Are there temperatures that are dangerous for condoms?
How do condoms handle heat and cold? What happens if condoms are stored in temperatures that are too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter? Find out all the details about the proper storage temperatures for condoms in this article.
Condoms in the Summer
As a general rule, condoms should only be stored at temperatures up to 30°C for extended periods—which can, of course, be a challenge in the height of summer. You should also avoid storing condoms in direct sunlight for long periods. However, short-term storage for 3–4 days in extreme heat of up to 40°C—for example, during shipping, in your car, or even in a package locker—is perfectly fine. So even in the summer, you can order your condoms online or take them with you on trips without any worries. If there’s a prolonged heat wave and your apartment is, for example, under the roof and turns into a veritable incubator, you can also store your condoms in the refrigerator—this won’t harm them.
If condoms are stored for too long in direct sunlight or extreme heat, the latex becomes increasingly brittle over time and can tear more easily. So if you’ve left your condoms in the glove compartment of your car for an extended period during the summer, for example, you should avoid using them. Your wallet or purse isn’t a good place to store them either, since these can also get very warm in the summer.
By the way: The birth control pill also has a temperature issue in the summer; it shouldn’t be stored at temperatures above 30 degrees either, otherwise the pill may lose its effectiveness as a contraceptive.
Condoms in Winter
Can condoms withstand freezing temperatures? Yes, they can. Low temperatures and even freezing conditions do not harm condoms in any way. This has neither a negative nor a positive effect on the condoms’ shelf life. The expiration date therefore remains valid as indicated on the packaging, even if your condoms happen to be frozen for several days in the winter—for example, because you ordered them online.
Conclusion—how should condoms be stored?
Store your condoms in a cool, dry place away from light; the condom packaging provides good protection from light. At normal temperatures below 30 degrees Celsius, you have nothing to worry about. If a heat wave is forecast and your apartment is too warm for an extended period, you can store them in the refrigerator. However, brief periods of higher heat during shipping won’t damage the condoms.
You can find answers to more questions about Mister Size condoms in our FAQs: