There are many types of condoms made from different materials and by manufacturers around the world. But they all have one thing in common: condoms expire.
Condoms are medical devices and have a limited shelf life for both quality and effectiveness. Why? Mostly because the materials they are made from can change over time.
Whether a condom is made from latex, polyisoprene, polyurethane, nitrile, or natural membrane, it should only be used within the expiry date provided by the manufacturer. Once a product is past that date, you can no longer rely on it to perform as intended.
The same applies to oral barriers. Always check the expiry date before using any safer-sex product. Health Canada recommends checking condom expiry dates because expired condoms may not work properly.
How Long Do Condoms Last?
The shelf life of a condom depends on its material, manufacturer, and product specifications.
Many latex condoms can have a shelf life of up to five years from the date of manufacture, but you should always follow the expiry date printed on the individual package. CDC guidance also says latex condoms should not be used beyond their expiry date. CDC
Harmony Dams have a three-year expiry date from the date of manufacture. Pamco Distributing Inc.
You can usually find the expiry date on the outer box and on the individual condom or oral barrier package.
Dates may appear in a year-month-day format. For example:
2027-01-31 = January 31, 2027
You may also notice a lot number on the package. Manufacturers and suppliers use this number to trace a product if there is ever a recall, complaint, or quality issue.
What Happens to an Expired Condom?
Condom materials can deteriorate over time, especially when they are stored incorrectly.
An older or damaged condom may become dry, brittle, sticky, or otherwise show signs of deterioration. This can increase the possibility of tearing or breaking during use. CDC guidance recommends avoiding condoms that are expired, damaged, brittle, sticky, or discoloured. CDC
If a condom breaks or slips during sex, there may be an increased risk of unintended pregnancy or STI transmission. Canada
So, when in doubt, throw it out and use a new condom.
How to Store Condoms Properly
Being prepared and having condoms available is a great idea—but how you store them matters.
Condoms should be kept at room temperature in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight. Heat and friction can damage condom materials. Canada
That means your car or glove compartment is not a good long-term storage location. Wallets can also expose condoms to heat and friction.
At home, consider keeping condoms in a drawer or cupboard away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
If you are taking condoms with you, keep them somewhere protected from sharp objects and unnecessary friction.
Oral barriers also need proper storage. Harmony Dams should be kept in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. Pamco Distributing Inc.
Take Care of Your Condoms
If you take care of your condoms, they can help take care of you.
Don’t use a condom if:
- It is past its expiry date
- The wrapper is damaged
- Lubricant is leaking from the package
- The condom feels dry, brittle, or unusually sticky
- The condom appears discoloured or damaged
Don’t open a condom with:
- Your teeth
- Scissors
- Sharp objects
- Fingernails that could tear the material
Instead, carefully open the package along the edge or tear notch provided.
And remember: condoms and oral barriers are designed for single use only.
Check Your Safer-Sex Supplies
Condoms and oral barriers are available through many public health facilities, university and college health centres, pharmacies, adult stores, online retailers, and other community organizations.
No matter where you get them, make a habit of checking the expiry date before use.
Different brands, styles, and materials may have different shelf lives, but the rule is simple: if your condom or oral barrier is expired or damaged, replace it with a new one.
Condoms and oral barriers continue to be important tools for safer sex. Taking a few seconds to check the package, expiry date, and condition can help make sure the product is ready when you need it.