Store your condoms in a cool, dry place away from any sharp objects. Also, despite what popular media tells us, don't keep them in your wallet, car, or bathroom. Friction from being placed in your pocket and wallet may create holes in the condom, and the high temperatures and humidity in cars and bathrooms can cause damage as well.

Condoms are single use items! Always use a new condom for each act of vaginal or anal intercourse, and for oral sex with a new partner or a partner known to be HIV-positive.

First, open the package carefully so that you do not tear the condom.

Place the condom over the head of an erect penis, leaving about half an inch of space at the end. If the penis is uncircumcised, pull back the foreskin before you place the condom over the head of the penis.

The condom should fit over the head of the penis like a small rubber cap, with the rolled brim to the outside so that it can unroll easily down the shaft. Hold the ring of the condom to prevent it from either slipping off or tightening excessively.

Pinch the nipple-end of the condom to expel any trapped air, and to make space for semen.

Hold the tip of the condom and unroll it all the way down to the base of the penis. A lubricant applied to the outside of the condom can make insertion easier, but only use a water-based lubricant (like EZ Lube).

After ejaculation, hold the condom against the base of your penis while you withdraw to keep the condom from coming off while it is still in your partner's vagina, anus, or mouth. Gently peel the used condom off the tip of your penis, tie it in a knot to contain the semen, and then dispose of it in a garbage bin. Don't try to flush it down the toilet, as that may clog your plumbing!

Always check that the individual pack of the condom you are about to use is sealed and undamaged. If there is any sort of puncture, or if the pack is no longer airtight, throw it out and use a fresh condom pack instead.

Each condom is for a single use only! If reused, there is an increased risk of failure or infection.

Avoid oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly, baby oil, body lotions, massage oil, butter, or margarine as these may damage the condom. Instead, go for a water-based lubricant like EZ Lube.

Avoid contact with fingernails, jewelry, and other sharp objects to prevent damage.