How to Put On and Take Off Disposable Gloves

Given the expansion of coronavirus around the world, knowing how to correctly put on and take off gloves is fundamental. At the same time, it's important to know when you should use them. Today, we'll tell you how to handle gloves in order to protect yourself and others.
How to Put On and Take Off Disposable Gloves

Last update: 09 October, 2022

Today, the entire world is experiencing the effects of a pandemic as the result of coronavirus. This virus has a high capacity to spread. Therefore, to protect yourself, it’s fundamental you know how to put on and take off disposable gloves and masks that certain circumstances require.

Disposable gloves are single-use products that serve to protect our hands. They act as a barrier, protecting those wearing them from possible contamination for the environment. At the same time, they help prevent the spread of the virus from their wearers to others.

In other words, gloves protect by preventing contact between hands and any infectious agent. They are used especially to carry out analysis and to care for those who are sick. For example, to extract blood or to take someone’s temperature.

However, for gloves to fulfill their purpose, we need to know how to put them on and take them off properly. So, in the article below, we’ll explain how and when to use them to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

How to put on and take off disposable gloves: The first step

In order to put on and take off gloves properly, following a series of specific steps is essential. First of all, you must remove any accessories from your hands and wrists, such as rings, bracelets, or watches. What’s more, you need to keep your fingernails short to keep them from damaging the gloves.

Once you’ve done this, then it’s time to wash your hands thoroughly. First, wet your hands and add soap. Then, rub your hands together, focusing especially on your fingers and the spaces in between. Don’t forget the wash the back of your hands and move up your forearms as well.  Be sure to wash every nook and cranny of your hands, including your thumbs and the tips of your fingers.

If you have any alcohol-based sanitizer, you can use this as well. Once you’ve finished sudsing up, rinse well with abundant water.

After washing, it’s important to dry your hands with a clean, disposable paper towel. If you wash your hands with sanitizer, then simply allow them to air dry. Now that your hands are clean, it’s time to put on your gloves.

You may also want to read: How Does COVID-19 Affect the Body?

How to put on disposable gloves

These gloves come in a wrapper in order to keep them sterile. Therefore, you must follow the instructions for their use when it comes to opening them. Be sure to set them on a surface that’s also sterile. Then, put the first glove on, paying special attention not to touch the outer part of the glove.

Then, when you put on the other glove, you can use the hand that’s already covered to assist you. At all times, be extremely careful not to contaminate either of the two gloves.

How to take off disposable gloves

When it’s time to remove disposable gloves, you need to be especially cautious. If they’re contaminated and the person wearing them touches them with bare hands, he or she can end up becoming infected.

So, the first thing you must do is gently grab onto one glove with the opposite hand. Pull off the glove, making sure your skin doesn’t come into contact with the outside of the glove. Using the hand that’s still covered, through the first glove way, preferably in a bin for biohazardous waste.

Now, to remove the second glove, introduce the fingers of your free hand inside the glove you’re still wearing. That way, very carefully, you can turn it inside out and remove it without touching the exterior.

Keep in mind

Medical supplies are practically a privilege, especially in situations where the entire world is worried about this pandemic. The use of gloves and masks should be limited to situations where they are absolutely necessary .

What’s more, you need to be aware of how to use them properly. Finally, remember the most important measure against the spread of coronavirus is washing your hands. In the same way, make sure to avoid contact with the exterior of disposable gloves and masks once you’re done using them.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.