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Disposable gloves are manufactured from natural and synthetic polymers (like latex, nitrile, and neoprene) that naturally degrade over time.
Proper storage is the most critical factor in maximizing a glove’s shelf life. If gloves are stored improperly, the material can quickly become brittle, sticky, or weak. This degradation destroys the glove’s tensile strength and elasticity, leading to unexpected tearing and a complete loss of barrier protection when you need it most.
Gloves should always be stored in a cool, dry place. The ideal storage temperature is between 50°F and 77°F (10°C to 25°C).
Extreme heat is one of the fastest ways to ruin disposable gloves. They should never be stored near radiators, heaters, or steam pipes, and they should not be left in hot vehicles. High temperatures can cause the polymers to melt together, making the gloves stick to one another in the box and tear when pulled apart. Additionally, the storage area should have relatively low humidity (below 65%) to prevent the cardboard packaging from degrading and to inhibit any potential fungal or bacterial growth.
Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light causes rapid degradation of rubber compounds.
UV rays break down the chemical bonds in the polymers, causing the gloves to lose their elasticity, become discolored, and ultimately crack. To prevent this, gloves should be kept out of direct sunlight and stored away from intense, unshielded fluorescent lighting.
Ozone is a highly reactive gas that severely damages natural and synthetic rubber, causing a phenomenon known as “ozone cracking.”
Even low levels of ozone can cause microscopic cracks to form in the glove material, destroying its barrier integrity.
Because ozone is generated by electrical arcs and high-voltage equipment, you should never store glove boxes near electric motors, generators, X-ray machines, electrocautery equipment, or heavy machinery. Additionally, gloves should be kept away from areas with high concentrations of chemical solvents or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as the fumes can degrade the glove material before they are even worn.
Yes, gloves should remain in their original box or packaging until they are ready to be used.
The packaging is specifically designed to shield the gloves from dust, moderate light exposure, and minor environmental fluctuations. Keeping them in their original box also ensures you have immediate access to vital information, such as the expiration date, safety compliance standards, and the lot number in case of a product recall.
Ansell addresses customer pain points by offering world-class disposable gloves engineered for lasting durability, ensuring you have reliable protection to mitigate safety risks in any environment.
