Safe sex is a no-brainer, no matter what your relationship status is. But condoms aren't exactly the sexiest. I mean, let's be honest — they're look like a slimy balloon, they smell like latex, and they're kind of gross when sex is done. But if you're practicing safe sex with condoms, whether it's to prevent STIs or pregnancy, they're a necessity, and knowing a few condom hacks to make sex safer will only make sex better.
Condoms, even without tips and tricks, are already incredibly effective at keeping you safe. According to Planned Parenthood, when it comes to HIV, using a condom makes sex 10,000 times safer than not using a condom. That's a huge, right? Planned Parenthood also notes that condoms are one of the most accessible forms of birth control and can cost as low as four cents per condom.
Although one study found that condom use was highest among unmarried adults, even those in a monogamous relationship might be using them. No matter your reasoning, if condoms are a part of your sex life, you don't have to treat them as some kind of mood-killer. Sure, they're preventing pregnancy and STIs, but that doesn't mean they can't be sexy. With these 11 condom hacks, you can keep your sex life disease and baby-free without losing the heat of the moment.
1Open The Wrapper During Foreplay
Nothing kills the mood faster than one of you mumbling, "Do they make these wrappers out of the same stuff they use to make spaceships?! I CAN'T GET IT OPEN." So do both you and your partner a solid and go ahead and open the wrapper while things are getting heated so that you only have to grab the condom and slide it on.
2Have A Condom Case
Keeping condoms in your bag is already a good idea, but you may be worried that you won't be able to find them when the time comes or that you're going to pull one out instead of your wallet at Starbuck's. There are tons of condom cases that are not only functional, but pretty.
3Set Up A Subscription On Amazon
There is nothing worse than realizing at 3 a.m. that you're out of condoms and want to get it on with your boo. And who actually enjoys asking for condoms at the convenience store or buying them alongside your nail polish and hummus at Target? Buzzfeed has a great tip -- set up an Amazon subscription to receive the exact type and amount of condoms whenever you want, whether that's monthly or weekly. Then you never have to worry about running out again.
4Add Lube Inside Of The Condom
Even if the condoms you're using come lubricated, it still doesn't hurt to add a drop or two inside the condom for your partner. Extra bonus? According to Men's Health, it can help your partner to last longer in bed as well. Just remember to avoid oil-based lubes as they can increase breakage in latex condoms.
5Put On The Condom Like A Handjob
Condoms are necessary, but that doesn't mean it has to kill the mood. You can make putting on a condom sexy by turning it into part of foreplay with a little hand job action as you slide it down your partner's penis.
6Use Condoms With Sex Toys
This is especially beneficial if you have multiple partners. Even if you can clean your sex toys regularly, bacteria can become lodged into porous materials. Make it easier on everyone and pop a condom over any toys you're using.
7Keep A Variety Around
If you have multiple partners, it's a nice hack to keep several different types of condoms in your stash. Some may prefer a different size than the ones you keep, or there might be a latex allergy present. Plus, you may fancy a type that's more catered to you and your own pleasure.
8Keep Them By Your Bed
Don't stop the foreplay so you can run to the bathroom and rummage under your sink. Just keep a stash in your bedside table drawer or on your nightstand so you don't have to worry about finding one.
9Slide It On With Your Mouth
Another way to make condoms sexy as well as safe? Slide it on to your partner's penis with your mouth. You may not be able to go far, but your SO will love watching you perform a little oral while taking care of business.
10Hold On To It As Your Partner Pulls Out
When you two are done, don't let your partner just pull out abruptly. The condom could slide off or pull back, spilling semen. Hold the bottom of the condom on your partner as they slowly pull out.
11Tie Used Condoms Into A Knot
A condom full of semen is a potential mess. Instead of tossing it directly into the trash can (do not flush them), tie the end of the condom into a knot so there's no spillage. Go a step further and wrap it up in toilet paper, too so your bathroom guests aren't privy to all of your business.
