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Washing latex gloves is a simple process that helps to keep them clean and in good condition for reuse. Here are the steps to wash latex gloves:
1. Prepare a solution of mild soap and warm water in a clean basin or sink.
2. Immerse the gloves in the soapy water and gently rub them together to remove dirt and grime.
3. Rinse the gloves thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
4. Gently squeeze out the excess water from the gloves.
5. Hang the gloves to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
6. Once dry, store the gloves in a clean, dry place until they are needed again.
Following these steps will help to prolong the lifespan of your latex gloves and ensure they remain hygienic for future use.
When disinfecting your home, it is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to wear disposable gloves for personal protection. Latex gloves are a common type of disposable gloves. In medical facilities, these gloves should be discarded after each use. However, if you need to reuse the gloves for non-hazardous activities, the World Health Organization (WHO) provides information on how to disinfect them before reuse.
The CDC states that “gloves should be discarded after each cleaning.” Before providing instructions on disinfecting used gloves, the WHO states that “reusing gloves is not recommended.” Some situations where you might reuse latex gloves include crafting and light household cleaning. Do not reuse if you have come into contact with bodily fluids, food products, or similar substances.
If you absolutely need to clean them, here’s how to get started.
Items You Will Need
- A clean, disinfected bucket
- Fresh water
- Soap or a mild detergent
- Personal protective gear such as an apron and thick gloves
Step 1
Fill a clean, disinfected bucket with fresh soapy water.
Step 2
Follow the CDC’s guidelines for safely removing gloves. Avoid touching your bare skin. Grasp the outside of one glove at the wrist, peel the glove away from your body, and turn it inside out. Hold the glove you removed in your other gloved hand.
To remove the second glove, place your fingers inside the glove at the top of your wrist, pull it away from your body while turning it inside out. The first glove you removed should be inside the second glove.
Place the gloves inside the bucket of soapy water.
Step 3
Wash your hands with soap and water. Then, put on a thick pair of clean gloves to prevent contamination. Rubber gloves should work fine.
Step 4
With the thick gloves on, gently rub the latex gloves in the soapy water to remove any debris. Make sure they are completely covered with water and let them soak overnight.
Step 5
Remove the thick gloves and wash your hands. Then, clean and disinfect the thick gloves, remembering to wash your hands afterwards. Instructions for this can be found here.
Step 6
Wearing the thick gloves and an apron, take the latex gloves out of the bucket and rinse them thoroughly with clean water. You can check for holes by seeing if the water leaks out of the gloves. If they are ripped or have a hole, discard them immediately.
Step 7
Air dry the gloves and store them in a clean, disinfected area. You should also wash your hands and clean and disinfect both the thick gloves and the apron. Before putting the latex gloves back on your hands, wash your hands with soap and water again. The WHO also suggests using talcum powder in dry gloves.
Warning
If possible, do not reuse disposable gloves. Do not wash and reuse gloves used for medical or hazardous chemical purposes. You should also dispose of gloves after each use if you are caring for someone who has a virus, or if the gloves are soiled or ripped.
Do not dry latex gloves in a clothes dryer.
