The advantages of natural latex condoms.

If you’re a sexually active being—which, if you’re visiting a natural latex condom site, we’d assume you to be—you may have used a male condom at some stage in your life. However, through no fault of your own, the chances are that you don’t know too much about the condoms you put on your body (and into someone else’s), including what that condom is actually made from.

Are the condoms you use latex-free? 

Are they made from natural latex? 

What is natural latex actually made from? 

Is natural latex a plastic? 

What even is latex?

Naturally, these questions wouldn’t be the first thoughts that pop into your mind when you’re hastily reaching for a packet of condoms. So, we’ve decided to answer them for you, from why latex is used for condoms, to the advantages of natural latex, to why, in our humble opinion, natural latex is Queen/King/Quing.

First of all, why is latex used for male condoms?

Unsurprisingly, our ancestors had to get creative when it came to safe sex and effective contraception. Although we probably can’t imagine them being made from anything other than latex, male condoms have historically been made from tortoiseshell, leather, linen and animal intestine; they had to be dipped in water before use; and were often one-size. Magnums circa 300 BC, anyone?

Latex is used for male condoms for a multitude of different reasons, and there are many advantages of using latex condoms. Firstly, latex is a strong material, and when used correctly, latex condoms are incredibly effective in preventing pregnancy and STDs. Latex condoms are also stretchy (though we do not recommend testing said stretchiness) and come in a variety of different sizes.

Natural latex is made from rubber, not plastic.

Unlike natural latex, which is made from natural rubber, non-latex condoms are essentially made from plastic, and this latex-free characteristic is why this material is suitable for those who suffer from latex allergies. 

Non-latex condoms are made from materials including Polyurethane, which is a plastic often found in paints and varnishes. Polyurethane condoms also fit looser and subsequently, have decreased elasticity, making them more prone to coming off or breaking during sex. Not ideal.

Natural latex is more, well, “natural”.

“Okay, Ms Obvious.” No, but seriously, natural latex is made from a natural rubber sourced from trees across the globe, including from rubber trees in the Amazon, Thailand and Indonesia. What’s more is that natural latex (like the rubber Jonny’s male condoms are made from) does break down over time, compared to the non-latex condoms that don't break down. This is one of the many advantages of natural latex.

Natural vegan condoms can be gentler on your delicates.

More natural, vegan-friendly latex condoms, in general, are a terrific option for those with dairy allergies, those who do not consume dairy products, or those wanting to avoid super harsh chemicals. 

Casein is a common ingredient used for condoms to make the latex smooth. However, casein is a prominent milk protein and is subsequently not vegan-friendly or suitable for consumers who steer clear of dairy products. On the other hand, vegan condoms are casein-free, and vegan condom brands opt for non-dairy alternatives to casein.

Some typical ingredients used in conventional condoms include glycerin, a sugar that can increase the chances of a yeast infection; benzocaine, a numbing agent found in lubricants; and parabens, an ingredient that is known to disrupt hormone function. Natural condoms (like Jonny’s) avoid these harsh chemicals, making them a little easier on the more sensitive parts of the body.

Let’s talk about Jonny’s natural latex condoms.

Shameless plug time: here at Jonny, we’ve crafted our non-medicated natural latex condoms to be one of the most efficient and safe available on the market today. We like to stay as natural as possible, and we understand the advantages of using natural latex. For this reason, we have chosen to use natural latex condoms that are less harsh both on and in the body. 

No nitrosamines are used in the production of our condoms; we do not use spermicides or benzocaine; our natural latex condoms are free from parabens, glycerin, petrochemicals, flavours, fragrances and palm oil; and they do not contain casein, a protein derived from milk and used for lubrication.

This small number of special and necessary ingredients helps keep Jonny’s body-safe natural latex condoms performing at their best whilst ensuring they comply with International Medical & Manufacturing Standards. Oh, and I have also had reports of irritation-free use from those who usually suffer from latex allergies. Winning!

The wrap-up.

Essentially, there are many advantages to using natural latex male condoms: they’re free from plastic, they’re made from a natural rubber that will break down over time, and they’re strong, stretchy and effective. Although latex is not suitable for everyone, choosing natural latex condoms is a great way to bring some sustainability into the bedroom without sacrificing effectiveness or quality.