When cleaning you can come across some odd and unidentified substances. There is nothing worse than sticking your hand into something that is sticky or stinky that you have no idea how long it has been there or something that you are unsure of what it is. That is where cleaning gloves come in handy (no pun intended). But how do you know what kind of gloves to use? There are so many different types of gloves that can be used for cleaning, after getting hundreds of glove related questions over the last few months we have decided to create a guide to glove types for cleaning related tasks. Below we will answer some of the most common questions that we have received to help you keep it clean and safe!
Should You Wear Cleaning Gloves?
This is a hard to answer question because not all cleaning tasks are the same and some tasks are safe to be completed without the use of gloves while others use chemicals that may harm your skin if extra precautions are not taken. Every person is responsible for their own cleaning comfort and safety so here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure that you are safe and comfortable.
Tasks like sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, and even dish washing do not require the use of cleaning gloves if you are in your own home although some people are more comfortable mentally with the extra protections. In commercial settings or if you clean for others it is highly recommended that you do use cleaning gloves to reduce cross contamination. By wearing gloves most people tend to avoid touching their clothing, hair, and face to not have to change their gloves. If you have sensitive hands or skin it is recommended that you wear gloves to reduce friction on your hands or as well as to keep your hands from drying out since most multisource cleaners and dishwashing detergents tend to dry skin since they are made to break down oils for more effective cleaning with less elbow grease.
Cleaning gloves are also great for those who love to keep their nails looking cute! Let's face it cleaning can be rough on those nails that you had done at the salon and there is no reason that you should let your nails suffer for you to have a better looking and feeling home.
Your skin is the largest organ on and in the human body. With that said it absorbs moisture from it's surroundings, so when you are spraying cleaners or dipping a cloth in a bucket of cleaning solution it can come in contact with your skin and can be absorbed which over time can be harmful. Other chemicals used in cleaning will actually eat the top layer of skin in mere seconds while other cleaners like heavy duty degreasers and bleach can eat holes through your skin and lead to long term health issues. Make sure that you always check the labels on your cleaning products for safety handling precautions to avoid bodily harm.
What Types Of Cleaning Gloves Are? What Types of Gloves to Use and Avoid
There are single use gloves that can be used for a variety of cleaning tasks. These are general use and widely available. They come in a variety of materials like vinyl and nitrile that are good for areas where bacteria and germs may be a concern as well as extended exposure to chemicals that may cause sensitivities like rashes or dry skin.
Disposable gloves are cheap and affordable making them the most widely used gloves in most cases where sanitation is a concern. Using disposable cleaning gloves offers a convenient and hygienic solution for protecting your hands from harsh chemicals, germs, and grime encountered during cleaning tasks. These gloves are particularly beneficial in preventing skin irritation and allergic reactions from direct contact with cleaning agents, ensuring a safer cleaning experience. They also provide an added layer of protection against the spread of bacteria and viruses, especially in shared spaces, making them an essential tool in maintaining hygiene standards. On the flip side, the convenience of disposable gloves comes with environmental concerns. The single-use nature of these gloves contributes to increased plastic waste, posing a challenge to sustainable living practices. Additionally, the cost of regularly purchasing disposable gloves can add up over time, making them a less economical choice compared to their reusable counterparts. Balancing the protective benefits of disposable cleaning gloves with their environmental impact and cost is crucial in making an informed decision about their use in routine cleaning.
Reusable gloves are more widely used since they are a thicker material that can stand repeat abuse. Another appeal to reusable gloves is the reduced waste so they tend to be viewed as a more eco-friendly alternative since they can be used on average of 20+ times. Be aware that reusable gloves require a little extra care to keep them safe for future uses. After each use they should be washed out with warm water and soap and left to dry by turning them inside out and hanging them somewhere for a few hours to allow all moisture to evaporate. Make sure that you never use gloves that are broken or cracked since this is a sign that they are no longer safe for use as they now allow small amounts of water, chemicals, or cleaning solution in which may put you in danger. Also it is wise to keep several pairs so that you can use one pair of gloves for specific tasks to reduce cross contamination.
For example you would want to have a pair for cleaning the bathroom since this is an area of the home that tends to harbor a wide variety of germs and dirt. You would need another pair of gloves for cleaning the kitchen since this area tends to be exposed to a different array of bacteria through preparing meats and dairy, but most people tend to over look the germs that can come in on fruits and vegetables. After all they do lay on the ground where animals scurry and bird droppings may land.
Chemical gloves are specifically made for substances that are known to cause harm to humans of exposed flesh. Many cleaning chemicals should be used with extreme caution and if you are like me then you know how easy it can be to slosh or miss while pouring some of these chemicals from their bulky gallon containers. Make sure that you get gloves that are rated to withstand the chemicals that you will be using. Remember that not all gloves are created equally since different types of chemicals are more corrosive or permeable than others.
What Materials are Cleaning Gloves Made From? How to Pick The Best Glove Material for You
It is also to keep in mind that not all people are able to use the same types of cleaning gloves so if something seems to cause adverse reactions be sure to air on the side of caution and stop use immediately. Not all materials are available in all of the above uses for cleaning gloves, so buyer beware.
Latex gloves are cheap and readily available so they are ideal for light use situations where you want to reduce exposure to something that a toddler may have left behind or a quick disinfection of the bathroom or kitchen where you feel like a little extra protection would server you well. These are not good for use with chemicals stronger than general disinfectants or multi-surface cleaners. Sprays that you wipe away where your hands tend to stay dry are best since these are slightly permeable when fully submerged for more than a moment or so allowing small amounts of fluid to enter into the gloves. There are many people that have latex allergies that need to avoid the use of these altogether for their own safety. We have better options for you if you have a latex allergy, so read on!
