By NYU Local Staff
What type of condom should I use?
You’ve asked yourself this before. There is an endless variety of condoms out there, but which one is the right one for you? How can you know without trying them all?
Knowing what to use requires knowing your body and what you like. There are a lot of cheap latex condoms out there, but if you are allergic to latex, you need to find a safe alternative. The good news is that there are a lot of non-latex condoms on the market (one of the best non-latex brands is RealFeel). The other good news is that condoms also come in different sizes, colors and flavors, plus you can find some that glow in the dark.
Unfortunately, flavored condoms are not very flavorful. We recommend using flavored lubes instead.
As far as don’ts go: Never, we repeat, never use two condoms at the same time. It doesn’t make sex safer. In fact, quite the opposite. When two condoms rub against one another, the friction can break them. Don’t use a female condom and a male condom at the same time, either. Just pick one and enjoy.
Another don’t: Despite what the movies told you, don’t keep your condoms in your wallet because they tend to damage easily. Make sure the package is intact and the condom hasn’t dried out before you use it.
Also, if you can, try to get good quality condoms from reputable brands. It’s ultimately worth it.
A do: Use lube. A don’t: For no reason whatsoever should you ever use oil-based lubes. Just don’t. Use silicon or water-based lube, which are better for your skin. If you’re one of those people using coconut oil instead of lube, please stop. It’s not safe, can cause infections, and can also destroys condoms and toys.
A note on mixing and matching: If you’re going to use silicon based lube, never use it with silicon sex toys. If you have latex condoms, don’t use them with oil-based lube, because the latex can erode and the condom will be useless. Also, remember that porous materials are not very safe because they may transmit STIs and harbor bacteria and yeast, and nobody wants that. Cyberskin is very delicate and must always be used with water-based lube.
Finally, on cleanliness: Never use toys without thoroughly washing them, and don’t reuse your condoms (always use a new one).
So now, armed with the answers to all your condom questions, go forth and have pleasure!
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