Condoms are an effective method for preventing unwanted pregnancies and reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections. However, like all products, condoms have a shelf life and will eventually expire if left unused for too long. Knowing how long condoms last can ensure you are using them while they are still safe and effective.
How long is the shelf life of condoms?
Most condoms have a shelf life of 3 to 5 years from the date of manufacture. This time period is generally printed on the packaging or individual foil wrappers. As long as the condom remains sealed in its original packaging, it should remain usable for up to 5 years past the listed expiration date.
However, there are a few factors that can impact the shelf life of a condom:
- Storage conditions – Condoms that are exposed to direct sunlight, heat, or humidity may deteriorate faster than those stored in a cool, dry place.
- Lubrication type – Condoms with silicone lubricant tend to last longer (up to 5 years) compared to those with water-based lubricants (3 years).
- Manufacturing defects – Poor quality control during production can lead to premature deterioration.
So as long as the condom has been stored properly in its original, undamaged packaging, it should retain its quality and effectiveness throughout its listed shelf life.
Does the material of condoms impact their shelf life?
Yes, the material used to make a condom can impact how long it will last before expiring.
Here is an overview of how common condom materials affect shelf life:
| Material | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Latex | 3-5 years |
| Polyisoprene | 3-5 years |
| Polyurethane | 5 years or longer |
| Lambskin | 3-5 years |
As you can see, polyurethane condoms tend to have the longest shelf life, maintaining their integrity for 5 years or more before expiring. Latex and polyisoprene condoms expire a bit faster, losing effectiveness after 3-5 years. Lambskin condoms also expire within 3-5 years.
Do expired condoms work and are they safe to use?
Using an expired condom is not recommended, as the materials can become weakened over time. An expired condom is more likely to break or tear during intercourse.
Specifically, here’s what happens when a condom expires:
- Latex material dries out, increasing risk of tearing
- Lubricant can dry up, causing more friction
- Material fibers can deteriorate and develop tiny holes
All of these issues mean an expired condom is much less reliable and more prone to breakage. This can lead to unwanted pregnancy or transmission of STDs.
Additionally, using an extremely old or degraded condom can cause other problems, such as:
- Allergic reactions to deteriorated latex
- Vaginal irritation from dry, rough material
- Decreased sensation during intercourse
Due to these potential issues, health organizations including the FDA advise against using condoms past their expiration date. The reduced effectiveness and higher risk of breakage make expired condoms unsafe for disease and pregnancy prevention.
How can you tell if an unopened condom has expired?
Check the expiration or manufacture date printed on the condom’s packaging. This date is typically located on the outer foil wrapping or cardboard box. For individual condoms, look at the date on the foil square packet.
You may see the expiration date formatted in a few different ways:
- Expiration month/year (e.g. “Exp 07/2024”)
- Manufacture month/year (e.g. “MFG 06/2020”)
- “Best by” date (e.g. “Best by June 2022”)
Do not rely on your own sniff or visual test – the packaging will have the official expiration date. When in doubt, if the date seems expired or is missing, discard the condom to be safe.
Can you use condoms after their expiration date?
It is not recommended to use condoms after the expiration date printed on the packaging. The materials break down over time, meaning expired condoms are less effective at preventing pregnancy and STDs.
However, according to Planned Parenthood, condoms up to two years past their expiration date are likely still safe to use. Any longer than this, and the materials are more likely to have degraded significantly.
If you have an unopened condom that is recently expired, here are some signs it may still be usable:
- No visible damage to packaging
- Foil wrapper is still completely sealed
- Latex material looks smooth, not cracked or sticky
- Lubricant is slick and evenly distributed inside
As long as the condom appears well-preserved and undamaged, using it a short while past its expiration is likely low risk. However, condoms more than 2 years expired should be discarded.
How can you prolong the shelf life of condoms?
Proper storage is key for getting the most longevity out of your condoms. Here are some tips for making condoms last as long as possible:
- Store condoms in a cool, dry place away from direct light and heat. A bedroom drawer or closet is ideal.
- Avoid storing condoms in your wallet, car, or anywhere they will get warm or compressed.
- Check expiration dates and use condoms with the farthest dates first.
- Leave condoms sealed in original packaging until ready to use.
- Avoid using damaged condoms or those with deteriorated packaging.
Following these storage guidelines can help keep condoms fresh and usable for the full duration of their listed shelf life.
How can you tell if an opened condom is still usable?
Once opened, condoms need to be used right away. An unrolled condom exposed to air will dry out quickly, becoming more prone to tearing.
Do not reuse condoms or store opened condoms for future use. There is no reliable way to tell if an opened condom is still safe or functional.
What are signs a condom has deteriorated and is unsafe to use?
Watch out for these signs of condom degradation – if you notice any, throw the condom away:
- Discoloration or stiff, cracked latex
- Visible holes, tears or weak spots
- Dry, sticky or uneven lubricant inside
- Unwrapped condoms that are no longer rolled up
- Tacky, degraded packaging
A degraded condom is less likely to work properly and more prone to breakage during use. To avoid pregnancy or STDs, do not take chances with visibly damaged condoms.
Conclusion
An unopened, properly stored condom typically lasts about 3-5 years past its manufacturing date before expiring. Extreme heat, humidity, or damage to packaging can shorten its shelf life. Expired condoms are more likely to break, putting users at greater risk of STDs and unwanted pregnancy. Check expiration dates and dispose of visibly deteriorated condoms. With proper storage, condoms can remain effective birth control for several years.