Use recently purchased condoms only. Choose condoms made of latex, not of animal membranes. Latex condoms are more durable than natural condoms and are less likely to break. They don't hold up well. Don't expose condoms to the sun or store them under hot and humid conditions.
Condoms deteriorate when exposed to ultraviolet light, heat, or moisture.
Apply the condom over an erect penis before sexual contact. It should be rolled down over the shaft of the penis to the base, leaving a space at the tip for semen to collect. Hold the condom against the base of the erect penis after ejaculation, until after withdrawal. Don't use petroleum or oil-based lubricants such as baby oil, petroleum jelly, or vegetable oil to make penetration easier when wearing a condom. They can cause the condom to weaken and tear.