Introduction (3 of 8)
Why should I wear gloves?
The skin secretes oils and metabolic wastes, including various salts and urea, and these react aggressively with some materials causing irreversible damage. For example, fingerprints can cause corrosion on metal.
To protect the objects from these secretions, gloves should be worn when handling most objects. A range of gloves is available, and the type of gloves chosen will depend on the type of object being handled (and on personal preference).
- Disposable vinyl, nitrile or latex gloves are non-absorbent, making them good for objects that are dusty or dirty, that have a rough surface (which might catch on cotton fibres) or that have a very smooth surface (which could be slippery). Some organisations do not use latex gloves because some people are allergic to them.
- Cotton gloves are good for clean, dry objects that are not very rough or very smooth. However, many conservators do not recommend their use – as they find their thickness and seams can restrict feeling. Furthermore, cotton gloves do not completely protect against sweat, so some moisture may still be transferred onto the object.
