Birth control storage can greatly affect its effectiveness. Condoms can usually last four years if kept in their original, sealed packaging in a cool, dry and dark place (away from humidity, heat, air, and sunlight). Unless you’re planning to use a condom that day, don’t carry it in a wallet or pocket as the friction caused by opening/closing a wallet or from walking may cause tiny holes in the condom.
Birth control pills also need to be properly stored. Most pill companies suggest that they be stored at room temperature away from light, moisture and children. You may want to keep your pill pack in a convenient place for easy daily access.
I would LOVE to hear from you: Where Do You Store Your Birth Control?
Practical Storage Options:
1. Condom Cubes
Photo © 2008 Dawn Stacey
These classy boxes are perfect for anyone who values practicality and style. Condom cubes come in both masculine and feminine styles and can usually hold up to about 12 condoms. They have a magnetic flap for easy, one-handed access. This container helps to discreetly and conveniently store condoms. Keeping a condom cube on a night-table may also help enhance your lovemaking as it eliminates the mood-ruining hassle of searching for a condom.
2. Trendy Reminder Birth Control Pill Cases
Photo © 2008 Dawn Stacey
The Pillpak is a trendy birth control pill case with a built-in alarm. They are available in both rectangular and circular designs and can accommodate most brands of combined oral contraceptives. Simply place your pill case into the Pillpak, set the time and the alarm, and this functional pill container will remind you each day when it is time to take your pill. The PillPak can significantly help to reduce oral contraceptive failure as forgetting to take your birth control pill increases your risk of pregnancy. It is available in an assortment of colors and prints with prices ranging from $5.95 to $21.95.
3. Sophisticated "Just In Case" Condom Cases
Photo © Just In Case
A woman can rest assured knowing that she will always be prepared for a safe, sexual encounter by carrying a condom or two in one of these fashionable condom cases. Each compact opens up to reveal a mirror and has a hidden compartment to store condoms. These compacts provide a discreet and sophisticated way for women to carry condoms, just in case an amorous situation arises. According to Co-Founder, Rachael Sudul, "We want to empower women to take care of themselves, to be confident while always upholding their requirement for style and discretion." From "bling" to elegant, Just In Case condom compacts are available in an array of colors and sparkling Swarovski crystals and prices range from $15 to $199.
4. Elegant Wooden ToiTissue Box
Photo Courtesy of ToiBocks
The ToiTissue is designed as a fully functional tissue holder that will hold about an inch worth of tissues in the top. What makes this product so great is that there is a secret storage area (just tilt the holder and a drawer perfect for storing small items like condoms or birth control pill packs, slides out. Because the ToiTissue is made to appear as just a tissue holder on your nightstand, it will easily be overlooked by guests or children. According to president, Dawn Tulman, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” Dawn designed the Original ToiBocks as a discreet way to maintain privacy from her keep her four-year-old. At ToiBocks , privacy is supreme and they “believe that everyone has the right to have a special place to keep personal items that do not want to be found but that can be easily accessed when required.”
- To order the ToiTissue or the Original ToiBocks (shaped like a jewelry box with a speical, storage area protected by a hidden locking mechanism)
5. Ortho Birth Control Pill Compacts
Photo © 2008 Dawn Stacey
In 2002, pill manufacturer Ortho created these stylish pill compacts that allow women to be fashionably discreet while feeling at ease carrying pills on the go. These pill compacts have an "any-day" start design and eliminate the need for using stickers to indicate the day. There are several designs, including limited editions by fashionista Nicole Miller, who is "passionate about continuing to design fashionable compacts for the Pill since it allows women to feel confident and helps them live a more balanced lifestyle". These beautiful cases are no longer available from Ortho, but you may find one on an online auction.
6. Artistic Condom Cases
Photo © 2008 Dawn Stacey
7. French Envelope Condom Carrier
Photo © 2008 Dawn Stacey
This discreet condom carrier is light-weight and convenient. It is made of soft leather with classic white stitching. Its sleek design can securely contain 2 condoms. The French envelope condom carrier comes in several colors and is a perfect fit for a purse, pocket, briefcase or backpack.
Here are some websites that sell the French Envelope Condom Carrier:
8. Fun Fabric Birth Control Pill and Condom Covers
Photo © 2008 Dawn Stacey
9. Colorful Condom Compacts
Photo © 2008 Dawn Stacey
Given that condoms can be affected by abrasion if carried incorrectly, a condom compact is a practical alternative for storing condoms. These sturdy, plastic cases are available in many colors – ranging from pastels, to primary colors, and even glow-in-the dark (to easily find once the lights go out!). Condom compacts can typically hold 1 to 3 condoms and will keep them safe from wear and tear. They come in a convenient shape that easily and discreetly fits into a pocket or purse.
Here are some websites that sell these practical condom compacts:
