How to Clean Solvents on Prosthetic Rubber Gloves

Prosthetic hands are used by those who have been born without or lost their hands and/or arms. Prosthetic hands are typically covered by gloves to give them a more genuine look. These gloves are made out of a rubber that is part petroleum and part turpentine. Getting solvents such as bleach on prosthetic rubber gloves is dangerous because the solvents will act like acid and melt the rubber. It is vital that the solvent be neutralized and then washed from the prosthetic rubber glove.

Things You'll Need

• Baking soda
• Distilled white vinegar
• Mild dish soap
• Warm water
• Washcloth
• Towel

Instructions

1. Cover the entire solvent with a neutralizing agent. If the solvent is a base, such as bleach, cover the stain with white vinegar. If the solvent is an acid, such as sulfuric acid, use a base such as baking soda to cover the solvent.

2. Rinse the area after about five minutes with warm water.

3. Put ½ teaspoon of mild dish soap on to a warm, wet washcloth. Rub the prosthetic rubber glove where the solvent has been. Make sure you cover the entire area with the warm soapy washcloth.

4. Rinse the prosthetic rubber glove again in warm water. Dry with a towel.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not touch solvents that are eating the rubber because they may cause skin burning and irritation.

References

• The Ohio State University Information Extension: Quick'n Easy Stain Removal