How Long Do Condoms Last?

What Determines Condom Shelf Life?

The average condom shelf life is between 3 to 5 years, depending on the material and packaging. Several factors influence how long condoms last:

• Material type (latex, polyurethane, lambskin)

• Lubrication (especially those with spermicide)

• Packaging (sealed foil vs loose wrapping)

• Storage conditions (heat and light exposure)

Condoms made with spermicide (like Nonoxynol-9) usually have a shorter lifespan — closer to 3 years. That’s because the chemical can break down the condom material over time.

For safe and satisfying intimacy, pair your protection with our EjaGuard Lubricants, specially formulated to be condom-compatible and reduce friction.

Latex vs Non-Latex: Which Lasts Longer?

Condoms aren’t one-size-fits-all — and neither is their shelf life.

Latex Condoms

• Shelf life: Up to 5 years

• Most common and affordable

• Sensitive to heat and light

Polyurethane Condoms

• Shelf life: Up to 5 years

• Non-latex, suitable for latex allergies

• Slightly less stretchy than latex

Lambskin Condoms

• Shelf life: About 1–2 years

• Natural feel, but do not protect against STIs

• Degrade faster due to natural material

👉 Pro Tip: Always check the label if you're unsure which material you're using.

If you have a latex allergy, explore our range of non-latex, body-safe options in the EjaGuard Sex Toys collection, designed for both pleasure and comfort.

Where to Find the Condom Expiration Date

Do condoms expire? Absolutely.
And the expiration date is printed on each individual condom wrapper and usually on the outside of the box as well.

Look for:

• MM/YYYY format (e.g., 08/2026)

• Embossed or printed date on the edge or back of the wrapper

• Avoid using condoms without a visible date

If the condom is past that date, it’s time to toss it. Better safe than sorry.

How to Store Condoms for Maximum Longevity

Knowing how to store condoms properly helps extend their shelf life. Here’s how to keep them fresh and effective:

✅ Do:

• Store in a cool, dry place (e.g., nightstand drawer)

• Keep them in the original foil packaging

• Use a small storage case if keeping in a bag

❌ Avoid:

• Leaving them in wallets or car glove boxes

• Exposing to direct sunlight or heat

• Bending or folding the wrapper

Heat and friction can weaken the condom material over time, even if the expiration date hasn’t passed.

For those keeping condoms in travel bags or drawers, our discreet EjaGuard Lingerie collection comes with soft storage compartments — ideal for preserving intimate essentials in style.

Risks of Using an Expired Condom

Using a condom past its expiration date can put you at serious risk. Here’s what might happen:

• Breakage during sex due to weakened material

• Reduced effectiveness in preventing pregnancy

• Higher STI transmission risk

• Loss of lubrication or odd smell from degraded materials

Expired condoms become brittle or sticky, both of which make them unsafe. Even a tiny tear can ruin the protection.

To keep your experiences safe and pleasurable, consider pairing your condoms with our EjaGuard Delay Spray, which enhances endurance without compromising latex integrity.

Can You Tell if a Condom is Expired Without Looking at the Date?

Sometimes the date has rubbed off — can you still tell? Here are some warning signs:

• Discoloration or yellowing

• Dry or brittle texture

• Sticky or overly oily feel

• Damaged packaging (ripped foil, puffed up)

If the condom looks or feels off, don’t risk it. Grab a new one.

Best Practices: Buying, Storing, and Using Condoms

When Buying:

• Choose a trusted brand

• Check expiration date on the box before purchase

• Avoid damaged or dusty boxes

When Storing:

• Use a cool, dry place

• Avoid metal containers or tight spaces

• Keep away from sharp objects

Before Using:

• Always check the expiration date

• Feel the wrapper — if it’s puffy or leaking lube, toss it

• Use water- or silicone-based lube if needed (avoid oil-based with latex)

Remember, a fresh condom = better protection.

FAQs About Condom Expiration & Storage

Q1: How long do condoms last in a wallet?
A: Wallets expose condoms to heat and friction, which may reduce their shelf life to less than a year. It’s best to carry them in a case.

Q2: Do condoms expire if unopened?
A: Yes. Even if unopened, condoms still degrade over time. Always check the expiration date.

Q3: Can you use expired condoms for non-sexual purposes?
A: While not ideal for sex, expired condoms might be okay for novelty or demonstration purposes — but never for protection.

Q4: How long do condoms last once opened?
A: Condoms should be used immediately after opening. Do not store or reuse them.

Q5: Does freezing extend condom shelf life?
A: No. Extreme cold can weaken condom material just like heat does. Room temperature is best.

Conclusion

So, how long do condoms last?
Depending on the type, they can last up to 5 years — but only with proper storage and handling.

Always check the expiration date, store them smartly, and use them correctly. Using a fresh, unexpired condom is one of the easiest ways to practice safer sex and avoid unexpected outcomes.