Storing dish gloves under the sink is a common solution for keeping them handy but out of sight in the kitchen. With some smart storage solutions, you can easily organize dish gloves so they are tidy and accessible when needed for washing dishes, cleaning, and other kitchen tasks.
Should You Store Dish Gloves Under the Sink?
Storing dish gloves under the sink has a few advantages:
- Keeps gloves out of sight but easy to access when doing kitchen tasks
- Protects gloves from damage caused by excess moisture or heat
- Allows you to store gloves right where you need them – near the sink
However, there are a few potential downsides to consider as well:
- Gloves may pick up dirt or odors being stored so close to the garbage
- Gloves could get wet if a pipe leaks
- Takes up valuable under-sink storage space
Overall, storing dish gloves under the sink is very convenient and is a good option in most kitchens. Just take some precautions like keeping them in a sealed bin and inspecting regularly for moisture or odors.
Choosing the Right Storage Container
When storing dish gloves under the sink, it’s important to keep them in a bin, caddy or other container. This will protect them from getting dirty, wet or damaged. Here are some good options:
- Plastic storage bin – Choose one designed for under-sink use that can handle moisture. Make sure it has a tight sealing lid.
- Wire storage caddy – Lets air circulate so gloves dry out. Has removable dividers to customize compartments.
- Hanging glove bag – Hangs from a cabinet door or wall hook. Made from mesh or plastic for ventilation.
- Over the cabinet door holder – Installs on the backside of a cabinet door with hooks for hanging gloves.
Look for a container size that will fit the space you have and hold the number of glove pairs you need to store. Clear plastic bins let you easily see contents.
Arranging Your Dish Gloves
Once you’ve selected a storage container, think about how to arrange your dish gloves inside:
- Store gloves in pairs to make it easy to grab a set when needed.
- Consider rolling pairs together to save space.
- Place gloves with the fingers pointing down so any moisture drains out.
- Put newest gloves in back so oldest pairs get used first.
- Separate different types of gloves into compartments or dividers.
Also consider adding:
- Paper towels can help gloves dry out and absorb moisture.
- Baking soda or charcoal can control odors.
- Silica gel packs can reduce dampness.
Where to Position Your Glove Storage
Look for an ideal spot under the sink to store your dish gloves container. Consider:
- Near the front – Easy to access but away from the backsplash where it could get wet.
- Close to sink side – Closer to where you’ll use the gloves for washing.
- Away from pipes – Avoid places where a leak is likely.
- Not under garbage – Prevents contamination from spills.
- Stable surface – Choose a flat area so the container doesn’t tip.
Also make sure to leave room for other frequently used items like sponges, brushes and cleaners.
Other Handy Storage Spots
While under the sink is the most popular, it’s not the only place to store dish gloves. Alternatives include:
- Drawer organizer – Use compartments for gloves in a kitchen drawer near the sink.
- Wall-mounted holder – Install a hook or specialized glove hanger on the wall or side of a cabinet.
- Countertop caddy – Keep gloves handy but tidy in a small countertop caddy or crock.
- Pantry or closet – Store in a bin on a shelf if space under sink is limited.
Choose the most convenient spot that keeps gloves neat, dry and readily available when it’s time for dishwashing duties.
Tips for Storing Dish Gloves
Follow these handy tips for keeping dish gloves in good condition when stored under the sink:
- Replace gloves periodically to prevent mold and odor buildup.
- Allow gloves to air dry fully before storing to prevent mildew.
- Keep an eye out for leaks that could get gloves wet.
- Check for damage like cracks or tears before each use.
- Consider dedicating certain gloves just for handling raw meats.
- Buy gloves in different sizes and colors to easily identify pairs.
- Store gloves in a dark area to prevent UV damage and cracking.
- Clean storage container periodically with hot soapy water and let dry fully.
- Use gloves designed for dish washing, not cheaper multi-purpose ones.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Dish Gloves
Regular cleaning helps remove built-up grime and bacteria for fresh, odor-free dish gloves:
- Hand wash using hot water and a small amount of dish soap. Rinse thoroughly.
- Soak in vinegar solution to disinfect and deodorize. Use 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water.
- Sanitize with bleach by mixing 1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of water. Soak 5-10 minutes then rinse well.
- Machine wash gloves on gentle cycle then air dry. Use a mesh bag for washing.
- Baking soda scrub helps remove tough stains. Dampen gloves and scrub with baking soda paste.
Clean gloves regularly for food safe use and maximum glove life span. It’s also smart to have spare pairs on hand so you can rotate usage.
Knowing When to Toss Dish Gloves
How long dish gloves last depends on frequency of use and how well you care for them. But here are some signs it’s time to replace your gloves:
- Holes, tears or cracked rubber
- Warped shape that no longer fits hand comfortably
- Stains that won’t come clean
- Permanent grease saturation
- Mold or mildew buildup
- Visible wear around fingers and palms
- Bad odors that linger after cleaning
For hygienic reasons, it’s best to replace dish gloves every 1-2 months if used daily. Have back-up pairs ready to swap in when current gloves show signs of wear.
Glove Alternatives for Dishes
Although dish gloves are very common, you may want to consider glove alternatives for some situations:
- Bare hands – Great for delicate glassware or pets’ dishes. Improves grip on slippery dishes.
- Sponge mitts – Fit like a glove but have scrubbing pads for cleaning power.
- Reusable rubber mitts – Provide protection for sensitive skin but allow fingers to move freely.
- Silicone scrubbers – Slip over hands and come in fun colors. Can be more comfortable.
- Finger cots – Individual rubber thimbles protect bandaged fingers or thumbs.
Consider trying some of these options in addition to traditional dish gloves for different dishwashing tasks.
Key Features of Quality Dish Gloves
With many dish glove options available, it helps to know what features to look for in a quality, durable glove:
- Thick, textured latex or rubber material
- Insulated lining for heat protection
- Non-slip grip on fingers and palm
- Long cuffs to protect forearms from water
- Flexibility to allow free hand movement
- Tight-fitting but comfortable wrist openings
- Durable construction without seams
- Antimicrobial materials to inhibit bacterial growth
Paying a little more for gloves with excellent grip and insulation helps protect hands and prevent breakage when doing lots of dishwashing.
Troubleshooting Dish Glove Issues
Dish gloves are very handy for dishwashing but occasionally issues may arise. Here are solutions for some common glove problems:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Gloves are slippery and dishes keep dropping | Replace gloves or switch to a textured grip style |
| Hands get too hot from hot water | Choose gloves with insulation/lining for heat protection |
| Fingers are clumsy and hard to move | Size up or switch to a thinner, more flexible glove |
| Gloves keep tearing | Inspect dishes for sharp edges. Purchase higher quality gloves. |
| Hard to get a tight fit | Wrap an elastic band around wrist opening for a snugger fit |
| Gloves have a bad odor | Clean gloves regularly. Replace gloves frequently. |
Having spare gloves on hand makes it easy to swap out to a fresh pair when needed.
Conclusion
Storing dish gloves neatly under the sink keeps them readily accessible for all your dishwashing tasks. Use a sturdy storage bin or caddy to protect them from moisture, leaks and dirt. Position the gloves conveniently within reach but avoid direct contact with pipes or the garbage disposal. With regular cleaning and replacement, stored dish gloves will provide hand protection during messy kitchen jobs for months to come.
