There are so many different condoms to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. This step-by-step guide will give you lots of useful information on choosing the right condom, how to put them on and even how to take them off so they work as well as possible.

Choosing the right condom

Condoms offer protection from STIs and unwanted pregnancy. They come in a variety of sizes, designs, flavours and textures to add fun and a bit of extra pleasure to your experiences.

You or your partner may be worried that condoms reduce sensitivity during sex. If this is the case, it’s time you tried Durex Invisible.

If you’re looking for extra peace of mind, however, then the slightly thicker Durex Extra Safe might be more your thing.

Or one of you may be allergic to latex? If so, our Real Feel condoms are just what you’re looking for.

Our condom range also includes Durex Mutual Climax Condoms which are designed to increase your chances of cumming closer together. They have Performa™ lubricant on the inside to help him last longer and ribs and dots on the outside to help speed her up.

How effective are condoms?

Here are a few basic tips to help make sure your condoms work as well as they possibly can:

  • Check on the pack or foil for the expiry date.
  • Keep them in a cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • Push the condom down to one end of the foil before tearing the other end (don’t want to damage the condom!)
  • Always squeeze the air out of the tip of the condom before rolling it on.
  • Use a lube that’s compatible with condoms - check the label on the lube bottle for instructions.
  • Above all, make sure you use a condom every time you have sex.

How to put a condom on?

  1. Push the condom down as you tear across the wiggly side of the wrapper – take care not to rip the condom inside.
  2. You need to make sure the penis is fully erect before putting on a condom and, if you have one, pull back your foreskin.
  3. Leave around half an inch of extra space at the top of the condom by pinching out any extra air in the tip before rolling the condom down. This reduces the chances of the condom breaking.
  4. As you or your partner roll the condom on the penis, smooth out any air bubbles along the way.
  5. Make sure the condom is on when you start foreplay as, even before cumming, the penis can excrete fluid that contains sperm. If this fluid comes in contact with the vagina, it can increase the chances of pregnancy and contracting an STI.

How to remove a condom?

For maximum effectiveness, taking a condom off correctly is just as important as knowing how to put one on.

  1. After orgasm, pull out immediately before the penis starts going soft.
  2. Hold on to the open end of the condom to avoid semen spilling out.
  3. Put it in the bin.

Next time, you get together with your partner, you might want to try a condom that offers a slightly different experience. Durex sets the quality standard for condoms and you can check out the full range on our website.

Remember no method of contraception works 100% against pregnancy, HIV or sexually transmitted infections. It’s good to be in the know, so read the info inside, especially if you are using condoms for anal or oral sex.