We’ve all been there. You’re in the middle of a project and realize you can’t find your gloves. Or maybe you’re about to start a project and unsure if you have any gloves that will fit.
So you go to the store and buy a new pair of gloves, only to find that they don’t quite fit right or are not as durable as you need them to be.
It’s a frustrating cycle, but it doesn’t have to be. Today, we’ll let you in on a little secret: rubber gloves actually have a fairly long lifespan!
Read on to find out how long your rubber gloves should last, what actions will shorten their lifespan, and what you can do to make them last even longer.
Do Rubber Gloves Have Shelf Life? Can They Expire?
Although “rubber glove shelf life” may seem like an oxymoron, the fact remains that rubber gloves do have a shelf life after which they are no longer suitable for use.
The shelf life of rubber gloves is determined by their material composition, quality and specific use. Many rubber gloves will have an expiration date indicated on the packaging or product.
This should be used to determine when it is time to replace them. Expired rubber gloves can become brittle or leaky and should not be used as protection against potential contamination.
Therefore, keeping up with regular replacements is essential to ensure the greatest level of protection for you and your environment.
The Shelf-Life of Common Using Rubber Gloves
Here’re the common types of rubber gloves and their estimated lifespans. Aware that these data are based on non – frequently used, proper storage and maintenance conditions:
Nitrile Gloves
Nitrile gloves are the cream of the crop regarding protection and practicality.
They are resistant to various oils and chemicals and are also far less likely than latex gloves to cause allergic reactions.
Plus, these gloves boast an impressive lifespan – if not used too frequently, you can expect them to last up to ten years!
That’s right: with a pair of these bad boys, you’ll likely be set in terms of protective hand coverage for almost a decade.
Latex Gloves
Latex gloves are made from natural rubber and are usually used in medical settings. They provide excellent protection against viruses and bacteria.
However, latex gloves only have a lifespan of three years. Keep track of when you started using them and dispose of them when the time comes for a replacement.
Thankfully, the natural rubber that makes up these gloves is conducive to making replacements frequently–so you can always stay safe!
Vinyl Gloves & Poly Gloves
Vinyl gloves are made from PVC and are generally used in food service or other light-duty tasks.
They are less elastic than latex or nitrile gloves, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Poly gloves are made from various synthetic materials and are often used in cleaning or other industrial applications. They provide reasonable protection against chemicals and other hazards.
Both vinyl and poly gloves have a lifespan of about five years if not used too frequently.
What Action Will Shorten the Lifespan of Rubber Gloves?
Besides usage, how you store your rubber gloves can greatly impact how long they will last.
Proper storage can mean the difference between a rubber glove that lasts a few months and one that lasts for several years.
Regularly rubbing gloves together, creasing them too harshly, or exposing them to direct sunlight will take its toll and significantly shorten the life span of your rubber gloves.
What Can You Do to Make Rubber Gloves Last Longer?
To ensure you keep your hands covered with quality protection, consider keeping your gloves dry and away from humidity and extreme temperatures.
Keeping them upright with their cuffs spread out can also help by reducing the wear and tear the articles endure when stacked on top of each other.
Ensuring you store gloves in such ways will ensure maximum safety for your hands for as long as possible!
Conclusion:
Now that you know how long rubber gloves actually last, we hope you’ll think twice before throwing away a perfect pair!
With proper care and storage, your rubber glove can easily reach (or even exceed) its natural lifespan. So next time you’re in the market for new rubber gloves, keep this blog post in mind and choose wisely!
