Posted on: 1 月 1, 2026

Amsterdam Condomerie Shop

Condomerie Amsterdam solves awkward, risky condom choices—learn how the right fit, advice, and options make sex safer and better.

What a condomerie is and why Amsterdam is famous for them

A condomerie is a specialty shop that focuses on condoms and safer-sex products, plus clear advice on how to use them. In Amsterdam, these shops are part of the city’s well-known “talk about it openly” culture around sexual health. That matters because condoms only work well when people feel comfortable buying the right type and using it correctly.

The Condomerie is the first condom shop in Amsterdam and in the world. It’s located in Amsterdam Red Light District – on De Warmoesstraat – and easily recognizable by dozens of condoms displayed in the shop window.

The Condomerie, often described as the world’s first condom specialty shop, founded in 1987 and located on Warmoesstraat 141 in the city center. Its goal was not just selling products, but also helping people get better information and reduce stigma.

Our local guide took this photo of the window of the Condomerie.

Why specialty shops are useful (simple reasons):

• More choice than a supermarket shelf (sizes, materials, textures).

• Better guidance when you’re unsure what to buy.

• Privacy-friendly shopping (quick checkout, discreet bags in many stores).

A simple “fit matters” idea:
If a condom is too loose, it can slip. If it’s too tight, it can break. The goal is a snug fit that feels comfortable and stays in place.

Amsterdam tip: Condomerie is within walking distance of Central Station and near the Red Light District, so many visitors stop in while exploring the old center.

Types of condoms available

Condom types are not just “regular vs thin.” The main differences are material, thickness, and surface (smooth, ribbed, dotted). These features change comfort, sensation, and what kind of lubricant is safe to use.

Key definition:
Latex is the most common condom material. Non-latex usually means polyisoprene or polyurethane, which can help people with latex allergies.

Quick table: common condom types and why people pick them

About “vegan” condoms: some latex condoms use animal-based casein in manufacturing, so “vegan” options exist for people who care about that. Specialty shops usually label this clearly, which saves you time and guesswork.

Amsterdam example: In shops like Condomerie, you’ll often see novelty packs in the window, but inside they also stock practical options: non-latex, different widths, and extra-thin styles. That mix is useful because tourists may want a funny souvenir, while locals often come in for fit and comfort.

Sexual health and safety basics

Condoms are a frontline tool for sexual health because they reduce the chance of STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and can help prevent pregnancy. A simple way to say it: a condom acts like a barrier, which helps keep body fluids from passing between partners.

Key definition:
An STI is an infection that can spread through sexual contact (for example, via fluids or skin-to-skin contact, depending on the infection). Using condoms correctly and consistently is one of the best practical steps people can take.

Storage and safety rules (easy checklist):

• Check the expiration date on the wrapper.

• Store in a cool, dry place (not a hot car).

• Don’t open with teeth or scissors—use your hands.

• If it feels dry, add the right lube (see below).

Many sex workers buy their condoms here. But the Condomerie is mostly visited by tourists who have never seen anything like this in their life.

The Condomerie is also a highlight of our Red Light District tour.

History and Origins

The Condomerie Shop Amsterdam opened in the 1980s, becoming the world’s first store fully dedicated to condoms. At the time, talking about safe sex was still taboo, and finding good-quality condoms was not easy. The founders wanted to create a place that combined protection, education, and creativity.

The shop quickly grew into more than just a store. It became a cultural landmark where people could learn about sexual health without shame. Locals and tourists alike visit the shop not just to buy, but also to explore and ask questions.

What makes the Condomerie unique is that it was ahead of its time. Long before sexual education was mainstream, this little shop on Warmoesstraat was breaking barriers.

Key facts about Condomerie’s beginnings:

• Opened in 1987 in Amsterdam’s Red Light District

• First condom specialty shop in the world

• Founded with a mission of safe sex education

• Still in its original location today

Tourist vs local experience

Tourists and locals often shop differently. Visitors may want a “one-stop” store near the center, while locals might grab condoms during a normal run to Etos or Kruidvat. Both are valid—the best choice depends on whether you need speed, variety, or advice.

What tourists often care about:

• Location near sights (easy walk from the old center).

• English-friendly help.

• Quick payment (contactless cards are common).

• A discreet option for carrying items.

What locals often care about:

• Price and multi-packs.

• Familiar brands and easy restock.

• Convenience (closest drugstore).

Fast decision guide (pick your best option):

• Need special sizes or non-latex? → go to a specialty shop.

• Need standard brands fast? → Etos or Kruidvat.

• Want STI prevention basics? → follow trusted sexual health guidance (condom use and barrier methods).

Amsterdam example: If you’re staying near Central Station, a specialty shop on Warmoesstraat can be an easy stop before dinner plans. If you’re in De Pijp or Oost, a nearby drugstore may be the simplest choice.

Sex education has been compulsory since the end of 2012 for primary schools and high schools in the Netherlands. The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science wants to prevent sexual coercion or transgressive behaviour on one hand, but also homo-negative behaviour.

It also wants to promote respectful behavior or sexual resilience of students. There are also points of contact with sexual education in other attainment targets. For example, pupils must also take care of their own health and well-being and have knowledge of functions of the body.

Owner Condomerie Amsterdam Explains

The owner of the Condomerie in Amsterdam.

Theodoor van Boven is the founder of the Condomerie and one of the 22 experts in our Amsterdam Audio Tours App. During this GPS-guided audio tour he tells more about sex education in the Netherlands which is one of the better programs in the world today.

Download this app and learn all about Amsterdam’s Red Light District by listening to the interesting stories of these 22 experts – like real sex workers, police officers, historians and local entrepreneurs.

Condoms To Go

In the left window (above) you can see condoms in different sizes: small, medium, and liar! ?

In the right window of the Condomerie you can see the more funny condoms – Eiffeltoren shaped condoms, windmill condoms, Amsterdam bollards condoms, etc  – which are sold as souvenirs. Furthermore, the Condomerie also offers condoms in very imaginable size, colour, flavour and design (cannabis leaves, horned devils, Delftware tells…), along with lubricants and saucy gifts.

Condomerie Amsterdam Address

Warmoesstraat 141, 1012 JB Amsterdam.

The Condomerie is one of the highlights during our walking tours because it reflects Dutch liberalism and open-mindedness. Learn more about sex education, legal prostitution, coffeeshops and Amsterdam’s history by taking our Red Light District tour. It’s interesting, fun and healthy!