Here's why you should never reuse a condom

Let’s get straight to the point—if you’ve ever thought about reusing a condom, stop right there. It might seem like a “cost-effective” or “eco-friendly” idea, but trust me, it’s neither. Condoms are designed for one-time use only, and trying to stretch (literally) their lifespan can lead to some very unwanted consequences.

Still not convinced? Here’s exactly what happens when you reuse a condom—and why it’s a major no-go.

1. The Condom Becomes Weaker (and Likely to Break!)

Condoms are made of materials like latex, polyurethane, or polyisoprene, all of which are designed to be strong once. But after use, they lose their elasticity and strength. Imagine trying to reuse a popped balloon—yeah, it’s not going to work the same way. A weak condom is far more likely to tear, break, or leak, which defeats the whole purpose of using one in the first place.

2. You’re Basically Reapplying Bacteria and Bodily Fluids

Reusing a condom is like wearing the same dirty socks over and over again without washing them—except way, way worse. After use, condoms collect semen, vaginal fluids, and bacteria. Even if you rinse it, you’re not fully cleaning it, and any remaining fluids can lead to infections, including bacterial or yeast infections for your partner.

3. It Increases the Risk of STIs and Unwanted Pregnancy

One of the main jobs of a condom is to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and prevent pregnancy. But when you reuse one, those protections are severely compromised. The material is already stretched, the lubricant is gone (or replaced with water that’s not designed for safe sex), and the risk of semen leaking out or mixing with bacteria is much higher.

So, instead of protecting you, a reused condom could actually be increasing your chances of contracting an STI or facing an unexpected pregnancy.

4. The Lubrication is Gone (and That’s a Problem!)

Condoms come pre-lubricated for a reason—it makes things smoother, more comfortable, and reduces friction that can cause breakage. Once a condom has been used, the lubrication is gone, and washing it off (or trying to reapply household lubricants like lotion or baby oil—please don’t!) makes it even less safe.

A dry condom = more friction, which = higher chances of tearing. And once a condom tears, it’s completely useless.

5. It’s Just… Gross

Let’s be real—using a pre-used condom is just nasty. If you wouldn’t reuse toilet paper (shudder), then you shouldn’t even consider reusing a condom. It’s unsanitary, unsafe, and honestly, a massive mood killer.

The Bottom Line: One and Done!

Condoms are single-use only—there’s no washing, flipping, or turning them inside out to “get more use.” Once it’s been used, bin it and grab a fresh one for next time. It’s the only way to ensure you’re staying protected, hygienic, and smart about your sexual health.

So, save yourself the risks (and the ew factor) and invest in a new condom every time. Your body—and your partner—will thank you.