FAQ

We have more than 80 years of experience of manufacturing condoms. So it's hardly surprising that Durex are the world's leading condoms.

All our condoms use only fine quality raw materials. And every single one is electronically tested for holes and imperfections. We lead the way in innovation too.

This means that all standard Durex condoms are now 'easy on' allowing them to be easy and quick to put on and more comfortable to wear.

Every Durex condom is electronically tested to ensure it's up to the job.

A random sample of condoms is also taken from each batch for more rigorous quality tests.

After measuring thickness and length, samples go through the air inflation test to check for burst strength and elasticity (typically a Durex condom can hold 40 liters of air without bursting).

Water leak testing is also carried out.

Sample condoms are filled with water - suspended for one minute and rolled on blotting paper which shows up any leakage.

Approximately two million water tests are carried out every month in Durex factories.

If the sample fails any of the tests, the whole batch is rejected!

Durex condoms set the quality standard around the world, by meeting or beating all national and international standards.

We have even upgraded the requirements for the Durex Quality symbol to make sure we continue to stay ahead of regulatory standards.

Here's an example…

the international standard for the air burst test is for the condom to contain 18 liters of air. But our requirement is for 22 liters - and typically a Durex condom will expand to contain 40 liters of air.

No. The thickness of the condom doesn't necessarily correspond to safety.

Durex flavoured condoms are intended primarily for vaginal sex. However, if you choose to use them in oral sex, the lubricant is safe if ingested. We recommend if used in oral sex that a new condom be used for vaginal sex.

There has been no research into the performance of condoms when they are used in or underwater. The risk of slippage, for example, might increase when used in such circumstances. Though the salt in seawater would not have adverse effects on condom materials, there is a strong possibility that the chemicals used in swimming pools (chlorine and ozone, for example) would. The presence of bath oils or other substances in the water or applied in the shower may have an adverse effect on the properties of the latex condom material.

There are currently no specific standards for the manufacturing of condoms for anal sex. For anal sex in particular, application of additional water-based or silicone-based lubricants to the outside of the condom once donned is recommended to help reduce the risk of breakage or slippage of the condom.

For too long lubes have been associated with gay men or women with vaginal dryness.

But, there's a growing trend for people to use lube simply to make sex better.

Lubes can be used to enhance sensations, add a bit of fun or just top up natural levels of lubrication.

Durex Play lubes have been specially designed to make sure you enjoy the best sexperience!

Due to the length of time it takes to research product information, we only provide lot number information to law enforcement agencies. However, we can give you some general information.

Durex foils and cartons are stamped with the lot number and expiration date as they come out of the manufacturing facility and are packaged for shipping. It usually takes about 90 days for shipments to reach our warehouse from where they are shipped to retailers for sale. The expiration date represents the length of time the product is able to perform as indicated on the labeling based on scientific stability data. Durex condoms normally have a shelf life of 5 years. Currently, the only exception is Durex Avanti Bare polyisoprene condom which has a three year shelf life.

As an example, an expiration date of 2014-05 indicated that the condom was manufactured in May 2009 and was probably on retail shelves after August 2009.

No. There are lots of reasons why a woman might experience dryness including stress, after having a baby, using tampons, and changes in hormone levels.

Yes. Durex lubricants are water-based, so all are totally safe to use with condoms.

Everywhere and anywhere.

Durex Play lubes are safe to use all over the body and safe to consume.

The only thing we wouldn't recommend is using a tingling lubricant for anal sex as some people can experience slightly stronger sensations than others.

Many people find using lube with a massager a real revelation.

It lets the massager glide over the body - easily giving a more intense feeling.

All of the Durex Play lubes are perfectly safe to use with all types of massagers and wash off easily with water.

There are really no rules here. The best thing to do is just relax, enjoy and experiment.

But, when you're trying it for the first time, simply squeeze a little lube onto your fingertips and gently apply to your intimate areas. Lube can be used with or without a condom, either when it is already on or before.

Take care not to use too much before you put the condom on, otherwise it may slip off during sex. You can always apply more if you need it.

The personal massagers have been designed with women in mind although they are intended for both solo use and with a partner. In addition, it is worth remembering that men also can enjoy stimulation with a personal massager.