Why I Keep a Costco-Sized Box of Condoms in My House

home insemination Kit

I have a giant box of condoms from Costco stashed in our hall closet, right out in the open. I’ve taken a few out, making it look casual—like mints. No counting, no judging, just grab a few and go.

I’d much rather these teenage kids save themselves for someone special, someone who genuinely cares for them. But let’s be real; that kind of wisdom takes time, and until they get there, I want them to have all the info on STDs, pregnancy, and responsibility. Plus, easy access to condoms. Because honestly, the only thing safer than a condom is abstinence, and let’s face it, that ship has sailed.

The condom stash started when my daughter began crushing on her charming friend, Jake. Smart, fit, and adored by every parent—us included. He was a bit short for her taste, but they’d been buddies since kindergarten. Then came the moment I learned about his purity pledge.

“YOUR WHAT???” I exclaimed when he whipped out his promise card. It was a signed commitment to wait until marriage—by him and the local priest. It looked like something out of a cheesy movie.

This boy, who I’d known since he was climbing trees and playing tag, was now a teenager attracting attention from older girls. But I knew that card wouldn’t hold up when the hormones kicked in.

“Hey, I’ve got something for you,” I said, rushing upstairs. The weekend was almost here, and I needed to act fast.

“Mom! Don’t!” My daughter’s voice escalated as she sensed the impending awkwardness.

“Your promise is great, really. But do me a favor,” I said, trying to keep my cool. “Put this in your wallet. Trust me, on a hot summer night in the back of a car, that card won’t save you, but this might. Please, just in case.”

Word got around, and before long, teens were dropping by, ostensibly for books or sports gear. Slowly, the box started to empty—not all at once, but over time. Clearly, someone was making good use of them, safely, I hope.

By her senior year, my daughter’s friends knew where to go when their promises faltered. “Mom, it’s so embarrassing that everyone comes to me for condoms, and I’m still a VIRGIN! Ugh!”

“Oh sweetie,” I reassured her. “It won’t be forever. You’re going to college, and I’ll get you your own Costco box. Just wait. Want me to make you a card?”

Keeping these essentials handy has turned into a form of community service, ensuring that kids have what they need while they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence. For more tips on home insemination and parenting, check out this great resource on pregnancy and home insemination at News Medical.

And if you’re interested in more about insemination kits, visit Make A Mom to see some of the best options available for your journey.

In the end, it’s all about ensuring that our kids are smart and safe as they explore their relationships.

Summary

Keeping a Costco-sized box of condoms accessible in the home can help teenagers make safer choices while they navigate relationships. It’s a proactive approach to parenting that encourages open conversations about responsibility and health. By providing easy access to condoms, parents can help empower their teens to make informed decisions.