If you’re like me, you’re always looking for ways to make your life easier. And what’s more difficult than cleaning chemical-resistant gloves? I’ve put together a few tips to make the process a little less daunting.
Why it’s important to clean your gloves
Chemical-resistant gloves are made to protect your hands from harsh chemicals, but they can get dirty and degraded over time.
It is estimated that gloves become contaminated with blood or other body fluids after about five uses. If you don’t clean your gloves, you can transmit diseases and infections to yourself and others. Different types of gloves are made from different materials, and each type of material must be cleaned in a specific way.
To avoid damaging your gloves, it’s important to read the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning them. Cleaning your gloves also extends their lifespan. A good cleansing routine will remove germs and dirt, as well as any chemicals that may have been absorbed by the glove material.
What materials you’ll need
To clean your gloves, you will need:
- A cleaning solution that is compatible with the material of your gloves
- Gloves that are the right size for your hands
- A clean, dry cloth
- A brush
- A pair of chemical-resistant gloves
- A bucket
The steps to cleaning your gloves
Here’s a simple guide on how to clean your gloves so they’ll last longer.
1. Remove your gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Fill a bucket with cool water and add a little bit of soap, or mix a cleaning solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Submerge your gloves in the water and use the brush to scrub away any dirt or debris. Let them soak for the recommended amount of time.
4. Rinse the gloves thoroughly with cool water.
5. Let the gloves air dry before using them again, or dry the gloves with a clean, dry cloth.
Why you should avoid using harsh chemicals
You may think that you need to use harsh chemicals to get your gloves clean, but the truth is that these chemicals can actually damage the material of your gloves. Over time, this damage can lead to holes or cracks in the gloves, which will allow chemicals to seep in and come into contact with your skin.
There are a few simple steps you can take to clean your gloves without using harsh chemicals. First, make sure you rinse your gloves off with water as soon as possible after they have been exposed to chemicals. This will help remove any residual chemicals that could cause damage. Next, wipe down your gloves with a mild soap or detergent. Be sure to rinse the soap off completely before putting your gloves back on.
If you do need to use a chemical cleaner on your gloves, make sure you choose one that is designed for use on chemical-resistant gloves. Follow the instructions on the cleaner carefully, and be sure to rinse the gloves thoroughly afterward.
How to store your gloves
It is important to store your gloves properly to ensure their longevity. Depending on the type of glove, there are different storage requirements.
- Nitrile gloves should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. If they are exposed to heat or sunlight, they can become brittle and more susceptible to holes and tears.
- Latex gloves should also be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If latex gloves become too warm, they can become sticky, which makes them more difficult to put on and take off.
- Vinyl gloves can be stored in a wide variety of locations, as they are not as sensitive to temperature as nitrile and latex gloves. However, it is important to keep them away from sharp objects that could puncture or tear the material.
Tips for prolonging the life of your gloves
You may not think about it often, but your gloves are one of the most important pieces of safety equipment that you own. They protect your hands from harmful chemicals, debris, and other dangers. But even the best gloves won’t last forever. With proper care, however, you can prolong the life of your gloves and get the most out of them.
Here are a few tips for prolonging the life of your chemical-resistant gloves:
- Store them properly: It’s important to store your gloves in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can deteriorate the material of your gloves, making them less effective.
- Inspect them regularly: Inspect your gloves regularly for signs of wear and tear. If you notice any holes or cracks, it’s time to replace them.
- Clean them after each use: After each use, it’s important to clean your gloves with soap and water. This will remove any chemicals or debris that could damage the material.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is the best way to clean my gloves?
A: If gloves become soiled, they can be cleaned with water and mild soap. Rinse the gloves and air dry.
Q: Can I use bleach or other disinfectants on my gloves?
A: We do not recommend using bleach or other disinfectants on your gloves as this may damage the glove material.
In Closing
Chemical-resistant gloves will come in contact with different chemicals and particles during usage. Thus, they must be cleaned after each use because doing so will help keep them from degrading too soon.
Further resources
You may find the following resources helpful in your search for information on chemical-resistant gloves:
- The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) maintains a list of approved gloves for specific chemicals: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/Disp_Part/gloveslist1.html
- The Chemical Protective Clothing selection guide from The University of Michigan provides an overview of the types of materials used in chemical-resistant gloves, as well as guidance on selection and use: https://eHhub.umich.edu/cpc/tools-resources/chemical-protective-clothing-selection-guide
- The occupational safety and health administration (OSHA) has general requirements for the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the workplace, which includes gloves: https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/personalprotectiveequipment/
