- Reusable gloves all the way for me—those blue disposables just shred on rough stuff like old siding or rusty nails.
- I keep a couple pairs in the truck and toss ‘em in the wash when they get gross.
- Face shields are awkward, but I’d rather look like a welder than end up with a nail in my cheek... learned that lesson the hard way once.
- Only time I use disposables is for nasty crawlspaces or insulation—otherwise, they’re just not tough enough.
I get the appeal of reusables, but honestly, I’ve had them fail on me more than once—especially when someone on my crew “forgets” to wash them and they get stiff or start to smell. Disposables aren’t perfect, but at least I know they’re clean every time. For certain jobs, I’d rather swap out a pair than risk a skin rash or worse. Maybe it’s just me, but I don’t totally trust the “just toss ‘em in the wash” method after dealing with some gnarly moldy basements.
I get where you’re coming from—moldy basements are no joke. But I’ve actually had disposables rip right when I needed them most, especially after a few hours in wet conditions. For me, the trick with reusables is having a backup pair and a strict “wash right after” rule. Not perfect, but I like the grip and durability way better than the thin throwaways.
- Had my fair share of glove fails too—disposables are like tissue paper in a wet crawlspace.
- Reusables do last, but I’m guilty of tossing ‘em in my truck and forgetting to wash... then they get that “mystery smell.”
- I keep a stash of both types handy. If it’s a quick job, disposables win. Anything longer or gnarly, reusables all the way.
- Pro tip: hang them over a vent overnight if you forget to wash. Not perfect, but better than moldy surprises.
“Reusables do last, but I’m guilty of tossing ‘em in my truck and forgetting to wash... then they get that ‘mystery smell.’”
That “mystery smell” is all too familiar. I’ve had a few pairs of those thick rubber gloves turn into science experiments after a week in the garage. I started keeping a mesh bag in the laundry room just for work gloves—makes it easier to remember to toss them in with the towels.
For me, disposables are fine for painting or quick plumbing fixes, but I’ve had them rip mid-job more times than I can count. Nitrile seems a bit tougher than latex, but still not great if you’re working with rough lumber or anything sharp. Reusables are my go-to for yard work or anything involving chemicals, but I do wish they’d dry out faster. Hanging them over a vent helps, but I’ve also tried stuffing them with newspaper overnight—seems to pull out the moisture and some of the smell.
One thing I haven’t figured out is how to keep the cuffs from getting stiff after a few washes. Anyone else run into that?