Durex FAQs: Condoms, Lubes and Safety Questions Answered

Every Durex condom is electronically tested to ensure it meets the standards. A random sample of condoms is also taken from each batch for more rigorous quality tests. After measuring thickness and length, samples go through an air inflation test to check for burst strength and elasticity (typically a Durex condom can hold 40 litres 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 would show 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 exceeding 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 litres of air. But our requirement is for 22 litres - and typically a Durex condom will expand to contain 40 litres of air.

There has been no research into the performance of condoms when they are used in or under water. 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 also 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 on is recommended to help reduce the risk of breakage or slippage of the condom.

Due to the length of time it takes to research product information, we only provide lot number details 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. The expiration date represents the length of time the product is able to perform as indicated on the labelling based on scientific stability data. With some exceptions, Durex condoms normally have a shelf life of 5 years.