on the go make sure that it is secure in your condom travel tin and not shuffling around in your bag with pens, safety pins, or any other sharp objects that could puncture the wrapper.
- Always check the expiry date before using a condom to ensure it is at its optimal performance.
- Never use a condom with visible tears or leaking lubricant.
Is it Bad to Keep Condoms in Your Wallet?
Short answer, yes, it is bad to store condoms in your wallet. Think about your wallet and how you treat it. Do you nicely place it on your dining room table when you come home, avoid sitting on it, and always make sure it is in a cool, dry place? Doubt it. In reality, it’s probably stuck in between couch cushions, sat in your car under the blistering sun, or still drying from when you spilled your drink on it last night.
The condition of your wallet is way too volatile to keep a condom in there. They are often flexible, so when you sit on your wallet in your back pocket, open and close it to pay for your coffee, and toss it around, the friction against the condom foil can lead to damage, likely decreasing its protection against pregnancy and STIs. Additionally, wallets go everywhere with you whether that’s lying at the beach on a hot day or seeing a hockey game in a cold rink, the fluctuation and extremities of these temperatures can warp condoms and again reduce their effectiveness. Basically, it’s better to be safe than sorry and keep condoms in a cool, dry place away from sharp objects and friction.
Can You Bring Condoms on a Plane?
Yes, you can bring condoms through TSA and onto a plane. Condoms can be brought in your carry-on and checked bag, so don’t worry about putting your condoms in the wrong place. Since condoms are not a liquid, you can bring as many as you want, or as many as fit in your bag (whichever comes first).
Can You Bring Lube Through TSA?
What about lube? Yes! You can also bring lube on a plane, however it is a little more nuanced since lube is a liquid. In your checked-bag, go for it, lube can be tossed in your suitcase and taken on your next trip for solo/partner hotel play and meet-cutes. For carry-ons, liquids typically have to be under 3.4oz and fit in a clear quart-sized bag. Luckily, many lubricant brands have lube in convenient 3.38oz pump bottles, perfect for your carry-on. However, if you are looking for something even more travel friendly, you can customize your own 1ml lube sachets with Custom Condoms®. These lubricants fit securely in our ONE® Condoms Carrying Cases making traveling with lube a breeze.
Conclusion
In summary, condoms must be kept free from temperature fluctuations, moisture, and friction to maintain their flexibility, stability, and effectiveness. By following the tips in this blog you can ensure that you are properly storing condoms, so you can rest assured that they are ready for your next sexual encounter.
FAQs
Why do my condoms keep breaking?
Condoms can break for a number of reasons like improper condom storage or being past expiration. However, one reason that our sister company, ONE® Condoms, recognizes is improper condom fit. When condoms are too loose or too snug, they can break due to friction and tightness. With MyONE® Custom Fit® condoms, you can choose from 52 different sizes, sure to find a better fit for your penis.
What is the best place to store condoms?
The best place to store condoms is in a condom carrying case. These cases allow you to travel with your condoms, toss them in your bag, or leave them in your nightstand without the fear that they will be punctured, torn, or otherwise damaged!