Vinyl disposable gloves are very similar to latex gloves with the main difference being that people with latex allergies tend to be able to use them without complications.
Nitrile gloves are the most common cleaning gloves used across America since they are suitable for most general cleaning situations and they are an affordable alternative in cases where you may not want to wash the gloves. Areas like this would include cleaning someone else's bathroom since cleaning some bacteria or viruses away with just warm soap and water would not be effective and would more than likely lead to long term health effects. An example of this type of this would be cleaning a home of someone known to have AIDs or HIV. They are also great for everyday and medium duty cleaning tasks since to a degree they are a chemical resistant for short term use. Keep in mind that some chemicals should never be used with these gloves because they do not provide adequate protection.
Rubber cleaning gloves tend to be made of a thicker material and usually found in reusable cleaning gloves. These are great for use where you are handling cleaning tasks that use hot water like washing dishes or deep cleaning or stain treating laundry. They also tend to be more chemical resistant so they can be used in cases like cleaning the oven (while powered off with oven cleaner or kitchen degreaser) or mopping with diluted degreaser with hot water. When you can these are the most recommended cleaning gloves to purchase and use. They are tougher in cases when you need more scrubbing power as well like using an SOS pad for a few minutes without shredding or puncturing as easily as disposable gloves.
Neoprene gloves are great for those who need heavy duty protection. They are best for instances when the cleaner will be handling extremely hot items or solutions, oils, or corrosive chemicals. They are specially treated to resist harsh conditions which can cause them to cost more than other types of gloves on the market, but when comparing the cost of a doctor's or emergency room visit and the lasting effects that they can prevent makes them worth every penny in monetary cost.
Microfiber gloves are best to be used when cleaning tech or items that you want to reduce the likelihood of fingerprints and smudging since it provides a soft barrier between the item and your hands as well as collecting dust and trapping it in the gloves themselves so that it reduces the amount of dust floating around to land back on the screen or item that was cleaned.
It is important to know what kind of gloves are out there to protect you. The best cleaner is a well educated and empowered cleaner, no matter if you are cleaning your own home or looking to start your own cleaning business or a veteran cleaner with over 40 years experience. Your greatest weapon will always be your knowledge and your wellbeing so never take it for granted!
A Fresh Perspective On Cleaning Gloves
When it comes to cleaning our homes, we often overlook the small details that can make a big difference. One of those details is wearing cleaning gloves. Many of us are guilty of diving into cleaning tasks with bare hands, but this simple mistake can lead to a host of problems. Wearing cleaning gloves in residential settings is crucial for protecting your hands, enhancing your cleaning experience, and even benefiting your health.
Cleaning products can be harsh on your skin, containing chemicals that can cause irritation, dryness, and even burns. Wearing cleaning gloves creates a barrier between your skin and these chemicals, preventing absorption and protecting your hands from damage. This is especially important for people with sensitive skin or allergies. Without gloves, you may experience redness, itching, or even blisters, making it uncomfortable to continue cleaning. By wearing gloves, you can ensure your hands remain safe and protected.
In addition to protecting your skin, cleaning gloves also provide a secure grip and traction, making it easier to handle slippery surfaces, wet objects, and heavy cleaning tools. This reduces the risk of accidents and injuries, allowing you to clean with confidence. Whether you're cleaning a greasy kitchen floor or scrubbing a slippery bathtub, gloves provide the grip you need to get the job done safely. Without gloves, you may struggle to maintain a secure grip, leading to accidents and potential injuries.
Cleaning gloves can also help prevent the transmission of bacteria and viruses, which can easily spread through contact with contaminated surfaces. By wearing gloves, you can reduce the risk of transferring germs to your mouth, eyes, and other parts of your body. This is especially important for people with compromised immune systems or those who live with others who may be sick. By wearing gloves, you can create a barrier between your skin and potential germs, keeping you and your loved ones healthy.
Furthermore, cleaning gloves can provide cushioning and support, reducing hand fatigue and discomfort. This is especially important for tasks that require repetitive motion or heavy lifting. By wearing gloves, you can reduce the strain on your hands and wrists, making it easier to clean for extended periods. Without gloves, you may experience hand cramping, fatigue, or even pain, making it difficult to complete cleaning tasks.
In addition to these benefits, cleaning gloves can also improve your cleaning efficiency. By providing a secure grip on cleaning tools and surfaces, gloves allow you to apply the right amount of pressure and scrubbing motion, making quick work of tough messes. Whether you're cleaning a stubborn stain or scrubbing a dirty grill, gloves provide the grip and traction you need to get the job done quickly and effectively. By wearing gloves, you can reduce the time spent cleaning and achieve better results.
When selecting cleaning gloves, look for ones made from high-quality materials that are durable, flexible, and resistant to chemicals. Consider gloves with a textured palm for improved grip and traction, and a comfortable fit that won't restrict your movement. By choosing the right gloves, you can ensure your hands remain protected and comfortable throughout your cleaning tasks.
Wearing cleaning gloves in residential settings is a simple yet effective way to protect your hands, enhance your cleaning experience, and even benefit your health. By providing a barrier against harsh chemicals, improving grip and traction, preventing bacterial and viral transmission, reducing fatigue, and improving cleaning efficiency, cleaning gloves are an essential tool for any cleaning task. So why not make the switch to cleaning gloves today and experience the difference for yourself?
Looking to buy some cleaning gloves? Check out our top picks from our cleaning experts and support Boom N Done. We may receive affiliate commissions from links.
Buy Cleaning Gloves Here. Check Out Our Top Picks:
Latex Disposable Gloves
Dishwashing Gloves
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