Quck answer
Cleaning and disinfecting rubber gloves is an important step in maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of germs. Here is a simple guide:
1. Prepare a solution: Mix warm water and mild detergent in a bowl or sink.
2. Submerge gloves: Place the gloves in the solution and let them soak for a few minutes.
3. Scrub gently: Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the gloves, paying attention to areas with dirt or stains.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the gloves with clean water to remove any soap residue.
5. Disinfect: Prepare a bleach solution by mixing 1 tablespoon of bleach with 1 quart of water. Submerge the gloves in the solution for 5 minutes.
6. Rinse again: Rinse the gloves with clean water to remove the bleach solution.
7. Dry properly: Hang the gloves to air dry or use a clean towel to pat them dry.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean and disinfect your rubber gloves, ensuring they are germ-free and ready for reuse.
- Soap
- Water
- Disinfectant that is safe for rubber
Warning:
If your glove changes color, it means the rubber is deteriorating and you need to replace it.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend using disposable gloves for cleaning and disinfecting. However, if you can’t find disposable gloves, non-disposable rubber gloves can be used as a substitute for household cleaning. The CDC’s guidelines for using personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare settings state that PPE should be disposed of or, if reusable, properly cleaned, repaired, and stored after use. Although these guidelines are specifically for healthcare settings, it is also important to clean and disinfect your gloves after each use to prevent contamination.
If you don’t have manufacturer instructions, there are simple steps you can follow to clean your rubber gloves. However, gloves should not be reused if they have come into contact with blood, bodily fluids, or heavily soiled items. Each person, especially in a workplace environment, should have their own set of rubber gloves as they are considered personal and hygienic equipment. Discard a rubber glove if you notice discoloration, cracks, or visible punctures or tears.
Here’s how to clean your rubber gloves:
Step 1
While wearing the gloves, wash the outside with soap or a mild detergent and hot water. Use friction to remove dirt, germs, and other organic materials from the surface. Rinse the gloves thoroughly after washing.
Step 2
Remove the gloves and wash your hands with soap and water immediately.
Step 3
Turn the gloves inside out and soak them in a mixture of soap and water for a few minutes. This method is recommended by MCR Safety, a company that produces personal protective equipment.
Step 4
Hang the gloves to dry in a safe location. Ensure they are completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 5
Wipe the outside of the rubber gloves with a sanitizing or disinfecting product. Make sure the product is safe for use on rubber and follow the product instructions, especially regarding drying time. The EPA provides a list of registered disinfectants, but be aware that these should not be applied to your skin or ingested. Only wipe the outside of the gloves to avoid contact with your skin. Wash your hands afterward.
Step 6
Store the rubber gloves in a dry, cool area that has been cleaned and disinfected to prevent contamination. Avoid storing the gloves in direct sunlight.
Step 7
Regularly check the gloves for punctures, discoloration, or tears. Before each use, inspect the rubber for holes, especially if you’re working with hazardous chemicals like bleach or harsh cleaners.
Step 8
Before using the gloves, wash your hands with soap and water.
