Let’s be real: condoms are one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect against STIs and unwanted pregnancy—but only if you use them correctly. And don’t worry, this isn’t middle school sex ed all over again. We’re here to break down everything you need to know about putting on a condom properly, safely, and maybe even a little sexily.

Whether you’re a first-timer, a seasoned pro, or someone who just wants a quick refresher, this guide is for everyone—regardless of gender, orientation, or relationship style.

Step-by-Step: How to Use a Condom

1. Check the expiration date.
    Condoms have a shelf life! Using an expired one can mean higher chances of breakage. If the date passed, toss it and grab a fresh one.
   

2. Inspect the wrapper.
    Feel for that tiny air bubble by gently pressing the package. If there’s no air cushion—or if the wrapper is torn, dry, or sticky—skip it.
   

3. Open carefully.
    Tear the package at the edge. No teeth, no scissors. You’re opening a condom, not a bag of chips.
   

4. Make sure it’s right side out.
    The rim should be on the outside—it should look like a little hat. If it doesn’t roll down easily, it’s inside out. Don’t flip it—grab a new one.
   

5. Pinch the tip.
    This leaves room for semen and prevents air bubbles that can cause breakage. Place it on the tip of the erect penis (or toy) while pinching the reservoir.
   

6. Roll it all the way down.
    Smoothly unroll the condom down to the base. If it doesn’t roll, it’s likely backward or damaged—again, grab a new one.
   

7. Add lube if you like.
   A few drops of water-based or silicone lube on the inside before rolling on can enhance sensation, and more on the outside can reduce friction and help prevent breakage.
   

8. After ejaculation, hold the base.
    Withdraw while the penis is still erect, holding the condom at the base to prevent slippage or spills.
   

9. Dispose properly.
   Wrap the condom in tissue and toss it in the trash. Do not flush—it’s bad for your plumbing and the planet.

Bonus Tips for Safer, Smoother Sex

Using a condom is only part of the equation. To really stay safe (and sexy), keep these tips in mind:

Store them properly: Keep your condoms in a cool, dry place—away from wallets, hot cars, or steamy bathrooms. Heat and friction can weaken the material.

Use the right lube: Oil-based products like lotion or Vaseline can break down latex. Stick to water-based or silicone lubes unless you're using polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms.

One and done: Use a new condom for each type of sex (oral, vaginal, anal). And if the condom comes off or breaks, stop immediately and replace it.

Practice makes confidence: Try putting one on during solo play so you’re ready when it counts. (Bananas are optional.)

Condoms are for everyone!

Everyone deserves access to safer sex info. Here are a few bonus notes:

For those using condoms on toys or prosthetics:

Condoms can keep your toys cleaner and make cleanup easier. Just remember to change condoms when switching between partners or holes.

For trans and nonbinary folks:

Condoms can be a helpful barrier for many kinds of sex—including oral, anal, and frontal. Don’t be afraid to adapt what works best for your body and boundaries.

Safer sex is for everyone. If it doesn’t feel inclusive or affirming, we’re not doing it right.

TL;DR — How to Put On a Condom (Safely & Sexy)

• Check the expiration date and packaging
  

• Pinch the tip, unroll on an erect penis or toy
  

• Use water- or silicone-based lube
  

• Withdraw while still hard, dispose in the trash
  

• Store condoms away from heat and pressure
  

• Practice beforehand to boost confidence

Wrapping Up (Literally)

Using a condom doesn’t have to be awkward or clinical—it can be an easy, sexy part of your routine. In fact, rolling on a condom can be part of the fun: eye contact, a few breathy words, maybe even a little lube-and-roll action as foreplay.

Condoms protect your health, your partners, and your peace of mind. And when you know how to use them properly, they’re one of the easiest tools in your pleasure toolkit. Ready to discreetly browse your options at Condom USA now. And remember to shop water-based and silicone lubes as well as cleaning sprays to keep toys and bodies clean!