Nitrile’s my pick too—leather gets slick and honestly, you lose a lot of dexterity. For goggles, I’ve had better luck with the ones that have indirect vents, especially when I’m working in crawlspaces or after a storm when humidity’s through the roof. Dish soap definitely helps, but if you’re doing demo in moldy spots, I’d still use disposables. There’s just no way I’m keeping those for another job.
I hear you on the disposables, especially after a big storm when everything’s just soaked and nasty. I tried reusing goggles once after demo in a crawlspace—thought I could just clean them up, but the smell never really left. Nitrile gloves are my go-to too, but I’ll admit, sometimes I double up if I know I’m dealing with insulation or mold. Leather just doesn’t cut it when things get slimy... learned that the hard way.
I tried reusing goggles once after demo in a crawlspace—thought I could just clean them up, but the smell never really left.
That’s a familiar one. I’ve had a couple pairs of “reusable” goggles that never quite lost that musty crawlspace funk, even after a soak in vinegar and a round with the hose. Sometimes, it’s just not worth the effort or risk, especially if there’s mold or who-knows-what in the mix. I get the appeal of saving a few bucks, but when they start fogging up or smelling like old insulation, I’m ready to toss ‘em.
With gloves, I’m right there with you on nitrile. I’ve tried those thicker reusable ones, but once the outside gets slimy or the inside gets sweaty, they’re basically done for me. Doubling up with nitrile is my go-to for insulation or anything that looks like it might bite back. Leather gloves always seem to get soaked through or just get slippery—totally useless if you’re crawling around in wet debris.
Curious if anyone’s found a good way to actually clean and reuse goggles after heavy use? I’ve tried dish soap, vinegar, even a little bleach (probably not recommended), but like you said, the smell lingers. Maybe there’s some trick I’m missing?
Also, has anyone tried those disposable face shields instead of goggles? I’ve only used them a couple times, but they seemed easier to toss after a nasty job. Not sure if they offer enough protection for demo work though.
For me, it’s usually worth it to keep a stash of disposables for the gross jobs and save the reusables for when things are a little less gnarly. Still, it’d be nice to find something that lasts longer without turning into a science experiment in the back of the truck.
For me, it’s usually worth it to keep a stash of disposables for the gross jobs and save the reusables for when things are a little less gnarly.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually had better luck sticking with higher-end reusable goggles—especially the ones with replaceable foam inserts. They cost more up front, but I’ve found they hold up after a real scrub with enzyme cleaner (the stuff for pet odors, weirdly enough). Disposable face shields never felt secure enough for demo, especially with flying debris. For gloves, I still keep leather around for rough work—yeah, they get gross, but they’re tough to beat for grip when things get slippery.
You’re not wrong about disposables being handy for the nastier jobs—sometimes it’s just not worth trying to salvage gear after a real mess. That said, I’ve had reusables last years when I’m diligent with cleaning. For me, it’s all about balancing cost and hassle. Leather gloves are my go-to too, especially when things get unpredictable... nothing else gives me that same confidence handling sharp or slippery stuff.